Written by Mark Waid
Art by Scott Kolins; Rob Schwager; & Rob Leigh
Cover Art by Scott Kolins
SUMMARY:
Entitled “Tempted,” it was published by DC Comics for October 2008. Filling in one night for an absent Batman, the Man of Steel reluctantly pairs with Catwoman to infiltrate a Gotham City underworld auction. At stake is a covert map to a hidden underground cave that will surely irk Batman, should it ever be possessed by criminals. Yet, could an uneasy alliance between these DC icons lead to a potential double-cross or two?
REVIEW:
At the top of his game, writer Mark Waid amusingly plays up Superman’s Boy Scout persona, as he squirms from a conniving Catwoman’s instant crush. The fun gags (i.e. Superman’s chaffing at a not-so-subtle auction disguise; not to mention, his blushing at Catwoman’s sultry ‘threat’ to bring a friend visiting Metropolis next time) Waid conjures up are a real treat for fans.
Even more so, Superman & Catwoman’s awkward who’s-tempting-who? ‘odd couple’ chemistry gives the story some wonderful spark. The story’s best plot thread comes with a well-played bait-and-switch re: a mysterious cave linked to familiar Bat-lore. Although the interior artwork is somewhat inconsistent (as if alternating between two styles), the issue’s overall visuals are solidly produced. Its best visual asset is that spot-on cover image.
With its inspired premise, The Brave and The Bold # 16 would make for a delightful TV episode, if adapted for animation.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Dan DiDio’s half-page “DC Nation” column promotes Icon and Shadow Cabinet’s upcoming appearance in Justice League of America. Thumbnail cover reveals are for The Brave and the Bold # 17; Batgirl # 2; Legion of Three Worlds # 1; and Justice League of America # 24.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8½ Stars
