Writer: James Robinson
Artists: Leonard Kirk (p), Andy Clarke (i)
Publisher: DC Comics
James Robinson knows Batman (and Robin…Batman and Robin!). He understands the character and how he should see the world around him. And DC, finally, seems to be stepping up to the plate regarding how this iconic character should be portrayed in his own comics. For the first time since, probably, Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee’s "Hush” run on Batman, I am in love with my favorite
character’s comic.
A tragic or sad story does not always equal a good story. This statement covers one of the main reasons why the “Face the Face” run has meant so much to me.
I wonder why so many writers seem to think that the only way for a story to be touching is to make it as sad or grim as possible. Finally, Mr. Robinson has shown those creators how it’s done: he’s taken Batman and Robin, put the classic Dynamic Duo back together—and they actually seem happy doing what they do and working together.
In issue #820, Batman makes a simple but sincere statement to Robin that almost brought tears to my eyes. It was touching without being uncharacteristic of Batman. In fact, it’s exactly in line with the way I see him and how he should treat the people he loves. (It reminded me of that simple yet overwhelmingly effective little part from Infinite Crisis when Batman asks Nightwing if he enjoyed his childhood as Robin, and Dick answers with a smile, “It was the best.”) Similar in its simplicity, the little statement in this issue of Detective touched me deeply.
Batman and Robin work with each other and fight for each other. Batman protects Robin. Robin provides back-up and reinforcement for his mentor, sometimes wise-cracking, always helping to keep Batman grounded. Robin reminds Batman of why he is Batman, helping him to stay above the worst in humanity that they deal with every night. That’s how I see them as a team.
James Robinson (and hopefully, now, DC) definitely gets this. Thank you.
The pacing in the issue is done well, and it provides enough story to give us yet another chapter in the tale without overwhelming us. I love the fact that, after I read the issue, I felt that my $2.99 was very well spent, and I would spend it again. There was a lot of action, progression of the story, and great characterization. I want to see more comics provide all of the above with each issue.
An inspiring revelation came to pass in this issue concerning Batman’s previous guilt and, in some cases, immaturity regarding his deceased parents and how they would regard him now. It was refreshing to see that he’s made progress with those feelings and has matured to a certain degree.
I’m excited to see how the storyline ends in Batman #654. Robinson has set up an interesting mystery without “dumbing down” the supporting cast of characters around the world’s greatest detective. Well done! Not to mention, I’m pretty sure he’s not pulling any cheap shots, meaning I believe he’s given us enough hints and ideas about the culprits that once the truth is revealed, I don’t think we’ll feel cheated.
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