Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews
Batman #28
DC Comics
Snyder, Capullo & Miki
Batman produces another entertaining issue as "Year Zero" continues. This issue focuses on Gordon and Batman starting to put down a trusting foundation. Gordon seems to be willing to bridge the gap while Batman is beginning to see things Gordon's way. The rest of the issue entertains but is difficult to fully frame in the context of the larger story. Overall, this is a solid read and one to pick up.
The comic book starts off with Batman on the run from the police. Like a trapped rat, it looks like he reaches the end of the line before Gordon unexpectedly rescues him. This leads to Gordon explaining to Batman his feelings about being a cop and what he is trying to accomplish. This is tied directly to Bruce Wayne as a child and it begins to crack away the tough exterior that Batman has thrown up against Gordon. This part of the book is simply brilliant.
The book then shift to Bruce Wayne trying to figure out the latest plot with Alfred in the Batcave. This sequence becomes a problem because Alfred begins to lecture Bruce Wayne about why he does what he does. It's long and it simply doesn't fit. It's tough to slog through because we just got done with Gordon dumping a ton of information on us. Not only is this even more information but it really is Alfred telling Bruce how Bruce feels, how Bruce acts and what Bruce thinks. It's difficult to believe frankly.
Finally, the book launches back into the plot as Batman finds himself outsmarted again in what makes for a great cliffhanger.
The artwork is tremendous as always in this issue. The sequence of the chase in the beginning is particularly noteworthy. There isn't anything mind-blowing in this issue but the consistency in pushing limits and attempting something new is noteworthy. The one quibble is that the coloring has such a light tone at times I questioned whether the book had an errant print run. Whether this was directed by Snyder or implemented on the art side or if it was an error is hard to determine but it is worth noting. Another beautiful looking book nonetheless.
Batman continues to be a compelling read every month. This is the comic book series to pick up even if this issue isn't up to the usual high level of storytelling all the way through. This issue has too much focus on other's lecturing Bruce. It's good stuff, but perhaps split up would have made the difference. There's something to be said for pacing I suppose. Anyway, you can't go wrong with this comic book.
3.5 out of 5 Geek Goggles
