Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews

Batman #8Batman #8
DC Comics
Snyder, Capullo & Glapion

Wayne Manor and the batcave are invaded by the talons of the court of owls. The owls don't know that Wayne and Batman are one in the same, but they figure it out soon enough. The issue is a good one because Batman defends his home turf well despite overwhelming odds. Batman and Alfred pull out a bunch of tricks as they finally call in for help at the end. This book has a fantastic cliffhanger that spills into the backup in the book. This is the first issue of Batman to reach the $4 price tag (extra content included) and it doesn't change the fact that it is worth it. I definitely recommend picking this up.

Bruce is at a low point. He realizes he doesn't own the city, but someone else does and has for a number of years. As Bruce licks his wounds and is given some support from Alfred, his home is invaded. The owls want those with influence in Gotham and Wayne is among that number. However, they soon realize they are dealing with the man behind the cowl as well. This changes nothing for their approach.

However, Batman, knows their weakness and knows what makes them tick. He and Alfred go to work and still appear to be losing the battle. This issue sets up the crossover perfectly and I absolutely love the ending.

The only aspect of the book that I wasn't thrilled at was the depiction of Alfred. He has some acts of bravery in the book but comes across as a worry-wart. I expect something more from the good butler, especially after all of the years of service to Batman.

Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle ReviewsCapullo does an excellent job of leading the fight throughout the house. This was something done during the Knightfall event some 20 years ago and it is textbook, in my opinion, for how Batman uses his environment to assist him whenever possible. Wayne Manor is no exception. Capullo is literally reinventing how I picture Batman and his world and I can't commend him enough for drastically altering how he draws Batman versus his stunning work on Spawn. Capullo is mastering Batman each and every issue.

This issue may not have a lot plot movement or even that much violence. However, what Snyder does do is present Bruce Wayne in a state of weakness that is believable and presents a situation where you can see Batman getting taken down. When you consider the villains are literally no-names I found this to be a great strength to the overall story that Snyder is telling. The big crossover is here so if you plan to sample the books then you need this as a primer. Even if you just like Batman getting his house invaded I recommend picking this up. This book was a ton of fun and visually perfect. Don't let the price increase scare you off.

4.5 out of 5 Geek Goggles