Detective Comics #841

At the moment, I am enjoying Paul Dini's "Detective Comics" more than Grant Morrison's "Batman". As I am a little tired of crossover-mania, I thought this one issue story dealing with the Mad Hatter and his newly formed Wonderland Gang was pretty decent. Dustin Nguyen's art compliments the story well and provides shadow clouded Batman. I like Dini's use of the various odd villian's in Gotham - especially the apltly named "Little Italy". I thought his seen was fun. While many online reviewers have stated that "Detective Comics" has taken a creative hit while Dini focuses on "Countdown to Final Crisis", I think that Dini proves in this issue that he can put out an interesting Batman read.

If you are looking for a one-shot Batman story that is both fun and a good read, pick up this issue of "Detective Comics".

Batman #673

The best part of this issue is Tony Daniel's art. He captures the different eras of Batman here. I'm really not sure what writer Grant Morrison is going for here. I jumped onto "Batman" during "The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul" arc and I am at a loss during the last two issues. With this issue being mostly in dream state, it didn't provide me anymore understanding of what is going on.

The one thing this issue did for me is point me to Bill Finger. Grant Morrison gave Finger a nod in the credits. I then went searching for who he was. I grew up knowing that Bob Kane created Batman and did not really know who Bill Finger was - except for his creation of the original Green Lantern. I was amazed to see how much influence Finger had on the creation of Batman. Without Finger, I don't think we would have Batman. If he really was this involved in the creation of Batman he should be named right alongside Kane as a creator - much like Siegel and Shuster for Superman.

So, the story in the issue didn't do much for me. Daniel's art and the discovery of some comic's history were the bonus.

Superman/Batman #45

I am enjoying writer Michael Green's "Search for Kryptonite" arc. While the issue #44 served as a prelude, this issue finds Superman, Batman, and a few friends spanning the globe scooping up all of the K that is out there. I was very impressed with penciller Shane Davis and inker Matt Banning's art. From the design of Superman's protective armor to toyman's ride, Davis does a fantastic job. I especially liked his take on the new Aquaman. This is my first story involving this character and I liked Green's take on him. Green poses some interesting questions towards the end of the issue and I like where he is going with these characters.

The last two issues have been the best Superman/Batman in quite a while.

52 Aftermath: The Four Horsemen #6 of 6

When this "52" tie-in miniseries began, I wasn't enthralled. I actually got it by accident as my LCS throw it in my box because of "52" on my pull list. The first couple of issues didn't pull me in as writer Keith Giffen let the plot unfold slowly. With issue #3, though, I started to get into Giffen's Trinity tale. The final issue did not fail to disappoint. Giffen provides a very satisfying ending. The art team of Pat Olliffe & John Stanisci handles the action well. I like their renditions of the Doom Patrol, Wonder Woman, and Batman. I wasn't too fond of their Superman. From here they move onto "The All New Atom" and should do a fine job there.

If you didn't pick up the monthlies and you are looking for a decent Trinity series, get this in TPB. It isn't ground breaking work, but Giffen provides a fine story. Now that Giffen is exclusive to DC I look forward to seeing him on some high profile DC projects (other than "Countdown").

Detective Comics #840

"Detective Comics" #840 brings the true epilogue to "The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul" story arc. Titled "After the Resurrection" writer Paul Dini brings us a story that shows Batman's first post-resurrection meeting with Ra's Al Ghul in Gotham City. I didn't see the ending coming and was surprised at that Batman would go to such lengths to eliminate a threat. Dini lays out a decent script and keeps the pacing up through out the issue.

The new art team of Dustin Nguyen and Derek Fridolfs didn't really capture my attention. The art reminded me a little bit of "Gotham by Gaslight". The layouts were fine but the art really didn't jump off of the page.

This issue serves as a good epilogue to the let down of "The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul".

Batman #672

I wasn't very impressed with "The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul" and was not going to add another monthly. However, I gave into my son's wishes and picked up "Batman" this month. I dig Tony Daniel's art. I like not only his interpretation of Batman but what he brings to both Jim Gordon and Alfred. I have to say that story-wise I was a bit lost in this issue. I'm not sure who all the players are and what their back story is. I may have to go pick up some back issues to understand where all of this is coming from.

While not a good jumping on point for new readers, as seen by my confusion with who's who, my son really liked this issue and is looking forward to the next. I'll hold my judgement for a few more issues.

Batman and the Outsiders #3

I'm sold on "Batman and the Outsiders". Writer Chuck Dixon is still building his sandbox but he his already having fun playing with what he has. The interaction between the Outsiders and the JLA team members in this issue is done well. However, don't let the cover fool you Black Canary and Martian Manhunter are no where to be scene in this issue. Penciller Juilian Lopez provides some nice panels here - my favorite being the one with Geo-Force, Metamorpho, Katana, and Black Lightening, the original Outsiders on hand. The interlude with Grace, Thunder, and Batgirl, while nicely drawn, left me wondering what it was doing in this book. It seemed to be there to give the reader a little T&A and not much else.

This book is off to a fine start. The art is good and Dixon's writing captures the team dynamics well. "Batman & the Outsiders" is climbing to the top of my must reads from my pull list.

Superman/Batman #44

The first page of "Superman/Batman" #44 had me asking what in the hell was writer Michael Green and penciller Shane Davis smoking. The bad posing and dialogue was almost too much. Turning the page and my questions where answered. I had to laugh at myself for taking this comic book stuff so seriously. This issue is all setup for "The Search for Kryptonite" story line. Green does a good job of capturing the main character's and guest star's personalities. Davis' art is good. I really like how he captured the guest star and would like to see him work on that character's monthly.

While this issue is the setup for the follow on story, I found it to be an entertaining read. I have always liked the interaction between Superman and Batman and the give and take as written by Green is done well. It has me looking forward to the rest of the story.

Detective Comics #839

The final chapter of "The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul" comes to a close here and my reaction was "is that it?" Writer Paul Dini keeps the action moving in this issue with the Batman Family coming together at Nanda Parabat. The art team lead by penciller Ryan Benjamin and inker Saleem Crawford does a fine job of translating Dini's story to the page. The action is laid out nicely and never gets confusing. Although, at times, both the art team and Dini are channeling Frank Miller's "All-Star Batman & Robin" Batman in this issue.

The question I have to ask is after 7 issues plus two prologues did this story really go anywhere. I'm not too sure it did. It just wasn't a very grand tale and didn't capture my interest. I'm not sure I would recommend the TPB when it comes out in 2008. The bigger question is did this make me want to get the Batman Family of books. Well, I'll have to talk this out with my son, but I just wasn't impressed enough to add them to my pull list.

Robin #169

"The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul" comes to a screeching halt in "Robin" #169. Writer Peter Milligan's dialogue is stilted and unnatural and the characterizations are a bit off. David Baldeon's art is okay but not on the level of the rest of this seven part story. When we left Batman in "Batman" #671 the Sensei had just been beaten by a bloodied and almost gutted Batman. In this issue Batman shows no signs of the fight he was just in. That's is a knock on Editors Mike Martz and Jeanine Schaefer. With a story this tightly plotted you would think that the visuals would be consistent throughout.

I know that Robin has a lost a lot of people close to him over the last few years, but I just don't see him even considering Ra's offer. It doesn't ring true.

"The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul" lost a lot of steam in this issue. Here's hoping Fabian Nicieza and Paul Dini can finish this story out strong in the upcoming parts 6 & 7 in "Nightwing" and "Detective Comics".

Batman #671

"Batman" #671 continues "The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul" story. Part four of the seven part series, The disparate story lines come together with Batman, Ra's Al Ghul, and the Sensei meeting at Nanda Parabat. I believe my lack of knowledge of the current Batman mythos hindered my enjoyment of this comic because I've never heard of the Sensei character and didn't get a big "wow!" out of the big reveal here. I did enjoy Morrison's fight between Batman and the Sensei. Tony Daniel's captures the action well, having fun with the Sensei's fighting style.

The only gripe that I have against this story line is that it was billed as this big event and comes across as just another story. I don't have a feeling for the big stakes here - what's really on the line? Other than that the read has been fun and action filled.

Superman/Batman #43

Rarely does DC put out a one-shot Superman/Batman. In the days of 4-6 issue story arcs that package nicely as a TPB, it is nice to see a one-shot. The best part of this issue is Mike McKone's art. His pencilling is really top notch. I liked his page layouts and he captured the action nicely. The story by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning wasn't the best though. There are some confusing story elements at the beginning as I'm not sure if Superman was posing as Bruce or if the dialogue is off. Anyway, the action kicks into full gear right away and is non-stop right through to the finish. I believe the ending is a nod to the Injustice League arc over in "Justice League of America" which would have made this story a little better continuity-wise if this book had come first.

Batman and the Outsiders #2

I am really digging "Batman and the Outsiders". Writer Chuck Dixon has captured a fun tone along with getting the characterization of each player down. Issue #2 picks up right where #1 left off with the Outsiders going up against a new OMAC. Dixon keeps the story moving forward while showing off the individual characters and providing a bit of humor along the way. I truly enjoy his characterization of Martian Manhunter here, but I'm sad to see that he may be leaving the team.

The art is just plain outstanding. Penciller Carlos Rodriguez nails each team member and has a knack for the action set pieces. Inker Bit provides strong inking as well. I have to give it up to colorist Marta Martinez. I really like the painted look that is shown off in the book. Rodriguez even has shows a good understanding of the characters. This is evident when Grace takes Metamorpho's chopsticks and he changes one of his fingers into a spoon. The little nuances make this book.

"Batman and the Outsiders" is rapidly rising on my first read list and you should be picking it up.

All Star Batman and Robin #8

Frank Miller once again dives into the crazy world of the "Goddamn Batman" presenting an interesting version of the Joker. While Miller's ASBAR Batman come across as a bit off kilter, his Joker is a complete sociopath. The Joker presented here is unlike any version of the Joker that I've read. He's truly evil. I really enjoy Miller's dialogue when Batman talks to Dick and then later to Hal "Green Lantern" Jordan. The Hal Jordan conversion is very funny. Jim Lee's art is quite good with the exception of the Joker's Nazi hench-woman. I'm not sure why he felt the need to have swastika pasties. Lee's art makes this book.

While ASBAR is nowhere near as good as All Star Superman, it is an interesting version of Batman to be sure. I'm just not sure if what I'm reading is intentionally funny or not.

Detective Comics #838

Paul Dini continues where Fabian Nicieza's "Nightwing" left off and does a good job of moving the story forward bringing the principal Batman Family members closer together. Dini has a lot going on in this issue and moves the chess pieces around in a logical manner. We are almost halfway through the story and we have Batman and Ra's in the same room. The art by Ryan Benjamin and Saleem Crawford is descent. I like Benjamin's layouts and use of space on the page. He captures action quite well. The only thing I really don't care for is his Batman. He draws him just a little too big and the head is too broad with a couple of shots looking like he was going for a John Byrne style of drawing.

A few nitpicks about continuity. I am far from a continuity freak, but there are two points in this issue that even I noticed. First off was Damian's uniform. From the prelude to "The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul" through part 2 in "Nightwing", Damian has been wearing a modified version of the Robin uniform. In this issue, artist Benjamin leaves Damina in a white and grey body suit. Another error is is when Ra's knocks Robin out cold with a slap. In the previous part of this story, Ra's karate chopped one of his ninjas and broke his hand. Given that he is decaying in the dead body that he resides in, he shouldn't have been able to do that. Does the fault lie with Dini or Benjamin? I think this is an editorial issue that should have been picked up in proof by either Jeanine Schaefer or Mike Marts who also edited "Robin" #168 and "Nightwing" #138.

I really liked this issue as Dini propelled the plot forward and provide the ultimate choice for Batman on the final splash page. Hopefully the last four parts of the story provide a good payoff and that the editors get it together and maintain continuity on both visuals and story elements across the various titles.

Nightwing #138

Nightwing enters "The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul" story as writer Fabian Nicieza does a fine job of presenting a tough and ready lead character. I haven't read Nightwing in years, almost a decade, and only recently read Judd Winick's final run on "Outsiders" where Dick never came off very well. Nicieza gives the reader a confident Nightwing who knows his business. I like the fact that even while facing insurmountable odds we have Nightwing not wanting to kill anyone. He has a strict morale code and follows it. The same can't be said for Damian, the object of Nightwing's protection. Damian comes off as a brat and doesn't really seem worth saving. In the end Nicieza reveals Dick's true intent when he vows to protect Tim. The Ra's Al Ghul story elements are coming along nicely in this issue as the path to Nanda Parbat are beginning to come in line. Don Kramer and Wayne Faucher to a fine job on the art. Of all of the crossover titles, the art here is the best yet.

I read Shelly's review of this issue over at here blog, Shelly's Comics Bookshelf, and she mentioned that even though she liked Nightwing in this issue she wasn't going to be reading the rest of the Batman titles to keep up on this story. Well, DC has got me here. I'm hooked in and will read the entire 7-parter.

Robin #168

Writer Peter Milligan takes the baton from Grant Morrison and kicks off "The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul" 7-parter. Milligan takes sibling rivalvry and turns it up to 11 when Robin confronts Damian entering the Batcave. The only characterization of Robin that I have read is what happens over in "Teen Titans" and I'm not sure this is the same guy. Especially when he's beating up on Damian and Damina cries out "Stop! You're killing me!" and Robin replies, "Maybe that's the only way I'll be rid of you!" Tim has lost two good friends over the last 18 months - Connor "Superboy" Kent and Bart "The Flash" Allen - and he has also lost his father. He knows what death truly means and I don't think he would act this way. Sure, he probably has some emotional issues with Bruce having a blood son, but this seems just way out of character for him. Freddie Williams II's art is much better than what he is putting out over in "The Flash". Once again it may be the colorist as Guy Major does a fine job here on Williams' finished art.

Does this issue advance the Ra's Al Ghul storyline? Not much. However, in the end Batman has a better understanding of what is going on. Next it is off to "Nightwing" to continue this story.

Batman #670

"The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul" begins in this issue. Billed as a prelude to the storyline, writer Grant Morrison gives new readers a descent jumping on point for this 7-part series. While I don't have a great depth of understanding of where Damian comes from and that Ra's Al Ghul was even dead, I enjoyed Morrison's story. Tony Daniel and Jonathan Glapion's art is pretty good capturing Batman's persona very well. Daniel provides good layouts and panels with backgrounds and detail, which has become uncommon in current comics.

Morrison has peaked my interest with this prelude to what looks to be an interesting story. If you are looking to jump onto this story and are afraid you need a PhD in all things Batman to get it, don't worry, Morrison sets a very good tone that doesn't leave you scratching your head.

Batman and the Outsiders #1

Of the DC "Trinity", I don't read the solo books of Batman. Growing up I was always a Superman fan and, since the George Perez days, a Wonder Woman fan. I never really got into Batman's solo adventures. I do, however, like seeing Batman bounce off of the other residents of the DCU. That is why you see "Superman/Batman", "Justice League of America", "Brave and the Bold", and, now, "Batman and the Outsiders on my pull list. I wasn't a huge fan of the Judd Winick "Outsiders". Nightwing never came across as strong as he did during the Wolfman/Perez Titans-era and the rest of the team didn't impress me. When I heard that Batman was taking over, I decided to give the title another try.

I was a big fan of the 80s version of "Batman and the Outsiders" and enjoyed seeing Batman quit the JLA to form his own team. While the stories were goofy and the reasons for being a team were weak, the book was a fun monthly read. The new Batman and the Outsiders has Batman establishing a team to take care of business that the JLA or JSA wouldn't want to sully their hands with. The team try out books were interesting but ultimately failed to capture the driving motivation for the team.

Writer Chuck Dixon starts "Batman and the Outsiders" on their first covert op and brings depth of character to each team member. Julian Lopez's pencils along with Bit's inking brings clean lines and outstanding visuals. I especially liked Marta Martinez's coloring. The muted colors fit the tone of the book and bring an almost painted quality to the art. Dixon looks to be taking this team in the right direction. Here's hoping that the creative team can stay together and on schedule.

With an outstanding cover by Doug Braithwaite, "Batman and the Outsiders" #1 is an excellent start to what I hope will be an outstanding team monthly from DC.

Superman #670

"Superman" issue #670 brings to a conclusion the three-part "The Third Kryptonian" story line. The entire Superman family is present including new additions Chris Kent and Karsta Wor-Ul - the third Kryptonian in question. This is an action packed issue reminiscent of the old "Superman Family" adventures during the Silver Age. In the middle of the battle Karsta flies away leaving Superman, Supergirl, Powergirl, Krypto, and Batman left to fight her battle. Her return to the battle is inevitable and aptly timed as well. Writer Kurt Busiek does a fine job of moving the action forward and concluding this three part story. Busiek continues to weave his perception of Superman's post Crisis reality showing that Red Sun doesn't strip Superman's powers it just blocks his ability to access them. Artificial Kryptonite is also introduced. Now, I'm not a continuity nut but can Kryptonians breath in space? Post COIE Superman needed a breathing appartus. In the most recent Supergirl we get the 2-hour limit. In this issue Karsta flies off into space unaided....what's the deal? I also found the whole Kandor explanation a bit hard to swallow and look forward to Busiek or Johns pulling on this thread.

Rick Leonardi and Dan Green's art captures the action well and provides one of the better representations of Supergirl and Powergirl. I also liked Jesus Merino's cover and wouldn't mind getting a poster size version of it.

All in all, the three parter was a fun read and I would recommend it.