Comic Review: Batman #104 (DC Comics)

Ghost-Maker definitely wants to make his mark in DC’s Batman #104.

Written by James Tynion IV, “Ghost Stories Part 3” has a grim start. Batman, Harley, and Clown-Killer are lying on the slab, down in the lab. Bathed in pale green light, and unconscious. Well, Batman is barely awake. Yessir, a grim start.

This issue gives us the whassup with Ghost-Maker. The origin of the species. It’s thrilling reading, honestly, and fills in blanks about Batman too. Tynion keeps it taut and narrow in focus. Not an easy feat when you are orchestrating a large cast!

Illustrations are handled by several artists this time. Each artist or art team (?) appears to take responsibility for certain segments. When the graphic styles change from page to page, it can be a bit jarring, but at least there is the appearance of a cohesive logic behind this issue of musical chairs. Ryan Benjamin, Danny Miki, Bengal, and Gillem March are the artists, and David Barron is colourist. Barron does a remarkable job on colour, keeping the look consistent, and dramatic. The environments are coloured in a way that differentiates them, helping the reader. Clayton Cowles is letterer.

This issue is a good one to jump on. Tynion gives us hints and allegations that help a new reader get his bearings. Check it out. Note: there are many excellent variant covers, too many to list here. Pick your fave!

DC, Batman #104, $3.99 for 21 pages of content.