As Batman, Lex Luthor, and the rest of the reluctant heroes traverse through the lethal protocols of the Fortress of Solitude, mysteries about Superman’s disappearance since the beginning of this series are finally revealed! And nothing will prepare Batman for what comes next!
There’s something about this book, from Gary Whitta’s writing, that reads more like a Black Label book, and in some cases, fits perfectly in the spirit of a solid Elseworlds book. Throughout the series, it has a mature nature to it that sets it apart from other batman related titles and feels more akin to darker Batman books of the mid-90’s-early 2000’s books with its high stakes and darker tone than what’s often seen in the mainline titles. The petty banter between Batman and Lex Luthor in this issue, much like the previous is hilarious, and the chemistry between the team members of Batman’s assembled crew leaves me desiring for more Red Arrow (Emiko), Aqualad (Jackson), and Green Lantern (D’yal).
They’re an interesting motley crew of characters that are depicted with more personality than they’re probably ever given the chance to in other mainstream iterations of them. I have to reiterate that I don’t know why DC didn’t just make this as a Black Label book because it just feels like it’s its own thing, which suits the book better. The story itself is pretty solid, with specific characters fulfilling their role within the story in clever ways due to their abilities, which helps to give insight as to why Batman specifically chose the key players he chose to assist him on this journey.
Darick Robertson’s art is solid throughout and gives the book a grit that compliments the narrative tone of the book. Diego Rodriguez provides colors that embellish Robertson’s layouts with depth and further reinforces the tone, along with Simon Bowland’s lettering, delivers an interesting issue full of clever moments and unforeseen revelations. This is an interesting title that leaves more questions with every answer provided, but in satisfying ways that fuel the mystery. Add this title to your pull list for new comic book day.
Newsdesk