Comic Review: DC Classics The Batman Adventures #2 (DC Comics)

Why not traipse back in time to a long ago, innocent time, when masks were worn by Batman and Catwoman, and we could all cough openly on each other? Say the summer of 2014.

DC’s reprint of another Classic: The Batman Adventures #2 hails from this long ago almost forgotten date, but is as fresh as a daisy nonetheless.

Batman is grappling with the pesky Catwoman in this three-part tale (done in one) written by Kelley Puckett, penciled by Canadian comic veteran Ty Templeton, inked by Rick Burchett, and coloured by Rick Taylor. The story moves to London and welcomes Catwoman and Joker to this easy-to-navigate version of Batman. Clearly and concisely illustrated by Templeton with his superb layout ability allowing readers older than 8 to freely find their way through this story. It’s a relief to read this all-ages tale, to be honest: the good guys are good, the action is contained and brisk, the movement from panel to panel is telegraphed in a graceful way. There’s no wrong answers and loads of entertainment for your two dollars.

Burchett inks with a sure hand, and Taylor’s colouring is flats and strong highlights and shadows. It’s a style that falls between retro Silver Age illustration and cartooning. Batman has few lines and is a bit exaggerated, and the Joker might have landed intact from the ’40s.

This one’s a delightful tale, full of Batman action, mystery, and surprises!

DC Classics: The Batman Adventures #2, JUST $1.99 for 23 pages of content. All ages