Review: Batman #16

Batman #16
Written By: Scott Snyder
Art By: Greg Capullo
Backup Written By: Scott Snyder & James T Tynion IV
Backup Art By: Jock



Cover: Batman #16 (DC)

I'm sure the lovely people over at DC hear it all the time, but Batman has been fantastic... no wait, it's been bat-tastic.

As we inch closer and closer to the epic conclusion of Death of the Family, the stakes have no doubt been raised for our Dark Knight.

The penultimate issue continues where issue number 15 left off—at Arkham Asylum. Once Batman enters his so-called kingdom and starts his search for the Joker, the Clown Prince of Crime has something up his sadistic sleeve every step of the way.

From the get-go, each turn of the page brings some kind of hair-raising, stomach-churning moment. Whether it's a horse running on fire or Batman getting an up-close and personal look at a tapestry made from dead bodies, one thing is for sure... writer Scott Snyder and artist Greg Capullo are the real Dynamic Duo of the DC Universe.

If you follow either of them on Twitter, or have read any of the interviews they do, you can see that they are truly dedicated to Batman and his fans.

Let's put it this way, while many comics book titles are pumping out story after story, Batman has had two arcs in as many years, and they have been really, really good ones. When you have a creative team that can do that without boring the reader, you've got my $3.99.

Now that I have stroked some egos, let's get to the big question on everyone's mind: what does the Joker have underneath that domed dish?

Like most people, we'll have to just wait and see what next month brings.

The backup was solid, as it has been during the whole Death of the Family saga. I'm a big fan of Jock's art, so anything drawn by him will have my eye's attention.

James T Tynion IV is a name you should get yourself familiar with. The rising star has been doing a bang-up job on the backup issues of Batman, as well as his work on Talon. It was recently announced that Tynion will be taking over writing duties on Red Hood and The Outlaws starting in April with issue #19.

Batman #16 is a work of art. If you haven't already picked it up, go get it... now!

***RATING: 10/10***

--Eric Follow Me on Twitter

Top Picks: Volume 1 Issue 7

3. Legends of The Dark Knight #4
Written By: T.J. Fixman, Andrew Dabb, and Jonathan Larsen
Art By: Christopher Mitten, Giorgio Pontrelli, and Tan Eng Huat

Legends of The Dark Knight #4 (DC)

NOTE: THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW

Sometimes when I go to the comic book store and see a book for $3.99, I tend to think that it's not worth it. But Legends of the Dark Knight gives you three stories for the price of one and I'm ok with that.

A Game to Die For: This was the first story, and in my opinion, the best. A man who calls himself the Praetorian has captured the Joker  and wants to prove to Batman that he can be the next Robin. The Joker, being the sadistic person he is, reveals that he knows not only the Praetorian's real name, but his kids' names, and even that he has a specific tattoo on his arm. Clearly upset, the Praetorian asks for answers and boy, does he get them. The ending had a good twist that I did not see coming. Once I was done with this whole issue, I went back and reread A Game to Die For. It actually was better the second time around. The story, written by T.J. Fixman was fresh and creative. But the real star was the art, drawn by Christopher Mitten. What at first came off to me as sloppy, made perfect sense in the end, given the tone of the story.

Batman: The Movie: We got another Joker story here, but it wasn't nearly as good as A Game to Die For. A movie about Batman is being made, and the the Joker, along with Harley Quinn, decide to crash the set and make a movie of their own: The Death of Batman. As you can probably guess, that didn't happen. The writing and art on this story, done by Andrew Dabb and Giorgio Pontrelli, respectively, wasn't bad, it was just kind of filler for me between the first and third stories.

Together: This was my second favorite story out of the three. Unlike its predecessors, Together was  Joker-less. Instead, we get a well done Two-Face story. I just want to say that I love it when Batman is perched in the shadows, hanging outside some window of a crime scene, talking to Commissioner Gordon. It always gives me the impression that the Dark Knight is poised to do some trademark detective work or interrogating. In this case, I was right. Batman tries to tack down a surgeon who has become a suspect after some kids went missing, both underwent the same procedure. Later, through said detective work, we learn that the surgeon is also a victim... of Two-Face. When I was done reading this, just like A Game to Die For, I went back and reread.

I have really been enjoying this title. It's very different than any other Batman book, not only because it usually contains separate stories done by separate writers and artists, but it also steers clear of the current story lines in the other Batman titles.



2. Detective Comics #16

Written By: John Layman

Art By: Jason Fabok
Backup Art By: Andy Clarke

Detective Comics 16 (DC)

NOTE: THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW


You've heard of the League of Assassins, but what about the League of Smiles?

With the Joker running wild in Gotham City, the group is one of many inspired by the Clown Prince of Crime, and in Detective Comics #16, they are keeping Batman busy.

I was a little let down by last month's issue. To me, it didn't really feel like a tie-in to the "Death of the Family" story. This month, however, writer John Layman pulled a switch-a-roo, delivering a great Joker story without having to show him at all.

In the midst of all the Joker mayhem, we are also seeing the rise of Ignatius Ogilvy A.K.A. Emperor Penguin.

This character, who was once Penguin's right hand man, doesn't excite me too much; maybe because the Penguin doesn't really do anything for me. But, like anything, I'll give  the story a fair chance to play out until I give my final two cents.

Artist Jason Fabook continues to pump out great panels. I love the way he draws Batman. He makes him look very intimidating--as he should be.

If you've enjoyed Layman and Fabok's work on Detective Comics, then this will not disappoint.



1. Superior Spider-Man #1

Written By: Dan Slott
Art By: Ryan Stegman


Superior Spider-Man #1 (Marvel)

NOTE: THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW

So the big question on Spidey fans' minds (at least mine): When and how will the real Peter Parker come back?

The answer: not long at all, in fact.

In the final pages of the controversial Superior Spider-Man #1, we see the ghost of Peter Parker stop Otto Octavius (who is now in Peter Parker's body... read Amazing Spider-Man #700) from killing Boomerang, a member of the new Sinister Six.

Otto can't see or hear Peter. So, it appears that former web-slinger will be following his former self around to make sure that Spider-Man's image isn't tarnished.

I'm okay with Dan Slott's vision for Spider-Man. However, a lot of fans have voiced their displeasure; some have even sent Slott death threats via Twitter. This isn't cool. By no means should anything fiction-related be taken that far. It's one thing to be angry, but it's another to turn that anger into something criminal.

But, could the skeptics be changing their tune? From what I've been reading, Superior Spider-Man #1 has received a lot of positive reaction. Not only to the Slott, but to artist Ryan Stegman. His art was clean, crisp, and really popped on every page.

If you invested your time and money into Amazing Spider-Man #698, 699, and 700, then you should definitely pick up Superior Spider-Man #1 to see if there is a payoff for you.

--Eric Follow Me on Twitter

Top Picks: Volume 1 Issue 6

5. Teen Titans #15

Written By: Scott Lobdell

Art By: Brett Booth 

NOTE: THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW

This issue was filled with highs and lows for me.

I understand wanting to get all the right characters involved with the "Death of the Family" event, but this tie-in was my least favorite of the bunch.

Am I really supposed to believe that Batgirl, given everything she has going with the Joker, would take off and help the Teen Titans? Seems unlikely, but I guess she found time to pencil them in.

Another thing, was it really necessary to put an editor's note about something that is happening in the Birds of Prey during an important action sequence? I don't even read Birds of Prey (sorry to all you fans out there.) Those panels really brought any excitement I had going to a screeching halt.

I don't want you to think that I'm just going to sit here and badmouth this issue to death because there were some good parts in it. For instance, seeing Tim Drake in his original Red Robin outift was really cool. Equally cool was hearing more about what writer Scott Lobdell touched upon back in Teen Titan #0: that Tim Drake's name might not be his "real" one.

Despite its shortcomings, Teen Titans #15  is a part of the "Death of the Family" crossover event and should be owned by anyone who wants to have every issue associated with the epic story.



4. Batman: The Dark Knight #15

Written By: Gregg Hurwitz
Art By: David Finch


NOTE: THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW

This is the conclusion to the dark and twisted Scarecrow arc that Gregg Hurwitz has brought us.

When Hurwtiz took over writing duties on Batman: The Dark Knight from David Finch, we were taken for a ride on the crazy train.

With Hurwitz as the conductor, we have seen Batman drugged, beaten, bloodied, and almost killed in his efforts to stop Scarecrow. The latter of those happens during the climax of this issue.

As a whole, I really enjoyed this story arc. Hurwitz and Finch both did a great job capturing the essence of what a Batman: The Dark Knight book should look and feel like.

Starting next issue, we will get a new villain and a new writer. They are the Mad Hatter and Ethan Van Sciver, respectively.

If you are a fan of David Finch, don't worry, he isn't going very far. He will be joining forces with Geoff Johns on Justice League of America, which is set to hit stores in February.



3. Batman Incorporated #6

Written By: Grant Morrison

Art By: Chris Burnham
              Andres Guinaldo & Bit (pages 13-16)



 NOTE: THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW

If anything, Grant Morrison continues to keep bat-fans talking... and that's a good thing.

The conflict between Batman and Talia reaches a new level in this issue as Talia forces Batman to make a choice: Save his city or save his son. Which will he choose? Well... we'll have to keep reading to find out.

Meanwhile back at the ranch... I mean Batcave, Damien, Dick, Tim, and Jason are all gathered together. It is in this moment that we get perhaps the cutest moment in Batman history: the debut of Alfred the cat (ok... I may be exaggerating a little on that one.)

But Morrison takes us from cute to ugly real quick, as a member of Batman Incorporated is the victim of a brutal attack that doesn't look good at all.

I really enjoyed reading this, but if there was one downfall, it would be the switch of artists midway through. Chris Burnham's art has been amazing from get get-go. It's one of the main reason I keep picking up Batman Incorporated, but I can't understand what the reasoning behind the change on pages 13-16 was about. It didn't flow with the feel of the book, and made me just want to get through those pages as quickly as possible so I could get back to Burnham.



2. Talon #3

Written By: James T Tynion IV

Art By: Guillem March

 NOTE: THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW

Talon keeps getting better and better every month.

This issue opens up with a flashback to six years ago. We see Calvin Rose and Casey Washington-- a woman Calvin saved from being killed by the Court of Owls-- talking on the Brooklyn Bridge. Here, we learn a little more of what began Calvin's life of being on the lam.

Back in present time, Calvin and Casey cross paths again, but this time it under different circumstances. After she has Calvin ambushed on the same bridge we saw in the flashback scene, she reveals to him that she wants to be a part of a bank heist that will drain the Court of Owls funding.

Did they pull it off? Well you'll just have to pick up this issue to find out. Trust me... you will not be disappointed.

The character of the Talon may have been created by Scott Snyder, but Tynion is doing the book justice as the writer. He has been impressing me not only on Talon, but on the backups of Batman as well.



1. All-New X-Men #5

Written By: Brian Michael Bendis

Art By: Stuart Immonen





NOTE: THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW

All-New X-Men is a book that will make your head spin, but in a good way.

Between all the back and forth between past and present, lies an emotional story that has grown to be a must-read.

This issue's main focus is on two people: Jean Grey and Beast. I'm not going to get too much into detail about the plot because it might come off as confusing to someone who hasn't read anything so far.

In a nutshell, Jean learns more about her life, through telepathy and Beast deals with his health scare.

Brian Michael Benis and Stuart Immonen have been all-stars on All-New X-Men.

There have been a lot of titles to come out of the Marvel NOW! launch, but in my opinion, All-New X-Men by far is the cream of the crop.



--Eric Follow Me on Twitter

Top Picks: Volume 1 Issue 5

Before I get started, I just want to point out that this entry will be a little different. If you have read any of my other posts, you'll notice that I normally do a top five review of my favorite comics that I purchased during the week. However, due a small pull list this week, I have whittled down the competition to four.



4. Avenging Spider-Man #15.1
Written By: Chris Yost
Art By: Paco Medina

Avenging Spider-Man 15.1

NOTE: THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW

This follows the events of Amazing Spider-Man #700. So before you read this, scroll down to see what happens, then come back...


Now that you know what happens, we get our first glimpse of Otto Octavius in his new role as Spider-Man in this issue.

A five-day period is laid out from this point. I'll give a brief overview of what goes down.

Day One: Otto realizes what has happened and how he can make Spider-Man better.

Day Two: Otto discovers some of the powers that Peter possessed.

Day Three: Otto begins work on a new costume and gets a phone call from Mary Jane, prompting some old images from Peter's mind.

Day Four: Otto pulls off his first "heroic act," and comes face to face with who he use to be.

Day Five: Superior Spider-Man is born.

Avenging Spider-Man 15.1 is the epilogue to Amazing Spider-Man #700 and the prologue to Superior Spider-Man #1. I see it as a necessary issue to have if you want to follow this story properly.



3. Justice League #15

Written By: Geoff Johns

Art By: Ivan Reis & Joe Prado

BACKUP STORY: SHAZAM

Written By: Geoff Johns

Art By: Gary Frank

 NOTE: THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW

This issue begins the "Throne of Atlantis" storyline that will crossover between the Justice League and Aquaman. It also marks the debut of former Aquaman penciler, Ivan Reis, to the title.

The "Throne of Atlantis" story is shaping up to be pretty interesting. By the end of this issue we know that Aquaman's brother has initiated the first strike of the Atlantean War Plan which consists of flooding the most heavily populated areas. Next up, according to Aquaman, is a ground assault. How does he know this you ask? because he wrote the plan. We learn more about this plan and how it came about, in Aquaman #15

Everything about this issue solidifies why the Justice League is the flagship book for DC. Geoff Johns continues to be one of the best writers for the company. Ivan Reis also delivers top-notch work, especially in panels involving water. It seems as though he has become one with the ocean after his stint on Aquaman.

If your mind wasn't already blown from the feature story, we get another fantastic installment of Geoff Johns' backup-- Shazam. I did find it kind of odd that the character was featured on the front cover, despite not being involved at all in the main story. Regardless, Johns and backup artist, Gary Frank, continue to craft a story that is worthy of it's own book.

Pick this up, and do yourself a favor and keep up with the story in Aquaman #15. You see my review for that issue, next.

2. Aquaman #15

Written By: Geoff Johns
Art By: Paul Pelletier

Aquaman #15

NOTE: THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW

As I mentioned in my Justice League #15 review, the "Throne of Atlantis" story continues here.

When you open up this issue to its first page, you are immediately taken to where the Justice League left off: Heavily populated areas such as Gotham and Metropolis are under attack by Atlantis, the result of missile test gone horribly wrong.

After Aquaman saves Commissioner Gordan and Detective Bullock from drowning, he hops in the Batplane. It is here that we learn more about the threat that is being posed, as Aquaman opens up to Batman.

Meanwhile, we learn more about the man who saved Lois Lane in issue #15 of the Justice League (read it to see what I'm talking about). It turns out that he is the first Atlantean that Aquaman ever met. He was also Aquman's and his mother's royal advisor.

From here we are taken to Boston, which is the latest city to be attacked. It is here that Orm, Aquaman's brother, surfaces and his finally confronted.

Newcomer to the Aquaman title, Paul Pelletier, knocked it out of the park with his art. From the opening panels (which gave me chills,) to the splash page at the end, Pelletier has shown me that he can stand toe-to-toe with the big guns.

I can't wait until Next month's Justice League and Aquaman to see where this story goes.



1. Amazing Spider-Man #700
Written By: Dan Slott
Art By: Humberto Ramos

Amazing Spider-Man #700

NOTE: THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW

I desperately tried to avoid any and all spoliers related to this issue. I actually did a pretty good job. It wasn't until I'd say about an hour or so before I picked up #700 that my eyes finally caught up with countless readers who indulged their curiosity.

I had an idea of what was going to happen, so reading the spoilers didn't take too much steam out of my excitement.

I got to my local comic book store bright and early Wednesday, eager to pick up a piece of history.

There were a handful of really nice variants available for purchase. If the cover price wasn't $7.99 I might have picked up a couple of them. I ended up deciding on the mosaic-like cover which you can see to the left. For me, it was a nice symbol for what the past 50 years has brought fans.

It's after those 50 years that we get a new Spider-Man-- a Superior Spider-Man. Peter Parker is in fact dead. As many suspected, he met his demise inside the body of a dying Otto Octavius, who in turn finds new life inside Peter.

The final confrontation between the two will leave you breathless. It is in this moment that Otto realizes the full extent of what it means to become Spider-Man. He realizes that he can no longer be the villain, and that with great power does in fact come great responsibility.

You should definitely pick this up. Even if you have negative feelings towards the plot, it is a collector's item and a part of Marvel history.

--Eric Follow Me on Twitter



Top Picks: Volume 1 Issue 4

5. Red Hood and The Outlaws #15

Written By: Scott Lobdell

Art By: Timothy Green II



Red Hood and The Outlaw #15

I was really looking forward to reading this. I initially thought it was going be pretty epic. I mean, Jason Todd and the Joker-- the man responsible for the former Robin's death-- that is a recipe for success.

For all the potential that was on the table, I was pretty let down.

We start off with the G.C.P.D. confronting Jason in a woman's apartment. The woman, named Isabel, has been forced an overdose of some kind by the Joker, and Jason, being set-up for it, is held at gunpoint by several of Gotham's finest, including Detective Bullock.

Jason fights off the police, wearing nothing but a towel around his waist and a shower rod in his hand. 

From here, we see get our first glimpse of the Joker as he lurks in the back of Bullock's police car, which Jason had just drove off in in an attempt to warn the others at the Batcave of the Joker. As you probably guessed, this doesn't end well for Jason.

While we get some more hints into Jason and the Joker's relationship from the #0 issue, the whole encounter didn't have the "revenge factor" I was expecting-- like from last week's Batgirl.

Another issue I had was with the scenes between Starfire and Arsenal. Between Roy fixing a ship and the two hooking up-- it took away any momentum the Red Hood and Joker had going.

The various writers attached to all these "Death of the Family" books have been trying their best to keep up with Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's Batman. So far, only Peter Tomasi and Patrick Gleason's Batman and Robin has come close.

This story will continue in the next Teen Titans issue, so I'm sure Tim Drake-- another former Robin-- will be involved. 

4. All-New X-Men #4

Written By: Brian Michael Bendis
Art By: Stuart Immonen

All New X-Men #4

Brian Michael Bendis and company have been killing it on All-New X-Men.

There are three big things happening in this book:

The first is Cyclopes' struggle to understand what he has done in the name of mutant people. The second is the original X-Men confronting the present X-Men regarding the previously mentioned Cyclopes issue. And the third is the deterioration of Beast's health.

We start off with an intense stare down between the two Cyclopes. During which, present Cyclopes, in his mind, runs through a laundry list of mutants who might have the ability to make him do the things he's done.

As this inner monologue progresses, we get a beautiful page that features the faces of both X-Men teams forming into one. This goes to show how good Stuart Immonen, Wade Von Brawbadger, and Marte Gracia have been. The three certainly     complement the detailed story that Bendis is providing.

Cyclopes isn't the only one struggling. A young Jean Grey is still coming to terms with her new found powers, which proves to be trying on the rest of the young X-Men.

As I mentioned, Beast's health is fading fast, and it doesn't get any better here. The ending of this issue certainly will have me picking up #5 to see what happens.


3. Nightwing #15
Written By: Kyle Higgins

Art By: Eddy Barrows

Nightwing #15

The Joker takes Nightwing on an emotional rollercoaster ride in this one.

***Warning: There will be some big spoilers from this point on.***

If you saw the preview for this issue on Newsarama, then you know that at least one person close to Dick Grayson dies, and it happens within the first three pages!

"Coming Soon" posters for Amusement Mile line sections of Gotham City. The posters feature Jimmy the Clown, a member of Haly's Circus. If you've seen Jimmy before, then you know that he bears a striking resemblance to our story's antagonist.

After Jimmy is poked fun of by the other members of Haly's Circus, he leaves to grab a drink and is confronted by the Joker, who is hiding in the shadows.

The Joker questions the similarities between Jimmy and himself, but after a deadly cloud of gas consumes the area, the Joker is singing a different tune.

We get a fantastic title page in which the Joker is holding up Jimmy's dead body. This is followed by an even better splash page that features Nightwing and Batgirl.

I have to say, it is so good to have Kyle Higgins and Eddy Barrows back. The two took a couple months off, and their work was greatly missed, at least in my eyes.

There is more to this book than just Jimmy's death. We see more of the relationship between Dick and Sonia Zucco. If you don't know who Sonia Zucco is, she is the daughter of Tony Zucco, the man who killed Dick's parents. The two share a passionate kiss, but it ends abruptly after Dick realizes what he is doing and who he is doing it with.

We also see more from another woman in Dick's life-- a former childhood friend named Raya Vestri. Vestri was sent to Blackgate Penitentiary in an earlier issue and is now being manipulated by the Joker.

After a brief confrontation with Dick, Raya suffers a similar fate to Jimmy, and leaves behind a message that will carry on into the next issue.

I highly recommend this book. It was fantastic from start to finish. Great writing and great artwork-- a must buy!

2. Hawkeye #6
Written By: Matt Fraction
Art By: David Aja

Hawkeye #6

Okay... this looks bad.

Are you kidding? This looks great!

How often can you say that you read a comic front to back... literally. Not only are the covers worth looking at a couple times, but the "Arrow Mail" on the back page is always worth your time.

David Aja is back after taking a two-issue break. I don't think I'm alone in saying welcome back.

Aja has the ability to draw things that look so simple, yet elegant at the same time. Don't let my praise take away from what Javier Pulido did in Aja's absence, which was fine work as well.

Issue #6 combines six days in the life of Hawkeye AKA Clint Barton, and places them out of order, which worked... really well.

The opening sequence had me really nervous, but as I turned the page, my anxiety slipped away and I found myself smiling. You'll have to read this issue to see what I'm talking about, but it involves Clint, Tony Stark, and some tricky wires.

Tony isn't the only Avenger who shows up. We get some fun dialogue between our titular character, Spider-Man, and Wolverine.

In previous issues, we have seen a group of men in tracksuits who really like to use the word "bro" and have a disdain for Clint. Their conflict reaches new heights here as the group broadens their scope and focus on more than our purple-wearing friend.

I'm sure we'll see more of this in the next issue, which also will deal with a real-life event that happened this past October.

Matt Fraction has said that we will donate royalties from Hawkeye #7 to Hurricane Sandy Relief. So if what you've seen so far isn't incentive enough to pick up the next issue-- you have another great reason to do so.

1. Daredevil #21

Written By: Mark Waid

Art By: Chris Samnee



Daredevil #21

Well that was... awesome!

Let's just get it out of the way. A big surprise came at the end of this issue. I will not reveal what happened, but it involves another character in the Marvel Universe. The moment alone is worth the price of admission.

This issue pretty much concludes Daredevil's situation with Coyote and The Spot. It's been a great story to read, and has featured fantastic moments such as Matt Murdock and others believing he might be crazy, to heads being "removed" from bodies. Thank you, Mark Waid for delivering the goods.

Let's not forget about the art, which has been spot-on. Chris Samnee is a force to be reckoned with. His artwork if the perfect compliment to Mark Waid's writing.

You should get this issue just for the ending alone, but also for everything else that it brings to the table. 

                                                            

--Eric  Follow Me on Twitter

Top Picks: Volume 1 Issue 3

5. Cable and X-Force #1                                                                               

    Written By: Dennis Hopeless

    Art By: Salvador Loracca

Cable and X-Force #1

This is another new title from the recent Marvel NOW! launch.

Like most #1s this was a set-up issue and we are introduced to the feature players. They include Forge, Domino, Colossus, Dr. Nemesis, and of course, Cable. Hope Summers, fresh off her Phoenix Force ordeal, also appears throughout the story.

The art in this book was well done, especially the splash pages. The story has potential, and did enough to keep me interested.

The standout moment of this issue was when Cable and company was confronted by the Uncanny Avengers. There were some pretty good lines from Havok and Captain America.

I'd say give this title a chance... it's not the worst way you could spend $3.99. I'll probably check out the next issue.

Now to the "Death of the Family" portion of the show...

 

4. Suicide Squad #15                                                                                 
    Written By: Adam Glass

    Art By: Fernando Dangnino

Suicide Squad #15

Is this the end of the road for Harley Quinn and Mr. J's relationship?

The last issue ended with the Joker choking Harley with a chain. We are brought back to this scene here, and the rest of the issue is pretty much a big fight between the two. 

During the lovers quarrel, we learn a little more about Joker's motivation, both for attacking Harley and for removing his face.

Speaking of face removal -- the standout moment that comes from this book, and really sticks in my mind occurs during their fight. As Harley gains the upper-hand, she shoves Joker's face into a wall, leaving quite an impression.

Between all the Joker/Harley stuff was some pretty random panels involving Waller and other Squad members. The ending, to me, also didn't fit well with this issue.

I'd say buy this just for the soul reason of being a part of the "Death of the Family" event. Or I can see it being appealing to people who are huge Harley/Joker history buffs. 

3. Batgirl #15                                                                                 

    Written By: Gail Simone

    Art By: Ed Benes

Batgirl #15

Before I get to my review, I feel like I need to address some pretty big news.

Batgirl writer, Gail Simone, recently revealed on Twitter that she was notified through e-mail that she will no longer be associated with the title. 

After the cat was out of the bag, a wave of support for Simone flooded Twitter. Fans, including myself, voiced their support for the popular writer.

It is yet to be seen what Simone will do next, but I'm sure whatever it is, it will be great -- just like this issue of Batgirl, which was a tie-in to the "Death of the Family" story.

Some of these tie-ins have been lackluster, but I think it's pretty safe to say that Bat fans everywhere were eager to see the confrontation between Babs and the Joker, which has been brewing since Alan Moore's 1988 "The Killing Joke."

We get more of the aforementioned confrontation here as Joker continues where he left off last month: holding Batgirl's mom hostage in a roller rink, while he awaits Batgirl's answer to his marriage proposal. Does she say yes, or does she turn down the Clown Prince of Crime? You'll just have to read and see.

I really enjoyed this issue. You can't go wrong with the story given Batgirl and Joker's history with each other. 

2. Batman and Robin #15                                                                            

    Written By: Peter Tomasi

    Art By: Patrick Gleason & Mick Gray

    

Batman and Robin #15

It's amazing how a character, such as the Joker, can get the creative juices flowing.

This book went from zero to 60 real quick.

After starting on a high note, the second run of Batman and Robin  kind of hit a rough patch for me. After the Nobody storyline, there were just, in my opinion, a bunch of uninteresting stories. That is, until now.

When this issue starts, we see the writing and artwork we have been accustomed to from Peter Tomasi, Patrick Gleason, and Mick Gray.

Damian, with the help of his dog Titus, is lured to the zoo where he gets ambushed by the Joker. From here, the thrusters were ignited and we were ready for liftoff.

We are taken into a dark and twisted story filled with maggots, worms, and all kinds of other creepy crawlers. You want to know what else is creepy? The Joker himself. His big reveal will leave you in awe.

Patrick Gleason takes the Joker and makes him his own, standing
out from all the other interpretations we've gotten thus far from the whole "Death of the Family" crossover event.

This is a great issue that needs to be owned by any and all Batman fans.

1. Batman #15                                                                          

    Written By: Scott Snyder

    Art By: Greg Capullo & Jonathan Glapion

    Backup Written By: Scott Snyder & James T Tynion IV

    Backup Art By: Jock

Batman #15

If there is a flagship book for the "Death of the Family" story, this is it.

We open up with an inner monologue from Bruce. He tries to tell himself that behind everything the Joker says or does, he is just a man.

But, does a man commit the acts the Joker has followed through with, or are they the acts of a monster? I'll let you be the judge.

The majority of this issue deals with a secret that Bruce has been holding back from the rest of the Bat family. Dick, Jason, Tim, Damien, and Barbara all learn that an altercation between Batman and the Joker in the past could have put their true identities in jeopardy. Bruce does everything he can to assure the gang that  that isn't the case.

Towards the end of the issue, we learn more about Joker's plans, thanks to some pretty sweet panels where Batman interrogates an Arkham City guard.

Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo keep up their A-game material here. Both of them without a doubt have me hooked on every word and image.

Even the backup story was great. Snyder is joined by James T Tynion IV on writing duties, while Jock takes over for Capullo.

In the backup, we get a better look inside what that Arkham guard was telling Batman. Plus, we get to see the Riddler. 

Batman continues to be a must-buy, top of the stack every week book. Buy this issue... in fact, buy two because you might wear out the pages reading it so many times.

Everyone Loves Batman/Top Picks: Volume 1 Issue 2

Before I get to my top comic book picks for the week, I want to talk about how glad I am that I live in a world where Batman is worshipped.

Unless you live under a rock, you know that The Dark Knight Rises was released this past Tuesday on Blu-Ray and DVD. Did I pick up a copy? You bet your boots I did.

I went to Best Buy on Tuesday and what did I find? Pretty much every customer had a copy of The Dark Knight Rises in their hands. As a Batman fan, I couldn't have been prouder.

But it's not just movies that fans are picking up. Everywhere you go, you see Batman T-shirts, hats, backpacks, shoes, iPhone cases... you name it, there's a product out there.

I'm guilty of this. I have multiple Batman shirts. I even have a Batman wallet. I can't tell you how many times I've pulled the wallet out to buy something and someone comments on it -- usually in a deep Christian Bale style voice.

I went to a bar a few week ago and got carded -- which usually happens because I look like I'm 16. The large man at the door (they are always large) saw my wallet when I went to get out my ID and said something along the lines of, "Batman, eh? You like Batman... I'M BATMAN."  I laughed and played along. The guy at the door told me that I probably hear that all the time. I agreed and said that everyone loves Batman... he also agreed.

Wallet

Now that we've gotten that out of the way, let's get into my top picks for the week.


5. ALL NEW X-MEN #3

   WRITTEN BY: BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS

   ART BY: STUART IMMONEN

All New X-Men #3

If you read last week's post, you'll remember that I had All New X-Men #2 as my second favorite book for that week. This week, although making the top five, didn't really excite me.

Cyclops and Magneto's quest to help new mutants continues here. However, the majority of this book deals with issues Cyclops and Magneto are facing following their encounter with the Phoenix Force (check out Avengers vs. X-men to see what I'm talking about.)  

As Scott and Erik try and recover some precious cargo, they realize that their powers aren't quite up to par with what they should be. After they find what they are looking for, some rifts in relationships develop.

By no means is this issue bad. If it was, I would not be writing about it. Brian Michael Bendis has done more than enough to keep me interested in seeing where this will go, and Stuart Immonen has kept the art fun and exciting.




4. DEADPOOL #3
   WRITTEN BY: BRIAN POSEHN & GERRY DUGGAN

   ART BY: TONY MOORE

Deadpool #3

Third time's the charm for Marvel's Merc With a Mouth. After two decent issues, #3 really delivers the laughs.

This was one of the Marvel NOW! titles I was looking forward to reading most. I thought it was a great move to put a comedian on the creative team given Deadpool's humorous nature.

As you can tell by the cover, Deadpool is kicking some dead president ass, and his little dog too.

This was the first we've seen of Richard Nixon, but he joins the likes of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Gerald Ford as they wage an undead war on Deadpool, Agent Preston, and Dr. Strange.

If anything, this book is flat-out ridiculous... but I love it.







3. AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 699

   WRITTEN BY: DAN SLOTT

   ART BY: PAOLO RIVERA

Amazing Spider-Man #699

After the events of the last issue, I first thought to myself, "Holy crap!" then my focus centered around how Peter Parker was going to get himself out of the really... I mean really bad situation he has found himself in.

I don't want to ruin too much about this story. Let's just say there is a serious case of Freaky Friday going on between Parker and Otto Octavius (Dr. Octopus.)

There is only one more issue left until the long run of Amazing Spider-Man comes to an end and Superior Spider-Man begins. That being said, I am anxiously waiting to see how the final issue, #700, is going to turn out.

As I said, the last issue had a "Holy crap" moment, and so does this one. Actually, it's more of a, "Wait... what? No!... really!?"

Once you see it, you'll know what I'm talking about.





2. HAWKEYE #5

   WRITTEN BY: MATT FRACTION

   ART BY: DAVID AJA

Hawkeye #5

How many Hawkeyes does it take to screw in a light bulb? Wait, I mean how many Hawkeyes does it take to retrieve classified information? The answer is two. Clint and Katie.

This was very close to being number one.

If you have not read any of the first four Hawkeye books, do yourself a favor and make it a top priority. I promise you will not be disappointed. Not only is the storytelling phenomenal, but the art is off the charts, crazy-good.

This issue is part two of a two-parter which centers around a VHS tape showing Hawkeye assassinating someone. If that's not bad enough, the tape has been leaked! This prompts S.H.I.E.L.D. to step in and make sure the video doesn't get in the wrong hands.

Matt Fraction and company have taken the character of Hawkeye and made him a star. I started picking up this book after reading so many positive reviews, and it has become a must-buy for me.

I'm going to end with a Batman title (thought I was done talking about that guy, huh?) It's a book that I will admit, I just started reading. I don't now why I skipped the first two issues... never mind, I know why... because I'm an idiot!

1. LEGENDS OF THE DARK KNIGHT #3
   WRITTEN BY: STEVE NILES
   ART BY: TREVOR HAIRSINE

Legends of The Dark Knight #3

30 Days of Night's Steve Niles writes a wonderful Batman/Joker story here.

Legends of The Dark Knight is a different kind of Batman book. By that, I mean that instead of just one creative team glued to it, there is a revolving door of talent each month.

Speaking of revolving doors, that is exactly how Batman feels about his relationship with the Joker in this issue. Every time he captures the Clown Prince of Crime and places him in Arkham Asylum, the Joker finds a way out.

Batman is angered by this and lets out his frustrations, as Alfred listens. But Batman eventually realizes that the things he does for Gotham City don't go unnoticed.

After Commissioner Gordon asks Bruce to meet with him, he hands over bundles of letters that have been collected over the years -- all addressed to Batman. Each letter tells a story of how he has impacted someone's life. After reading them all, Batman restores hope in his mission, not only to the reader, but to the Gotham as well.


Well, that does it. Come back next week to see what I think of the new releases.


Eric   Follow me on Twitter