Batman Books - Page 12

Batman/Superman/Wonder Woman: Trinity

Matt Wagner

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 17 Average rating: 3.5 of 5

A disturbing ill conceived creation 1 out of 5 stars.
4 of 19 people found this review helpful.

This book has wonderful art. Bringing together the three most well known of iconic heroes Wonder Woman, Batman and Superman in a globe spanning tale of (sadly) misogny and grit.

The author tries to make the threat of Batman's nemesis "The Demon" virtually a divine character ("as if spawned from a god" ) and then allows him to fight not the Dark Knight but Diana the Wonder Woman an Amazon from an island of beauteous warrior women.

Strangely only the women suffer defeats and attacks in his story. Most notably a battered and bloddy beating for the Amazon, then her island is attacked and "defiled." It appears as if this author is truly upset at women. Reading this story, a story that should be about heroism and nobility and overcoming odds I get the feeling that Wonder Woman represents a girlfriend that upset the author and he get's his "revenge" on women in general by the mischaracterization and degradations he suffers the Amazons and particularly Wonder Woman. Wonder Woman is never quite as strong as Superman in the story but instead of just alluding to that, he decides to beat and degrade the most notable icon of feminism.

I would not reccommend this book for a child under 13 and especially not a little girl.

Editorial Review:

BATMAN/SUPERMAN/WONDER WOMAN: TRINITY tells the remarkable tale of the turbulent first encounter of the worlds most iconic heroes. When Batmans greatest nemesis, Ras al Ghul, recruits Bizarro and an Amazon warrior to aid him in his plan to create global chaos, the Dark Knight Detective suddenly finds himself working with the Man of Steel and the Amazon Princess. Looking to thwart the madmans plot to simultaneously destroy all satellite communications as well as all of the worlds oil reserves, Earths greatest heroes reluctantly band together. But if Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman are to have any hope of stopping Ras nuclear missile assault, they will first need to overcome their own biases and reconcile their differing philosophies.

Batman: Death and the Maidens

Greg Rucka, Klaus Janson

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 6 Average rating: 3.5 of 5

Subtle and insightful 5 out of 5 stars.
15 of 15 people found this review helpful.

This is a beautifully done story. The art is very well executed and is a strong compliment to the thoughtful, intelligent and powerful story told by Rucka. Lots of people didn't seem to "get" the story, and clue into its subtle power. This is not a flash bang superhero story. This is a story about the characters of Batman, R'as Al Ghul and R'as estranged daughter Nyssa. The characters drive the story, not some artificial plot. The centerpiece is the parallel stories of Batman/Bruce Wayne and Nyssa and how their pasts have shaped them. The story revolves around the two characters coming to terms with their past and parentage and the choices between being shaped by the past or ruled by it. In the center, like a manipulating spider is R'as, spinning webs with which he hopes to carry on his apocalyptic vision for the Earth. The conflict between Batman and R'as has been a compelling corner of the Batman mythos. Batman seeks to save the world by intervening and being and example, a warrior fighting to end the never-ending war against evil and injustice by working with the world as it is. R'as wants to start the world over, by destroying the bulk of humanity and then taking over as the "enlightened" ruler of a new Utopia. The resolution shows the strengths of Batman and R'as as respective hero and villain and begins a new chapter for the competing visions toward saving the world. If you are ready for an introspective, thoughtful and ultimately powerful story, this is the graphic novel for you.

Editorial Review:

This intense new standalone Batman graphic novel stars one of the Dark Knight's most enigmatic adversaries: Ra's Al Ghul - the featured villain in the forthcoming movie Batman Begins! 600 years old, Ra's Al Ghul has spent his existence trying to wipe out humanity. But now, with his life draining away, Ra's turns to Batman, to help save him, whether to aid his ancient namesis, Batman's decision may be wrested from him when another party enters the fray with their own terrible agenda! Written by Greg Rucka (Gotham Central), with artwork by Klaus Janson (Batman: The Dark Knight Returns), Batman: Death and the Maidens is as cerebral as it is visceral!

Batman Unauthorized: Vigilantes, Jokers, and Heroes in Gotham City (Smart Pop series)

Alan J. Porter, Chris Roberson, Jake Black

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 3 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

A fun exploration of the different components of the Dark Knight 4 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

While Batman Unauthorized might not be the be all end all of serious literary criticism on Batman the way that, say, Geoff Klock's How To Read Superhero Comics and Why is for the superhero genre as a whole, it is still really fun, interesting read. The essays examine a variety of intepretations of the character on film, comics and television through the years. They manage to do a good job of picking apart Batman's multi-faceted existence without ever taking themselves to seriously which, I think, is always important when examining pop culture icons.

Highlights include: "The Cost of Being Batman", not the heavy handed 'emotional costs', mind you, but the actual monetary cost to pay for the equipment (the cost of the Batcomputer will make you soil yourself), "Holy Signifier, Batman!" which valiantly and convincingly explains why the old 60's show might actually be the most enduring version of the character and, my personal favorite, "To The Batpole" which imagines how the, uhm, Bat-talk might have gone down between Alfred and pre-pubescent (sp?) Bruce Wayne in the styles of the 60's camp Batman, Tim Burton's Batman, and the Michael Caine version from Batman Begins (not only is this hysterical but it manages to point out one of the inherent flaws with Batman Begins that I think a few of us have touched on in the blogs here).

There are some weak points like Mike Barr's defense of Batman's Sci-fi adventures from the 50's and early 60's ("Batman In Outer Space!" I'm sorry but this is just one aspect of the character that's best left forgotten) and an uneven essay comparing Batman to Superman that unilaterally decides to ignore The Dark Knight Returns which, for my money, is essential when comparing the two.

Overall, a nice quick read well worth the price of admission (17.95!)

Editorial Review:

Compiled by a veteran writer of the comic series, this collection of essays explores Batman’s motivations and actions, as well as those of his foes. Batman is a creature of the night, more about vengeance than justice, more plagued by doubts than full of self-assurance, and more darkness than light. He has no superpowers, just skill, drive, and a really well-made suit. One of the most recognized superheroes ever created, Batman has survived through campy TV shows and films, through actors like Adam West, Michael Keaton, and Christian Bale. It covers both the silly and the solemn, asking questions like Why is the Joker so good at pushing Batman’s buttons? What does Batman’s technology say about the times? Why are Batman’s villains crazier than average? and Why is Batman the perfect, iconic American hero?

Batman Chronicles, Vol. 4

Bill Finger, Bob Kane, Jerry Robinson

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 1 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

I love the Golden Age 5 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

DC has it figured out with these Chronicle series books. It's a great format, full color, and while the paper quality is not nearly as good as the hardcover books, it's still quite good. Many of the stories are cheesy, but it's great to see the characters develop. In this volume we see the debut of the Scarecrow and his original costume.

I love the way DC is putting all these stories in chronological order allowing you to see, not only, how Detective Comics was progressing, but the stand alone Batman title as well (not to mention the few one shows such as the World's Fair, and World's Finest series that have been printed so far). Just a great idea and I can't wait for the next one.

Batman Illustrated by Neal Adams: Volume 3

Denny O'Neil, Len Wein

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 5 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

The Timeless Standard for Batman 5 out of 5 stars.
9 of 9 people found this review helpful.

This third volume collects the last portion of the Neal Adams Batman. While the second volume is in and of itself excellent, this volume is indeed superior. Phenomenal writing, superb coloring, quality paper, and timeless art.

Present-day comic "artists" still have miles to go before they reach this type of comic storytelling.

You get:

"Daughter of the Demon": (R'as al Ghul)
"Half an Evil" (Two Face)
"Night of the Reaper" (Harlon Ellison assist)
"The Lazarus Pit" (R'as al Ghul)
"The Demon Lives Again" (R'as al Ghul)
"The Bruce Wayne Murder Case"
"The Joker's Five Way Revenge" (Joker)
"Moon of the Wolf"

My only complaint is the re-inking of two Power Record Books that were excellent the way they originally were.

Still, a volume to be read, re-read, and treasured.

Editorial Review:

This final extra-sized volume collects Neal Adamss acclaimed covers and stories featuring the Dark Knight. In addition to the stories that introduced the world to the threat of Ras al Ghul, this book features writer Denny ONeil and artist Neal Adamss renditions of Two-Face and the Joker. Added bonuses include two never-before reprinted custom stories produced in the 1970s, and a lengthy sketchbook section showcasing Neals commercial work on the Caped Crusader. Foreword by Neal Adams and introduction by Denny ONeil.

Batman: Arkham Asylum

Grant Morrison

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 50 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Poetic 5 out of 5 stars.
6 of 6 people found this review helpful.

First founded in the 1920s following the death of his insane mother, Amadeus Arkham converted his late mother's house into a mental institution, knowing little that he had set in motion a chain of events of horrific consequence and bizarre circumstance. Years later, the asylum had become a living Hell on earth, a mental hospital for the deadliest criminal individuals in Gotham City, the enemies of the legendary Batman. April Fool's Day has arrived, and the inmates have all escaped and, led by The Joker, have seized control of the asylum and drag the one man responsible for their incarcerations, Batman, into the madhouse and put him through a mad funhouse of mind cancer. Learn the disturbing origin of Dr. Arkham, and dive into the minds of some of the inmates!

I have always considered the Batman to be such a poetic character, and so this story is unique and fun to read in such its own unique, psychologically thrilling way. Writer Grant Morrison's idea in his book are mystic and focus mainly on the symbiosis between Batman and the insidious psychopaths he has time and time again helped incarcerate. "A Serious House on Serious Earth" is a Bat tale unlike any other, because the characters each represent something. Everything in the story is depicted as some form of symbolism, and include the works of the psychology of Carl Jung, the works of Joseph Campbell, and Lewis Carroll (Bat villain Jervis Tetch, the Mad Hatter, plays a particularly symbolic role here). The villains-Joker, Two-Face, Clayface, Mad Hatter, Maxie Zeus, Killer Croc-each represent important symbols, even Batman himself is a form of symbolism in this tale; Dave McKean's chaotic and mystic artwork is very effective in backing this up (each page actually feels like the inside of the mind of a madman). The main point of "Arkham Asylum" is about madness and facing one's own sanity and fears. Even Batman himself questions his own rationality and wonders if he is really all that different from his enemies. Because it is such a symbolic and poetic tale, "Arkham Asylum" is one of the prizes in my ever-growing graphic novel library. It seems to change every time I read it, and I appreciate it more with each rereading. The story is also brutal and frightening, and more fit for mature reader (it has a pedophilic Mad Hatter in it!). Batman graphic novels have become MUCH darker and more serious ever since the 80s, particularly thanks to Frank Miller and his instant classic, "The Dark Knight Returns." It makes me sad to think that all too many people remember Batman as a campy, comedic icon.

Editorial Review:

Batman: Arkham Asylum is Batman on the cutting edge, as he faces not only his most dangerous foes but his own inner demons as well. Full-color illustrations.

Catwoman Vol. 1: The Dark End of the Street (Batman)

Ed Brubaker, Darwyn Cooke, Mike Allred

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 9 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Gritty and Intelligent Crime Noir and Pulpy Comics FUN!!! 5 out of 5 stars.
9 of 11 people found this review helpful.

This book picks up after the previous trade paperback book, "Selina's Big Score," (which is also well worth buying). Compared to that prior book, "The Dark End of the Street" is printed on cheaper, more pulpy paper, but it is less expensive and has 25% more pages than the glossy-papered "Selina's Big Score."

Where "Dark End" really beats "Big Score" is all in the cool, new Catwoman costume, which debuted here in these stories in "Dark End of the Street." This costume is probably the coolest looking costume that Catwoman has ever worn. It looks very practical and utilitarian for a cat burglar and social vigilante, that is the new and improved Selina (Catwoman) Kyle.

This book retains and continues the retro, private eye feel of "Selina's Big Score," and then this book improves upon that foundation by having lots of exhilarating costumed Catwoman action! She comes alive in her element of a rough & tumble, dog-eat-dog underworld! She swings around the rough parts of Gotham City like that is where she feels most at home in her life. She solves crimes like a rookie detective who has the skills of a master, crime fighting hero.

This book starts with a few short stories of private dick, Slam Bradley, trying to figure out the mystery of the missing Catwoman; which leads into the retelling of the first 4 issues of the new, monthly Catwoman comic book series, in which Catwoman hunts down a serial killer.

The final face-off with the killer is the only weak part of the book, it being amusing, but it does not live up to the previous 100 pages of gritty intrigue (it kind of gets less realistic at the very end of this book). But don't let that discourage you from getting this book. The trip is more fun than the final destination, but it's a really fun trip!

"The Dark End of the Street" is well worth buying! If you have any interest at all in the Catwoman comic book series, you will love this book.

Editorial Review:

Selina Kyle - Catwoman - is missing and presumed dead. The mysterious circunstances of her death has drawn the attention of a private eye by the name of Slam Bradley. He follows the trail in an attempt to discover if this cat has one more life left.

Batman: The Greatest Stories Ever Told, Vol. 2

Brian Michael Bendis, Bob Kane, Bill Finger, Roy Thomas

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 2 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

A COUPLE OF SILVER AGE STUMBLES BUT OTHERWISE SOLID 4 out of 5 stars.
9 of 9 people found this review helpful.

The second volume is DC Comics' Batman: The Greatest Stories Ever Told, proves to be vastly superior to first, featuring stories culled over a period of sixty-plus years of Dark Knight history. While the stories are usually presented chronologically, this one deviates slightly in order to present the origin of the Golden Age Batman as the first story. This story was originally published in Secret Origins in 1986 and is written by Roy Thomas with art by Marshall Rogers. It's an interesting inclusion, serving to remind modern day readers of the "other" Batman.

Sadly, only one Golden Age story is included but it's a gem. From Batman #1,the caped crusader faces off against Professor Hugo Strange who he encountered for the first time in Detective Comics #36 a couple of months earlier. Strange has escaped from prison and also helped free five insane patients from an asylum. He uses a growth hormone to turn them into hulking monsters. Artist Bob Kane was certainly interested by popular films of the era. His monsters look very similar to Universal's Frankenstein monster and later one climbs to the top of a very tall building while Batman attacks him from the Batplane in an ode to King Kong. It's a great story and Kane's art is superb.

Now jump ahead a couple of decades to the late 50's and early 60's for the next two stories from Batman #108 (1957) and #153 (1963). These two stories with more simplistic art by Sheldon Moldoff are in complete contrast to Kane's darker style. Also by this time, Batman was in his phase of battling silly alien threats. I've never been a fan of these stories as they just don't fit Batman's persona.

In other stories, Batman teams with Helena Wayne, the Huntress of Earth-2 (in a Pre-Crisis story from 1982) and discovers his father may have been involved with the Gotham mob. Batman literally has "All My Enemies Against Me" as he and Robin face-off against The Joker, Clayface, Two-face, Killer Croc, The Riddler, Scarecrow, and several other from Detective Comics #526.

One of my favorite stories In the collection is Cave Dwellers where Batman plays second fiddle to Batgirl in one of the first modern day, revisionist encounters between the pair. The noir-ish art by Marcos Martin is outstanding, as is the story by veteran scribe Chuck Dixon.

This is a very strong collection of Batman stories. Of course, ask a hundred different people and you'd get a hundred different answers as to what the greatest Batman stories are. Only the two silly Moldoff stories from the Silver Age prevent this from being a five star book. Four out of Five stars.

Reviewed by Tim Janson

Batman: Contagion

Chuck Dixon, Doug Moench, Alan Grant

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 11 Average rating: 3.0 of 5

A good storyline similar to "No Man's Land" 4 out of 5 stars.
5 of 6 people found this review helpful.

Batman and Robin, contacted by Azrael, learn that a mutation of the Ebola virus is about to hit Gotham. The richest people in Gotham board themselves up and isolate themselves from the masses. However, one of their member is already infected, and the decadent millionaires offer the city five million dollars to find a survivor so that an antidote can be made.

This novel is a "cross-over" style, it takes place in Batman, Robin, Huntress, Azrael, and Catwoman titles. Each of the heroes approaches the problem as best they can. They reach a new height of desperation when one of their own is infected.

One of the ways I am the most impressed is how Chuck Dixon has developed the Robin character. Tim Drake is a great Robin, with a sense of humor and an even stronger sense of justice. The way he develops Robin into a selfless hero should silence most of the remaining critics that say Robin is only an offshoot of Batman, or a nuisance. When Robin is facing death and Catwoman bends over to touch him, he tells her to leave him alone, he will not stand by and watch people die. Even Catwoman, the irreverent spoil of the Batman squad, looks at Drake with awe and respect.

One complaint: the plot is a little choppy. They spend most of the time going one direction, only to find their efforts vain. The transition from one course of action (finding a survivor to get a cure) to the other (deriving an antidote from a strange, esoteric text from Azrael) seems a bit too inconsistent.

Overall, however, this book is a true test of the characters that watch over Gotham. Will they give in to the despair and fear like the other Gothamites? Even Nightwing, the most optimistic of the characters, thought Gotham to be doomed. "Contagion" is an interesting storyline that pits Batman and crew against a destructive, invisible force that cannot be conquered by orthodox means.

Editorial Review:

A lethal virus has been released on the unknowing inhabitants of Gotham City, causing excruciating pain and ultimate death within 48 hours. Batman races to contain the chaos and find a cure, with help from Robin, Nightwing, Azrael, Huntress, Catwoman and Poison Ivy. Full-color illustrations. Graphic novel format.

Batman vs. Two-Face

Dennis O'Neil

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Editorial Review:

Batman faces Two-Face -- formerly Bruce Wayne's friend, District Attorney Harvey Dent -- in stories from the 1940s to today.

Once, he was Gotham City's crusading District Attorney Harvey Dent. But when a criminal threw acid in his face, disfiguring his left side, Dent lost his grip on sanity and became the villain known as Two-Face. Making every decision with the help of a two-sided coin -- one scarred, the other undamaged -- Two-Face became one of Batman's greatest adversaries. Every step of the way, Batman has tried to help his friend leave the path of evil and remember that he was once a force for justice.

These are the best of Batman's battles with Two-Face, including work by Batman creator Bob Kane, as well as writer Dennis O'Neil, artist Neal Adams, animation legend Bruce Timm and many others.