Review: Robin #4

The first thing that stands out in Robin #4 is just how different this Damian Wayne is. Rather than being the illogical, angry fighter we know and love, this version of Robin is bringing logic to a crazy world. Any interaction with Ra’s Al Ghul is bound to make one look sane, but this is a Damian who acts much more like Dick Grayson. This may be purposeful as the first page Manga-inspired dream sequence clearly shows Damian is developing, or destroying, his own identity.

Damian finds himself taken away from the tournament on Lazarus Island and instead on another island being awoken by the always welcome Goliath. He then realizes he has been brought there by his grandfather who uses philosophy and threats to try and prevent Damian from rejoining the tournament.

R’as has found some peace on the island but is still as controlling as always. On Lazarus Island, Connor Hawke and Ravager realize Damian is missing only for Ravager to be attacked and ‘killed’. Since she is the last victim of the first wave of deaths, her resurrection will mark the beginning of the tournament. Since much of the issue is consumed with Al Ghul’s musings about the stars, there is not a clear indication as to the effect this chapter has on the larger story. It feels tangential but what holds our interest is a solid script by Joshua Williamson and Jorge Corona’s incredible style. Paired with the tropical-appropriate bright color palette of Luis Guerrero the art is unique, expressive and has just the right amount of manga influence. Corona’s style recalls the great Mike Wieringo but maintains a playful identity of its own. One wishes Damian had just as much attitude here as the art does. Perhaps we are just seeing a more mature depiction of the character, but it’s also less enjoyable.

Writing: 2.5 of 5 stars
Art: 4.5 of 5 stars
Colors: 4.6 of 5 stars

Overall: 3.8 of 5 stars

Writing: Joshua Williamson
Art: Jorge Corona
Colors: Luis Guerrero
Publisher: DC Comics

Author Profile

M.R. Jafri

M.R. Jafri was born and raised in Niagara Falls New York and now lives with his family in Detroit Michigan. He's a talkative introvert and argumentative geek. His loves include Star Wars, Star Trek, Superheroes, Ninja Turtles, Power Rangers, Transformers, GI Joe, Films, Comics, TV Shows, Action Figures and Twizzlers.