Batman is convinced that the Joker isn’t dead, despite all evidence to the contrary. Along for the ride is a Jiminy Cricket version of Constantine, readily available for interruptions, assumptions and general psycho-analysis. With Constantine pointing the way, Batman comes face to face with the ramifications of his supposed actions, whilst also battling demons from his past.
Brian Azzarello continues to weave a dark tale, full of the pressures of expectations, whether they are reality or perceptions of reality. Batman is in full obsessed mode, desperate to prove that the Joker is alive. After all, who else would desecrate an alter? Of course, where there is a Joker, there is usually a Harley. Whilst I know that this is an out of continuity book, I do feel that the Harley on show is an actual regression for her. We also get to see a less than perfect family life for young Bruce. Could it be that the actions in Crime Alley are actually created by a woman scorned? The dialogue in the book works well, with Constantine and Batman falling into a dislike / dislike type of bond. I am glad that there was clarity given to the rapper J Blood, as initially, I thought it was someone who had been infected by Joker blood, rather than the once form of man. I guess rhymes do kind of fall into raps pretty well.
As devoid of light as the writing is, the art by Lee Bermejo carries most of the weight. Bermejo“s art is inherently darkness on top of darkness, seen through the workman like Bat-suit, the Constantine stealing Batman poses and a Harley who is proud to show her scars. It seems that even Black Label books cannot escape the nine panel page, although this is used sparingly, allowing Bermejo“s panel layouts to drive the reader into this shadowy, almost darkly decadent version of Gotham. Bermejo“s figure work is exemplary, whether it is the action elements or the various emotional aspects in play for those involved, across a range of characters, there is hardly a pencil put wrong.  The colors of the book are fantastic, though at times the letters by Jared K.Fletcher do tend to get lost amid the art despite the white on black style.
I understand that Black Label books are going to aim at being more mature. Yet for some, this means nudity and swearing.  Given the trouble a naked man caused last issue, I am not sure how I feel about the last few panels and the implied seduction of the not so innocent. With this label, DC have an opportunity to challenge the reader with ideas and images that may seem distasteful or disturbing. With that in mind, this book continues with its strong substance that actually meets its excellent style.
Writing – 4.5 Stars
Art – 5 Stars
Colors – 5 Stars
[yasr_overall_rating size=”large”]
Written by Brian Azzarello
Art By; Lee Bermejo
Published by; DC Black Label
Author Profile
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I am a long time comic book fan, being first introduced to Batman in the mid to late 70's. This led to a appreciation of classic artists like Neal Adams and Jim Aparo. Moving through the decades that followed, I have a working knowledge of a huge raft of characters with a fondness for old school characters like JSA and The Shadow
Currently reading a slew of Bat Books, enjoying a mini Marvel revival, and the host of The Definative Crusade and Outside the Panels whilst also appearing on No-Prize Podcast on the Undercover Capes Podcast Network
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