Review: Detective Comics #1009

“May I remind you that I am a Butler and a Renaissance man. I am not a datebook.” – Alfred Pennyworth.

Synopsis:

This issue opens with Alfred communicating with Batman through radio. He’s reminding the Dark Knight that he’s been out every night on the prowl. He’s also reminding him that he has an important Singapore Conference today. He’s obviously implying that Bruce Wayne needs some sleep. Enter another vigilante, though one not as nice or justice-minded as the caped crusader. One who has no qualms taking out human beings he considers inferior, while we’re reminded of the Batman’s pledge not to kill.

The Creative Team:

Peter J. Tomasi brings us into this tale by contrasting the Batman with one of his more evil counterparts. This antagonist is hell-bent on destroying Bruce Wayne and hi-jacks the airplane he is on. This gives us a thrill of a plane ride as Bruce, who isn’t able to turn into his superhero counterpart, tries to control the situation. It’s a tension-filled issue as our protagonist must protect those close to him and prevent this villain from totally destroying the plane and her crew. Great stuff includes the banter between Bruce, Alfred, and their dog Ace. Also, the antagonist tying up loose ends in the only way he knows how.

Christian Duce makes good use of darkness and shadow as any good Batman artist will. Contrast is the name of this game and the game is well played here with the characters exhibiting the right amount of outrage and charisma to carry this tale. I loved the visuals and hope they keep this artist on for quite a while to come. Highlights include the first appearance of these issues mysterious villain and the fate of the airplane.

In Conclusion:

This is an intriguing introduction to a tale that could shape up to be one of the best Batman stories of the year. It’s got an interesting sub-plot set in Singapore that sees us switch locals and a villain with a strong hatred of the hero that isn’t the Joker. The tension is strong and builds towards a stimulating finale when…to be continued. ***1/2 (8.9 rating)

[yasr_overall_rating size=”large”]

Writer – Peter J. Tomasi
Art – Christian Duce
Colors – Luis Guerrero
Letters – Rob Leigh
Publisher – DC

Author Profile

Kevin Given

Kevin Given has studied with â€œ Longridge Writers Group â€ and â€œ Writerâ€™s Boot Camp â€ a speech/communications major from the University of Maine Presque-Isle/Orono sites. He has created the â€œ Karl Vincent Vampire Hunter â€ franchise which includes novels and comic books. They can be found on amazon, Indyplanet and Kindle. For a limited time you can get digital copies of â€œ Karl Vincent: Vampire hunter â€ # 1 and â€œ Files of Karl Vincent â€ # 1 for free on Indyplanet. Kevin is producing the third novel in the series â€œ Dracula Rising â€ (working title) and developing â€œ Foul Blood â€ into comic book form. Don't forget to check out the YouTube show " Comics: Let's Talk " hosted by Kevin Given