Batman and Robin #1 (spoilers)

[Jason1Kent]

Well if you like your duo dynamic, you'll love this. From the get go we are into action which is what you want. Dick still has issues with wearing the cowl it seems and Damien is a techno genius (?) .
Oh and best of all, Ace the Bathound!! pic, hope he returns . A new villian Pyg is introduced, seems to be something to do with the Circus which is handy considering Dicks upbringing . The art is fantastic , every page a delight.







The last page previews upcoming stories and it looks great.

[dreyga2000]

Hmmmm.... Professor Pyg was the guy in issue 666 who was crucixed upside down...

[NickFury90]

Hmmmm.... Professor Pyg was the guy in issue 666 who was crucixed upside down...

Right, he's the guy who created all those little dolls. Also, Morrison mentioned "The Flamingo" in one of his interviews as a new villain he is introducing, who also appears in #666 (although briefly, after getting owned by a Batarang by DamienBat).

[Mac]

Awesome.
I loved the whole "Hope springs eternal" scene, plugging the Batsignal back in.
My only gripe is that, despite the awesome splash page of Batman and Robin dropping in, we didn't get to see the new duo meeting Gordon for the first time.

Tidbits that stuck out to me-
-I'm not sure if I like the Wayne Manor sitting vacant. Or Dick's personal reasoning to not live there.
-"'Never use real names in the field.' Your words." Awesome.
-Lol @ the Punisher-esque emblem on Red Hood's chest.

[Maestro]

this was a fun comic, fun fun fun. now that's what I like!

[SpideyZERO]

Definitely a fun read, and kinda creepy too, espcially the Professor Pyg. Give me the shivers...

Now I'm really looking forward to the rest of the series. Punisher-Hood? Batman VS Batwoman and Batman ghost? Return of Dr. Hurt? Wow!!!

This is gonna be a great year!

[Karl O'Neill]

Can we merge the other batman and robin THREAD with this one? why have two :)

[Karl O'Neill]

Found this ! sweet!

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g191/shamon85/pg0024.jpg
best picture of issue
http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g191/shamon85/pg0019.jpg

[ZombieHavoc]

Currently eating my words, and they taste oh so sweet.

I bailed on GM's Batman, because I was sooooo bored, and didn't touch any of BFTC, because I just didn't care. But curiosity got the better of me, and I picked up BaR #1 today, and thought it was really fun.

I'm still itching for Bruce to return as Batman, because he will. But for now, I plan to just enjoy what's going on.

[BloodOps]

I kinda felt like it was a short issue. I read it fairly quick. The Batman and Robin page General Grievous posted was awesome.

I'm more excited for the Batman issue next week though than I was for this, especially with Wonder Woman and Superman meeting the new Batman for the first time.

[ZombieHavoc]

Do the other JLA'ers/heroes know who is wearing the cowl already?

[IvCNuB4]

My only complaint is that it ended too soon :wink: It's the best of the All-Star Superman writing without the disjointedness of Final Crisis. But FC was written that way on purpose. It was reflecting the events of what was happening in the DCU at that time while reality was being distorted.
This issue is coherent and stays in line with what's going on in the rest of the Bat-titles while still being a bit of quirky fun !
And I loved how the sound-effects were built into the background FX (boom boom, bwkssshhh, splash) :biggrin:

[celticguy]

Do the other JLA'ers/heroes know who is wearing the cowl already?


I am sure most of them can figure it out. The titans probably all know and they can tell WW, Flash, BC, GA and the Teen titans will know there is a new Robin quick enough.

Plus Dick has always been better about reaching out to the community, he even got the JSA to move him twice, for help so if not in the time of the book soon after.

[NickFury90]

LOOOOOOVED Batman and Robin #1, it was everything I wanted and left me wanting more. Love the dynamic between Grayson and Damien. Grayson knows how to do this, but he's not to eager to become Batman. Damien has the skills AND the smarts(dude fixes the Batmobile up with flight abilities), but he's still young, kills criminals(back in the Batman and Son arc), and maybe a bit TOO eager to fight crime. I can already tell by that preview they are going to be some problems in their relationship.

Dr. Pyg is extremely creepy, and his plan looks to be scary as hell. I really hope he becomes a mainstay of Batman mythos because he's perfect.

I WANT MOAR

[Will44]

Excellent issue, and I haven't been a fan of Morrison's work in a long time. I'm really looking forward to this book now and I hope to see nothing but great things for my favorite character, Dick Grayson, from here on out.

[dreyga2000]

The Red Hood, aka Jason, has a sidekick...

Wow... Any speculation on who it might be...

[HeckBoy]

-I'm not sure if I like the Wayne Manor sitting vacant. Or Dick's personal reasoning to not live there.
What are Dick's reasons for not wanting to live there?

[BloodOps]

Do the other JLA'ers/heroes know who is wearing the cowl already?

I'm sure they don't know yet. Alfred said this is his first week but when they seem him they'll know. And I'm sure there are rumors of a new or the "return" Batman going on in the DC Universe.

[Mateus_ds]

What are Dick's reasons for not wanting to live there?

likewise wanting to know this.

as a first time batman reader i gotta say i did enjoy this, though it felt short to me.
ill see if ill pick up more B&R but im definitely looking forward to the Batman title due next week.

[Quinnhop]

LOVED IT.

Now...I want Cap'n Jim's thoughts.

[Chiroptera]

LOVED IT.

Now...I want Cap'n Jim's thoughts.

Seconded. If Jim actually likes it enough to say it's worth it I may give the second one a try, just because I want to see how the remaining big two react to Dick under the cowl.

I flipped through this first issue at the shop and it still fails to grab me. I think if not for Damien I might be willing to give Morrison another shot but I just hate that little snot to much to tolerate an entire series with him as one of the stars.

I am intrigued to see Clark and Diana's reactions though, so the second one may be worth picking up.

[bongoes]

Oh man I can't wait this sounds as good as I thought it would be


I am intrigued to see Clark and Diana's reactions though, so the second one may be worth picking up.

They are supposed to be in the first issue of Winick's Batman.

[spidervenom]

The Red Hood, aka Jason, has a sidekick...

Wow... Any speculation on who it might be...

The girl at the end of the issue. Hair matches the siloute.

[IvCNuB4]

In the "Do Not Miss" preview of Dick and Kate fighting with the flaming Bat-spirit/man rising behind them. Could that be from a Lazarus pit ?

[Sn4tcH]

In the "Do Not Miss" preview of Dick and Kate fighting with the flaming Bat-spirit/man rising behind them. Could that be from a Lazarus pit ?

It looks like the same colors as more recent Lazarus Pits. Since when did the pits go from green to that fiery orange?

[AiyokuSama]

I'm not sure if I like the Wayne Manor sitting vacant. Or Dick's personal reasoning to not live there.

Huh? What reasons? And how do we know that the Manor is vacant? It just showed them in the satellite Cave under Wayne Towers.

It's been mentioned before in the Nightwing book that Dick thought he and Bruce would have been more effective if they had their bas of operations in the thick of the city instead of under the Manor. It's the reason why he had Bruce by him the various safe house through out Manhattan. It makes perfect sense to me that he'd move their vigilante set up closer to the action.

[zur en arrh]

Loved the issue. Great writing and the circus of strange seems very interesting. All of the dialogue was excellent and Frank's art has really grown on me.

And Hurt with the keys to Wayne Manor? I love it.

[Redrumbin]

Excellent issue, really interesting.
My only complaint (if it's one), is that if I see Hurt ,in the next year or so, I'm going to throw up.

[Retro315]

That was fun ... and Morrison pulling a "Johns" at the end with the teaser preview page was awesome. Well played, Morrison.

There's a lot of little stuff this issue that was awesome, and it's always good when my complaint about an issue is that it felt like it went by too fast.

First of all, Frank Quitely's wildly experimental layouts are fantastic. Whether the way he uses the tunnel or the rearview window of the car as frames, or the way he combines the onomatopoeia and the fire, explosions, smoke trails, etc ... same story with some of the art, some real big opportunities for iconic Batman poses, but the fun kind, rather than the dark and brooding silhouette kind. For instance; Batman and Robin double-decking Toad. That was the one that had me thinking "Adam West series".

Dick has a flying Batmobile! My god that thing's cool, although I can see that Damian doing all the work on it while Dick is busy detecting is going to be a point of contention - the kid's gonna want to drive it.

Okay, so Toad is apparently part of the Circus of Strange. I love that it took five seconds for Dick to know the circus slang and drop the guy. I was like ... wait a minute, what's "nanti" and "dinari". So I can see Morrison's still got me hitting up Google to learn something. I'm glad of it. The context made it pretty easy to figure out their meaning, since we've heard crooks scream "I'm tellin' you nothing, where's my money?" a million times.

The mystery of the dominoes is neat in that annoying "really? we have to wait a month?" kind of way.

I love that Dick moves the operation Bruce's Penthouse, in that same building that was seen in Three Ghosts of Batman, R.I.P. with the backup bat-computer, and Batman 666 as well. I know Morrison's been making a point of showing that Batman's not "limited" to Wayne Manor and that he's always got a backup - the Penthouse from the 70's ... the spare Bat-Cave.

And it makes logical sense too, since Dick would figure that there's a slightly higher chance he slips up and gets identified as Batman and would want to at least distance himself from Bruce (even with the fact that they've got a "cover" for Bruce as well). There's the unmarked grave again ... glad to see it's depicted the same everywhere, and I wonder who ultimately picked that design for it.

Love the cutaway of the penthouse. I miss cutaways and they're so rarely done these days. Love the inclusion of the old subway tracks and rocket powered train-car, which I remember first seeing way, way back in the Knightfall days ... I think it was Harold who put it together.

Some people have pointed out that Bruce was never seen eating, even when Alfred offered him food or at restaurants in Morrison's previous works (since the Christ comparisons were there and it was truly "The Last Temptation of Batman"), and he only drank water. Well here's Dick, very visibly scarfing food.

I like Damian's brashness in keeping Dick in check by saying "step down, I'll do the job". It jumps right back into that 50's, Silver Agey channeling that Morrison had done in the first place. Bred for the job ... stuff like that. But I like how he pretty much has to respect Dick, who just says "no" and moves to the next subject.

Love the layout of the Batmobile pulling out of the tunnel, and how the panels seem to wobble with the uneven road and hovering vehicle.

There's our burning guy Morrison mentioned in the interview. Another Circus of Strange member, busting out Toad. Weird. The Raggedy Anne style doll mob I'm not sure what to think of, but they seem fitting as Professor Pyg's demented servants. Paracapes straight out of Batman Begins are cool. Promise of Gordon's "first" meeting with Dick Grayson as Batman next issue and some hijinks at Gotham Central is exciting.

No clue who the immigrants Pyg is screwing with are, but I agree that the hair and frame of the daughter might work with the sidekick in the previews.

The first preview panel reminds me of something I think Morrison said, about a Circus of Strange member that's Siamese Twins and fights with weird double martial arts. No doubt ... the second, Damian getting stomped by androgynous dolls is great. Who can complain about Damian getting roughed up? The dominoes, the bones ... just reminding us of the central mystery.

Damian upset and quitting? No surprise. He'll probably do that every issue.

New Red Hood? That's amazing. Probably Jason Todd since Morrison said he'd use him in a different way. The old school Red Hood helmet is better than the simple red mask. I like the skull. It also reminds me of "The Hood", an old Silver Age villain/vigilante who ALSO wore a red hood.

Dick and Batwoman fighting while the ghost of Bruce looks on? What the HELL is that all about?

And the biggest tease of all, of course, is Hurt with the keys to Wayne Manor.

If these are indicative of the "four three-issue arcs" he'll be telling, I'm more excited than ever.

[Sighphi]

The Red Hood, aka Jason, has a sidekick...

Wow... Any speculation on who it might be...

The Red Hood is back with THE RED HARLEY!!!!

[BloodOps]

I am intrigued to see Clark and Diana's reactions though

This is what I'm looking forward to as well, along with Gordon's first meeting with Dick. I'm more looking forward to see how Winick does on his run on Batman. Very excited.

[Bat-Reader]

Is this red hood... Jason Todd...

heh...

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g191/shamon85/pg0024.jpg

[nightw1ng]

anyone notice a couple people who looked like Rorshach and Nite-Owl outside the police station when the flaming head guy was there?

[RunningWithJuanPablo]

I'm just wow'ed. To me, this certainly lived up to the hype and I’m completely satisfied. The Pyg chap is whacko demented and kind of reminds me of this insane character on a video game called Manhunt, regardless, this villain looks fun and I'm really curious about the dominoes. Except for the Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul, this is the first time I’ve encountered the arrogant Damien and it should be interesting to see how he continues to act towards Dick and Alfred. Bring on #2!

[jgiannantoni05]

Fun first issue. I liked Toad and Pyg. Loved Quitely's art.

I can't say I understand why Alfred trusts Damian (not convincing). Alfred saw Damian run an ambulance (that neither knew contained Joker) off the road. And Alfred knows Damian has killed and is dangerous in a bad way.

As for the teaser, here is my speculation:

Is Hurt pretending to be Black Mask?

Jason is that new Red Hood (not the coolest costume IMHO), and will have his own Robin. Jason's costumes switches though are getting extremely ridiculous though.
________
Buy extreme q (http://vaporizers.net/extreme-vaporizer)

[HopeLantern]

Jason is that new Red Hood (not the coolost costume IMHO), and will have his own Robin. Jason's costumes switches though are getting extremely ridiculous though.

Quoted for truth. He should have just kept the Red Robin outfit, lol.

[Retro315]

anyone notice a couple people who looked like Rorshach and Nite-Owl outside the police station when the flaming head guy was there?

I did not. But I did notice that the "backup Bat-Cave" under Bruce's ... Dick's penthouse shares an awful lot of similarities with Nite-Owl's basement bunker. The abandoned underground railway ... the flying vehicle.

[Abeja]

Awesome. Picked this up today, went to Best Buy and played the Batman Arkham Asylum demo (Hopefully, G4 is going to about show new footage of the game that I heard was badass) . Just finished reading the issue. Loved everything about it. Pyg creeped the hell out of me. Ive definitely gotten my Batman fill for the day.

[Retro315]

Awesome. Picked this up today, went to Best Buy and played the Batman Arkham Asylum demo (Hopefully, G4 is going to about show new footage of the game that I heard was badass) . Just finished reading the issue. Loved everything about it. Pyg creeped the hell out of me. Ive definitely gotten my Batman fill for the day.

Arkham Asylum looks phenomenal. If it plays as good as it looks, I can't wait for it, and it sounds like Mark Hamill and Kevin Conroy really went all out, since they've been away from the roles for a while. (Plus: Arleen Sorkin!)

Loving everything about it. The designs, the concept, and even how there's "riddle clues" scattered everywhere that you have to figure out.

[stillanerd]

I can't say I understand why Alfred trusts Damian (not convincing). Alfred saw Damian run an ambulance (that neither knew contained Joker) off the road. And Alfred knows Damian has killed and is dangerous in a bad way.

My wild guess is that Damien is not actually Bruce Wayne's son but Bruce Wayne's clone, and therefore, Alfred believes that since Damien is essentially Bruce that, given the proper teaching, it's highly probable that Damien would turn out exactly like his "father." Of course, Alfred's been blinded by naive optimism before.

As for the teaser, here is my speculation:

Is Hurt pretending to be Black Mask?

Hmm, that's an interesting idea.

Jason is that new Red Hood (not the coolest costume IMHO), and will have his own Robin. Jason's costumes switches though are getting extremely ridiculous though.

Well, what if it's NOT Jason Todd. What if it's actually the Joker after adopting another personality? Remember, Morrison established that the Joker, like the wild card he represents, changes his personality to correspond with the world around him, altering his personality to best fit the circumstances, hence why he can be a crazy clown one minute and homicidal killer the next. Remember, the Joker went missing after "Batman R.I.P." after seemingly being sent over the bridge into the water. Perhaps, coupled with Batman's "demise" resulting in him reverting back to the Red Hood--which was his original identity before falling into the chemical vat.

As for who his "Robin" is, it looks oddly female. Hmm...

[F1uke]

No one thinks this Red Hood could be the Joker?

I loved this issue, even better than I could have imagined.

[jgiannantoni05]

No one thinks this Red Hood could be the Joker?No, I really don't think this new Red Hood is Joker. Willing to bet money on that. Morrison probably would not go in that direction with Joker. Plus, Morrison said Joker was not really supposed to be in this run, but that he'll try to work in some sort of cameo so fans can see Quitely's Joker.

My wild guess is that Damien is not actually Bruce Wayne's son but Bruce Wayne's clone, and therefore, Alfred believes that since Damien is essentially Bruce that, given the proper teaching, it's highly probable that Damien would turn out exactly like his "father." Of course, Alfred's been blinded by naive optimism before.
Yea, I wonder about what Damian really is. But I think it is poor characterization. I really just can't wrap my head around why Alfred trusts Damian (for the reasons I mentioned above). I think Morrison is just ignoring things, or hoping we forget things. He's just forcing this ill-fitting Damian-Alfred relationship to make things feel like the Batman, Robin and Alfred trio. The best argument that you could make to support Morrison's characterization is that Alfred is acting like Bruce did with Jason and hoping to turn Damian around by pairing him with Dick. But from all Alfred knows, he is really risking civilians' and criminals' lives by sending the lethally reckless and unstable Damian out there.
________
Honda VT series specifications (http://www.honda-wiki.org/wiki/Honda_VT_series)

[CYOTI]

Well, what if it's NOT Jason Todd. Actually it is since Jason's was listed under the B&R's books cast of characters while the Joker was not in the Mike Marts interview.

[Name Already Taken]

Good issue. Frank's art looks outstanding with this colorist.

Should be a fun year.

[RonnieThunderbolts]

Actually it is since Jason's was listed under the B&R's books cast of characters while the Joker was not in the Mike Marts interview.

In the interview Mike Marts says not to be sure that it is Jason. The picture WAS of Jason's Red Hood, but it may have been a placeholder for the identity. Mike Marts SAYS not to be sure it is Jason. He also says in the interview not to be sure that Tim was Red Robin, and I am pretty much still am, so, I'm not sure what it is worth.

[dreyga2000]

I can't say I understand why Alfred trusts Damian (not convincing). Alfred saw Damian run an ambulance (that neither knew contained Joker) off the road. And Alfred knows Damian has killed and is dangerous in a bad way.


Hmm... I personally have always thought as Alfred as a character who had the ability to see beyond mask and bad habits of people and truly understand their inner core...

Whenever they depict Alferd as the narrator or shows his inner-monologe he always seems to understand the innerworkings of people he's come in contact with... And summarizes the person in a breif artful sentence...

That's why I believed he allowed Bruce to start and carry on his mad crusade against crime adn why he puts up with Batman's attitude...

[Name Already Taken]

Awesome.

Tidbits that stuck out to me-
-I'm not sure if I like the Wayne Manor sitting vacant. Or Dick's personal reasoning to not live there.



Wasn't the manor compromised during RIP? I mean everyone converging there in the last two issues (Gordon, Talia, & others). If a new Batman were to operate, it would make sense to change a forward operating area while fighting crime, just to mimize any disadvantage from the exposure.

Personal guess? Dick wants to be his own man. The Manor is Bruce's, not his to claim, even though he spent numerous years growing up there. Too many memories might distract him thought wise if he remains on that property.

Who can say for sure right now.

[zur en arrh]

I can't say I understand why Alfred trusts Damian (not convincing). Alfred saw Damian run an ambulance (that neither knew contained Joker) off the road. And Alfred knows Damian has killed and is dangerous in a bad way.


I imagine that it has to do with Alfred wanting to bring out a better person in Damian. He probably doesn't fully trust him, and he certainly doesn't love the idea of having him around, but it is something that Bruce wanted, and out of respect for him, Alfred will do his best to lead Damian in the right direction.

[numberONE]

Awesome issue! Both the story and the great were great, not to mention creepy! This is the first Frank Quitely book I've read and my first impressions of his art were not good...but (thankfully) I was wrong.

Hopefully we get to see the Comish meeting with the new Batman and Robin in issue #2.

Out of the previews, I'm most interested in the Batman/Batwoman fight, with Batman ghost in the background. Hurt with the keys to Wayne Manor looks good to, but Hurt showing up wasn't unexpected, this was!

[CocktailXYZ]

It seemed like it was over too soon, which usually means I was enjoying myself.

Pyg's grafting masks to people's faces reminded me a little too much of the original Black Mask appearance, though.

Mr. Toad was fun. Wonder when B&R get treated to his wild ride?

[Red Lotus]

Is Hurt pretending to be Black Mask?


I dont see it. Maybe if Morrison was going to use Black Mask, but since Judd Winick is the one who is going be using him I would say its not Hurt.

[Quinnhop]

I demand the presence of Captain Jim in this thread. And here's be somes free iconz:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/Quinn1mh/quittingtime.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/Quinn1mh/heisthedevil.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/Quinn1mh/batghost.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/Quinn1mh/batvsbat.jpg

[jgiannantoni05]

Pyg's grafting masks to people's faces reminded me a little too much of the original Black Mask appearance, though.
True actually (his great first apprearance arc). Now you made me like him a little less. He'll have to do something more now for me to call him original.
________
Jaguar R3 (http://www.ford-wiki.com/wiki/Jaguar_R3)

[Quinnhop]

Two more:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/Quinn1mh/redhood.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/Quinn1mh/BR.jpg

[zur en arrh]

I demand the presence of Captain Jim in this thread. And here's be somes free iconz:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/Quinn1mh/quittingtime.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/Quinn1mh/heisthedevil.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/Quinn1mh/batghost.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/Quinn1mh/batvsbat.jpg

AWESOME avatars. Gonna have to use Hurt.

[dreyga2000]

Pyg's grafting masks to people's faces reminded me a little too much of the original Black Mask appearance, though.



Hmmm...:confused: Sounds interesting can I get some details or an issue number...

[jgiannantoni05]

Hmmm... Sounds mintrestiong can I get some details or an issue number...

Batman #386 (August 1985): "Black Mask: Losing Face"
Detective Comics #553 (August 1985): "The False Face Society of Gotham"
Batman #387 (September 1985): "Ebon Masquery"

Black Mask's first appearance and origin arc, my favorite Black Mask story.
________
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[BloodOps]

Also was I the only one that did not like the flying batmobile? Isn't that what the Bat-Wing is used for?

Give me my batmobile with wheels please.

[marvelprince]

Hmm... I personally have always thought as Alfred as a character who had the ability to see beyond mask and bad habits of people and truly understand their inner core...

Whenever they depict Alferd as the narrator or shows his inner-monologe he always seems to understand the innerworkings of people he's come in contact with... And summarizes the person in a breif artful sentence...

That's why I believed he allowed Bruce to start and carry on his mad crusade against crime adn why he puts up with Batman's attitude...

Couldn't agree more. Its why if anything I think Alfred has the most trust in Damien. Its because he sees that deep down he's a good person.

Loved this issue. More Dick as Batman! You hear that Morrison?! Please sir.....may I have some more?

[HaroldAllnut]

This was simply fantastic.

Everyone's been making mention of "Batman's ghost." Am I the only one who thinks that that's actually Clayface?

Also, I think Quitely's inclusion of characters resembling Night Owl and Rorschach is a subtle nod at Grant Morrison's upcoming Multiversity project, because one of those books is evidently a sort of Watchmen-style story.

[another_version]

Loved this issue! Seeing Batman fighting Batwoman makes me want to get Detective even more now. The only title I am staying away from is Sirens, for some reason the cast doesnt do it for me. I will wait to see reviews. Yeah, where is our Cap'n Jim?

[bongoes]

Fantastic issue. My favorite line was "You know, I'd have killed for a flying Batmobile when I was Robin." The Batman/Batwoman picture didn't look like they were fighting at first glance but after closer inspection I see it and now I'm even more eager to see why they're fighting.

[Blotto99]

"The Eisner Award winning dynamic duo of Grant Morrison and Frank Quietly take on the original dynamic duo in their new series Batman and Robin. Hoping for a repeat performance with their successful All-Star Superman, Morrison and Quietly have the talent to hit this one out of the park. The big question is did they accomplish this with issue number one? The answer…. holy frickin’ yes they did!"

You can read our full review here (http://www.jimmyinthegarden.com/2009/06/batman-and-robin-1-comic-book-review/).

[Quinnhop]

AWESOME avatars. Gonna have to use Hurt.

Perfect fit.

Enjoy. :biggrin:

[jgiannantoni05]

Hmm... I personally have always thought as Alfred as a character who had the ability to see beyond mask and bad habits of people and truly understand their inner core...

Whenever they depict Alferd as the narrator or shows his inner-monologe he always seems to understand the innerworkings of people he's come in contact with... And summarizes the person in a breif artful sentence...

I've considered this. I'm not looking to find fault, and I play Devil's advocate with something that jumps out at me.

But, I'm not sure it is merely enough for someone to trust someone simply because they divine that they can "truly understand their inner core." The lives of civilians and criminals are at stake (even Dick's for all Alfred knows). Though I will note, against me, that Gotham is in dire straits and perhaps the standards should be relaxed (though it is not if Damian is the only option to be Robin).

With Bruce, Alfred knew Bruce forever and Bruce's actions seemed to sufficiently evidence that Bruce could be trusted as a crimefighter.

But it is not the same with Damian, it wasn't long ago that Alfred knew Damian killed Spook, attacked other heroes, ran around with Talia, etc. It was only very recently that Alfred witnessed Damian drive an ambulance off the road (neither knew Joker was inside).

Anyone else kinda understand what I'm saying?

I'm still considering the whole matter. I might find Alfred's judgment of Damian to perhaps be sufficient, given Gotham's dire state.
________
Mexicocity Hotel (http://mexicocityhotel.info)

[another_version]

I guess the phrase 'desperate times call for desperate measures' fits perfectly.

[smoothjokes]

Well, what if it's NOT Jason Todd. What if it's actually the Joker after adopting another personality? Remember, Morrison established that the Joker, like the wild card he represents, changes his personality to correspond with the world around him, altering his personality to best fit the circumstances, hence why he can be a crazy clown one minute and homicidal killer the next. Remember, the Joker went missing after "Batman R.I.P." after seemingly being sent over the bridge into the water. Perhaps, coupled with Batman's "demise" resulting in him reverting back to the Red Hood--which was his original identity before falling into the chemical vat.

As for who his "Robin" is, it looks oddly female. Hmm...

I actually like that theory on Joker being Red Hood (which is what I thought too after the Marts interview). I personally think that Black Mask is Jason Todd, you keep seeing "Gatman" running around saying he's going to destroy Black Mask, but they never confront each other. I just think it's a plot by Jason Todd and he's known for having that sociopath tendency to steal other individuals identity's.

Really enjoyed the first issue, it's a breath of fresh-air to Batman which says a lot to me. Nice setup and I will be back for next month. I can't wait for Batwoman in Detective Comics, I love J.H. Williams III and Greg Rucka always does a great job of writing characters with no continuity conflicts from other books.

P.S. Thanks for the Avatar. ;)

[BloodOps]

This was simply fantastic.

Everyone's been making mention of "Batman's ghost." Am I the only one who thinks that that's actually Clayface?



It could be as we all know Bruce Wayne isn't dead.

[Quinnhop]

I've considered this. I'm not looking to find fault, and I play Devil's advocate with something that jumps out at me.

But, I'm not sure it is merely enough for someone to trust someone simply because they divine that they can "truly understand their inner core." The lives of civilians and criminals are at stake (even Dick's for all Alfred knows). Though I will note, against me, that Gotham is in dire straits and perhaps the standards should be relaxed (though it is not if Damian is the only option to be Robin).

With Bruce, Alfred knew Bruce forever and Bruce's actions seemed to sufficiently evidence that Bruce could be trusted as a crimefighter.

But it is not the same with Damian, it wasn't long ago that Alfred knew Damian killed Spook, attacked other heroes, ran around with Talia, etc. It was only very recently that Alfred witnessed Damian drive an ambulance off the road (neither knew Joker was inside).

Anyone else kinda understand what I'm saying?

I'm still considering the whole matter. I might find Alfred's judgment of Damian to perhaps be sufficient, given Gotham's dire state.

The thing is, though... Damian's heart is in the right place. When he killed the Spook, he was doing it to impress a father that -- until then -- had been entirely absent in his life. Running around with Talia? It's his mom. "Even bad guys love their mothers." And driving the ambulance off the road? Wrong? Yes. But malicious? Hardly. He's just a brat who was raised not to give a shit about anyone else but himself, his father, and his mother.

But he's not a bad kid. The fact alone that he wants to live up to his father's name shows us that. His heart is in the right place, but -- for whatever reason (upbringing, probably chief amongst) -- his methods are faulty.

Alfred sees this. And what better way to ensure he lives up to his heroic potential than by putting him under the wing of a genuine Hero? Being Robin is probably the best thing to ever happen to the kid. Now he can grow up with some proper direction.

I actually like that theory on Joker being Red Hood (which is what I thought too after the Marts interview). I personally think that Black Mask is Jason Todd, you keep seeing "Gatman" running around saying he's going to destroy Black Mask, but they never confront each other. I just think it's a plot by Jason Todd and he's known for having that sociopath tendency to steal other individuals identity's.

Really enjoyed the first issue, it's a breath of fresh-air to Batman which says a lot to me. Nice setup and I will be back for next month. I can't wait for Batwoman in Detective Comics, I love J.H. Williams III and Greg Rucka always does a great job of writing characters with no continuity conflicts from other books.

P.S. Thanks for the Avatar. ;)

I would rather it be Jason Todd, if only because we've already seen Morrison's take on the Joker (and have been promised to see Quitely's, as well); whereas, his Jason, we have not. I think having Morrison re-establish him as a proper character (since Countdown and BftC ruined Winnick's work) would be a great thing for Todd and those few of us who like him.

P.S. You are welcome. :D

[Retro315]

It could be as we all know Bruce Wayne isn't dead.

I wouldn't guess Clayface, because that ghost looks pretty intangible ... but definitely some kind of faker and not the real deal.

[HopeLantern]

The thing is, though... Damian's heart is in the right place. When he killed the Spook, he was doing it to impress a father that -- until then -- had been entirely absent in his life. Running around with Talia? It's his mom. "Even bad guys love their mothers." And driving the ambulance off the road? Wrong? Yes. But malicious? Hardly. He's just a brat who was raised not to give a shit about anyone else but himself, his father, and his mother.

But he's not a bad kid. The fact alone that he wants to live up to his father's name shows us that. His heart is in the right place, but -- for whatever reason (upbringing, probably chief amongst) -- his methods are faulty.

Alfred sees this. And what better way to ensure he lives up to his heroic potential than by putting him under the wing of a genuine Hero? Being Robin is probably the best thing to ever happen to the kid. Now he can grow up with some proper direction.



I would rather it be Jason Todd, if only because we've already seen Morrison's take on the Joker (and have been promised to see Quitely's, as well); whereas, his Jason, we have not. I think having Morrison re-establish him as a proper character (since Countdown and BftC ruined Winnick's work) would be a great thing for Todd and those few of us who like him.

P.S. You are welcome. :D

I have to say... after rereading Batman and Son a few nights ago, the little bugger is actually growing on me now. Darn it. Everything you said is totally true.

[smoothjokes]

It looks like Dick goes to the Lazarus Pit to resurrect Bruce. My guess is eventually, it's going to take its toll on his psyche. Maybe Batwoman is trying to stop him, just like when Dick tried to stop Tim from resurrecting Conner in the Lazarus Pit. Actually come to think of it, maybe it is a Jason Todd revamped Red Hood, he was resurrected in the pits and the Punisher looking skull now makes me lean towards Jason Todd because that who he was compared to on his return by Winnick (which correctly pointed out was ruined by Countdown and BftC).

[jgiannantoni05]

The thing is, though... Damian's heart is in the right place. When he killed the Spook, he was doing it to impress a father that -- until then -- had been entirely absent in his life. Running around with Talia? It's his mom. "Even bad guys love their mothers." And driving the ambulance off the road? Wrong? Yes. But malicious? Hardly. He's just a brat who was raised not to give a shit about anyone else but himself, his father, and his mother.

Eh, I still don't see how Alfred is sufficiently sure that Damian's "heart is in the right place." The ambulance wasn't driven off the road negligently. It was pretty callous.

Islamic fundamentalist terrorists' hearts could be said to be "in the right place." They believe they are helping the Islamic/Arab world. Keeping out imperialistic and exploitive Westerners.

So, regardless of whether someone's heart is "in the right place" (lots of bad people in history can said to have intended good), they can still do terribly wrong things and still be an unreasonably high risk to others' lives.
________
A-Class (http://www.mercedes-wiki.com/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_A-Class)

[md62]

I loved this issue! This is the Batman I have been waiting for Grant to write. He nailed all the character's voices perfectly. Dick, Alfred & Damian "felt" like real people. I loved seeing the Wayne penthouse from the 70's.! It made sense to me to see Dick move out of the Manor into the heart of the city. The flying Batmobile was awesome. The page with Dick & Damian "falling" thru the Batsignal in the sky was unbelievable. The villian - Pyg - was downright creepy & a perfect Bat villian. While I can't deny Quitely's talent as a storyteller with his details & layouts - I am still not a fan of his "lumpy" people. Damian? Still not sold on him being Bruce's son...

[CYOTI]

In the interview Mike Marts says not to be sure that it is Jason. The picture WAS of Jason's Red Hood, but it may have been a placeholder for the identity.
Not likely given that Jason Todd would be then missing from the current storylines or the notice of the DC editors, which is unlikely given that Winnick is writing Batman and he created the modern incarnation of the character and it's unlikely that he wouldn't have snatched him up unless Morrison claimed the character for B&R.

[Quinnhop]

Eh, I still don't see how Alfred is sufficiently sure that Damian's "heart is in the right place." The ambulance wasn't driven off the road negligently. It was pretty callous.

Islamic fundamentalist terrorists' hearts could be said to be "in the right place." They believe they are helping the Islamic/Arab world. Keeping out imperialistic and exploitive Westerners.

So, regardless of whether someone's heart is "in the right place" (lots of bad people in history can said to have intended good), they can still do terribly wrong things and still be an unreasonably high risk to others' lives.

I think comparing Damian to fundamentalist terrorists (of any religion) is kinda silly. He's a prepubescent kid who has yet to really settle into himself. Finally, he's gotten away from his mother's League of Assassins and, finally, it seems, he'll have the chance to figure himself out.

He wants to be a hero; by all accounts, he's doing the right things to become one; and he's done nothing so terrible that he shouldn't be given a shot, at the very least.

I don't know. I feel like it's a matter of "he's a kid and kid's make mistakes". Now, if he were a grown man going around killing innocent people to prove a point (heart in the right place or not), then I would agree that he belongs outside of the Bat Family.

But why not give the kid a chance?

Goodness knows he's talented enough.

P.S. I also like that he's not such a goody-goody. It's the only thing (other than being written by Morrison) that keeps him from being a Gary-Stu.

I have to say... after rereading Batman and Son a few nights ago, the little bugger is actually growing on me now. Darn it. Everything you said is totally true.

Cool.

:D

[Retro315]

I have to say... after rereading Batman and Son a few nights ago, the little bugger is actually growing on me now. Darn it. Everything you said is totally true.

Just wait for the Morrison mind-screw, where he "gives readers what they want" by having Damian stomped to within an inch of his life over and over again until the readers who don't like Damian after a while are just like "give the kid a break for once!"

It's a ruthless, backwards way of endearing a character to you.

[ultramandingo]

........... bwah ! evil mr toad - needs a badger, rat and mole henchmen - " Poop poop! "

[stillanerd]

Yea, I wonder about what Damian really is. But I think it is poor characterization. I really just can't wrap my head around why Alfred trusts Damian (for the reasons I mentioned above). I think Morrison is just ignoring things, or hoping we forget things. He's just forcing this ill-fitting Damian-Alfred relationship to make things feel like the Batman, Robin and Alfred trio. The best argument that you could make to support Morrison's characterization is that Alfred is acting like Bruce did with Jason and hoping to turn Damian around by pairing him with Dick. But from all Alfred knows, he is really risking civilians' and criminals' lives by sending the lethally reckless and unstable Damian out there.

And that's understandable, considering how Damien is even more of an egotistical brat than Jason Todd ever was. Just trying to explain what could be Alfred's rationale.

Anyways, with regards to the rest of the issue, I'll admit I'm not terribly keen on the idea of Dick Grayson being the new Batman, even though it is temporary and Dick is the most logical successor. Part of it has to do that I think it's a step backwards for Dick as a character since the whole part of his character evolution was to be a hero in his own right apart from his mentor, and also that, because Bruce Wayne isn't in the picture, it's still essentially Nightwing dressed as Batman rather than a Batman story.

That being said though this was a great way to introduce the current status quo.

When Morrison talked about how the Batman and Robin dynamic would be reversed, you really got a sense of this: Dick, despite being "Batman" is always going to be Robin at heart, while Damien is essentially a younger version of his dad only with Bruce's more negative personality traits on display. Already, this is going to be an interesting partnership to say the least.

Likewise, I like the fact the Morrison quickly set-up the scenario without much fuss; you really don't have to have read his run on Batman, or R.I.P., or Final Crisis, or Battle for the Cowl to understand what's going on--Bruce Wayne is thought to be dead, Batman has been missing for months, Dick has taken over, is training Bruce and Talia's son, and Alfred is still helping out as butler--that's all you really need. Very easy for new or returning readers to understand what's going on instantly. And for those familiar with the Batman mythos, there are nice nods as well, from the flying Batmobile reminiscent of Batman Beyond, the picture of Bruce, Alfred, and Dick with Ace the Bathound, the return of the Penthouse Batcave--and the side cutaway showing the interior--Quietly once again shows why he's Morrison's ideal artistic collaborator.

I'm also intrigued with Carnival gang which Morrison's hallmark weirdness appears to show forth, such as the man whose head is permanently on fire and the entourage of the red-headed dolls with the surgically attached "skin-masks" and lobotomized stares. Likewise the appearance of Pygmalion in the present, whose pig mask is a visual pun on his name and who, like his namesake, does a twisted method of myth and "My Fair Lady" that inspired him.

EDIT: Oh, and did I mention how great Frank Quietly is, not just an artist, but as Morrison's creative collaborator?

Now what didn't I like about it?

It was too damn short. Seriously, as good an introduction as this was, it still didn't feel like you really got enough out of it. Of course, this could also be a good thing because it leaves you wanting more.

Also, we're already getting hints of Dick feeling that he doesn't know if he'll be as capable a Batman as Bruce was, which is pretty much what I was dreading once Dick was going to take over the mantle. And I can't stand Damien as a character no matter how much Morrison appears to promote him.

Even so, solid, excellent issue to kick things off.

[pressdarlings]

anyone notice a couple people who looked like Rorshach and Nite-Owl outside the police station when the flaming head guy was there?

Hahaha. Definitely. Loved, loved this issue.

[zur en arrh]

Now that it has been mentioned, I totally see Rorschach in that panel.

[NickFury90]

Morrison mentioned in that big IGN interview that the Joker will be involved somehow.

"IGN Comics: How about the Joker? Will we see him show up?

Morrison: Like I said before, I think we all want to see Frank Quitely draw the Joker. I haven't quite decided what I'm going to do with him, but I'll make sure Quitely gets to draw him somehow. "

Quitely-drawn Joker? YES PLEASE

[another_version]

........... bwah ! evil mr toad - needs a badger, rat and mole henchmen - " Poop poop! "

Couldn't agree more! I love Quitely's 'chubby' people, it makes me laugh! Seeing Alfred with a muffin top! Haha

[xnef1025]

Short but very satisfying read. This is going to be a fun ride. Quitely's art is what was missing in RIP and FC. Frank always brings out the best in Grant's crazy scripts. I really think he's the only artist that can translate what comes out of Morrison's head into images that are understandable to the rest of the world.

[jgiannantoni05]

I think comparing Damian to fundamentalist terrorists (of any religion) is kinda silly.
I made no such comparison. Just saying that regardless of whether someone's heart is "in the right place" (lots of bad people in history can be said to have intended good), they can still do terribly wrong things and still be an unreasonably high risk to others' lives.
________
Honda ZB50 history (http://www.honda-wiki.org/wiki/Honda_ZB50)

[CYOTI]

I made no such comparison. Just saying that regardless of whether someone's heart is "in the right place" (lots of bad people in history can be said to have intended good), they can still do terribly wrong things and still be an unreasonably high risk to others' lives. The same could be said of Batman or innumerable other superheroes, who go on their crusades against crime yet why aren't you complaining about them?

[BloodOps]

Also, we're already getting hints of Dick feeling that he doesn't know if he'll be as capable a Batman as Bruce was, which is pretty much what I was dreading once Dick was going to take over the mantle. And I can't stand Damien as a character no matter how much Morrison appears to promote him.



Well it is only the first issue and like Alfred said, his 1st week as Batman. He wants to try to live up to Bruce's name and right now is struggling with his death and now him having to take the mantle.

Another reason why I am more excited for the solo Batman series, to see how Dick adjusts to being Batman and how he reacts away from Damian.

[jgiannantoni05]

why aren't you complaining about them?
Because they didn't recently and callously drive an ambulance off a bridge. Damian's history of actions is pretty questionable. That's why I am still wondering why Alfred is signing off on him going out as Robin.

Damian is young I'm not suggesting Alfred ever give up on the boy. But that doesn't mean Alfred or Dick should/must allow him to fight crime as Robin.
________
Honda nsx history (http://www.honda-wiki.org/wiki/Honda_NSX)

[Will.S]

What are Dick's reasons for not wanting to live there?
I think its a good idea to move to a home base that wasn't so compromised. With the city building, he can work in his own personal space without the haunted feel of the Batcave.

In the "Do Not Miss" preview of Dick and Kate fighting with the flaming Bat-spirit/man rising behind them. Could that be from a Lazarus pit ?
Seems like it.

I would have said that perhaps its referring to the Blackest Night tie in but I doubt it.

Short but very satisfying read. This is going to be a fun ride. Quitely's art is what was missing in RIP and FC. Frank always brings out the best in Grant's crazy scripts. I really think he's the only artist that can translate what comes out of Morrison's head into images that are understandable to the rest of the world.
While Quitely's ahead of the pack, I think Phil Jimenez, Doug Mahnke, and JH Williams do just as much justice to the scripts. Cameron Stewart too.

BTW I really loved the book, it reads short and I really wanted more but it gets better with every re-read. So far the Dick/Damien dynamic is still too new to really say whether I like it or not but it does show some promise and I'd like to see how Damien will interact with him in the long run since it seems like they'll be partnered together for a more intimate time than Damien and Bruce.

Quitley's art looked much looser than usual but it looks very much intentional. The storytelling is just perfect and everything moves so well on the page. I also liked the sound effects embedded into the actual artwork, it looks natural and not as out of place as it would with actual text. It's a great fusion of art and lettering.

I was a little apprehensive at first about the coloring since Alex Sinclair doesn't fit everyone he colors (and I love his coloring style) but this was well done. What's especially interesting his how he gives the skies and textures a "low res" look.

I'm definitely looking forward to seeing more of this book and Dick as Batman, hopefully the upcoming artists will put in some high quality work because the Quitely art is going to be really hard to top.

9.5/10

[Captain Jim]

I want Cap'n Jim's thoughts.

Seconded. If Jim actually likes it enough to say it's worth it I may give the second one a try,

I demand the presence of Captain Jim in this thread.

Yeah, where is our Cap'n Jim?

:eek: Well, this is a shock. I don't think my presence has ever been in such demand.

Well, brace yourselves, boys and girls, because I actually liked this issue quite a bit! It's hard to come up with comments that haven't already been said at this point, so let me share a few quotes that I strongly agree with.

This issue is coherent and stays in line with what's going on in the rest of the Bat-titles while still being a bit of quirky fun !

Yeah, a coherent Morrison story! Whoever would have thought it? :wink:

Love the dynamic between Grayson and Damien ... Dr. Pyg is extremely creepy, and his plan looks to be scary as hell.

Excellent issue, and I haven't been a fan of Morrison's work in a long time.

Frank Quitely's wildly experimental layouts are fantastic. Whether the way he uses the tunnel or the rearview window of the car as frames, or the way he combines the onomatopoeia and the fire, explosions, smoke trails, etc ... same story with some of the art, some real big opportunities for iconic Batman poses, but the fun kind, rather than the dark and brooding silhouette kind.

I was as surprised by the art as I was by the script. I've never been a big Quitely fan, but this was quite good.

This is the Batman I have been waiting for Grant to write. He nailed all the character's voices perfectly. Dick, Alfred & Damian "felt" like real people.

Now, moving on to some specifics ...

If Jim actually likes it enough to say it's worth it I may give the second one a try, just because I want to see how the remaining big two react to Dick under the cowl.

Well, Superman and Wonder Woman actually meet the new Batman in next week's Batman title by Judd Winick. So I really don't think that will have anything to do with my like of this book (not that I don't expect to like Winick's book; I do. But it won't have much to do with Morrison's book, I don't think).

I flipped through this first issue at the shop and it still fails to grab me. I think if not for Damien I might be willing to give Morrison another shot but I just hate that little snot to much to tolerate an entire series with him as one of the stars.

I like the way Lemurion put it in another thread:

If Damian Wayne were a real person I would not like him.
However, as Robin to Dick Grayson's Batman I enjoy reading about him.

Well, what if it's NOT Jason Todd. What if it's actually the Joker after adopting another personality? Remember, Morrison established that the Joker, like the wild card he represents, changes his personality to correspond with the world around him, altering his personality to best fit the circumstances, hence why he can be a crazy clown one minute and homicidal killer the next. Remember, the Joker went missing after "Batman R.I.P." after seemingly being sent over the bridge into the water. Perhaps, coupled with Batman's "demise" resulting in him reverting back to the Red Hood--which was his original identity before falling into the chemical vat.

I believe Morrison said in one of his interviews that the Joker would not be seen until the final arc.

Also was I the only one that did not like the flying batmobile? Isn't that what the Bat-Wing is used for?

Give me my batmobile with wheels please.

Y'know, I thought I was going to feel that way, but oddly enough, it didn't bother me.

[Captain Jim]

I added a poll. :smile:

[CYOTI]

Because they didn't recently and callously drive an ambulance off a bridge.
An ambulance with only the Joker onboard that he was driving wildly and erratically. Hardly a condemnable action on the part of Damien.

[another_version]

Your presence is always in high demand, haha. After re-reading again I find my favorite part is the transition from page 7 to page 8. That was really harnessing the pop Batman of the 60's, the way they are both turning in mirror opposite directions. I thought it was going to show Batman, and Robin, standing on the edge of the dock, in iconic poses, as Toad looks up to see them, but I turn the page to see him instantaneously dropped to the floor. Beautiful. That will make me laugh for quite some time.

Now, did Morrison intend B&R to be light and poppy from the start, or did he adapt to the growing dislike of his previous Bat-arcs?
Personally, I don't care whether it was planned or not, I just can't wait for the next issue.

[jgiannantoni05]

An ambulance with only the Joker onboard that he was driving wildly and erratically. Hardly a condemnable action on the part of Damien.
Damian didn't know Joker was driving. Very condemnable. Check out that scene.
________
DODGE POLARA (http://www.dodge-wiki.com/wiki/Dodge_Polara)

[Gitaroo_Dude]

Man, I LOVE Quitely. LOVE HIM.

The way he does "splash" or "boom?" Just a visual treat. Everything he draws is just pure, unadulterated joy to my eyes.

And Morrison is pretty good too. The new villains already feel like a threat, and I very rarely get any emotional response from villains. And I already love the new Robin/Batman dynamic. And, this being my first introduction to Damian, I don't even mind him. I actually think he has a lot of potential.

[NickFury90]

I guess I'm in the minority, because I really liked Damien from the very first issue he was in. Yeah he was a brat, but he was fun to hate. He is very intelligent, trained by master ninjas, and he's got Al Ghul/Wayne genes. That SOUNDS like the perfect Batman, but he's such a cocky, murderous prick he just can't be him right now, which is pissing him off. He's gonna have to learn his place, and by the looks of the previews, he's not gonna like it.

Thing I noticed, I got a big "E for Extinction" vibe. Same creative team, 3-issue arc. It wasn't the X-men/Batman you expected, but it still felt like the characters just injected with some fresh ideas, great characterizations, and a really creepy villain. Hell, it even has two of the main characters sitting behind a red windshield flying a aircraft! Similar positions too, with the more controlled leader Cyclops/Dick in the driving seat, with the crazier Wolverine/Damien in the passenger seat. Heck, Dick and Cykes have the same shoes!

[BigTopTony]

Great issue. Love the creative team and the crime fighting team in the book.

My only complaints: the issue was too short and Quitely won't be doing the whole series.

[Mister Mets]

Excellent stuff.

Gorgeous visuals, especially in the action sequences and diagrams. Great interplay between Dick, Damian and the butler. And the new villains are nice. It's ridiculously accessible, while continuing the story from Morrison's Batman run. The storytelling is really worth studying for wannabe writers and artists, and there is some depth (I do like the idea that they've inverted Batman and Robin for this story.)

And I hope other first issues copy the "Do Not Miss" page.

I highly recommend it.
9/10

[Mac]

-I'm not sure if I like the Wayne Manor sitting vacant. Or Dick's personal reasoning to not live there.

To elaborate on this:
It does seem as though he's moved out of the mansion and into the city. (Given the covering pictures and empty room, etc in the few panels shown)
And what I meant by not liking Dick's reasoning to not live in the manor was I didn't like that there wasn't really a clear cut explanation given in the dialogue. Sorry for any misconception on that.
Sure he may think the city is a better base of operation for Batman, or that he doesn't think anyone should live there without Bruce Wayne being around, or he wants to be his own man- All good, valid reasons. However, this, for the most part is all concluded by fans. I would've liked to have Dick actually say something along those lines withing the issue.

[Spiffy]

Well I guess "lighter stories" doesn't mean it still can't be grotesque.

Quitely's art is hit and miss with me. The hits are the interesting and creative design elements he always brings. The misses are that occasionally the sense of scale is a bit off and that there are occasionally far too many lines inked--a lot of creases and folds and whatnot.

[MJ Styles]

I loved this issue. I'm an avid Morrison reader, but I must say it does usually take some added effort and researching on my part to figure out what he's trying to accomplish, so I'm very satisfied with the accessability of this first issue.

...and Quitely is amazing as usual.

I'm really looking forwar to the next issue.

[Name Already Taken]

Excellent issue, and I haven't been a fan of Morrison's work in a long time. I'm really looking forward to this book now and I hope to see nothing but great things for my favorite character, Dick Grayson, from here on out.

Grant's recent work has been pretty hit and miss with me lately. I enjoyed about half of his arcs when writing Batman. I reread this for a third time tonight, taking in every line and each panel, and loving Quitely's art. As an artist, this guy keeps getting better with each project I see him on. Alex Sinclair can bring things to life as a colorist and erased any doubts I had for this title when the rough sketches came out months ago.

This creative team seems to bring out the best for each of their potential's as a whole. They all seem to compliment each other very well. It may have only been one issue so far, but I really like where it is going, and especially drawing on elements Grant planted in #666 with regards to future bad guys.

This book is a solid A if not A+ for me. I eagerly want more.

[Jake V]

An amazing book. Just when I was getting tired of the superhero genre, this pulls me back in.

Grayson is off to a great start as Batman, and Damian was the least snotty he's ever been.

Such an enjoyable comic.

[A.C.R.O.N.Y.M.]

Too. Many. Splash. Pages.

As someone said, very good, but over way to fast. Did they really need the three splashpages, two of which were double pages? I mean, I know this is a general gripe with decompressed story telling that this book in particular, but jeez.

Anyway, this is shaping up to be very fun indeed. The Batman/Robin dynamic is good, as is the new set-up. Professor Pyg looks to be interesting. I just really hope the rumour of Philip Tan doing the next arc aren't true. That seems like a very big and strange change of mood and feel. And quality.

[OzBat!]

I did not. But I did notice that the "backup Bat-Cave" under Bruce's ... Dick's penthouse shares an awful lot of similarities with Nite-Owl's basement bunker. The abandoned underground railway ... the flying vehicle.Well, considering that Batman moved his base of operations here in the 70s and 80s (I think the Outsiders were based here as well in their original appearances?), it's most likely the other way around... Nite-Owl's basement bunker is based on this place. I'm glad to see it brought back.

[RonnieThunderbolts]

I just really hope the rumour of Philip Tan doing the next arc aren't true. That seems like a very big and strange change of mood and feel. And quality.

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but that was made official a week or two ago, Philip Tan IS doing issues 4-6, as currently scheduled. On the bright side Quitely is set to return for the ending fourth of the first year overarching arc, issues 10-12, so there is still more of his work, and he'll have done half of the run all told. No word officially on who is doing the third and penultimate section, although Morrison has mentioned Frazer Irving as a possibility.

[Murrocko]

Do you guys think Dick will keep whatever rouges he gets in these up coming stories after Bruce returns whenever he does? A good rouges gallery alwaays been something Dick's been lacking

[A.C.R.O.N.Y.M.]

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but that was made official a week or two ago, Philip Tan IS doing issues 4-6, as currently scheduled. On the bright side Quitely is set to return for the ending fourth of the first year overarching arc, issues 10-12, so there is still more of his work, and he'll have done half of the run all told. No word officially on who is doing the third and penultimate section, although Morrison has mentioned Frazer Irving as a possibility.

That's a shame. Tan's not bad when he's at his best, but a lot of his recent work has seemed terribly rushed and uneven. Also he seems to be a weird match for this series, seeing as how his work is so often drenched in shadows and darkness, whereas Morrison has consistently talked up the day-glo psychedelic aspect of Batman & Robin.

If they decide to put Frazer Irving on the book, that would be great. However, as some people have noted, DC seem to be a bit sceptical about his mass market appeal. That's why they waste him om stuff like Azrael, when really, he's one of their best artists and should be doing something much more high profile.

[nepenthes]

Damian continues to become one of my all time favorite characters in the batman universe. With evey line, he's just charming. He rejects Alfreds sandwiches just like his dad! awww. Dick Grayson on the other hand I thought was a little flat in this issue. It didn't feel like him imo. I'm definitely hoping for more character from Grayson quickly in the next few issues.

"Lose the attitude Robin" was a nice throwback to the Jason Todd story where Batman says the same thing.

Also notice the Ghost Train ride uses the exact same Brian Bolland design from The Killing Joke. I wonder if this is just a homage or a direct linking to the Joker for later in the run?

Mr.Pyg is a cool visual but I found the final pages a little underwhelming and empty of information or set-up. also agree he seems very similair to the Black Mask. The Toad is great, i hope he comes back. If anyone missed it someone pointed out that he's based on a villain Bob Kane created for Courageous Cat and Minute Mouse, even down to the name and boiler hat. nice one

main coimplaint with this issue is the excessive use of splash pages. style over content that makes the issue feel too quick. the best couple of pages were definitly those in the new batcave with alfred and the boys

the colours and Quitelys new art style is fantastic. love it

[AiyokuSama]

Eh, I still don't see how Alfred is sufficiently sure that Damian's "heart is in the right place."

Sufficiently for what?

Not trying to be a smart ass, but it's struck me that people seem to feel that Alfred's trust in Damian is absolute. Myself, I think that his having faith in Damian's "better nature" doesn't mean he has absolute faith in the boy. Damian is after all a product of his upbringing and it's going to take time to get home to deal with that and move on.

[SpideyZERO]

I just think as Alfred prefers to see the best of Damian instead of expecting the worst of him

[Quinnhop]

I just think as Alfred prefers to see the best of Damian instead of expecting the worst of him

Exactly.

He's giving the kid the benefit of the doubt. Just like Batman did with Jason Todd.

But hopefully this time the Joker doesn't throw a proverbial wrench (or crowbar; punpunpunlulz) in the rehabilitation plans.

[Karl O'Neill]

Wow.

How many times can I say wow in one post?

That was amazing.

take that haters. This issue had it all. and that new villain pyg is ugly and creepy as sin.

5 stars.

[Karl O'Neill]

I wonder what captain jim thinks of this issue, I know he was hard on RIP and the rest of morrison's run a few months back.

I think this is the most linear issue of a comic that morrison has wrote in years! and yet plenty of trivia in the issue itself.

[Karl O'Neill]

I have to say it's nice of the mods to add a DID NOT READ option on the poll but the best way to tell people you didn't buy and read the issue would be to NOT post on the Thread? :)

Just a thought:cool:

[NickFury90]

I wonder what captain jim thinks of this issue, I know he was hard on RIP and the rest of morrison's run a few months back.

I think this is the most linear issue of a comic that morrison has wrote in years! and yet plenty of trivia in the issue itself.

He posted his thought on an earlier page, and he quite enjoyed, like I thought he would. Its still the same storyline Morrison has been doing for years, but its now got a bigger pop/sexy feel like the better parts of New X-men.

[Karl O'Neill]

Question:

How does one see out of the RED HOOD? I can't see any holes in the peeps!

[Will44]

It's probably glass or see through, but red tinted plastic. D'uh.

Here's my take on the issue
S
P
O
I
L
E
R

S
P
A
C
E


I thought it was kind of a shame to see Richard and Damien leave the Wayne Manor and set up shop underneath Wayne Tower in Gotham. However, it does go back to a fight Dick and Bruce had in the 1970's, where Dick thought the cave was too far from Gotham and that they should be set up in the city itself. So that was kind of a nice nod.

I'm left wondering what Richard Grayson will do with himself during the day. Is he going to run Wayne Enterprises? Is he doing to do something else? The best part about Richard Grayson/Nightwing is that Richard is at least as interesting as Nightwing, and I could read entire issues where Nightwing never appeared and still be satisfied. I hope that isn't lost.

Damien, while a little obnoxious helped to provide some comic relief in the book for me, albeit unintentionally. His line about him being read to be Batman was pretty silly. He's, what, 10? I'd love to see a 10 year old running around in the bat costume. I mean, heck, Tim looked foolish in the costume, I'm sure Damien would look like a member of the Tiny Titans.

The teasers about the year to come were pretty interesting. it looks like Doctor Hurt will be back, with the keys to Wayne Manor in his hand. It also looks like Damien will quit as Robin, maybe as an homage to when Richard Grayson quit? Morrison promised a lot, including a red hood with a what looked like a female robin side-kick. Will some of this stuff happen in Winick's Batman book instead? It's going to have to since Morrison promised us 4 storylines that were 3 issues long each. It would be pretty lame if the teaser page gave away those 4 storylines.

[Maestro]

it wasn't brilliant. just good solid fun, the kind you would want from comic books.

[Karl O'Neill]

Two reviews for CBR!

http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=user_review&id=1082

http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=user_review&id=1081

We have a winner!

[Karl O'Neill]

It's probably glass or see through, but red tinted plastic. D'uh.


Duh is correct :smile:

I will join your nightwing club later, do I get a real membership card sent out to me?

[Will44]

PM Sent regarding the membership card.

IGN has a great review too for the issue.

IGN Gives it a 7.8 out of 10 (http://comics.ign.com/articles/990/990914p1.html)

[Chiroptera]

Well I caved in, went back to the store and picked it up. It was enough to convince me it's not something I want to buy into again. At least this time I've learned to decide that after my first sampling instead of continuing to read something while constantly asking myself "Why am I still reading this?!" :tongue:
I guess I'll just have to settle with A-SS being the only Morrison story I like. I keep hoping maybe one day I'll find something of his that let's me see why everything thinks he's the bees knees, but I give up!

[shinjiro15]

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but that was made official a week or two ago, Philip Tan IS doing issues 4-6, as currently scheduled. On the bright side Quitely is set to return for the ending fourth of the first year overarching arc, issues 10-12, so there is still more of his work, and he'll have done half of the run all told. No word officially on who is doing the third and penultimate section, although Morrison has mentioned Frazer Irving as a possibility.


Frazer Irving would fit the mood alot better than tan. This series needs to stray away from "tradional" artists like Phillip Tan

[Sn4tcH]

I keep hoping maybe one day I'll find something of his that let's me see why everything thinks he's the bees knees, but I give up!

I'm sure somebody hates Shakespeare too. Not everyone loves Morrison, (I do though) heck, I think most Morrison fans wonder why everyone hates him.

[Mundungus]

I thought it was great. Solid, zany fun with some strong, reflective character moments.

I'm eagerly waiting for the next issue, too.

I like Damien. I don't care if he's Bruce's clone or his son or whatever. I would never befriend him in real life, but as a character he poses exciting possibilities when interacting with other characters. Dick seems to be a good foil for him.

Batman is one of those characters where you don't feel like anyone could ever fill his shoes and it seems like Dick knows that. Bruce might eventually return but I wonder how that will shake out. I don't want to get too ahead of myself.

[F1uke]

Frazer Irving would fit the mood alot better than tan. This series needs to stray away from "tradional" artists like Phillip Tan

I disagree. I'm not saying Tan is a better choice, but that Irving doesn't fit the mood any better at all. This new Batman and Robin is supposed to be the brighter side of Batman and Robin that we've never seen, while Irving's work (which I love) on Klarion and Azrael, have been very dark.

[pariah-1972]

I think i would like Quietleys art better if he had used a cleaner ink style or got a professional inker.

I don't understand why the Batmobile looked like a flying saucer in the beginning, not sure if that was on purpose or not.

Then they shoot something (a missle perhaps?) and completely overshoot their mark but on the next page the car's tires blow up:confused:

And now Damian is a techno-genuis smarter than Bruce himself?:rolleyes:

[Karl O'Neill]

Then they shoot something (a missle perhaps?) and completely overshoot their mark but on the next page the car's tires blow up:confused:

And now Damian is a techno-genuis smarter than Bruce himself?:rolleyes:

It's simple.

Shoots the ground ahead of the getaway car. blows the ground up, Bad guys car is blown into the sky and the new batmobile catches it.

[SpideyZERO]

More like bite it. The Batmobile has teeth :D

[xnef1025]

I think i would like Quietleys art better if he had used a cleaner ink style or got a professional inker.

I don't understand why the Batmobile looked like a flying saucer in the beginning, not sure if that was on purpose or not.

Then they shoot something (a missle perhaps?) and completely overshoot their mark but on the next page the car's tires blow up:confused:

And now Damian is a techno-genuis smarter than Bruce himself?:rolleyes:
They were moving at high speeds. They shot some sort of concussion shell ahead of the car so that the car would start rolling over it and the blast would take out the rear tires.

[pariah-1972]

They were moving at high speeds. They shot some sort of concussion shell ahead of the car so that the car would start rolling over it and the blast would take out the rear tires.I kind of figured that i guess but i wasn't completely sure.

[Redrumbin]

I liked the Paracapes, was about time they came up with something like that.

[NickFury90]

http://www.newsarama.com/comics/060904-Grant-Batman.html

NRAMA: Tell us about your work with the other artists on the series.

GM: . I’ve just started on my arc with Philip Tan and looking forward to seeing what he’s going to do with the Red Hood story. I’m encouraging him to do the really moody, high-contrast noir-ish stuff he’s so good at.
I know Frazer Irving’s coming on to do an arc and I’m very excited about working with him again. I’ve been dreaming of how the Frazer Irving Batman could look since we first worked together.

[F1uke]

http://www.newsarama.com/comics/060904-Grant-Batman.html

NRAMA: Tell us about your work with the other artists on the series.

GM: . I’ve just started on my arc with Philip Tan and looking forward to seeing what he’s going to do with the Red Hood story. I’m encouraging him to do the really moody, high-contrast noir-ish stuff he’s so good at.
I know Frazer Irving’s coming on to do an arc and I’m very excited about working with him again. I’ve been dreaming of how the Frazer Irving Batman could look since we first worked together.

Yeah, just read that as well. Color me surprised. I love Irving's work, and I am excited to see him to take on a (to quote Morrison) "darks are very dark, but the light is neon-bright" Batman.

[Will.S]

Like Tony Daniel, I'm not quite sure why Philip Tan was chosen.

He's not really my ideal choice for an arc using the Red Hood and it just goes to show how DC needs to use utilize their artists better and grab fresher talent but I suppose we'll see once he draws the arc whether its up to snuff or not.

[Karl O'Neill]

I don't get the Philip tan hate. His revelations and Green Lantern work is outstanding.

[Hullababy]

Loved this issue. Can't wait for the next one .But it did end too soon. :(

[Karl O'Neill]

Loved this issue. Can't wait for the next one .But it did end too soon. :(

That's an effect I like to call GREAT COMICS! :biggrin:

You know when you read a bad one and when it ends you think thank god that is done, But when you enjoy something fun and zany like this comic you want it to last forever.

Looking forward to the big kun fu fight next issue with siam versus batman and robin!

[Quinnhop]

http://www.newsarama.com/comics/060904-Grant-Batman.html

NRAMA: Tell us about your work with the other artists on the series.

GM: . I’ve just started on my arc with Philip Tan and looking forward to seeing what he’s going to do with the Red Hood story. I’m encouraging him to do the really moody, high-contrast noir-ish stuff he’s so good at.
I know Frazer Irving’s coming on to do an arc and I’m very excited about working with him again. I’ve been dreaming of how the Frazer Irving Batman could look since we first worked together.

Wonderful interview.

And I can't wait for Irving's Batwoman. Oh, and his Squire and Knight!

EDIT:

Oh, and here's a picture of Tan's Batman and Robin. Should give you guys an idea of what to expect from him on the upcoming arcs. And I, for one, am quite pleased.

http://fc00.deviantart.com/fs44/i/2009/075/f/8/Batman_and_Robin_by_butones.jpg

[zur en arrh]

Based on that sketch, I dig Tan's Batman more than Quitely's.

[Karl O'Neill]

I can't see any picture?

[Will.S]

Wonderful interview.

And I can't wait for Irving's Batwoman. Oh, and his Squire and Knight!

EDIT:

Oh, and here's a picture of Tan's Batman and Robin. Should give you guys an idea of what to expect from him on the upcoming arcs. And I, for one, am quite pleased.

http://fc00.deviantart.com/fs44/i/2009/075/f/8/Batman_and_Robin_by_butones.jpg
If it's at the level of quality as those sketches then I'll eat my words.

He's shown improvement since his X-Men stuff with Austen but usually Philip has some wonky as hell anatomy issues going on.

[mike627]

I loved this comic!:cool: a great introduction to the new Dynamic Duo and Pyg and the Circus of Strange are odd and creepy great additions to the Rouges Gallery! Dick and Damian make for some interesting stories.It's been awhile since the Batman Line has actually felt fresh this was a sorely needed reboot.

[Abeja]

I was even excited when I noticed it was 2.99. I like Tans work, cant wait to see it, and read this entire series.

Loved the "splsh"

[mosdef]

Wonderful interview.

And I can't wait for Irving's Batwoman. Oh, and his Squire and Knight!

EDIT:

Oh, and here's a picture of Tan's Batman and Robin. Should give you guys an idea of what to expect from him on the upcoming arcs. And I, for one, am quite pleased.

http://fc00.deviantart.com/fs44/i/2009/075/f/8/Batman_and_Robin_by_butones.jpg

I'm diggin' those sketches, looking forward to Tan doing the next arc. Does he have anymore sketches?

[Karl O'Neill]

It's been awhile since the Batman Line has actually felt fresh this was a sorely needed reboot.

I don't know, I mean Morrison has been working in the bat verse for a couple of years now and you don't get any fresher than the morrison who only writes fresh and new concepts.

[Violently Apathetic]

I don't know, I mean Morrison has been working in the bat verse for a couple of years now and you don't get any fresher than the morrison who only writes fresh and new concepts.


Fresh and new concepts using entirely recycled ideas!

I kid, I kid...

[Violently Apathetic]

Well, maybe. I have to admit that I wasn't really feeling his run on Batman (except 'Club of Heroes' and a few parts of 'Batman and Son.'). Batman & Robin seems like a step in the right direction.

[Quinnhop]

I'm diggin' those sketches, looking forward to Tan doing the next arc. Does he have anymore sketches?

A few. Not of Dick and Damian, but of Batfamily members.

http://comicartfans.com/Images/Category_1/subcat_62871/BatmanPhilipTanLizz.jpg

http://comicartfans.com/Images/Category_10912/subcat_21522/Philip%20Tan%20Batwoman%20.jpg

http://comicartfans.com/Images/Category_32550/subcat_75576/batmanrobin002s.jpg

http://comicartfans.com/Images/Category_4024/subcat_46637/Tan_WF.JPG

[A.C.R.O.N.Y.M.]

If Tan can keep that level of detail and style up, I'll take my words back. His Green Lantern work has been all right, but not anything special, in my opinion. His FC: Revelations was litterally all over the place and the later issues looked rushed to the point of incompleteness.

The news of Frazer Irving doing an arc is terrific, though. That's almost as exciting as Quitely (almost).

[HopeLantern]

Phillip Tan is on the next arc? Consider me sold...

[BigTopTony]

If it's at the level of quality as those sketches then I'll eat my words.

He's shown improvement since his X-Men stuff with Austen but usually Philip has some wonky as hell anatomy issues going on.

Ditto on all statements.

Has Quitely ever delivered a monthly? I know there were delays with ASS. Does his style just take him that long to hone for each issue or is he doing another project concurrently with Batman and Robin?

[Quinnhop]

I hope he experiments with his style a bit.

[Ghost Shark]

This was FUN!

:biggrin: :biggrin: :biggrin: :biggrin:

[Will44]

I agree that Tan does have some funky anatomy issues but a good inker can usually cover that up with shadows. I hope they paired Tan up with someone good.

I'm not familiar with Frazer Irving, but I'll have to look him up.

[BigTopTony]

I'm not familiar with Frazer Irving, but I'll have to look him up.

Me either. Tan's stuff I've seen not sure if I've seen Irving. Anyone have any recommendations?

[mosdef]

He's the artist for Azrael: Death's Dark Knight

[another_version]

What if Hurt holding the keys to the Wayne Manor is a team-up between him and Hush? Or would Morrison leave that out because it is Dini's plot? Idk just thought of it.

[Christopher Cross Is God]

I wasn't going to buy the series, but wait on a trade......One reason being I don't like Quitely's cover-art.

But, I went ahead and bought the first issue, and it looks like I may have to keep buying the monthlies, as I liked what I read.

[Captain Jim]

main coimplaint with this issue is the excessive use of splash pages. style over content that makes the issue feel too quick.

I liked the splash pages, though this is obviously what made the story seem "short." Perhaps DC should have made this a 40 pager, like next week's Batman.

I wonder what captain jim thinks of this issue, I know he was hard on RIP and the rest of morrison's run a few months back.

See post #90. Yet another post calling for my opinion; I'm overwhelmed. :biggrin:

Oh, and here's a picture of Tan's Batman and Robin. Should give you guys an idea of what to expect from him on the upcoming arcs. And I, for one, am quite pleased.

Looks good to me.

It's been awhile since the Batman Line has actually felt fresh this was a sorely needed reboot.

Yeah, I think I agree. We haven't seen a reboot of this magnitude since the end of NML. (Speaking of the whole line here, not just Batman.) I have to admit I was upset when I heard Nightwing, Robin and BOP were being cancelled, but I've changed my mind. BFTC was pretty good IMO and I'm really excited about all the new books debuting this month.

[Fatguy]

I thought this issue was great, Pyg is kinda freaky.

[Jimmy'sFriend]

Here's my review....

Batman and Robin #1

The Eisner Award winning dynamic duo of Grant Morrison and Frank Quietly take on the original dynamic duo in their new series Batman and Robin. Hoping for a repeat performance with their successful All-Star Superman, Morrison and Quietly have the talent to hit this one out of the park. The big question is did they accomplish this with issue number one? The answer…. holy frickin’ yes they did!
Quietly has created a gorgeous book. He draws with a master’s level of texture and warmth. His pages are painstakingly meticulous in details. His panels are a confident balance of exposition and action. When Batman (Nightwing) and Robin (Damien) clock a villain with a simultaneous punch, I wanted to cheer. The full-page panel of Batman and Robin descending from the sky onto Gotham’s streets is a print I would buy and hang on my living room wall. I can’t believe how realistic and unlike anyone else Quietly can even draw their capes!
Grant Morrison wastes no time in pulling the reader into his recreation of these icons. These characters are written with gusto and no hesitation. For a first issue, he accomplishes a lot. Not only has Morrison effectively given the DC Universe the new Batman and Robin, but presents a first glimpse into an intriguing story arc. Why are criminals being paid in dominoes? Sounds weird, but that’s what the dynamic duo discover. Two new villains are introduced, Toad and the sadistic Pyg; who these two are and why they are in Gotham is yet to be revealed, but I am already excited. Pyg, a masked faced butcher, shows what a bad ass he is on the last two pages. We get formidable new foes for the new team.
Most importantly, the new Batman and Robin work. This issue harkened to the good old days, yet embraced the new incarnations of Batman and Robin. Morrison doesn’t get stuck in either extreme - pretending like nothing happened nor continuing to bemoan Wayne’s death. Bruce Wayne is gone; Gotham needs her heroes; suit up and deal with it.
Morrison nails the interplay between Alfred, Nightwing (guess I have to call him Batman now) and Damien (I mean Robin). Alfred is protective of the new team and his dry English wit had returned. It’s nice to see him truly back after Bruce Wayne’s death. Damien is an arrogant kid who wants to drive and not ride shotgun to Grayson. However, his mouth is bigger than his actions. Morrison conveys a silent understanding that Damien is aware that he needs Alfred and Dick Grayson. He’s still a little turd that would never admit to this. But I like that. Dick Grayson is a good Batman thanks to Grant Morrison. A balance is achieved between being a strong Batman while still feeling the weight of the cowl. The emotion is believable without melodrama. The tissues are put away and Gotham’s criminals should be afraid.
I did not want this issue to end and I’m happy this title is so good. Batman fans deserve better than they have received recently. It certainly is fitting that Grant Morrison is the man to put a smile on their faces. Frank Quietly achieves perfection. The sun is shining on Gotham.

5 out of 5

[NickFury90]

Ditto on all statements.

Has Quitely ever delivered a monthly? I know there were delays with ASS. Does his style just take him that long to hone for each issue or is he doing another project concurrently with Batman and Robin?

Quitely is a...methodical artist. I think he's the best artist in the business(well him and JH Williams III), but he can't do a monthly book to save his life. The only reason this 3-issue arc is getting done is because been working on months in advance. It why stuff like All Star Superman takes forever, and he only did 8 or 9 out of 41 issues of New X-men(those issues were of course the best of the run, but thats for another post).

I say the wait is worth, especially when he's with Morrison. Flex Mentallo, We3, All-Star Superman, E for Extinction/Riot at Xaviers...'nuff said

Me either. Tan's stuff I've seen not sure if I've seen Irving. Anyone have any recommendations?

The only work of Irving I've read is part of Seven Soldiers(which I'm just starting to get into). He's got a very distinctive style, with a great usage of shadows to highlight the important features of the characters/action. I think he could fit pretty well into Batman and Robin, although I still wish Quitely could do all the issues :frown:

[TheAmazingSpidey]

I voted 3 stars. It was good, and that splash page of Batman and Robin was awesome, but I don't think it was as great as many people do. Really good though, good story and art, and I'll continue buying.

[TimothyCallahan]

And with the return of Morrison's Batman, I'm back to doing annotations on my blog (sort of):

Batman and Robin #1 Annotations (http://geniusboyfiremelon.blogspot.com/2009/06/batman-and-robin-1-annotations.html)

Considerably less to annotate here than in R.I.P., of course, but that doesn't stop me.

[NickFury90]

And with the return of Morrison's Batman, I'm back to doing annotations on my blog (sort of):

Batman and Robin #1 Annotations (http://geniusboyfiremelon.blogspot.com/2009/06/batman-and-robin-1-annotations.html)

Considerably less to annotate here than in R.I.P., of course, but that doesn't stop me.

Yay, I've been waiting for your annotations, even though I knew you'd enjoy the denser work of Seaguy more.

[Mundungus]

I like Tan and Irving but they seem an odd choice to succeed Frank Quitely.

I'll reserve final judgement until I see the product, though.

[diablo7]

i'd have rather seen mahnke instead of tan..but i am glad that it's phillip tan and not billy tan

[SpideyZERO]

Tan's art work seems pretty good. Can't wait ! :D

[Karl O'Neill]

See post #90. Yet another post calling for my opinion; I'm overwhelmed. :biggrin:



Only because I know you love your BATMAN :cool: Like Mr METS the mod loves his spiderman!

[Karl O'Neill]

And with the return of Morrison's Batman, I'm back to doing annotations on my blog (sort of):

Batman and Robin #1 Annotations (http://geniusboyfiremelon.blogspot.com/2009/06/batman-and-robin-1-annotations.html)

Considerably less to annotate here than in R.I.P., of course, but that doesn't stop me.

That was a cool read. funny too.!

[celticguy]

I thought this issue was great, Pyg is kinda freaky.
yeah I am not digging the swine.

I would have preferred he face off with a known bat villian to establish Dick in the role.

[Retro315]

yeah I am not digging the swine.

I would have preferred he face off with a known bat villian to establish Dick in the role.

I think Morrison was confident that it would happen elsewhere. He's often like that "Oh, someone else will assuredly be covering that angle" and naturally, Dick Grayson gets to test his mettle with the "old school" villains in Winnick's book, where Task # 1 is a three-way gang war between Two-Face/Penguin/Black Mask II.

Dick Grayson having to deal with Harvey Dent? Haven't seen that in a while ... heh.

New Black Mask is a pretty big thing to deal with.

[celticguy]

I think Morrison was confident that it would happen elsewhere. He's often like that "Oh, someone else will assuredly be covering that angle" and naturally, Dick Grayson gets to test his mettle with the "old school" villains in Winnick's book, where Task # 1 is a three-way gang war between Two-Face/Penguin/Black Mask II.

Dick Grayson having to deal with Harvey Dent? Haven't seen that in a while ... heh.

New Black Mask is a pretty big thing to deal with.

I would not use any of the big names but Batman hasa huge list to pluck someone from. Pyg just did not seem very interesting.

[marvelprince]

Personally I like seeing Dick develop his own set of villians. Being a different Batman, while its cool seeing how he'd deal with Bruce's old foes, he should attract new and different enemies. Enemies that he has no idea how to deal with, who he hasn't watched Bruce take down time and time again.

[shinjiro15]

I disagree. I'm not saying Tan is a better choice, but that Irving doesn't fit the mood any better at all. This new Batman and Robin is supposed to be the brighter side of Batman and Robin that we've never seen, while Irving's work (which I love) on Klarion and Azrael, have been very dark.

We both agree that quietly should ahve stayed on the book the whole year. Waht i meant for the mood is that of an off beat artist - Tan is similar to the comics of the 90's with Lee; every character is an Adonis. I love that sort of stuff, as i grew up on it but with Quitely doing the first arch it sets a diffent tone. Irving is dark and the comic is to be bright, yet irving fits the tone in the sense of artist. Characters will resemble thier personalities more, ie alfred with a muffin top, under Irving, than Tan. One of the irks I've had with Lee doing batman is that all of a sudden Alfred became a 60 year old man built like Lebron James. Artists like Quitely or Brian Azzarello stray form the comic chracter traditons which is what's been set in the frist B&R story arch. I'm sure Tan will be brilliant, but there's going to a major contrast.
an extreme example: It's kinda like if Sam Keith on Sandman was followed by Rob Leifeld on the enxt story arch. It's too stark of a contrast.

I hope it works, this Issue has me going crazy. I've always like Morrison but was highly dissapointed with his Batman work up until now.

[shinjiro15]

If it's at the level of quality as those sketches then I'll eat my words.

He's shown improvement since his X-Men stuff with Austen but usually Philip has some wonky as hell anatomy issues going on.


As mentioned before, Tan's Batman is pretty cool. I agree, i hope im wrong and will have to eat my words

[sabongero]

This is a fantastic issue. And I look forward to more of Damien's development from lethal spoiled brat to slightly less-lethal anti hero. Grant's portrayal of Damien steals the issue. He has presence. Look at that splash page when they are flying on the Bat Gliders. It's almost like we should title this series, ROBIN and Batman.

[celticguy]

Personally I like seeing Dick develop his own set of villians. Being a different Batman, while its cool seeing how he'd deal with Bruce's old foes, he should attract new and different enemies. Enemies that he has no idea how to deal with, who he hasn't watched Bruce take down time and time again.

maybe down the road but issue one, when he is trying to take establish himself, it does not accomplish anything other than show he has a suit that fits.

[NickFury90]

This is a fantastic issue. And I look forward to more of Damien's development from lethal spoiled brat to slightly less-lethal anti hero. Grant's portrayal of Damien steals the issue. He has presence. Look at that splash page when they are flying on the Bat Gliders. It's almost like we should title this series, ROBIN and Batman.

I always loved Damien ever since he owned Tim Drake. He's the heard-strong warrior Wolverine to Dick's calm and collected leader Cyclops, which I guess Morrison realize because he them doing pretty similar things in their first issue in comparison to New X-men #114 (trading barbs behind their red windshield of a flying aircraft, even sitting in similar places).

[PastePotPete]

I think Tan will work. I think his art will fit the psychedelic feel Morrison is going for. His characters tend to stretch and bend in neat ways - some people will say this tendency is actually an inability to draw anatomy but I think sometimes he's excercising artistic license.

Irving is just an amazing artist that I want to see more of. Very happy he's doing an arc on this run. I remember loving his stuff in Klarion and in Iron Man: The Inevitable. Very unique look.

Yeah, after this first issue I'm into the book. I love the colors! Definitely a different kind of reading experience, which is what Morrison always provides whether you love it or hate.

Morrison: Give us more new villains! I am sick of seeing Two Face for the 159th time!

[Bored at 3:00AM]

I haven't enjoyed a Batman story that much in quite some time.

[Scott Taylor]

I thought this issue was great, Pyg is kinda freaky.

Really freaky! He reminded me of the psychotic farmer in an obscure cult horror movie called Motel Hell, seems like that maybe even was the intent actually.

The book was awesome. Can't wait for the next effort.

[Karl O'Neill]

Prof pyg is giving me daymares!

[NickGuy]

I miss Quietly's colorist from all-star supes.

[carabas]

Nonsens.
If All star Superman had a flaw then it was that the bleeding colourist drowned out all that nice Quitely linework.

As for this issue...
Awesome, great, stunning, amazing, etcetera all kind of fall short, so I'll just with superclliphragillistiexpialidoceous.

[pariah-1972]

I'm starting to think Ign has more intelligent reviewers than this place.

[Gitaroo_Dude]

I'm starting to think Ign has more intelligent reviewers than this place.

I've always thought they have the best comic book reviewers outside of Tim Callahan.

CBR's are all over the place, and they have Mr. Tatu's Buy Pile.

[pariah-1972]

I've always thought they have the best comic book reviewers outside of Tim Callahan.

CBR's are all over the place, and they have Mr. Tatu's Buy Pile.Not Crazy about Tim Callahan at all and i've heard some bad things about Tatu's buy pile.

I just never seem to agree with any of the reviewers here and it's a little frustrating to see them big up Matt Fraction's Uncanny X-men run.

[Captain Jim]

I liked this review:

http://www.eyeoncomics.com/?p=417

[Jorriss]

I hope Bruce never comes back and Dick is permanently Batman with Tim Drake being Nightwing.

....Yeah...

That being said, I don't think the issue is nearly as good as many of you think.

[pariah-1972]

I liked this review:

http://www.eyeoncomics.com/?p=417Actually that's not a bad review since it's not overly fawning and points out specifically what he likes but doesn't come across as a drooling fanboy.


I thought there was some good stuff in here but it also felt a bit incomplete and it makes me thinks that Grant was possibly overcompensating for Final Crisis by keeping the plot fairly lightweight and letting Frank go to town.

[Gitaroo_Dude]

Not Crazy about Tim Callahan at all and i've heard some bad things about Tatu's buy pile.

I just never seem to agree with any of the reviewers here and it's a little frustrating to see them big up Matt Fraction's Uncanny X-men run.

The Buy Pile is the worst column ever. The guy said Greg Land is a great artist (I HOPE he was being sarcastic, but I doubt it, his taste is awful).

Not sure what you don't like about Tim though. But I may be biased, since his love of all things Young Liars, while also pimping AoA and Unknown Soldier, endeared me immediately.

[pariah-1972]

The Buy Pile is the worst column ever. The guy said Greg Land is a great artist (I HOPE he was being sarcastic, but I doubt it, his taste is awful).

Not sure what you don't like about Tim though. But I may be biased, since his love of all things Young Liars, while also pimping AoA and Unknown Soldier, endeared me immediately.It's not a personal dislike just don't agree with his reviews.


He seems to be a big fan of Morrison who imo i think is EXTREMELY hit or miss nowadays.

[Kid Seven]

Really enjoyed this issue. Not the best Morrison/Quitely issue I've ever read, but there was plenty to like and to have me looking forward to the next few issues. I'm excited about Irving being on the title, but am a bit more skeptical about Tan. Eh.

I'd prefer someone a bit more 'rock solid traditional' or a bit more 'unique', for lack of better words. The former category I'd pick Garcia-Lopez/Nowlan (their Confidential stuff was great) or Ryan Sook. In the later category I'd love to see Kyle Baker (using his older style that he's brought out for Wednesday Comics) or Brendan McCarthy.

[another_version]

I wonder whether Grant is going to change the style of the book with each artist, just to keep us on our toes, although the probability of that is low, it would be pretty awesome. It matters on how far back the artists were confirmed behind the scenes.

[James Conniff]

I really enjoyed the first issue. I liked the fantastical elements like a flying Bat mobile and paracapes contrasting with a dark creepy character like Pyg. Morrison's writing is really working for me here, his Batman has a flair that shows Dick's personality. And Damien comes off as a likable little dangerous bastard, here's hoping Alfred drugs his food to teach him some manners.
Quietly's art is pretty good here, but I feel like the issue would have been better if the inking had been tighter. It looked very scratchy at times where I think stark clean inking would have looked better.

[numberONE]

Kid Seven, I agree, Kevin Nowlan would have been great on this book!

[Jody Garland]

This is what Grant's Batman run should have been. Fast, kinetic, introducing concepts a mile a minute. In this first issue alone, we have a bunch of exposition about why Dick became Batman, Damien as the new Robin, the two setting up their new HQ. New villains (Loved Mr. Toad! I hope he sticks around. Phosphorus Rex had a great intro too), including a new big villain in Prof. Pyg. Pyg may be one of the creepiest villains in a while. I await more of him as he and the Circus of Strange face down Dick and Damien.

Two side notes: Is that the circus from the Killing Joke? Someone else brought that up. Guess we'll just have to wait for next month.

And I wonder if Grant is going to use every villain from Batman 666. In this issue, Prof. Pyg and Phosphorus Rex were introduced. Jackanapes seems to be on the cover for issue 3. And someone said Grant said something about using the Flamingo. That leaves the Candyman.Loveless, the Weasel and Max Roboto. I'm curious as to what happens with those characters.

Now that I think about it, wonder if Sasha's name as the Dollotron will be Loveless? For some reason, it fits for me.

[NickFury90]

I wonder whether Grant is going to change the style of the book with each artist, just to keep us on our toes, although the probability of that is low, it would be pretty awesome. It matters on how far back the artists were confirmed behind the scenes.

http://comics.ign.com/articles/986/986031p3.html

IGN Comics: Will you be changing your style up at all for Philip Tan and the other artist coming in?

Morrison: Completely. I'm trying to write all these arcs individually for the artists and push them to do the best stuff they can do. Each one has been tailored specifically for the guy who's going to draw it. I'm having fun with it, and it also keeps the books fresh by changing their styles around a little bit.

:biggrin:

[C.O. Jones]

I had no idea B&R had ties to BFTC. I thought this title was going to be another break from regular DC continuity like A-SS was, which totally changes my perception now. But the flow was great & there wasn't a lot of needless exposition. I just hate that FQ is only doing a few issues.


Why couldn't the SWAT team just look up & realize B&R were back on the scene & spread the word back to Gordon? Dick only dropped Toad a few feet down onto the roof for all to just look up & see where he'd come from, right? Why be disappointed at 'Batman' not showing up when the batsignal went out when your men had just sighted 'him'?

[Karl O'Neill]

The Buy Pile is the worst column ever. The guy said Greg Land is a great artist (I HOPE he was being sarcastic, but I doubt it, his taste is awful).

Not sure what you don't like about Tim though. But I may be biased, since his love of all things Young Liars, while also pimping AoA and Unknown Soldier, endeared me immediately.

Agreed. The Buy pile is garbage. I like Most of Tim's reviews but his love of morrison is unsettling sometimes:biggrin:

[Gitaroo_Dude]

I had no idea B&R had ties to BFTC. I thought this title was going to be another break from regular DC continuity like A-SS was, which totally changes my perception now. But the flow was great & there wasn't a lot of needless exposition. I just hate that FQ is only doing a few issues.


Why couldn't the SWAT team just look up & realize B&R were back on the scene & spread the word back to Gordon? Dick only dropped Toad a few feet down onto the roof for all to just look up & see where he'd come from, right? Why be disappointed at 'Batman' not showing up when the batsignal went out when your men had just sighted 'him'?

Yeah, I wasn't clear on that either. At first I thought the Batmobile might have flown out of sight before the SWAT arrived, but it's clearly on panel, and not too far away.

[carabas]

It's way up in the sky, and they have their backs towards it.

[Gitaroo_Dude]

It's way up in the sky, and they have their backs towards it.

Yeah, but doesn't it seem silly that not one officer would have turned around or looked up?

[dreyga2000]

Why couldn't the SWAT team just look up & realize B&R were back on the scene & spread the word back to Gordon? Dick only dropped Toad a few feet down onto the roof for all to just look up & see where he'd come from, right? Why be disappointed at 'Batman' not showing up when the batsignal went out when your men had just sighted 'him'?

Toad was the only one who actually saw Batman and Robin...

And with all the masked heroes who were roaming around Gotham as apart of the Network....

It could have been anyone in that flying car as far as Swat knew...

I doubt police who report something like this without 100% confirmaiton it was the dynamic duo..

[Captain Jim]

I just hate that FQ is only doing a few issues.

In case you haven't heard, he'll also be back for #10-12.

[Robert318]

I think it was an okay issue. A good start. It could go either way from here though. I thought it was a solid story that set up stories for the future, which is what the first issue should do. Nothing outstanding, but plenty to build on. I am wondering though...Pyg, Toad, Flamingo...does Morrison think he's writing Spider-Man?

[dreyga2000]

I think it was an okay issue. A good start. It could go either way from here though. I thought it was a solid story that set up stories for the future, which is what the first issue should do. Nothing outstanding, but plenty to build on. I am wondering though...Pyg, Toad, Flamingo...does Morrison think he's writing Spider-Man?

Killer Croc
Catwoman
FireFly
Killer Moth
Man-Bat
The Penguin
King Snake
The Great White Shark

I'm sure there's more that's just of the top of my head...

[Frisky Dingo]

Just got to read this today. Gave it 3 stars in the poll. Thought it was a pretty good story. Some nice setup for future issues. Quitely is either hit or miss with me (and expect for a few minor parts like in the first shot of Dick in the Batmobile it looks more like Bruce in the cowl) but overall everything looked pretty good.

For a first issue like this I judge the quality on whether or not it has me excited to read the next issue. And in this case I'm really looking forward to issue #2. So mission accomplished!

[Imraith Nimphais]

4 stars.
I have never, ever been a fan the Bat...(except for the animated series...I absolutely LOVE those...and have not missed a season...and have purchased the dvds)...but I saw the preview for this #1 and it sure piqued my interest...So I bought it...and LOVED it! (Pyg and his dollies are so deliciously creepy)...now I cannot wait for the second issue.

[carabas]

Yeah, but doesn't it seem silly that not one officer would have turned around or looked up?
Not when they have a Supervillain right in front of him. And by the time he's secured, the Batmobile's long gone.
And Metropolis is the city where you look to the skies for superheroes, in Gotham you look into the shadows.

[BrodieBruce]

Grant Morrison on Batman and Robin:

http://www.newsarama.com/comics/060904-Grant-Batman.html

NRAMA: What can you tell us about your arcs on the series?

GM: Geoff Johns and I were talking last year about the unstoppable popularity of “event” comics, and we decided the only way forward in this Darwinian scenario was to make every story arc an “event” of its own - then make every page, every panel an event!!!! - until all comics explode on contact with human flesh, pulsing with the sheer radiant energy of their own importance! Batman and Robin is an attempt by my artistic collaborators and myself to realize that dreadful dream.

[Jimmy'sFriend]

Morrison is very inconsistent as of late.

[Trey]

3.5/4

Quitely's art was not as great as his usual. I miss his colorist, too. I loved the pace, the interaction between Damian, Alfrad and Dick.

Papa was in the car with Mr. Toad, (someone was wondering who that was) And it looks like he was/is a circus performer. His daughter will be the Red Hood's sidekick.

[Trey]

From wiki:

"Domino pieces were historically carved from ivory or animal bone with small, round pips of inset ebony. The game's name comes from the pieces' resemblance to Venetian Carnival masks known as domini, which were white with black spots. These masks were so named, in turn, because they resembled French priests' winter hoods, being black on the outside and white on the inside. The name ultimately derives from the Latin dominus, meaning "lord" or "master."

This may be a clue to Pyg's origins as a carnival or circus ringleader: the master. It looks like he is consolidating power, as he tricks Toad with the suitcase and has captured Lev and Papa.

[C.O. Jones]

Thanks, Capt. Jim. I did hear about those other issues FQ would be doing.

Again, it was just so weird finding out that this was in regular DC continuity. I thought I was reading something along the lines of Batman Beyond. That's just how much I've been keeping up with BFTC...

And I guess I can buy the cops not seeing the Batmobile since it was out of sight or that their thinking that a flying car could belong to a few other superheroes, maybe. But the team on the ground supporting the SWAT team should've seen something! They're there to watch the assault teams' backs even though SWAT might've busted out onto the roof a little too late to see it...

[carabas]

But the team on the ground supporting the SWAT team should've seen something! They're there to watch the assault teams' backs even though SWAT might've busted out onto the roof a little too late to see it...They're not in the comic, so they didn't see diddley.

[Mia]

I liked the issue. What I liked the most was Dick's portrayal. It was ten times better than the one done is Batman:Prodigal. He was more confident and self-assured. In BP he was behaving as if he wanted to Batman because 'it was his right'. In B&R he's behaving as if it's his duty and he owes it to Bruce. In short Morisson is portraying him like the grown adult man that he is. I also liked the way in which he put Robin/Damian in his place.

The book is no way as hokie as I thought it might be, and Quietely's art work has improved. While thus far, the story does not appear to be as mysterious as 'The Black Glove'. I would still classify it as entertaining. I hope that Morisson remains on Batman for a long time.

A solid A

[Captain Jim]

I must say, I'm surprised to see five people rated this a zero and said it was horrible. If any of the five are reading this, I'd really like to hear why you rated it so low.

[Jorriss]

I must say, I'm surprised to see five people rated this a zero and said it was horrible. If any of the five are reading this, I'd really like to hear why you rated it so low.
While I wasn't one of them I have heard a couple claims, namely the plot wasn't unique at all - all the ideas from the villain to the batmobile - had already been done, and some just disliked the art.

[Jake V]

I must say, I'm surprised to see five people rated this a zero and said it was horrible. If any of the five are reading this, I'd really like to hear why you rated it so low.

They either have an irrational hatred of Morrison (pauwoo) or they're just trolling.

None of them had the balls to give their opinion.

[Gitaroo_Dude]

They either have an irrational hatred of Morrison (pauwoo) or they're just trolling.

None of them had the balls to give their opinion.

Well, you can't really expect these people to actually be able to articulate their opinions.

It probably boils down to "Quitely draws ugly faces!" and "Morrison sucks!"

[Kaos]

I really enjoyed it. The dynamic is a lot. But it did seem to finish too soon.

[AJM]

I've read it four times now and it gets better each time. Morrison and Quitely are as good as ever, but i really like the new, psychedelic colouring by Alex Sinclair too. It seems reminiscent of the original Killing Joke colours - deliberate maybe? That's definitely the ghost train from Killing Joke in the issue too... so the Dollotrons and Pyg are hiding out in the Joker's old lair? Cool.

I have to say though, i think the best page is the "DO NOT MISS" page. What a great idea!

I can't wait for Detective now too, and it's good to see Batwoman will play a part in Batman And Robin as well.

This should be a great Summer for Batman!

[Will44]

Well, you can't really expect these people to actually be able to articulate their opinions.

It probably boils down to "Quitely draws ugly faces!" and "Morrison sucks!"

You know, I really enjoyed this book but I have to say that normally I'm not a fan of either Morrison's or Quietly's work. There are a number of people out there who have valid reasons for not liking these two artists. Quietly does have a very distinct style that is not everyone's cup of tea. Morrison does often delve into weird stories and uses plot devices that, by his own admission, cut out parts he considers "boring" to get to the action. This type of story telling doesn't appeal to everyone.

Does that articulate my opinion intelligently enough?

[Kiryu]

You know, I really enjoyed this book but I have to say that normally I'm not a fan of either Morrison's or Quietly's work. There are a number of people out there who have valid reasons for not liking these two artists. Quietly does have a very distinct style that is not everyone's cup of tea. Morrison does often delve into weird stories and uses plot devices that, by his own admission, cut out parts he considers "boring" to get to the action. This type of story telling doesn't appeal to everyone.

Does that articulate my opinion intelligently enough?

But that's not irrational hatred of Morrison, that's rational aversion to a method of storytelling. The people expected to not articulate are the ones who come in and say "Morrison does crack lol this book makes no sense".

[Karl O'Neill]

I've read it four times now and it gets better each time. Morrison and Quitely are as good as ever, but i really like the new, psychedelic colouring by Alex Sinclair too. It seems reminiscent of the original Killing Joke colours - deliberate maybe? That's definitely the ghost train from Killing Joke in the issue too... so the Dollotrons and Pyg are hiding out in the Joker's old lair? Cool.

I have to say though, i think the best page is the "DO NOT MISS" page. What a great idea!

I can't wait for Detective now too, and it's good to see Batwoman will play a part in Batman And Robin as well.

This should be a great Summer for Batman!

I read it six times!

[Will44]

But that's not irrational hatred of Morrison, that's rational aversion to a method of storytelling. The people expected to not articulate are the ones who come in and say "Morrison does crack lol this book makes no sense".

Thank you. I guess my point was that maybe the 5 or 6 people who voted here that they didn't like it fall into the rational camp, that's all.

Quietly's work is a little weird for my taste. he uses a lot of strange lines and I read a review that stated everyone looked like they were wearing a second skin when not in costume. I kind of agree with that statement. Dick looked down right OLD in some panels from all the wrinkle lines.

I've lost track of how many times I've read it. I know it's more than 4, but less than 100.

[NickFury90]

I think that even the ones who didn't like the earlier Batman run(which I loved, including RIP) could enjoy this issue. It continues Morrison's Batman epic, but if you haven't been keeping up with everything its really easy to understand. Bruce is gone, Robin is now Batman, and Bruce's ninja-trained brat son is Robin. Thats about all the exposition you need.

Plus, its a pretty simple story. There aren't any completely off-the-wall weirdness and metatexual commentaries here; just a breezy, fun-filled issue with a fresh, interesting Batman and Robin with a great dynamic, creepy new villains, and perfect artwork. The only guy I know who didn't like it was Jett from Batman-on-Film, who's the biggest Bruce Wayne fanboy on the face of the Earth, and even HE admitted that it wasn't bad(it just wasn't what he wanted, which was of course more Bruce Wayne).

[Gitaroo_Dude]

You know, I really enjoyed this book but I have to say that normally I'm not a fan of either Morrison's or Quietly's work. There are a number of people out there who have valid reasons for not liking these two artists. Quietly does have a very distinct style that is not everyone's cup of tea. Morrison does often delve into weird stories and uses plot devices that, by his own admission, cut out parts he considers "boring" to get to the action. This type of story telling doesn't appeal to everyone.

Does that articulate my opinion intelligently enough?

I don't think there are any valid reasons to dislike Quitely. Cameron Stewart from Millarworld put it best:

"Sure, and Jack Kirby drew weird knees. There's a lot more going on in Quitely's work than the surface rendering. "His people are ugly" is the most frequent negative complaint I see about his work and it's also - forgive me - the most shallow. Quitely's work is utterly fascinating to me because he has an almost unparalleled ability to create a sense of life in his drawings - from his meticulous design and creation of environments that always evoke the sense that there is a thriving, living world that continues beyond the panel borders, through to the subtle gesture and expressive body language of his characters that make them feel sincere and human rather than posed mannequins. I marvel at his dramatic compositions, at his economy of storytelling and mastery of pacing and continuity, and at his ability to use the comics form in clever, inventive ways that haven't been seen or attempted since Eisner (We3 had some startlingly inventive and revolutionary page structures and should have been a wake-up call to comic artists, and sadly it remains unchallenged). And he manages to do all this with a drawing style that is uniquely, idiosyncratically his own.

I'll take that over "pretty" faces any day."

I've never seen any critique of Quitely that wasn't shallow, based on the outer appearance of his characters.

But yeah, even with what you said, those arguments wouldn't merit a "0" especially when this issue didn't fall prey to any of Morrison's "crazy" storytelling techniques.

[Captain Jim]

I think that even the ones who didn't like the earlier Batman run(which I loved, including RIP) could enjoy this issue... its a pretty simple story. There aren't any completely off-the-wall weirdness and metatexual commentaries here; just a breezy, fun-filled issue with a fresh, interesting Batman and Robin with a great dynamic, creepy new villains, and perfect artwork..

You're basically describing me and I agree. Which is why I'm genuinely wondering why people think it's so bad it deserves a zero (horrible) rating.

[Quinnhop]

You're basically describing me and I agree. Which is why I'm genuinely wondering why people think it's so bad it deserves a zero (horrible) rating.

You don't even know how happy I am that you enjoyed the issue.

lol

It's kinda ridiculous how much so.

[Moose967]

I haven't kept up with Batman, or even DC for that matter, in a long time. So just a few questions.

1. Is this book worth picking up?
2. Are there many parallels between Grayson as Batman and Bucky as Captain America?
3. So did Bruce Wayne die in RIP or was he killed by Darkseid?

[beetlebum]

1.) Yes, the book is worth picking up.

2.) I don't read that many Marvel titles, so I can't answer.

3.) He wasn't "killed".

The end of Final Crisis featured someone painting a primitive bat in a pre historic cave.

So it's most likely he's trapped in the past.

As for a review: I have read the issue, I just have to type my thoughts about it down.

And that will happen later.

[dreyga2000]

Hope this helps....

I haven't kept up with Batman, or even DC for that matter, in a long time. So just a few questions.

1. Is this book worth picking up?

Yes..


2. Are there many parallels between Grayson as Batman and Bucky as Captain America?

Depends on perspective....

3. So did Bruce Wayne die in RIP or was he killed by Darkseid?

Killed by Darkseid... better put his fate has yet to be really be confirmed

[Kylun123]

1. Is this book worth picking up?

Yes. Coming from someone who hasn't read Batman regularly and often finds Morrison to be hit or miss. This book is great.

2. Are there many parallels between Grayson as Batman and Bucky as Captain America?

So far I wouldn't say so. At least not yet.

Part of that I think is b/c when Bucky came around we really didn't know all that much about him so him taking the mantle was so foreign. He didn't have the opportunity to fight by Cap's side and grow in front of our eyes, so to speak.
Grayson's seems to be much more natural. He hasn't really made it his own yet (it's only been one issue), but he will, and he has to deal with an eager Robin by his side.

3. So did Bruce Wayne die in RIP or was he killed by Darkseid?

Like i said above, I haven't been reading much current Batman so I have no idea. But it doesn't make one bit of difference to me.
(Although I imagine he's not dead but stuck in the past/different dimension and will reappear at some point in the future, depending how sales take)

[carabas]

1. Is this book worth picking up?Absolutely.
2. Are there many parallels between Grayson as Batman and Bucky as Captain America?Other than that we have a former sidekick replacing his once mentor, not really. Completely different tone.
3. So did Bruce Wayne die in RIP or was he killed by Darkseid?Neither. Darkseid teleported him to the stone age. But he's believed to be dead.

[Mundungus]

Maybe in a weird twist of fate Bruce should some how end up in an appropriate timeline where he ends up inspiring the Legion of Superheroes instead of Superman.

I wonder how that would go?

[Agent Wax]

My review from Comixology.

Before I rip this book apart, I will let you all know, I don't hate Grant Morrison, I'm a fan of a bunch of his works. I thought We3 and his JLA run were excellent. Also, Frank Quietly, I have liked his art in the past. I thought his all star Superman stuff was top notch, and WE3 and his Authority were great.
Now.
That being said. I hated everything about this comic. Quitelys art is terrible. I dont know if it's him or the inker, but it looks unfinished and sketchy. There isn't one steady line in the entire book, it's as if they got a 91 year old man with Palsy to ink it. Ugh. Horrible. And seriously, while we're at it, Frank, Does everyone need to be wearing wrinkly, baggy costumes and clothes? Nothing fits anyone. They all look like superhero parodies. It seems like the only pages he took his time with are the splash pages, the Batmobile chase and the testing of the new Capes. Other than that? Craaaap.
As for Morrison, it feels like in the last few years he's forgotten how to tell a good story. Instead he floods us with his wild ideas and crazy characters. I hated, HATED Batman RIP. Hated Final Crisis. Both stories were hard to follow and terribly executed. I know you Morrison fan boys are foaming at the mouth to crucify me for saying that, but it's true! Every new villain he brings to the table is a joke. This new issue follows that formula closely.
PYG. He's a guy with a pig mask. BUT WATCH OUT! HE IS EVIL!!!!
And one of his henchmen is a toad man.
Wow. Thats good stuff. It's like an outtake from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon.
I'm excited about Dick and Damien becoming Batman and Robin, but this book barely gives us any of that. We get a few panels of dialogue between Alfred and Dick, and then Damien is a jerk to everyone. I would have loved to see more of this but instead we get served up more Grant Morrison weirdness.
Flying Batmobile? I've seen some people complaining about this. I guess it doesn't bother me that much. Just another gadget.
Anyway, I wont be following this book. I'll get my Batman fix from a writer that actually "Gets" the Bat-Family and doesnt try to change it into something else entirely. Judd Winick has written Batman before (the return of Jason Todd) and he did a hell of a job with it. I can't wait to see what he does next. Whatever it is, it will be a Batman story, and not something so weird that people have no clue whatsoever is going on, or why the hell its going on in Batman.
I honestly wouldn't be surprised to see Morrison take Batman into space for an arc, to have him fight alien Batmen on a far away planet, that learned about Batman from the old show from the 60's.
Ugh.
Don't support this crap.

[Kylun123]

Wow. Dude. Honestly, I am a huge critic of Morrison's work and I thought Rock of Ages was over-rated, but I find it hard to take your review seriously. It's almost as if you took a negative stance simply to cause a stir. I'm not quick to judge it's just that I really disagree with many of the points you are trying to make.

Also, Frank Quietly, I have liked his art in the past. I thought his all star Superman stuff was top notch. . . . Quitelys art is terrible. I dont know if it's him or the inker, but it looks unfinished and sketchy. There isn't one steady line in the entire book, it's as if they got a 91 year old man with Palsy to ink it. Ugh. Horrible. And seriously, while we're at it, Frank, Does everyone need to be wearing wrinkly, baggy costumes and clothes? Nothing fits anyone. They all look like superhero parodies.

Apart from being darker I simply don't see how Quitely's effort here is so different from what he did on All-Star Superman. How can one be "top notch" and the other "Ugh. Horrible" when they are that similar . . .

As for Morrison, it feels like in the last few years he's forgotten how to tell a good story. Instead he floods us with his wild ideas and crazy characters. . . . I know you Morrison fan boys are foaming at the mouth to crucify me for saying that, but it's true!

This was one of the most straight forward stories I have read from Morrison in a long time. And I can't shake this sense that you're just begging for the attention from Morrison fanboys, when you say things like that.

Every new villain he brings to the table is a joke. This new issue follows that formula closely.
PYG. He's a guy with a pig mask. BUT WATCH OUT! HE IS EVIL!!!!

Oh, oh let me try one:
He's a guy with clown make-up. BUT WATCH OUT! HE IS EVIL!!!!
Gee, that Joker cat sure is one lame villain.

I'm excited about Dick and Damien becoming Batman and Robin . . . I would have loved to see more of this . . . I'll get my Batman fix from a writer that actually "Gets" the Bat-Family and doesnt try to change it into something else entirely.

Now you're just spewing nonsense again.

You haven't explained at all what Morrison doesn't "get". You've actually said you enjoyed the interaction between Batman & Robin.
At this point Morrison hasn't changed Batman into "something else entirely".
How is PYG any more "weird" than anyone else in Batman's Rogue gallery?

Judd Winick . . . Whatever it is, it will be a Batman story, and not something so weird that people have no clue whatsoever is going on, or why the hell its going on in Batman.

Typically I abhor Morrison fans b/c they think ppl who don't like the comic are dense . . . but honestly if you don't know what's going on so far or why Batman is involved I don't know what to suggest . . .

Clearly, you can follow what has happened at this point in the story . . .
Are you asking for more background into Pyg's origin and why we should care?

As to your second question . . . other than the fact that it went down in Gotham I don't know what you're looking for?
You want Morrison to only deal with baddies that you are familiar with? Is it ok if somebody else starts creating crime in his city . . . or is it just a problem because Grant Morrison wrote it and he's a popular writer, although not one of your favorites . . .

Don't support this crap.

I don't know if Comixology is just a public forum where anybody can post their rants . . . but if it's a web-site where they let people write shoddy reviews just to create a buzz, then that's one site I will not be checking out or supporting.

[Will.S]

Yyyyeah I'm going to have to agree with Kylun123 on this one.

[Kiryu]

PYG. He's a guy with a pig mask. BUT WATCH OUT! HE IS EVIL!!!!
.

The Joker, guy with a clown face. Watch out. For he is evil.
Two-Face, guy with two-faces. Watch out. Evil.
Man-Bat, he is a man who is also a bat. Watch out, totally evil.
Hush, check those bandages, EVIL.

See how easy it is when you don't have a point?

[Karl O'Neill]

Agent wax lost me:mad:

[Jorriss]

I don't get the complaint about the loose fitting costumes, that being said, I don't particularly, actually to be more fair, I hate the faces drawn but otherwise I love the art.

The Joker, guy with a clown face. Watch out. For he is evil.
Two-Face, guy with two-faces. Watch out. Evil.
Man-Bat, he is a man who is also a bat. Watch out, totally evil.
Hush, check those bandages, EVIL.

See how easy it is when you don't have a point?
In his defense, I think he was just claiming Pyg wasn't very creative and was just stating it in a satirical way.

[Karl O'Neill]

Alot of work went into creating prof Pyg. Read the interview on newsarama. I think Morrison amongst many things is one of the best creators of villains next to geoff johns.

Also, Here is what artist cameron stewert said on millarworld about FQ's art. I found this on comicbloc so credit to jake for finding it and posting it.

About Faces

Sure, and Jack Kirby drew weird knees. There's a lot more going on in Quitely's work than the surface rendering. "His people are ugly" is the most frequent negative complaint I see about his work and it's also - forgive me - the most shallow. Quitely's work is utterly fascinating to me because he has an almost unparalleled ability to create a sense of life in his drawings - from his meticulous design and creation of environments that always evoke the sense that there is a thriving, living world that continues beyond the panel borders, through to the subtle gesture and expressive body language of his characters that make them feel sincere and human rather than posed mannequins. I marvel at his dramatic compositions, at his economy of storytelling and mastery of pacing and continuity, and at his ability to use the comics form in clever, inventive ways that haven't been seen or attempted since Eisner (We3 had some startlingly inventive and revolutionary page structures and should have been a wake-up call to comic artists, and sadly it remains unchallenged). And he manages to do all this with a drawing style that is uniquely, idiosyncratically his own.

I'll take that over "pretty" faces any day.

Cameron Stewart

http://forums.millarworld.tv/index.p...post&p=2004414

[Kiryu]

I don't get the complaint about the loose fitting costumes, that being said, I don't particularly, actually to be more fair, I hate the faces drawn but otherwise I love the art.


In his defense, I think he was just claiming Pyg wasn't very creative and was just stating it in a satirical way.

Right, but in all that "satire" there wasn't anything about the character to mock other then his name and his mask. Not the fact that he is destroying people's identities and making slaves of their bodies, now horrifically deformed hidden under a disgusting clown mask.

That satire was "His name is Pyg and he wears a Pig mask, THAT'S STUPID". And it's the poorly articulated irrational Morrison hate that was discussed earlier in the thread.

[Jorriss]

Right, but in all that "satire" there wasn't anything about the character to mock other then his name and his mask. Not the fact that he is destroying people's identities and making slaves of their bodies, now horrifically deformed hidden under a disgusting clown mask.

That satire was "His name is Pyg and he wears a Pig mask, THAT'S STUPID". And it's the poorly articulated irrational Morrison hate that was discussed earlier in the thread.
Yeah, he didn't go about the critique well. I like Pyg personally, he seems to combine several characters together.

[CocktailXYZ]

There isn't enough of Pyg in that single issue for me to decide whether he's a "worthy" villain or not. That said, there is plenty of space left to explore, and every character has potential.

I guess what I mean to say is I'm on the fence. I don't think he's this amazingly creepy and original creation like some fans are saying, but I don't think he's exactly "stupid" like some of the critics. My opinion is pending.