Batman is a title usually reserved for Batman alone. Alfred is usually included, and Robin makes occassional appearances, but for the most part this title seems to focus on Batman's solo rounds. It is considered part of the Batman continuity, meaning that whatever happens here is really "true" in the Batman world.

After Prodigal, Batman decided to return to his roots. He has become a darker, more intimidating vigilante, and modified his costume to reflect that change. Gone are the grey and blues, and now he wears a suit of total black (or dark grey, depending on the colorist). The yellow bat-emblem is still on his chest. Because of this, Kelly Jones, the current Batman penciller, is drawing Batman to look much darker and more sinister. Jones' Batman has very long ears (from several inches to several feet) and an immensely-long cape. I have decided that this new appearance of Batman is very appropriate, as Jones really does a mean Batman. Unfortunately, Jones can't draw a face that doesn't look frumpy, and I find that that can really take away from a scene. Jones has been improving in this area, though. Overall, his images of Batman in the shadows almost always scare the bejeebers out of me.

An interesting twist in the most recent issues has been Bruce's romantic interest: Vesper, a radio talk-show host. It really is holding my attention, waiting to find out what's going to happen with the two of them. This semi-relationship has been hard on Bruce, though; she works at night, just like him, but he has to try to spare some time during his busy days (between his companies and his sleep) to be with her.

Lately, this title has dealt with the supernatural. Recent appearances include Deadman, Etrigan, and The Spectre. This title is an excellent choice if you like spookier stories with somewhat exagerated artwork. Recently, this title has not been overly appropriate for younger readers. The stories, however, are top-notch, and Doug Moench really writes an in-depth story.

This file was last modified on August 29, 1998

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