Denny O’Neil, a renowned figure in the field, once quoted Rudyard Kipling saying, “there are ninety-six different ways to create a Batman story, and every single one of them can be right.” Over time, we’ve seen many interpretations of the Dark Knight, from Adam West’s humorous take on Batman, to Frank Miller’s grim portrayal. Regrettably, it seems Matt Fraction may have joined that limited group who have not done justice to the character.
A fresh morning breaks as Batman #1 commences, signaling that Police Commissioner Vandal Savage has launched a hostile campaign against the city’s masked protectors. Formerly a high-ranking officer, Jim Gordon finds himself patrolling the streets once more in his classic blue uniform. Meanwhile, the dangerous Killer Croc, deteriorating further due to his condition, is causing chaos within Gotham City.
In this instance, it’s worth noting that Batman is solely focused – the one point that matters to him. His attention is directed towards capturing Croc before anyone else gets hurt. Even though Croc’s doctor believes he poses more of a threat to himself rather than others at present, this doesn’t deter Batman from his mission.
Matt Fraction misses the point of Batman’s character
Over time, there’s been much discussion about whether Batman is just as insane as his adversaries due to his unique lifestyle and extraordinary gadgets. Matt Fraction seems to be setting up an exploration of this idea, portraying a Batman who talks to the departed Alfred Pennyworth in his mind. Disregarding the fact that this analysis has been extensively explored before, Fraction’s interpretation of the Dark Knight feels devoid of the compassion that embodies the character.
In the comic Kingdom Come, as Mark Waid pointed out, Batman is fundamentally a person who abhors seeing others die. However, Fraction’s portrayal of Batman leans more towards darkness rather than knightliness. This isn’t the kind of Batman you would envision comforting a young girl as she faces death. Instead, this Batman disregards advice from professionals and opts for harshness rather than compassion when dealing with characters like Killer Croc. To me, this depiction falls short of what I understand Batman to be.
The stunning artwork in this issue serves as its most redeeming feature. For quite some time, Jorge Jimenez has been responsible for depicting Batman, and his familiarity with these characters shines through. The action sequences are well-executed across the board. However, even the captivating art cannot mask the fact that the story itself is rather unappealing.
Some might prefer the classic portrayal of Batman as a gritty and solitary figure. For those individuals, this latest series could hold appeal. Personally, I don’t mind if others gravitate towards that style.
Grade: 4/10
Batman #1 arrives in comic shops everywhere on September 6, 2025.
Read More
- Фунт обгонит евро? Эксперты раскрыли неожиданный сценарий
- Сургутнефтегаз префы прогноз. Цена префов SNGSP
- Why Fantastic Four’s Box Office Projections Are Steadier Than Superman’s
- BUC-EE’S: Driving a Resurgence in the Family Road Trip
- The Sandman Season 2 Teases Why Delirium Stopped Being Delight
- Black Clover Chapter 382 Spoilers, Recap & Major Manga Reveals
- What Are the Peacemaker Season 2 Runtimes? Episode Lengths Explained
- Bowen Yang Reflects On Being Named ‘Most Likely To Be On SNL’ In School
- Евро обгонит южноафриканский рэнд? Эксперты раскрыли неожиданный сценарий
- Positive Technologies акции прогноз. Цена акций POSI
2025-08-30 00:16