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Batman and Robin (2009) (Collected Editions)
Batman & Robin, Vol. 2: Batman vs. Robin
The new Dynamic Duo uncover clues involving the mysterious death of Bruce Wayne before facing off against each other in a heated battle that both heroes will regret—if they live through it!
Pulling stories from issues #7-12 of this hit series, this volume includes the story "Blackest Knight," which ties into THE BLACKEST NIGHT, as well as stories that lead directly into BATMAN: THE RETURN OF BRUCE WAYNE!
165 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 9, 2010
171 people are currently reading
3816 people want to read
About the author
Grant Morrison
1,791 books4,564 followersGrant Morrison has been working with DC Comics for twenty five years, after beginning their American comics career with acclaimed runs on ANIMAL MAN and DOOM PATROL. Since then they have written such best-selling series as JLA, BATMAN and New X-Men, as well as such creator-owned works as THE INVISIBLES, SEAGUY, THE FILTH, WE3 and JOE THE BARBARIAN. In addition to expanding the DC Universe through titles ranging from the Eisner Award-winning SEVEN SOLDIERS and ALL-STAR SUPERMAN to the reality-shattering epic of FINAL CRISIS, they have also reinvented the worlds of the Dark Knight Detective in BATMAN AND ROBIN and BATMAN, INCORPORATED and the Man of Steel in The New 52 ACTION COMICS.
In their secret identity, Morrison is a "counterculture" spokesperson, a musician, an award-winning playwright and a chaos magician. They are also the author of the New York Times bestseller Supergods, a groundbreaking psycho-historic mapping of the superhero as a cultural organism. They divide their time between their homes in Los Angeles and Scotland.
In their secret identity, Morrison is a "counterculture" spokesperson, a musician, an award-winning playwright and a chaos magician. They are also the author of the New York Times bestseller Supergods, a groundbreaking psycho-historic mapping of the superhero as a cultural organism. They divide their time between their homes in Los Angeles and Scotland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 311 reviews
August 30, 2020
(B+) 79% | Good
Notes: Wherein Batman and Robin succumb to sentiment: bringing to fore doubt, qualms, angst and character development.
Notes: Wherein Batman and Robin succumb to sentiment: bringing to fore doubt, qualms, angst and character development.
August 5, 2012
Batman takes Bruce Wayne's corpse to a Lazarus pit. Damian returns and he and Batman investigate clues to Bruce Wayne's whereabouts. But who is Oberon Sexton and why is Damian acting so strangely?
Dick Grayson's run as Batman continues. He and Damian seem less like chumps in this one but Bruce Wayne, even "dead," still has them playing second fiddle.
The stories are pretty good. The Domino Killer case continues, Talia Al Ghul gets some screen time, and an old enemy of Dick's has a fairly prominent role. Still, it feels like it's mostly setting the stage for Bruce Wayne's inevitable return more than anything else.
It still has its moments, though, like the revelation of Oberon Sexton's identity and Damian's body getting usurped. It could have used a consistent artist, though. I'm not a huge fan of Frank Quitly but his art gave the first one a unified feel. This one feels really disjointed by comparison.
Three stars but definitely on the low end of the threes.
Dick Grayson's run as Batman continues. He and Damian seem less like chumps in this one but Bruce Wayne, even "dead," still has them playing second fiddle.
The stories are pretty good. The Domino Killer case continues, Talia Al Ghul gets some screen time, and an old enemy of Dick's has a fairly prominent role. Still, it feels like it's mostly setting the stage for Bruce Wayne's inevitable return more than anything else.
It still has its moments, though, like the revelation of Oberon Sexton's identity and Damian's body getting usurped. It could have used a consistent artist, though. I'm not a huge fan of Frank Quitly but his art gave the first one a unified feel. This one feels really disjointed by comparison.
Three stars but definitely on the low end of the threes.
July 1, 2011
3.5 stars
This wasn't bad at all, but you really need to read a few things (and not just Batman and Robin Vol. 1: Batman Reborn) to understand what is going on in the story. I'm really looking forward to getting my hands on Batman & Robin Vol. 3: Batman Must Die! There are quite a few unanswered questions that I'm hoping will be addressed in the next volume. I'm crossing my fingers, but this is Morrison, so there is a distinct possibility that he will go off of his medication again...
The biggest surprise was how much Damien grew on me in this volume. I actually like him now. Whodathunkit?
P.S. This is what I wish someone would do for me on occasion!
If you're interested in reading about the new Batman and Robin (and have been out of the loop for a while) here is what (I think) you need to get your hands on first. This is in no particular order, by the way.
Batman: Battle for the Cowl
Batman: R.I.P.
Batman: Time and the Batman (this one is pretty necessary)
Batman: The Black Glove
(Ugh. I hate to do this)Final Crisis
Also, a small working knowledge of what was going on with Blackest Night wouldn't hurt, but it's not strictly necessary. I had already read Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne, so some of this stuff probably made more sense to me, but again, not necessary, since what's happening in this book is before Bruce's return.
If it's been a looooong time since you've cracked open anything about the Dark Knight, you might want to check out Batman: Batman and Son, as well.
And if you're interested in the red-headed Bat-Chick in the Lazarus pit? Batwoman: Elegy is a great place to start.
This wasn't bad at all, but you really need to read a few things (and not just Batman and Robin Vol. 1: Batman Reborn) to understand what is going on in the story. I'm really looking forward to getting my hands on Batman & Robin Vol. 3: Batman Must Die! There are quite a few unanswered questions that I'm hoping will be addressed in the next volume. I'm crossing my fingers, but this is Morrison, so there is a distinct possibility that he will go off of his medication again...
The biggest surprise was how much Damien grew on me in this volume. I actually like him now. Whodathunkit?
P.S. This is what I wish someone would do for me on occasion!
If you're interested in reading about the new Batman and Robin (and have been out of the loop for a while) here is what (I think) you need to get your hands on first. This is in no particular order, by the way.
Batman: Battle for the Cowl
Batman: R.I.P.
Batman: Time and the Batman (this one is pretty necessary)
Batman: The Black Glove
(Ugh. I hate to do this)Final Crisis
Also, a small working knowledge of what was going on with Blackest Night wouldn't hurt, but it's not strictly necessary. I had already read Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne, so some of this stuff probably made more sense to me, but again, not necessary, since what's happening in this book is before Bruce's return.
If it's been a looooong time since you've cracked open anything about the Dark Knight, you might want to check out Batman: Batman and Son, as well.
And if you're interested in the red-headed Bat-Chick in the Lazarus pit? Batwoman: Elegy is a great place to start.
August 26, 2023
This may sound obvious, but I have been looking for the link between Batman: R.I.P. and Batman Incorporated: The Deluxe Edition and I found it with this book. It has been years since I read Batman & Robin, Vol. 1: Batman Reborn and only if I have read further in the series, the author was going to tie up everything. Somehow, I dropped off with reading graphic novels with the lack of a decent specialty bookstore.
Batman being a decent detective is my favorite kind of Batman, and it is the best one. The author knows this, and they made sure to make it a believable detective. Dick Grayson has learned from the best and this shows in Morrison's storytelling.
There aren't enough Dick Grayson Batman with Damian Wayne Robin stories since this experiment was an abbreviated. But in my opinion, they are the best modern Batman and Robin team, and this hasn't been seen in recent stories since.
Batman being a decent detective is my favorite kind of Batman, and it is the best one. The author knows this, and they made sure to make it a believable detective. Dick Grayson has learned from the best and this shows in Morrison's storytelling.
There aren't enough Dick Grayson Batman with Damian Wayne Robin stories since this experiment was an abbreviated. But in my opinion, they are the best modern Batman and Robin team, and this hasn't been seen in recent stories since.
September 22, 2014
*blinks*………………………………………*blinks again*
If I was a forensic comic psychiatrist, I’d say this was as good a place as any to point to the genesis of Grant Morrison’s future break with reality.
I’m too lazy to type up real paragraphs, so I’m going to bullet this sucker. Go!
-The first couple of issues take place in England so an English translation would be in order and nothing like a Lazarus Pit storyline to breed ennui and reader contempt. Right, Guv’nor?
-Keep your damned Batclones to yourself, Morrison.
-Advice to Damien: don’t use wire clothes hangers.
-Way to place the IV stand upside a bed ridden Slade Wilson’s head, Grayson.
-Oberon Sexton turns out to be !!!
Get Well Soon, Mr. Morrison!
Your Pal,
Jeff
If I was a forensic comic psychiatrist, I’d say this was as good a place as any to point to the genesis of Grant Morrison’s future break with reality.
I’m too lazy to type up real paragraphs, so I’m going to bullet this sucker. Go!
-The first couple of issues take place in England so an English translation would be in order and nothing like a Lazarus Pit storyline to breed ennui and reader contempt. Right, Guv’nor?
-Keep your damned Batclones to yourself, Morrison.
-Advice to Damien: don’t use wire clothes hangers.
-Way to place the IV stand upside a bed ridden Slade Wilson’s head, Grayson.
-Oberon Sexton turns out to be !!!
Get Well Soon, Mr. Morrison!
Your Pal,
Jeff
September 19, 2011
Dick Grayson heads to England with what he thinks is the corpse of Batman in a desperate attempt to locate a newly found lazarus pit and reanimate Bruce Wayne. Damian Al Ghul has been taken by his mother Talia to have a new spine fitted after his battles in the last book - but is the spine all its cracked up to be? What's underneath Wayne Manor that's attracting the attentions of a devil-worshipping cult? And who's been killing off the members of The Black Glove? The way they're being killed almost feels like... a joke.
Grant Morrison picks up the story of Batman and Robin Vol 1 with a blistering pace. From the opening scene in London which almost feels like a James Bond opening, to the final reveal of a masked character, this is possibly his best Batman book yet.
If you've been following the side story of Bruce Wayne's journey through time in Morrison's "The Return of Bruce Wayne", you'll get the references in the book and it's a really good companion piece to read alongside this one. But even if you're not familiar with that book, this is a great standalone volume.
Cameron Stewart and Andy Clarke's artwork are brilliant throughout, proving themselves to be equal to the incredibly talented Frank Quitely who supplies the covers included here also.
It's really just a fun, well written, interesting Batman book, one of Grant Morrison's best. From the first page to the last I was reading it so fast I had to go back and look at some of the individual scenes to appreciate them more. Devil worshippers, wonderfully daffy English superheroes, and a confrontation between Grayson and Damian - what's not to like?
Grant Morrison picks up the story of Batman and Robin Vol 1 with a blistering pace. From the opening scene in London which almost feels like a James Bond opening, to the final reveal of a masked character, this is possibly his best Batman book yet.
If you've been following the side story of Bruce Wayne's journey through time in Morrison's "The Return of Bruce Wayne", you'll get the references in the book and it's a really good companion piece to read alongside this one. But even if you're not familiar with that book, this is a great standalone volume.
Cameron Stewart and Andy Clarke's artwork are brilliant throughout, proving themselves to be equal to the incredibly talented Frank Quitely who supplies the covers included here also.
It's really just a fun, well written, interesting Batman book, one of Grant Morrison's best. From the first page to the last I was reading it so fast I had to go back and look at some of the individual scenes to appreciate them more. Devil worshippers, wonderfully daffy English superheroes, and a confrontation between Grayson and Damian - what's not to like?
July 31, 2022
This was another good one omg!
We basically get to see Dick teaming up with Knight and Squire to revive the body of Bruce using the lazarus pits and its kinda fun and scary but its not his body but the strange Batmen he was fighting in an earlier issue of Batman and well along comes Batwoman and they all have to team up to stop this foe and when he targets Damian and Alfred it gets big and its an epic story and trying to move on but also hinting at the return of Bruce.
I also like how in the second story we get to see the story of Dick and Damian and Alfred trying to solve the case of Bruce and his clues he left throughout time and well how does the wayne legacy and this Barbatos tie into it is an awesome story and I love it, the slow clues and reveals and what Talia did to Damian and well indirectly getting a Slade vs Dick fight and its awesome and then the confrontations and the fallout with Talia and its messed up but leads to a big arc in Batman inc in the future here!
Morrison does a great job with these characters and evolving them while harkening back to his old runs and trying to tie in to the big events at the time like Blackest Night, Final crisis and more and also hinting at some great stuff with Bruce and showing the close bond that Dick and Damian have developed and I love it, easily one of the best partnership in comics! Also the art was fabulous here again! Definitely recommending it!
We basically get to see Dick teaming up with Knight and Squire to revive the body of Bruce using the lazarus pits and its kinda fun and scary but its not his body but the strange Batmen he was fighting in an earlier issue of Batman and well along comes Batwoman and they all have to team up to stop this foe and when he targets Damian and Alfred it gets big and its an epic story and trying to move on but also hinting at the return of Bruce.
I also like how in the second story we get to see the story of Dick and Damian and Alfred trying to solve the case of Bruce and his clues he left throughout time and well how does the wayne legacy and this Barbatos tie into it is an awesome story and I love it, the slow clues and reveals and what Talia did to Damian and well indirectly getting a Slade vs Dick fight and its awesome and then the confrontations and the fallout with Talia and its messed up but leads to a big arc in Batman inc in the future here!
Morrison does a great job with these characters and evolving them while harkening back to his old runs and trying to tie in to the big events at the time like Blackest Night, Final crisis and more and also hinting at some great stuff with Bruce and showing the close bond that Dick and Damian have developed and I love it, easily one of the best partnership in comics! Also the art was fabulous here again! Definitely recommending it!
November 27, 2014
Amusingly disjointed, irresponsibly fun and outrageous, and atrociously silly--these are the foremost adjectives I would describe Grant Morrison's story arcs entitled Blackest Knight and Batman vs. Robin which this second volume was composed of. I was a massive fan of the first volume Batman Reborn because those six issues are probably the most insanely crafted storylines I have ever read in a Batman series, and yet they were also able to impart something resonant when it comes to characterizations and thematic conflicts. I originally intended to only read the first volume this year but since I have a week to spare before I get started on my December list, I decided to just jump right into the next six issues and I was glad I did because it was the most fun I had, particularly when everything about the stories just clicks with me easily.
There wasn't anything of notable depth for this volume. In fact, most of the plot ideas are plain silly but it's the kind of silly that entertains. Morrison was not pretentious in delivering these action-packed tales which I quite appreciated because it kept everything light-hearted and exciting for me to follow. I don't even notice that it's not Bruce Wayne underneath that cowl but Dick Grayson. This is set after the events of Final Crisis where Bruce Wayne was presumed dead. It's in this volume when it was revealed that he is very much alive and was merely transported by Darkseid to some alternate dimension, and it's up to Dick, Damian and Alfred to find and retrieve him, but not without complications and the other more important missions to face as the Dynamic Duo.
The inarguable bonus for me in picking up this series was the fact that I'm able to enjoy Damian Wayne as Robin again after the months of heartache I experienced when he was tragically killed by Morrison himself (something I'm slowly forgiving him for these days) in Batman Incorporated. Due to his year-long absence and death in the New 52 continuity, I tried my best to avoid any material that included him for a while. Choosing to read him again in the comic book pages is honestly an act of courage, and a step towards accepting him back in my life as a beloved favorite character. I know this all sounds laughable to you, but I love Damian Wayne in a way I never thought was possible (because it was unexpected!) so losing him was like losing my own family. That's not an exaggerated sentiment. That's how it felt like when I watched him die. I had to grieve him alongside Batman and the rest of his friends as I read and reviewed Tomasi issues as dutifully as I could six months ago. That wasn't an easy task to do. It was a very masochistic endeavor. I even cried a lot.
Now I was absolutely torn about him coming back in Tomasi's run but reading him here in Morrison's own version has made me realize how much I've missed him after all, and that I do look forward to reading him again in New 52. This volume's last issue (#12) provided a very insightful and brutally honest look at Damian's relationship wit his mother Talia al Ghul. I've talked about it in this review, so I won't repeat myself. You can just read it by clicking the link. Overall, if you are a Damian Wayne fan yourself, then I recommend Morrison's Batman and Robin. It's fun, comedic and surprisingly sweet in some ways. This one was illustrated by two artists, Cameron Stewart and Andy Clarke for the respective two story arcs. There is a lot of dynamic and tantalizing panels and action sequences in their artwork which I guarantee will keep you engrossed as you turn the pages.
I am ready for more Batman and Robin stories both from the old and new continuity!
RECOMMENDED: 8/10
DO READ MY BATMAN COMICS REVIEWS AT:
There wasn't anything of notable depth for this volume. In fact, most of the plot ideas are plain silly but it's the kind of silly that entertains. Morrison was not pretentious in delivering these action-packed tales which I quite appreciated because it kept everything light-hearted and exciting for me to follow. I don't even notice that it's not Bruce Wayne underneath that cowl but Dick Grayson. This is set after the events of Final Crisis where Bruce Wayne was presumed dead. It's in this volume when it was revealed that he is very much alive and was merely transported by Darkseid to some alternate dimension, and it's up to Dick, Damian and Alfred to find and retrieve him, but not without complications and the other more important missions to face as the Dynamic Duo.
The inarguable bonus for me in picking up this series was the fact that I'm able to enjoy Damian Wayne as Robin again after the months of heartache I experienced when he was tragically killed by Morrison himself (something I'm slowly forgiving him for these days) in Batman Incorporated. Due to his year-long absence and death in the New 52 continuity, I tried my best to avoid any material that included him for a while. Choosing to read him again in the comic book pages is honestly an act of courage, and a step towards accepting him back in my life as a beloved favorite character. I know this all sounds laughable to you, but I love Damian Wayne in a way I never thought was possible (because it was unexpected!) so losing him was like losing my own family. That's not an exaggerated sentiment. That's how it felt like when I watched him die. I had to grieve him alongside Batman and the rest of his friends as I read and reviewed Tomasi issues as dutifully as I could six months ago. That wasn't an easy task to do. It was a very masochistic endeavor. I even cried a lot.
Now I was absolutely torn about him coming back in Tomasi's run but reading him here in Morrison's own version has made me realize how much I've missed him after all, and that I do look forward to reading him again in New 52. This volume's last issue (#12) provided a very insightful and brutally honest look at Damian's relationship wit his mother Talia al Ghul. I've talked about it in this review, so I won't repeat myself. You can just read it by clicking the link. Overall, if you are a Damian Wayne fan yourself, then I recommend Morrison's Batman and Robin. It's fun, comedic and surprisingly sweet in some ways. This one was illustrated by two artists, Cameron Stewart and Andy Clarke for the respective two story arcs. There is a lot of dynamic and tantalizing panels and action sequences in their artwork which I guarantee will keep you engrossed as you turn the pages.
I am ready for more Batman and Robin stories both from the old and new continuity!
RECOMMENDED: 8/10
DO READ MY BATMAN COMICS REVIEWS AT:
January 2, 2021
I am happy to see this series continues to have beautiful artwork and awesome stories!
Batwoman's guest appearance is also welcoming! Later she is like, Glad that she turned out alright.
Grant Morrison doesn't disappoint!
Batwoman's guest appearance is also welcoming! Later she is like, Glad that she turned out alright.
Grant Morrison doesn't disappoint!
February 11, 2011
When Robin got to meet his mom THEN this series REALLY kicked in. I love this author. Some stuff was meh in the middle, but conclusion EARNED. Even didn't hate Robin at the end. And Nightwing is yummy.
December 15, 2019
3.5 I love this series. Dick as Batman paired with Damian is always fun.
September 22, 2014
New Batman Dick Grayson decides to haul Bruce Wayne’s corpse to a Lazarus Pit in England to try and bring his mentor back from the dead. Hilarity ensues resulting in a zombie version of Batman. They also figure out that Bruce Wayne must be alive. (Shocking!) And he’s been trapped in the past leaving clues in the history of the Wayne family and the design of Wayne manor. *yawn* Time travel and Batman stories really shouldn’t mix.
I’ve already done my bitching in my review of the first volume about how I’d be far more invested in this storyline if Bruce Wayne was really worm chow, and Dick Grayson was permanently Batman. I’m more interested in the story between Dick and Alfred dealing with Bruce’s bastard son Damian as the new Robin rather than the notion that Bruce Wayne was running around the past in a pilgrim hat being his own grandfather or whatever other horseshit scenario that Morrison cooked up to explain how he supposedly survived.
There’s a good comic story lurking in here, but since the clock has now started on Bruce Wayne’s rescue and return, I’m even less interested now.
I’ve already done my bitching in my review of the first volume about how I’d be far more invested in this storyline if Bruce Wayne was really worm chow, and Dick Grayson was permanently Batman. I’m more interested in the story between Dick and Alfred dealing with Bruce’s bastard son Damian as the new Robin rather than the notion that Bruce Wayne was running around the past in a pilgrim hat being his own grandfather or whatever other horseshit scenario that Morrison cooked up to explain how he supposedly survived.
There’s a good comic story lurking in here, but since the clock has now started on Bruce Wayne’s rescue and return, I’m even less interested now.
February 1, 2024
New review - Good stuff, but like I said before, Volume 1 is stronger. I enjoyed both stories, and Damien and Dick is the highlight of this run. But this volume feels a bit more rushed, and not getting the time with the Duo I think we deserved.
Original Review: While not as good as Volume 1 (Which I really enjoyed) this one still was well done. I liked part 2 more than the first arc in here. The first arc deals with Dick trying to bring back Batman...Bruce Batman...well you know that shit don't work right. Hence Batman coming back as ZOMBIE Batman! Not really but Damien and Dick must figure a way to take him down.
The second part is far more interesting and we dive deeper into learning if Batman is truly dead. When we get to the last shot it made my score jump up. It was a surprise, despite it being kind of obvious, but it caught me off guard. I'm eager to wrap it up in the final part!
Original Review: While not as good as Volume 1 (Which I really enjoyed) this one still was well done. I liked part 2 more than the first arc in here. The first arc deals with Dick trying to bring back Batman...Bruce Batman...well you know that shit don't work right. Hence Batman coming back as ZOMBIE Batman! Not really but Damien and Dick must figure a way to take him down.
The second part is far more interesting and we dive deeper into learning if Batman is truly dead. When we get to the last shot it made my score jump up. It was a surprise, despite it being kind of obvious, but it caught me off guard. I'm eager to wrap it up in the final part!
June 11, 2016
Damian Wayne, the new Robin, is recovering from life threatening injuries he sustained fighting Flamingo at the end of Volume 1, and is under the supervision of his mother Talia al Ghul. And Dick Grayson, the new Batman, is in England with Squire. There's gang rivalry between the Pearly Court and King Coal (who?), and you're wondering why until... And then it all makes sense.
This is a busy book in the sense that an incredible amount of incredible things are happening. Morrison ratchets up the mystery. I was counting clues on my fingers as I was reading, and the more clues I found the more my eyes lit up.
Although Frank Quitely sadly draws only the covers, Cameron Stewart does a great job at maintaining consistency with the vintage style and fluid action.
Reaching back to Final Crisis, we get some answers about Bruce before dipping into Chapter 1 of Time and the Batman (its own book), which begins to explain some time travel and should be read between issues 3 and 4 of this volume. So what we learn is pretty exciting! Because the "is this really Bruce?" mystery is solved for me on my second read, when I was naturally very confused on my first read.
Then there's the Domino Killer connected to The Black Glove, Oberon Sexton, the charity fund for victims of railroad accidents, Bruce's family history which leads Dick, Damian and Alfred on a wild goose chase throughout Wayne Manor searching for clues about Bruce, culminating in something unexpected happening to Damian, Dick literally falling into a giant clue, and then the volume ends with this:
"Thomas Wayne, Barbatos, devil worship and the underground railroad. Everything's connected and it's all coming to a head. It's one big pattern." -Dick
This quote alone is like Morrison speaking to the reader, telling us to pay attention to every small detail. And as I'm now reading The Return of Bruce Wayne, which really ties things together, he's totally right. So if you're interested in this series, it's required to read these books in order, starting with Batman and Son, The Resurrection of Ra's al Ghul, The Black Glove, Batman R.I.P., and important to the mystery of Batman's "death," Final Crisis. In that order. Wow! What a crazy read!
January 16, 2024
Loved it! This is a super fun series! Dick Grayson and Damien Wayne make a great duo! I’ll definitely be continuing this series! Five stars!
June 4, 2019
Update 06/04/2019: I enjoyed this a tiny bit more this time around but I knew what to skip.
I didn't really enjoy this volume, to be honest.
While I was so happy they took Quitely off the art, the writing just didn't interest me. I didn't care to see Dick working with Squire and Knight. I didn't like the use of Batwoman in this comic. I also hate that it seemed as though Morrison played fast and loose with the Lazarus pit. Assuming this was Kate Kane (and I think it was) I don't think she would so easily risk being tossed into the pit, as well. I wished for a lot more interaction between Dick and Damian because that's why I keep reading this series.
That being said, there were some things I liked. I liked seeing Alfred as more of a guiding force for his surrogate grandchildren. I liked seeing Dick be so protective over his little brother. I liked seeing the softer side of Damian as he expressed concern for what would happen if Bruce came back. He really likes being Robin, he's learning a lot and rejecting the Al Ghul's training. It was nice to see him sort of let Dick in on his concerns and basically tell his mother to shove it. The part where she says he's now an enemy to the Al Ghul's and Damian says "I hope to be a worthy one". That was fantastic!
So, overall: there just wasn't enough of what I like about this series in this volume so I can't really recommend it.
2.5 stars.
I didn't really enjoy this volume, to be honest.
While I was so happy they took Quitely off the art, the writing just didn't interest me. I didn't care to see Dick working with Squire and Knight. I didn't like the use of Batwoman in this comic. I also hate that it seemed as though Morrison played fast and loose with the Lazarus pit. Assuming this was Kate Kane (and I think it was) I don't think she would so easily risk being tossed into the pit, as well. I wished for a lot more interaction between Dick and Damian because that's why I keep reading this series.
That being said, there were some things I liked. I liked seeing Alfred as more of a guiding force for his surrogate grandchildren. I liked seeing Dick be so protective over his little brother. I liked seeing the softer side of Damian as he expressed concern for what would happen if Bruce came back. He really likes being Robin, he's learning a lot and rejecting the Al Ghul's training. It was nice to see him sort of let Dick in on his concerns and basically tell his mother to shove it. The part where she says he's now an enemy to the Al Ghul's and Damian says "I hope to be a worthy one". That was fantastic!
So, overall: there just wasn't enough of what I like about this series in this volume so I can't really recommend it.
2.5 stars.
December 21, 2010
After the frenzied bouillabaisse that is Final Crisis, this book feels like a slow-cooked pudding - deep, rich, slow to see important bits come to the surface. Is Morrison practicing suspense and two-plot storytelling all of a sudden? This is some great mystery writing and shows the character development that I've been dying to see. Awesome art, and well-written characters. What happened - did Morrison write this without benefit of hallucinogens? I like both versions of him, but this one was a nice break from the mind-f*** Morrison.
Just to put it on the record, I'm one if those that enjoyed the insane zombie Batman.
Just to put it on the record, I'm one if those that enjoyed the insane zombie Batman.
August 14, 2025
MY CHILD DAMIEN. MY DYNAMIC DUO. MY ALFRED-DICK-DAMIEN FAMILY. so flipping cute and the plot was a little more interesting (but not as much in the beginning). damien when he said, “if my father returns, we can’t be batman and robin anymore, can we?” damien when his mother asked him to stay by insulting dick and said, “you’re wrong. dick grayson is…” when he loves his mother the most in the world. DAMIEN AND DICK. MY CUTIES, MY FATHER AND SON, MY SIBLINGS DUO.
“being robin is the best thing i’ve ever done, mother. and even if my father does return, this is the life i’ve chosen to lead.” MY BABY.
“being robin is the best thing i’ve ever done, mother. and even if my father does return, this is the life i’ve chosen to lead.” MY BABY.
December 16, 2015
This volume picks up right after the previous one. It is the increase in intensity that is ultimately very satisfying. There are multiple plot lines at play here, and they're all converging, the pay-off coming in the next volume. But let's not get ahead of ourselves! In this book the new Batman attempts to revive the old one by using a Lazarus pit, with unexpected results. Robin gets a new spine, Dr. Hurt resurfaces, and we find out who Oberon Sexton really is. Guest stars Knight & Squire, and Batwoman all play important parts in the story, and as usual Grant Morrison comes up with the most insane concepts and wackiest villains. My favourite in this book: The band of ninja Mary Poppins chimney sweeps! Must be seen to be believed!
Cameron Stewart (who collaborated with Morrison on "Seaguy" and "Seven Soldiers") supplies the art for the first arc of the book, while Andy Clarke takes care of the second arc. Clarke's art reminds me of Frank Quitely's (and that's a good thing). My only issue with the art for the secong arc (but that's mostly due to the colouring, not the actual pencils) is that Talia Al-Ghul looks like Jezebel Jet. It's a bit distracting.
I absolutely cannot wait to read the next volume. Grant Morrison continues his landmark run on Batman. Get this book, you will not be disappointed! Highly recommended. 4 stars.
Cameron Stewart (who collaborated with Morrison on "Seaguy" and "Seven Soldiers") supplies the art for the first arc of the book, while Andy Clarke takes care of the second arc. Clarke's art reminds me of Frank Quitely's (and that's a good thing). My only issue with the art for the secong arc (but that's mostly due to the colouring, not the actual pencils) is that Talia Al-Ghul looks like Jezebel Jet. It's a bit distracting.
I absolutely cannot wait to read the next volume. Grant Morrison continues his landmark run on Batman. Get this book, you will not be disappointed! Highly recommended. 4 stars.
March 5, 2012
Batman vs. Robin picks up right where the previous volume of Batman and Robin had left off. The first half deals with Dick's attempt to raise Bruce from the dead in a Lazarus pit. It goes about as well as you might expect. This storyline I really liked. Dick would absolutely go that far to save Bruce, without question. I also liked Batwoman showing up and being very cool. And hey, the Knight and Squire show up again, and I have a deep and abiding love for them.
The second storyline gets a little... Well, there's something about Batman being in the past or something, and maybe Bat demons, and it was all just a little disjointed for me. Points for bringing the interesting Gravedigger into the discussion, and some good back and forth between Damian and Dick.
Each arc is done by a different artist. I greatly preferred Cameron Stewart's work on the first arc to Andy Clarke's on the second. Clarke still did a decent enough job. The covers remain improbably cool looking.
The second storyline gets a little... Well, there's something about Batman being in the past or something, and maybe Bat demons, and it was all just a little disjointed for me. Points for bringing the interesting Gravedigger into the discussion, and some good back and forth between Damian and Dick.
Each arc is done by a different artist. I greatly preferred Cameron Stewart's work on the first arc to Andy Clarke's on the second. Clarke still did a decent enough job. The covers remain improbably cool looking.
July 7, 2017
I felt so proud of myself for understanding this book the third(?) time around, and blew through it, and the next one, and got all the way up through The Return of Bruce Wayne before I realized, finally, that I missed a ton of stuff and had to reread half of this.
Le sigh. Morrison, you old minx.
Le sigh. Morrison, you old minx.
August 17, 2017
I loved Damian in this volume. His mother is trying to manipulate him again, and he is just done. He was very noble in his declaration to be Robin and do the right thing. He sadly appeared to be truly sad and empty on the inside because he wants his mother's love, but it just isn't in her to do so. At least, not in the traditional motherly way that Damian craves. It makes his story so sad. I know that a lot of people dislike Damian, but I adore him.
I've never read anything with the Knight and Squire, but they were certainly interesting. I thought that the fact that there was a Lazerus pit in London was awfully convenient, but otherwise it was entertaining.
I liked the appearace of Batwoman. I absolutely adore Batwoman, so anything with her in it is a pleasure to read. The choice that she made in this volume was touching and brave. God, I love her!
Oberon Sexton is so mysterious...let's see where this goes.
Overall, loved this! The story is interesting, the characters are dynamic, and the mysteries are numerous!
I've never read anything with the Knight and Squire, but they were certainly interesting. I thought that the fact that there was a Lazerus pit in London was awfully convenient, but otherwise it was entertaining.
I liked the appearace of Batwoman. I absolutely adore Batwoman, so anything with her in it is a pleasure to read. The choice that she made in this volume was touching and brave. God, I love her!
Oberon Sexton is so mysterious...let's see where this goes.
Overall, loved this! The story is interesting, the characters are dynamic, and the mysteries are numerous!
November 4, 2011
If you thought the first book in this series was bad, this one makes the movie of the same name look like something from Shakespeare.
October 4, 2024
3.5 stars
The first couple of issues take place in London. Dick, alongside Squire and Knight, are working to find a Lazarus Pit. In this adventure, Batwoman shows up cautioning Dick against using the Pit, yet a zombie Batman comes out of it. Damian has come back to Gotham after the al Ghul's clan has healed his wounds (end of volume one), but this crazy zombie Batman shows up to attack Wayne manor. The second part of this volume focuses on finding Bruce, finding where and when he is. Dick and Alfred start searching for the Wayne's family history, meanwhile Damian is being attacked by his mother who planted a device to control his mind and body. Deathstroke is involved in hacking Damian.The plan is to attack Dick and finally break away from the Batfamily so Damian can take his place as the heir of the al Ghul's clan.
I think my favorite parts where the scenes between Damian and Talia. There's a notable difference in Damian's actions and feelings from last volume and I liked seeing him grow up. Seeing him a little softer talking to Dick and then choosing to stay as Robin was the highlight of this volume. I also really liked seeing Batwoman in this title, it was a nice surprise. Though I don't know if I agree with how she was utilised here.
I have to be honest, I still feel a little lost reading this title. I don't know if it's because it's my natural response to Morrison's titles, if it's because the first arc was written as a sort of tie-in to another event, or if I'm just too underwhelmed by the plot. Sadly, I just don't think I care too much about finding Bruce. Also, half of the villains have been very disappointing. I don't care about the weird supernatural vibes of the Wayne ancestors and I don't like Dick losing himself in that part of the plot. However, there's a big reveal at the very end that can make the last volume super interesting. I did not see it coming at all. And though I don't know if I liked this reveal, at least it makes everything a little more interesting.
The first couple of issues take place in London. Dick, alongside Squire and Knight, are working to find a Lazarus Pit. In this adventure, Batwoman shows up cautioning Dick against using the Pit, yet a zombie Batman comes out of it. Damian has come back to Gotham after the al Ghul's clan has healed his wounds (end of volume one), but this crazy zombie Batman shows up to attack Wayne manor. The second part of this volume focuses on finding Bruce, finding where and when he is. Dick and Alfred start searching for the Wayne's family history, meanwhile Damian is being attacked by his mother who planted a device to control his mind and body. Deathstroke is involved in hacking Damian.The plan is to attack Dick and finally break away from the Batfamily so Damian can take his place as the heir of the al Ghul's clan.
I think my favorite parts where the scenes between Damian and Talia. There's a notable difference in Damian's actions and feelings from last volume and I liked seeing him grow up. Seeing him a little softer talking to Dick and then choosing to stay as Robin was the highlight of this volume. I also really liked seeing Batwoman in this title, it was a nice surprise. Though I don't know if I agree with how she was utilised here.
I have to be honest, I still feel a little lost reading this title. I don't know if it's because it's my natural response to Morrison's titles, if it's because the first arc was written as a sort of tie-in to another event, or if I'm just too underwhelmed by the plot. Sadly, I just don't think I care too much about finding Bruce. Also, half of the villains have been very disappointing. I don't care about the weird supernatural vibes of the Wayne ancestors and I don't like Dick losing himself in that part of the plot. However, there's a big reveal at the very end that can make the last volume super interesting. I did not see it coming at all. And though I don't know if I liked this reveal, at least it makes everything a little more interesting.
July 30, 2020
Wow, I actually really enjoyed this! I haven’t been a fan of Grant Morrison’s Batman work but this was a nice surprise, the writing has become much more cohesive and engaging. There’s a lot of mysterious elements and they slowly unfold as the arc progresses, I’m looking forward to seeing where the story is headed and how it all plays out.
May 23, 2018
The biggest thing I got out of this was how much Dick didn’t move like Bruce, even in the Batsuit. Was he even trying to pretend? And also that Talia is completely horrible. Not that I didn’t know that before, but it’s always nice to be reminded.
July 20, 2021
Another great entry in Morrison’s Batman and Robin run, Kate shows up in here and it’s always nice to see her. I also love Knight and Squire they are a lot of fun. This is shaping up to be my favorite Batman run.
May 12, 2015
I'm loving this arc! Other people on art duties (Cameron Stewart and Andy Clarke in this, it was Frank Quitely and Philip Tan in Batman Reborn), loved the art, the paneling and the colors. It was kind of a mystery story, with hidden passages being discovered under Wayne Manor. The Wayne ancestors coming into play and just allround discoveries on the Wayne estate. It was nice seeing Batman teaming up with the Knight and Squire, the Knight who is trying to fill his predecessor's shoes same as Batman (Dick Grayson) is trying to do. The Squire was a great sidekick to Batman, a shrill contrast to Damian Wayne, but you can see him change throughout this book. He's getting there. Batman also teams up with Batwoman and with Robin (Damian Wayne) of course. Like I've said there's a very noticeable change in Damian's behavior towards Batman (Dick Grayson). Just a change in general. He seems more mature and more willing and open to the way of Bruce Wayne, the way of Batman, which is also the way of Dick Grayson.
I loved seeing Batman in London. Racing over the Thames, jumping from boat to boat. Visiting places I've been in real life. I loved the Dick van Dyke Mary Poppins goons, I loved the Batman vs Batman fight, especially when Dick Grayson says: "He's trying to kill us! No matter how crazy he got. Batman never fights to kill. It's not him!" Alfred goes by the vault Dick goes by in Batman Reborn. That vault and the code always trigger something with me.
Damian who was severely injured in Batman Reborn gets a new spine (with a little extra that I won't spoil for you). It's always interesting to see how Damian who is a boy of 10 reacts to these kinds of situations. He just says: "My new spine is superior in every way to the original". Baring in mind his upbringing or should I say training, this is to be expected. Talia Al Ghul's behavior towards Damian, her son in this book is baffling to say the least.
I loved that Damian who knows Batman (Bruce Wayne) the least amount of time of everyone immediately knows that the Batman who shows up at the new HQ isn't Bruce Wayne, while Dick and even Alfred didn't know if it was him or not. When confronted by this impostor Batman, Damian says: "Pennyworth it is a copy. Whatever it is, it's not my father. It looks like him, but it smells of bleach and rancid flesh." In their defense, Damian has a lot of close experience with Lazarus Pits and their effects. Anyway, it thought it was a very cool moment. Also Damian fighting off this impostor while confided to a wheelchair, using his wits.
One of my favorite parts has to be the part where Alfred and Damian confront Dick with his decision to try and resurrect Batman using a Lazarus Pit.
Alfred reminds Dick of his former opinion toward using Lazarus Pits to resurrect loved ones (this was great because of a conversation and fight Dick had with Tim Drake in the Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul concerning this). Dick's answers Alfred, saying: "This isn't just loved ones Alfie (I love how he always calls him Alfie). It's Bruce Waynen, the Batman. He saved our lives, he saved the city and the world how many times? If that had been his body ... and we all thought it was ... if there was even a chance of bringing that man back ... I owed it to the world to try."
It was funny seeing Damian confront the Wayne board with financial irregularities. That kid has talents! And my favorite part has to be the the part where Dick gives Alfred and Damian a little peptalk, saying that nothing short of their best can see them through and when asking: "Are we ready?" he puts his hand in front of them and Alfred and Damian put their hands on his. Man if that isn't a great "official" start of this new team I don't know what is.
And the last two pages had me wanting to read the next book immediately. Dick deducting the identity of a certain ally who is actually a formidable foe.
I loved seeing Batman in London. Racing over the Thames, jumping from boat to boat. Visiting places I've been in real life. I loved the Dick van Dyke Mary Poppins goons, I loved the Batman vs Batman fight, especially when Dick Grayson says: "He's trying to kill us! No matter how crazy he got. Batman never fights to kill. It's not him!" Alfred goes by the vault Dick goes by in Batman Reborn. That vault and the code always trigger something with me.
Damian who was severely injured in Batman Reborn gets a new spine (with a little extra that I won't spoil for you). It's always interesting to see how Damian who is a boy of 10 reacts to these kinds of situations. He just says: "My new spine is superior in every way to the original". Baring in mind his upbringing or should I say training, this is to be expected. Talia Al Ghul's behavior towards Damian, her son in this book is baffling to say the least.
I loved that Damian who knows Batman (Bruce Wayne) the least amount of time of everyone immediately knows that the Batman who shows up at the new HQ isn't Bruce Wayne, while Dick and even Alfred didn't know if it was him or not. When confronted by this impostor Batman, Damian says: "Pennyworth it is a copy. Whatever it is, it's not my father. It looks like him, but it smells of bleach and rancid flesh." In their defense, Damian has a lot of close experience with Lazarus Pits and their effects. Anyway, it thought it was a very cool moment. Also Damian fighting off this impostor while confided to a wheelchair, using his wits.
One of my favorite parts has to be the part where Alfred and Damian confront Dick with his decision to try and resurrect Batman using a Lazarus Pit.
Alfred reminds Dick of his former opinion toward using Lazarus Pits to resurrect loved ones (this was great because of a conversation and fight Dick had with Tim Drake in the Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul concerning this). Dick's answers Alfred, saying: "This isn't just loved ones Alfie (I love how he always calls him Alfie). It's Bruce Waynen, the Batman. He saved our lives, he saved the city and the world how many times? If that had been his body ... and we all thought it was ... if there was even a chance of bringing that man back ... I owed it to the world to try."
It was funny seeing Damian confront the Wayne board with financial irregularities. That kid has talents! And my favorite part has to be the the part where Dick gives Alfred and Damian a little peptalk, saying that nothing short of their best can see them through and when asking: "Are we ready?" he puts his hand in front of them and Alfred and Damian put their hands on his. Man if that isn't a great "official" start of this new team I don't know what is.
And the last two pages had me wanting to read the next book immediately. Dick deducting the identity of a certain ally who is actually a formidable foe.
February 11, 2019
I'm going to give you a scenario here.
So this guy turns up. You know him, or you knew him. Vaguely. It was a long time ago. Back before he was a serial murderer. Anyway, this guy is mad because you haven't tried to bring this other guy who mentored you both back to life. Which is a thing you can do in this universe. This guy is proof of that. In fact, bringing him back to life is what turned him into a serial murderer.
Do you A, let him get under your skin and start searching for a Lazarus pit to bring your mentor back to life, or B, accept that this guy is maybe not the best person to take life advice from.
Obviously, the answer is B, but Dick is apparently an idiot so the first arc of this volume involves a zombie Batman. It also introduced me to Knight and Squire, who are apparently the British equivalent of Batman and Robin, and Batwoman. Dick and Knight get in some quality banter, and I was pleasantly surprised that Squire was a girl. Also, Batwoman is a queen. I mean, that is how you turn a man down.
As of the second arc, Damian's recovered from taking six bullets in the back. Honestly, with Bruce and Talia as parents, Damian never stood a chance. Anyway, the Batman armour apparently can't take a shovel to the chest, despite the fact that it took a bullet last volume. Once they've dealt with the obvious problem, Dick and Damian go to meet Talia and Damian has to choose, essentially, between being a vigilante and being an assassin. Talia accuses Dick of indoctrinating him which is both interesting and meaningless. Interesting because I generally assume that children fighting crime is considered acceptable in this universe. It's like Superman flying, or Flash turning back time - it's allowed because the "rules" of this fictional universe allow it. But if training a kid to fight crime is not acceptable, things suddenly look a lot more grey. Even more so when kids who were raised fighting crime start training other kids to fight crime. However this is coming from Talia who trained her child to be an assassin so we should probably take it with a grain of salt. Talia makes it crystal clear that she only values Damian for who she wants him to be. Anyway, the upshot of this arc is that
You'll definitely be face-palming as you read this, but I enjoyed it.
So this guy turns up. You know him, or you knew him. Vaguely. It was a long time ago. Back before he was a serial murderer. Anyway, this guy is mad because you haven't tried to bring this other guy who mentored you both back to life. Which is a thing you can do in this universe. This guy is proof of that. In fact, bringing him back to life is what turned him into a serial murderer.
Do you A, let him get under your skin and start searching for a Lazarus pit to bring your mentor back to life, or B, accept that this guy is maybe not the best person to take life advice from.
Obviously, the answer is B, but Dick is apparently an idiot so the first arc of this volume involves a zombie Batman. It also introduced me to Knight and Squire, who are apparently the British equivalent of Batman and Robin, and Batwoman. Dick and Knight get in some quality banter, and I was pleasantly surprised that Squire was a girl. Also, Batwoman is a queen. I mean, that is how you turn a man down.
As of the second arc, Damian's recovered from taking six bullets in the back. Honestly, with Bruce and Talia as parents, Damian never stood a chance. Anyway, the Batman armour apparently can't take a shovel to the chest, despite the fact that it took a bullet last volume. Once they've dealt with the obvious problem, Dick and Damian go to meet Talia and Damian has to choose, essentially, between being a vigilante and being an assassin. Talia accuses Dick of indoctrinating him which is both interesting and meaningless. Interesting because I generally assume that children fighting crime is considered acceptable in this universe. It's like Superman flying, or Flash turning back time - it's allowed because the "rules" of this fictional universe allow it. But if training a kid to fight crime is not acceptable, things suddenly look a lot more grey. Even more so when kids who were raised fighting crime start training other kids to fight crime. However this is coming from Talia who trained her child to be an assassin so we should probably take it with a grain of salt. Talia makes it crystal clear that she only values Damian for who she wants him to be. Anyway, the upshot of this arc is that
You'll definitely be face-palming as you read this, but I enjoyed it.
April 2, 2015
3 1/2 Stars
I liked this story but Batman VERSUS Robin is a little misleading, or at least the cover is misleading. Damien is actually not terrible in this story. I mean, I don't love him, I'm not completely crazy, but he was tolerable and I wasn't hoping he'd die.
A good portion of this volume takes place in London with an appearance by the Knight and Squire.
Because there is a Lazarus pit buried under London? I felt like this was a little random, and Morrison just wanted to use the characters, whatever.
One thing that really got on my nerves were all of the dialects, they were just over the top and really took me out of the story. I know that Morrison is Scottish and probably feels more than qualified to write a slue of different accents but they felt more like caricatures than anything else. When writing, it is preferable to offer a hint of an accent otherwise it bogs down the dialogue and is difficult for your reader to decipher.
Overall, the story was enjoyable and Morrison does a great job writing Grayson as Batman. He also is able to make me NOT hate Damien which is truly a miracle. Plus he writes Alfred right! Alfred is part of the action with some fantastic Alfred being awesome moments. The flow is fast once you get past all of the British characters nobody cares about and the ending is a complete shock. I was left having to immediately get the next volume.
I liked this story but Batman VERSUS Robin is a little misleading, or at least the cover is misleading. Damien is actually not terrible in this story. I mean, I don't love him, I'm not completely crazy, but he was tolerable and I wasn't hoping he'd die.
A good portion of this volume takes place in London with an appearance by the Knight and Squire.
Because there is a Lazarus pit buried under London? I felt like this was a little random, and Morrison just wanted to use the characters, whatever.
One thing that really got on my nerves were all of the dialects, they were just over the top and really took me out of the story. I know that Morrison is Scottish and probably feels more than qualified to write a slue of different accents but they felt more like caricatures than anything else. When writing, it is preferable to offer a hint of an accent otherwise it bogs down the dialogue and is difficult for your reader to decipher.
Overall, the story was enjoyable and Morrison does a great job writing Grayson as Batman. He also is able to make me NOT hate Damien which is truly a miracle. Plus he writes Alfred right! Alfred is part of the action with some fantastic Alfred being awesome moments. The flow is fast once you get past all of the British characters nobody cares about and the ending is a complete shock. I was left having to immediately get the next volume.
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