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Batman - Detective Comics #27- Special Edition
In his 75 years, Batman has been the central figure at the forefront of graphic storytelling. From the printed page to the big screen, Bob Kane's creation has never been a more significant fixture in popular culture the world over. This BATMAN 75 DAY COMIC 2014, free for a limited time, features the Dark Knight's origin from DETECTIVE COMICS #27 in 1939, as well a retelling of the story by New York Times bestselling novelist Brad Meltzer and illustrator Bryan Hitch and another short story by current BATMAN scribe Scott Snyder and artist Sean Murphy. Also included is a sneak peak at the reimagining of Batman's 1939 comic book debut, designed by Chip Kidd with a script by Meltzer. Join us as we celebrate the Dark Knight's 75th anniversary.
35 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 1939
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702 people want to read
About the author
Bill Finger
645 books105 followersWilliam "Bill" Finger was an American comic strip and comic book writer best known as the uncredited co-creator, with Bob Kane, of the DC Comics character Batman, as well as the co-architect of the series' development. In later years, Kane acknowledged Finger as "a contributing force" in the character's creation. Comics historian Ron Goulart, in Comic Book Encyclopedia, refers to Batman as the "creation of artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger", and a DC Comics press release in 2007 about colleague Jerry Robinson states that in 1939, "Kane, along with writer Bill Finger, had just created Batman for [DC predecessor] National Comics".
Film and television credits include scripting The Green Slime (1969), Track of the Moon Beast (1976), and three episodes of 77 Sunset Strip.
-Wikipedia
Film and television credits include scripting The Green Slime (1969), Track of the Moon Beast (1976), and three episodes of 77 Sunset Strip.
-Wikipedia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
September 1, 2014
This is a free single issue comic book to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the first publication of the character of Batman on the original Detective Comics #27, in 1939.
I got it thanks to the people running the local comic book store that I usually visit.
The free comic book includes a reprinting of the very original story, The Case of the Chemical Syndicate, also it includes a re-imagination of that story with modern art and storytelling style, and it closes with a totally original story set in the future of the character.
The Bat-Man: The Case of the Chemical Syndicate (Original Story)
This story is written by Bill Finger and illustrated by Bob Kane.
The premise and even several actions scenes were taken from a earlier published story done for The Shadow. It's that so, no point to try to defend this secret shouted down, along decades.
But aside that, this is a remarkable story where you can realize what was there since the beginning, besides obviously the character of The Batman. You have the Commissioner Gordon, the very first supportive character of the title and he still is around in the present, 75 years later. Also, you have "the car" that it was a rough start of what it would become the most famous car in fictional history, The Batmobile.
And a curious detail is that while it's his very first story, this is not an "origin story", since at that moment you remain clueless why a handsome billionaire is interested to use his nights dressing like a bat and beating to pulp to insane criminals.
The Case of the Chemical Syndicate (Re-imagined Story)
This story is written by Brad Meltzer and illustrated by Bryan Hitch.
While this re-imagined story keeps the general storyline of the original tale, you can find along all the way, a lot of more depth in the thinking of the character, his motivations, his inner fears, his secret worries, etc...
Also, you will find that this great tale not only used the script of the original story but also key scenes and moments from the live action film Batman from 1989.
While you get some indirect pieces of information of the origin of him, the story is truthful to avoid showing a clear origin of the character, but clearly set on his very earliest days where he is still learning "on the road", taking notes of what he needs to change for the next night patrol.
Twenty-Seven (A totally original story)
This story is written by Scott Snyder and illustrated by Sean Murphy.
Many people agree that only Bruce Wayne can be Batman, and this story is about that.
Only Bruce Wayne can be the protector of Gotham City, at least, it's something clear and without a single doubt on his own mind, but he is human, he is mortal, so, here, you will find out how Bruce Wayne is able to keep his oath for 200 years so far, gaining each time new allies, new villains but also while many things change, a key challenge remains the same or so, but also his determination to keep safe the streets of his city remains the same.
Priceless masterpiece of story.
I got it thanks to the people running the local comic book store that I usually visit.
The free comic book includes a reprinting of the very original story, The Case of the Chemical Syndicate, also it includes a re-imagination of that story with modern art and storytelling style, and it closes with a totally original story set in the future of the character.
The Bat-Man: The Case of the Chemical Syndicate (Original Story)
This story is written by Bill Finger and illustrated by Bob Kane.
The premise and even several actions scenes were taken from a earlier published story done for The Shadow. It's that so, no point to try to defend this secret shouted down, along decades.
But aside that, this is a remarkable story where you can realize what was there since the beginning, besides obviously the character of The Batman. You have the Commissioner Gordon, the very first supportive character of the title and he still is around in the present, 75 years later. Also, you have "the car" that it was a rough start of what it would become the most famous car in fictional history, The Batmobile.
And a curious detail is that while it's his very first story, this is not an "origin story", since at that moment you remain clueless why a handsome billionaire is interested to use his nights dressing like a bat and beating to pulp to insane criminals.
The Case of the Chemical Syndicate (Re-imagined Story)
This story is written by Brad Meltzer and illustrated by Bryan Hitch.
While this re-imagined story keeps the general storyline of the original tale, you can find along all the way, a lot of more depth in the thinking of the character, his motivations, his inner fears, his secret worries, etc...
Also, you will find that this great tale not only used the script of the original story but also key scenes and moments from the live action film Batman from 1989.
While you get some indirect pieces of information of the origin of him, the story is truthful to avoid showing a clear origin of the character, but clearly set on his very earliest days where he is still learning "on the road", taking notes of what he needs to change for the next night patrol.
Twenty-Seven (A totally original story)
This story is written by Scott Snyder and illustrated by Sean Murphy.
Many people agree that only Bruce Wayne can be Batman, and this story is about that.
Only Bruce Wayne can be the protector of Gotham City, at least, it's something clear and without a single doubt on his own mind, but he is human, he is mortal, so, here, you will find out how Bruce Wayne is able to keep his oath for 200 years so far, gaining each time new allies, new villains but also while many things change, a key challenge remains the same or so, but also his determination to keep safe the streets of his city remains the same.
Priceless masterpiece of story.
September 22, 2025
"What did you wish for, Bruce?" -- Tim Drake, a.k.a. the middle-aged Red Robin
"More birthdays, so I can keep an eye on all of you, Tim." -- Bruce Wayne, a.k.a. the retired Batman
Bat 'fans' and/or potential readers, take note - if at all possible, get yourself a copy of the 'special mega-sized anniversary issue!,' per its cover blurb, for DC's 75th birthday tribute to the Dark Knight. Boasting seven contained short stories - the standard edition only has three - with each featuring different writers and illustrators, Batman - Detective Comics #27 is a very nice collection. It seems that many folks here especially liked the opener 'The Case of the Chemical Syndicate' (which was based on a story by Batman's creators Bob Kane & Bill Finger) - and it was an appropriate choice for an initial chapter - but my own favorite was 'Better Days' by author Peter J. Tomasi. Showcasing an elderly but still spry Bruce Wayne on his (presumably) 75th birthday, he covertly jumps back into cape and cowl for an evening to prove that he can still cut the crimefighting mustard in Gotham.
"More birthdays, so I can keep an eye on all of you, Tim." -- Bruce Wayne, a.k.a. the retired Batman
Bat 'fans' and/or potential readers, take note - if at all possible, get yourself a copy of the 'special mega-sized anniversary issue!,' per its cover blurb, for DC's 75th birthday tribute to the Dark Knight. Boasting seven contained short stories - the standard edition only has three - with each featuring different writers and illustrators, Batman - Detective Comics #27 is a very nice collection. It seems that many folks here especially liked the opener 'The Case of the Chemical Syndicate' (which was based on a story by Batman's creators Bob Kane & Bill Finger) - and it was an appropriate choice for an initial chapter - but my own favorite was 'Better Days' by author Peter J. Tomasi. Showcasing an elderly but still spry Bruce Wayne on his (presumably) 75th birthday, he covertly jumps back into cape and cowl for an evening to prove that he can still cut the crimefighting mustard in Gotham.
July 27, 2014
Fun free comic that DC threw together for Batman’s 75th anniversary. It reprints the first Batman story from Detective Comics, and then does a modern re-telling of the same tale. It also includes a short bit from Scott Syder that’s a great look at what the future of Batman could be. It’s worth a look for Bat-fans.
April 29, 2015
Batman, perhaps you should consider seeing a psychologist. Outsource - you can afford it. Someone in another city. Not Gotham. You can Skype with them! We need to start addressing some of your major psychological issues. Okay?
I mean, you love it when they scream? Really? I'm a tad bit worried that this "hero" thing you've got going is some sort of sexual outlet for you.
Obviously you're no stranger to the idea that you might be insane. You describe yourself as insane.
And I know your parents were murdered and it was horrible. I know. But, Bruce, listen... many people lose their parents and don't become masked vigilantes that prowl the night dressed as giant bats. Just think about it. Okay? I'm only saying this because I worry about you and care about you and want you to find some peace and happiness. Perhaps the love of a good woman? I'm doubtful about that one - it hasn't worked for you in the past.
Call me and I can recommend some doctors who specialize in this kind of thing.
All the best,
Carmen
I mean, you love it when they scream? Really? I'm a tad bit worried that this "hero" thing you've got going is some sort of sexual outlet for you.
Obviously you're no stranger to the idea that you might be insane. You describe yourself as insane.
And I know your parents were murdered and it was horrible. I know. But, Bruce, listen... many people lose their parents and don't become masked vigilantes that prowl the night dressed as giant bats. Just think about it. Okay? I'm only saying this because I worry about you and care about you and want you to find some peace and happiness. Perhaps the love of a good woman? I'm doubtful about that one - it hasn't worked for you in the past.
Call me and I can recommend some doctors who specialize in this kind of thing.
All the best,
Carmen
July 9, 2016
Detective Comics #27 takes a look back at the beginning of Batman
and it also reimagines his comic debut.
I liked this, it's a nice free comic that delves into what makes Batman who he is. There is no earth shattering information here, but it's better than most free comics by quite a bit.
and it also reimagines his comic debut.
I liked this, it's a nice free comic that delves into what makes Batman who he is. There is no earth shattering information here, but it's better than most free comics by quite a bit.
July 27, 2014
Celebrating the seventy-five reign of Batman has been a pleasant treat for me. I got to do the geekiest tributes ever for last week alone (I re-watched all Tim Burton and Christopher Nolan films, three documentaries and select ten fave episodes from Batman: The Animated Series). I've been a very busy Bat-fan indeed! In addition to this fun-filled geekathon, I was also able to purchase two graphic novels to add to my collection (the trade paperback for Batman: Death of the Family that I've been looking for, and Neil Gaiman's Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader) and they have 20% discount too so I got to save some money.
Next, I got Robin Rises Omega in print (and the last issue for Batman: Zero Year downloaded from torrent, unfortunately, but I will come back to the store next week and see if copies would be available). But before I review these two amazing issues, let's first talk about the content of the free giveaway, which is New 52's re-imagining of Detective Comics #27.
Surprisingly enough, the only new thing that was included in it for me was the original 1939 story The Case of the Chemical Syndicate where actual pages from said old comic were used and printed in glossier paper. I was quite giddy about that. The other two stories included were also in the mega-sized anniversary issue I reviewed months ago. They were the newer version for said Chemical Syndicate case, and Scott Snyder's science fiction take on Batman entitled Twenty-seven which was one of the best pieces offered for that anniv issue from before. I suppose if you were unable to buy the nine-dollar Detective Comics issue #27, this free giveaway would be a treat but for someone like me who already owns the original anniversary release and paid for it, I wasn't entirely happy about the free comic that just included what I already read previously.
Aside from that, we get preview pages for Chip Kidd's version of how the events in the Chemical Syndicate case would have gone down using the same outdated art style from golden age comics but perhaps with a contemporary twist. In a nutshell, this free comic is still great thing to posses for posterity's sake. Since it's free, there's no reason not to get a copy anyway. But that said, I would recommend you purchase the double-sized issue #27 from New 52's Detective Comics even if it is costly.
RECOMMENDED: 7/10
[DO READ MORE ABOUT MY BATMAN REVIEWS IN http://batman-comics-geek.blogspot.com/]
Next, I got Robin Rises Omega in print (and the last issue for Batman: Zero Year downloaded from torrent, unfortunately, but I will come back to the store next week and see if copies would be available). But before I review these two amazing issues, let's first talk about the content of the free giveaway, which is New 52's re-imagining of Detective Comics #27.
Surprisingly enough, the only new thing that was included in it for me was the original 1939 story The Case of the Chemical Syndicate where actual pages from said old comic were used and printed in glossier paper. I was quite giddy about that. The other two stories included were also in the mega-sized anniversary issue I reviewed months ago. They were the newer version for said Chemical Syndicate case, and Scott Snyder's science fiction take on Batman entitled Twenty-seven which was one of the best pieces offered for that anniv issue from before. I suppose if you were unable to buy the nine-dollar Detective Comics issue #27, this free giveaway would be a treat but for someone like me who already owns the original anniversary release and paid for it, I wasn't entirely happy about the free comic that just included what I already read previously.
Aside from that, we get preview pages for Chip Kidd's version of how the events in the Chemical Syndicate case would have gone down using the same outdated art style from golden age comics but perhaps with a contemporary twist. In a nutshell, this free comic is still great thing to posses for posterity's sake. Since it's free, there's no reason not to get a copy anyway. But that said, I would recommend you purchase the double-sized issue #27 from New 52's Detective Comics even if it is costly.
RECOMMENDED: 7/10
[DO READ MORE ABOUT MY BATMAN REVIEWS IN http://batman-comics-geek.blogspot.com/]
July 24, 2014
Batman. It's incredible what a legacy that name carries - how much it's progressed, how long it's been.
I'm not nearly old enough to have read the early Batman comics. I was born into the fairly modern era of D.C. But this comic? It made me feel like I was taking part in the nostalgia.
There are three comics in this edition: the original Detective Comics #27 ("The Case of the Chemical Syndicate") from 1939, a modern take on #27, and a new comic simply entitled "Twenty Seven." I love it.
The original has an old fashioned appeal to it. And by that I mean, I feel like I'm reading a dated murder mystery. One that's somewhat zany with plot progression. Convenient open skylight, orderly progression from one crime to another, very basic but questionable motives... having grown up with a Batman of a very certain ilk (e.g. from Justice League cartoons, Nolan's rendition), I was surprised to meet a Watson-esque Bruce Wayne, and a Bat-Man who I couldn't quite reconcile with my past experiences. He seemed to me more of a clear-cut representative of Providence, rather than the multifaceted, at times torn between justice, logic, and his sympathies, caped crusader. That said, this is my first experience of the original Batman, so I can hardly cast a considerate judgement on his character.
The modern take was something I felt more connected to. It seemed more believable, more urgent, and more pensive in many respects. It felt like the Batman I knew. And I found the characters to be vibrant and the story to be very immersive. The motives of the villain, and his actions, were certainly straightforward... but they played out in such a way that increased suspense, and seemed natural.
Twenty-Seven was very short, and jam packed. Unlike what I'd seen of elderly Batman from Batman Beyond, and other similar characterizations, this Batman acted in such a way that seemed very in line with his character. He quite literally relied on only himself to continue his legacy. Certainly "never the end."
All in all, I really liked this special edition, and I'm very glad I picked it up. Happy 75 years, Batman!
I'm not nearly old enough to have read the early Batman comics. I was born into the fairly modern era of D.C. But this comic? It made me feel like I was taking part in the nostalgia.
There are three comics in this edition: the original Detective Comics #27 ("The Case of the Chemical Syndicate") from 1939, a modern take on #27, and a new comic simply entitled "Twenty Seven." I love it.
The original has an old fashioned appeal to it. And by that I mean, I feel like I'm reading a dated murder mystery. One that's somewhat zany with plot progression. Convenient open skylight, orderly progression from one crime to another, very basic but questionable motives... having grown up with a Batman of a very certain ilk (e.g. from Justice League cartoons, Nolan's rendition), I was surprised to meet a Watson-esque Bruce Wayne, and a Bat-Man who I couldn't quite reconcile with my past experiences. He seemed to me more of a clear-cut representative of Providence, rather than the multifaceted, at times torn between justice, logic, and his sympathies, caped crusader. That said, this is my first experience of the original Batman, so I can hardly cast a considerate judgement on his character.
The modern take was something I felt more connected to. It seemed more believable, more urgent, and more pensive in many respects. It felt like the Batman I knew. And I found the characters to be vibrant and the story to be very immersive. The motives of the villain, and his actions, were certainly straightforward... but they played out in such a way that increased suspense, and seemed natural.
Twenty-Seven was very short, and jam packed. Unlike what I'd seen of elderly Batman from Batman Beyond, and other similar characterizations, this Batman acted in such a way that seemed very in line with his character. He quite literally relied on only himself to continue his legacy. Certainly "never the end."
All in all, I really liked this special edition, and I'm very glad I picked it up. Happy 75 years, Batman!
August 31, 2014
Hah! The freebie is better than some of the comics I've been paying full price for! LOVE the updated storyline, though the journal entries I could have totally done without. Same old mumbojumbo you always see.
August 24, 2020
First appearance of Batman.
Pretty sick I would say.
Pretty sick I would say.
June 12, 2019
5 ⭐
This book has three stories: the original Batman comic, modern Batman comic, and a Batman one-shot.
The first Batman story shows Batman solve a murder mystery. One of four partner wants to be the sole owner of a chemical corporation. So he killed the other three. Batman is revealed to be Bruce Wayne, a young man not interested in anything.
The modern Batman story has Bruce explaining why he dresses up as a bat to fight crime. It also has the original Batman story retold for modern times.
The one-shot shows why Bruce chose a bat as his costume. It has an old Bruce Wayne meet a young Bruce Wayne to get the young Bruce Wayne to take up the mantle. There have been Batman's for a very long time and when the current Batman becomes old, another is called to take his place. Young Bruce Wayne starts to become Batman.
Nice to see the beginning story of Batman that started it all. Awesome to see how he works as a detective. Glad he has Alfred and Gordon. Wonder what will happen to the guy that got kicked into the vat of chemicals. He's dead right?
This book has three stories: the original Batman comic, modern Batman comic, and a Batman one-shot.
The first Batman story shows Batman solve a murder mystery. One of four partner wants to be the sole owner of a chemical corporation. So he killed the other three. Batman is revealed to be Bruce Wayne, a young man not interested in anything.
The modern Batman story has Bruce explaining why he dresses up as a bat to fight crime. It also has the original Batman story retold for modern times.
The one-shot shows why Bruce chose a bat as his costume. It has an old Bruce Wayne meet a young Bruce Wayne to get the young Bruce Wayne to take up the mantle. There have been Batman's for a very long time and when the current Batman becomes old, another is called to take his place. Young Bruce Wayne starts to become Batman.
Nice to see the beginning story of Batman that started it all. Awesome to see how he works as a detective. Glad he has Alfred and Gordon. Wonder what will happen to the guy that got kicked into the vat of chemicals. He's dead right?
July 22, 2016
As far as first appearances in comics go, you cannot do much better than Batman's. Simple straight to the point. DC Comics wanted to build on the success of Superman but without making a doppelgänger so they turned to the artist Bob Kane who turned to writer Bill Finger and together they designed Batman based on the Mexican vigilante Zorro, the movie The Bat Whispers and The Living Shadow. While Kane handled the art (and controversially all the credit for decades) Finger designed the detective aspect as well as the rest of the mythos of Batman and Gotham.
This story starts in media res with a spat of murders of rich owners of a chemical factory. Bruce Wayne hears about this while visiting Commissioner Gordon and as Gordon goes to investigate so goes Batman...
I am not going to spoil (the comic is free digitally so go download it), but it is a good story. This 75th anniversary addition contains two retellings of the original story and a specially commissioned story to celebrate the anniversary. I think it is a good issue and because I was always more interested in Batman than Superman (though I do not think Superman is a bad or lame character, personally) it is a special treat for me.
This story starts in media res with a spat of murders of rich owners of a chemical factory. Bruce Wayne hears about this while visiting Commissioner Gordon and as Gordon goes to investigate so goes Batman...
I am not going to spoil (the comic is free digitally so go download it), but it is a good story. This 75th anniversary addition contains two retellings of the original story and a specially commissioned story to celebrate the anniversary. I think it is a good issue and because I was always more interested in Batman than Superman (though I do not think Superman is a bad or lame character, personally) it is a special treat for me.
June 1, 2023
Some good stuff here. I got a chance to read the first Batman story ever written, read a great retelling, and read the apparent prequel to Last Knight On Earth with great art by Sean Murphy.
Detective Comics #27:
I love getting to see this. Remembering that 26 issues of Tec came before this makes me wonder if any Detective Comics characters from before this are used today. It was an entertaining start for Batman.
Retelling:
Even better, in my opinion! The artist from Batman's Grave with the writer of Identity Crisis. Haven't read Identity Crisis yet, but this one is written very well. The story is filled with "I do [Batmanning!] because..." narration.
At one point, it's "I do it because I like it when they scream." That's oh-so-Miller of him, but I actually have mixed feelings on when Batman is characterized as loving to inflict pain. It's probably true, because what man that dresses like a Bat and beats people up does it because it's moral? But that doesn't mean I have to like it!
That's my only issue. Other than that, some good parallels between Batman and the kid who's dad died, some good modernizations, and some good art.
Snyder/Murphy Story:
Probably more like 3 stars for this one, because I have NO clue what's going on. Still, love the Murphy art.
Detective Comics #27:
I love getting to see this. Remembering that 26 issues of Tec came before this makes me wonder if any Detective Comics characters from before this are used today. It was an entertaining start for Batman.
Retelling:
Even better, in my opinion! The artist from Batman's Grave with the writer of Identity Crisis. Haven't read Identity Crisis yet, but this one is written very well. The story is filled with "I do [Batmanning!] because..." narration.
At one point, it's "I do it because I like it when they scream." That's oh-so-Miller of him, but I actually have mixed feelings on when Batman is characterized as loving to inflict pain. It's probably true, because what man that dresses like a Bat and beats people up does it because it's moral? But that doesn't mean I have to like it!
That's my only issue. Other than that, some good parallels between Batman and the kid who's dad died, some good modernizations, and some good art.
Snyder/Murphy Story:
Probably more like 3 stars for this one, because I have NO clue what's going on. Still, love the Murphy art.
December 28, 2017
A fun little collection containing Batman's original appearance from 1939 (which took me back to the Tintin comics from the same era which I read as a child) and a more introspective 21st-century re-imagining of the same story, as well as a Batman Beyond-style futuristic "eternal recurrence" story.
June 11, 2017
Such fun getting to ready the very first appearance of the bat-man. Also appreciate given the passing of Adam West.
April 27, 2022
I wasn't really into this at first, but the last story was really well done! It made me change my mind.
January 15, 2024
Classic Was Best Here
The first 1/3 of the book was a cool reprint of original Batman which gave good insight to the comic's origin. Should've stopped there, but sandwiched in the middle, a sort of remix with good art along with meh story and old text. Latter portion was future Batman with throwaway art and shoestring musings. A bit of a disheveled mess, but something for pulp consumers.
The first 1/3 of the book was a cool reprint of original Batman which gave good insight to the comic's origin. Should've stopped there, but sandwiched in the middle, a sort of remix with good art along with meh story and old text. Latter portion was future Batman with throwaway art and shoestring musings. A bit of a disheveled mess, but something for pulp consumers.
June 13, 2023
Fun
Nice old story about Batman then later retold in a modern era, followed by the future of batman. Nice art
Nice old story about Batman then later retold in a modern era, followed by the future of batman. Nice art
August 3, 2014
Best part of this comic was
(1) the re-print of the six-page story featuring "the Bat-Man"'s first appearance in 1939. What a lot of us have heard about but never actually saw is finally accessible. It's amazing to think that Batman, who has been around for 75 years, got his start in this way.
(2) finding out LEGO Batman 3 is coming out this fall (November 11, 2014, to be exact - same day as the Complete Series of Batman (with Adam West) is released!). My 9-year old is looking forward to playing this videogame.
(3) it was FREE
And, you know, for a Batman Day celebration (the dude's 75 years old - come on!), they (DC Comics) had Bill Finger & Bob Kane's original story re-done & updated by Brad Meltzer & Bryan Hitch. Meltzer surprised me by not abusing the interior monologue captions (Identity Crisis was a cornucopia of such captions, in a rainbow of colours), and Bryan Hitch... well, not his finest work, unfortunately. As an artist who needs quite some time to produce mind-blowing visuals like in The Authority Vol. 1 and The Ultimates & The Ultimates 2 - even his JLA stuff with Mark Waid - I guess this time around he did not have enough time to polish his work as much, and since this Batman Day is (and should be) a BIG DEAL, DC Comics should've either (a) given Hitch more time beforehand, or (b) gotten someone else entirely.
Finally, there's a story called "Twenty-Seven" by Scott Snyder, which left me non-plussed. So the comic book was free, and that's good, but remember the old saying: 'You get what you pay for.'
(1) the re-print of the six-page story featuring "the Bat-Man"'s first appearance in 1939. What a lot of us have heard about but never actually saw is finally accessible. It's amazing to think that Batman, who has been around for 75 years, got his start in this way.
(2) finding out LEGO Batman 3 is coming out this fall (November 11, 2014, to be exact - same day as the Complete Series of Batman (with Adam West) is released!). My 9-year old is looking forward to playing this videogame.
(3) it was FREE
And, you know, for a Batman Day celebration (the dude's 75 years old - come on!), they (DC Comics) had Bill Finger & Bob Kane's original story re-done & updated by Brad Meltzer & Bryan Hitch. Meltzer surprised me by not abusing the interior monologue captions (Identity Crisis was a cornucopia of such captions, in a rainbow of colours), and Bryan Hitch... well, not his finest work, unfortunately. As an artist who needs quite some time to produce mind-blowing visuals like in The Authority Vol. 1 and The Ultimates & The Ultimates 2 - even his JLA stuff with Mark Waid - I guess this time around he did not have enough time to polish his work as much, and since this Batman Day is (and should be) a BIG DEAL, DC Comics should've either (a) given Hitch more time beforehand, or (b) gotten someone else entirely.
Finally, there's a story called "Twenty-Seven" by Scott Snyder, which left me non-plussed. So the comic book was free, and that's good, but remember the old saying: 'You get what you pay for.'
July 27, 2014
Cool collection of 3 short Batman stories all with completely different art.
The first one with it's retro art is a retelling of the very first Batman (or Bat-Man)Story, The Case of the Chemical Syndicate (written by Brad Meltzer) and alone makes this a great collectable edition.
The story is then retold with modern art and dialogue.
The short story Twenty-Seven written by Scott Snyder then pulls us into the far future.
Batman has a huge legacy over the past 75 years and it was great to see so many people interested and celebrating Batman Day today.
The first one with it's retro art is a retelling of the very first Batman (or Bat-Man)Story, The Case of the Chemical Syndicate (written by Brad Meltzer) and alone makes this a great collectable edition.
The story is then retold with modern art and dialogue.
The short story Twenty-Seven written by Scott Snyder then pulls us into the far future.
Batman has a huge legacy over the past 75 years and it was great to see so many people interested and celebrating Batman Day today.
April 5, 2017
A Barnes & Noble freebie. Lucky me, I happened to go on "Batman Day."
Interesting to see how it all began, along with the 21st century take on the story.
Interesting to see how it all began, along with the 21st century take on the story.
May 5, 2017
Old and new
Two stories that are actually one story with a chaser. Kind of a past, present and future thing. A quick read.
Two stories that are actually one story with a chaser. Kind of a past, present and future thing. A quick read.
May 4, 2023
This is the 75th anniversary special edition of the origin of Batman. It includes 3 stories. The first is the original "The Case of the Chemical Syndicate". This was from Detective Comics #27 and was the first appearance of Batman and Commissioner Gordon, as well as Bruce Wayne who is reveled to be the Bat-Man on the very last page. At this time in fact he is called the Bat-Man, note the hyphen. At this point we don't see any other familiar faces. The Second Story is a more modern re-imagined version of the same story, making it fit a bit better into the modern cannon, and with an added panel that implies a Joker origin story. It is narrated by Batman himself and gives you a glimpse of his backstory as well as his slightly unstable mental state. The third story, called 27, is completely new and rather weird, and brings up more questions than answers. It is almost like Batman is reincarnated many times, but it is always Bruce Wayne, and is another way to explain the various iterations of Batman.
April 28, 2020
This was a pretty good showcase of how far comics have come in regards to the famous Dark Knight. I only really liked the last section. It had an interesting take on the character of Bruce Wayne and his motivations for becoming Batman. In essence, no matter the circumstances, his need to help people in present.
The other two were an old and new version of an early Batman issue. While it was interesting to see the different takes, narrative and panel orientation-wise, I didn't like the tone of either. It's a pretty cut-and-dry mystery, but if you're a fan of the history of Batman's comics, you might like them.
Overall I can't give this issue a high rating, considering I only liked 1/3 of it, but that 1/3 was pretty enjoyable. If you can find it for pretty cheap, I'd say go ahead and pick it up.
The other two were an old and new version of an early Batman issue. While it was interesting to see the different takes, narrative and panel orientation-wise, I didn't like the tone of either. It's a pretty cut-and-dry mystery, but if you're a fan of the history of Batman's comics, you might like them.
Overall I can't give this issue a high rating, considering I only liked 1/3 of it, but that 1/3 was pretty enjoyable. If you can find it for pretty cheap, I'd say go ahead and pick it up.
October 12, 2020
I enjoyed this 3 part collection/tribute issue a fair bit.
Part one is Bob Kane's very first Batman story ever printed (I think), from way back in 1939. This would be interesting enough as a historical document, but it actually holds up pretty well as entertainment.
Part two is a modern re-imagining of the original story, in the contemporary style. I have to say that although this is rather well done, I prefer the original. The artwork is good, but like most of the modern comics I find It takes itself too seriously.
Part three is a different take on an origin story, and a decent one at that, with the best artwork I've seen in a comic to date. It looked completely drawn by hand and the detail and colours were incredible. Only the XIII comics come close for my tastes.
A high quality comic (which is also free) - a reward for me not giving up just yet!
Part one is Bob Kane's very first Batman story ever printed (I think), from way back in 1939. This would be interesting enough as a historical document, but it actually holds up pretty well as entertainment.
Part two is a modern re-imagining of the original story, in the contemporary style. I have to say that although this is rather well done, I prefer the original. The artwork is good, but like most of the modern comics I find It takes itself too seriously.
Part three is a different take on an origin story, and a decent one at that, with the best artwork I've seen in a comic to date. It looked completely drawn by hand and the detail and colours were incredible. Only the XIII comics come close for my tastes.
A high quality comic (which is also free) - a reward for me not giving up just yet!
April 11, 2024
DC Entertainment’s celebration of Batman’s 75th anniversary features an old-school version of his first story ever, along with two remixes of the aforementioned story.
Commissioner Gordon and his young socialite friend, Bruce Wayne, are chillin’ at the house and smoking some pipes.
A call comes in—Old Man Lambert, “The Chemical King,” has just been found stabbed to death.
The color work in this seems even more jarring than in the original piece.
In the second version, the colors and details are good. But both Batman and Bruce Wayne look way too old.
The third version is weird. The drawings are too angular.
Commissioner Gordon and his young socialite friend, Bruce Wayne, are chillin’ at the house and smoking some pipes.
A call comes in—Old Man Lambert, “The Chemical King,” has just been found stabbed to death.
The color work in this seems even more jarring than in the original piece.
In the second version, the colors and details are good. But both Batman and Bruce Wayne look way too old.
The third version is weird. The drawings are too angular.
November 9, 2025
If anything this is a nice look at how much comics have developed and how much they’ve stayed the same.
Because despite having a 75 year difference between the first two stories, it felt like reading two issues of more modern Batman back to back rather than his first appearance and a “new” story.
The two other stories were a nice inclusion but it was interesting to compare them to the first ever Batman story. And thank god the design of the costume changed because those “ears” did not feel right.
Because despite having a 75 year difference between the first two stories, it felt like reading two issues of more modern Batman back to back rather than his first appearance and a “new” story.
The two other stories were a nice inclusion but it was interesting to compare them to the first ever Batman story. And thank god the design of the costume changed because those “ears” did not feel right.
February 21, 2021
Great as a free comic
I was fortunate to stumble amongst this in the free comics.
With there being stories from different story arcs I can’t really give opinions for art and story but this comic gives the reader 3 very different forms of Batman, each within their own right and time era perfectly ok.
It’s a good introduction to Batman and a nice glimpse for the dedication reader of Batman’s past. All round a nice comic to have in the collection!
I was fortunate to stumble amongst this in the free comics.
With there being stories from different story arcs I can’t really give opinions for art and story but this comic gives the reader 3 very different forms of Batman, each within their own right and time era perfectly ok.
It’s a good introduction to Batman and a nice glimpse for the dedication reader of Batman’s past. All round a nice comic to have in the collection!
February 17, 2021
A short free comic to celebrate 75 years of Batman. Basically just a few short teaser stories from across the generations. Pretty simple but it was cool to see the beginning of Batman’s journey in the old comic strip, to a time set far in the future showing that no matter what there will always be a Batman.
April 25, 2021
Detective Comics #27
This is a great book. Never read this issue in any form, so I'm reading this comic for the first time. I know the origin of the Batman but not the first story of the Bat-Man. I also loved the modern take of "The Chemical Syndicate". And the generation story of the Batman.
This is a great book. Never read this issue in any form, so I'm reading this comic for the first time. I know the origin of the Batman but not the first story of the Bat-Man. I also loved the modern take of "The Chemical Syndicate". And the generation story of the Batman.
December 30, 2023
Kind of a shame to rate low
The first story I already read earlier in the year and it is a classic. The second story is the same story but modern edition and the difference is insane how far comics came and I really love the second story. The third story is weird and I'm not into it, like futuristic batman of multiple generations.
The first story I already read earlier in the year and it is a classic. The second story is the same story but modern edition and the difference is insane how far comics came and I really love the second story. The third story is weird and I'm not into it, like futuristic batman of multiple generations.
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