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Batman: Black and White (Collected Editions) #2
Batman: Black And White, Vol. 2
Collects stories of the caped crusader from writers and illustrators including Warren Ellis, Harlan Ellison, Alex Ross, Paul Dini, Ty Templeton, Chris Claremont, Jim Lee, Eduardo Risso, and Alan Grant.
176 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2007
11 people are currently reading
524 people want to read
About the author
Mark Chiarello
97 books16 followersMark Chiarello was born on Halloween in 1960. His book "Heroes of the Negro Leagues" (Abrams Publishing) was named the second best sports book of 2007 by Amazon.com. A graduate of Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY, Mark was fortunate enough to have as roommates, Kent Williams, John Van Fleet, and George Pratt. He worked as an illustrator for DisneyWorld for a short time in the 1980’s, then went on to work for Marvel Comics and ultimately DC Comics, where he is currently Art Director.
Mark lives in Maplewood, NJ with his wonderful wife Catherine and wonderful kids, Jack and Rose, and his almost wonderful dog, oscar.
Mark lives in Maplewood, NJ with his wonderful wife Catherine and wonderful kids, Jack and Rose, and his almost wonderful dog, oscar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
September 18, 2014
There are 21 short stories depicted in black, white and gray purposefully. Several of the tales are little moments to a side of Batman one rarely sees. Overall, I found some of the stories quite engaging or just funny in a goofy manner. Others fell quite flat or were just plain ho hum. This is one of those tales in which the artwork was more impressive than the plots.
Some notable writers were Paul Dini, Warren Ellis, Chris Claremont, Paul Pope and Harlan Ellison. There's a nice collection of Batman graphic novels to check out in the very back.
My favorite three tales were: “Batsman: Swarming Scourge of the Underworld” (by Ty Templeton and artwork by Marie Severin . .. it had some of the funniest moments even though the ending was lame), “Blackout (some good character focuses on Batman with Catwoman using old style artwork and phrases by Howard Chaykin and illustrated by Jordi Bernet) and “The Bet” (by Paul Dini and illustrated by Ronnie Del Carmen . . . another silly tale in which Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn see who can get the most men to
kiss them).
STORY/PLOTTING: B minus; CHARACTERS/DIALOGUE: B minus to B; ARTWORK PRESENTATION: B to B plus; SOMETHING NEW WITH BATMAN: B to B plus; OVERALL GRADE: B minus to B; WHEN READ: end of June 2012.
Some notable writers were Paul Dini, Warren Ellis, Chris Claremont, Paul Pope and Harlan Ellison. There's a nice collection of Batman graphic novels to check out in the very back.
My favorite three tales were: “Batsman: Swarming Scourge of the Underworld” (by Ty Templeton and artwork by Marie Severin . .. it had some of the funniest moments even though the ending was lame), “Blackout (some good character focuses on Batman with Catwoman using old style artwork and phrases by Howard Chaykin and illustrated by Jordi Bernet) and “The Bet” (by Paul Dini and illustrated by Ronnie Del Carmen . . . another silly tale in which Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn see who can get the most men to
kiss them).
STORY/PLOTTING: B minus; CHARACTERS/DIALOGUE: B minus to B; ARTWORK PRESENTATION: B to B plus; SOMETHING NEW WITH BATMAN: B to B plus; OVERALL GRADE: B minus to B; WHEN READ: end of June 2012.
February 3, 2020
Since I'm giving this second volume a higher rating than the first one, I'll explain why it was an improvement:
The artwork overall here was much better; there weren't any stories that looked like they were drawn by a third grader. One part even had drawings that looked like grayscale photography.
This volume also wasted less space by putting the biographies of the writers and artists at the end.
Not only that, but...unlike many modern comic book omnibuses, the quotient of objectionable content was kept low. Profanity was at a minimum, and sometimes merely implied instead of written out; disturbing images and bloody scenes were few and far between; and there wasn't much suggestive content, although one story implied the Dark Knight's infamous villainesses seducing men, though it wasn't graphic, thankfully.
All that said, it wasn't a tremendous improvement over the previous installment; merely a slight one. Still, that's a step in the right direction.
The artwork overall here was much better; there weren't any stories that looked like they were drawn by a third grader. One part even had drawings that looked like grayscale photography.
This volume also wasted less space by putting the biographies of the writers and artists at the end.
Not only that, but...unlike many modern comic book omnibuses, the quotient of objectionable content was kept low. Profanity was at a minimum, and sometimes merely implied instead of written out; disturbing images and bloody scenes were few and far between; and there wasn't much suggestive content, although one story implied the Dark Knight's infamous villainesses seducing men, though it wasn't graphic, thankfully.
All that said, it wasn't a tremendous improvement over the previous installment; merely a slight one. Still, that's a step in the right direction.
August 11, 2013
The second volume of Batman: Black & White is much like the first. Editor Mark Chiarello gathers together some of the most acclaimed writers and artists who then produce short stories about The Dark Knight. While I didn’t find the overall experience as strong as the first collection, there were still some pretty great tales inside.
The collection opens up on a strong note with some excellent artwork by the uber-talented Alex Ross. Ross brings his ultra-realistic style to a story written by Batman: The Animated Series scribe Paul Dini, about two doctors discussing whether or not The Joker really is as insane as he appears to be. The story that follows, dubbed “Batsman”, is a parody featuring The Caped Crusader. Unfortunately, it suffers from such an odd placement in the collection. I’m not sure why the decision was made to stick this light-hearted comedy after an intense and moody drama but I felt it ruined the flow and took me directly out of the book.
There are a few duds littered throughout that I didn’t really care for. John Byrne takes us back to an earlier Batman style, seemingly inspired by the 70s dynamic duo days before Frank Miller’s resurgence of The Bat in the 1980s. It’s not bad per say, I’m sure it captures the vibe that he intended, but it’s just not my thing. I prefer a darker and grittier Batman style.
While overall, I didn’t feel like it was as strong as the first volume, there are some gems hidden in here. Stories by Warren Ellis, Brian Azzerello, Harlen Ellison and a second tale by Paul Dini all shine and would be a crime to miss.
Cross Posted @ Every Read Thing
The collection opens up on a strong note with some excellent artwork by the uber-talented Alex Ross. Ross brings his ultra-realistic style to a story written by Batman: The Animated Series scribe Paul Dini, about two doctors discussing whether or not The Joker really is as insane as he appears to be. The story that follows, dubbed “Batsman”, is a parody featuring The Caped Crusader. Unfortunately, it suffers from such an odd placement in the collection. I’m not sure why the decision was made to stick this light-hearted comedy after an intense and moody drama but I felt it ruined the flow and took me directly out of the book.
There are a few duds littered throughout that I didn’t really care for. John Byrne takes us back to an earlier Batman style, seemingly inspired by the 70s dynamic duo days before Frank Miller’s resurgence of The Bat in the 1980s. It’s not bad per say, I’m sure it captures the vibe that he intended, but it’s just not my thing. I prefer a darker and grittier Batman style.
While overall, I didn’t feel like it was as strong as the first volume, there are some gems hidden in here. Stories by Warren Ellis, Brian Azzerello, Harlen Ellison and a second tale by Paul Dini all shine and would be a crime to miss.
Cross Posted @ Every Read Thing
August 13, 2018
This goes for probably quite a number of anthologies out there, but Volume 2 of the “Batman: Black and White” series reads like the result of a creative workshop. Not that Volume 1 was altogether different, since in both cases you have the pairing of a comic book writer and an illustrator (sometimes there is one person behind all the work, like in most group projects), given the task to create a very short story about the Caped Crusader.
I have no idea whether the dynamic duos have been paired at random or chosen based on some sort of selection, but throughout the first three quarters of the volume it felt like the gods of lottery had been in the mood for some serious pranking here. Granted, I did have the opportunity to reencounter two of my most beloved artists (beloved for their work on my favourite childhood superhero comic), but neither was impressive here. There was Paul Dini’s very good and very canonical origin croquis, unfortunately paired with an extremely irritating drawing style; an instance where Paul Rivoche’s clean, classic artwork overshadowed a fair but cliché plot; another where you could recognise Dave Gibbons’ drawing in a heartbeat; yet another where Enrique Breccia’s very specific visual style, that had at first seemed too frenetic and chaotic, proved itself remarkably complementary to the story. You’ll also find Howard Chaykin’s and Jordi Bennett’s decent comic relief, a parody of old-school comics from the fifties, in plot, mind-set and drawing style alike. But distinguishing itself from anything offered here, stands a rounded story about Batman’s confrontation with Green Lantern, a hero so very different from himself, as well as his confrontation with his own beliefs and actions. Here you have it, black on white (pun intended), how much contents can be fitted into so little space. Good in itself, Alan Brennert’s story is trumped with superb artwork by José Luis García-López. So superb that I feel like digging up as much of his work as I can. His use of perspective, diagonal panels and his presentation of motion reminded me of my favourite classic X-Men story drawn by Neal Adams, though García-López’ work here is more sophisticated.
Unlike Volume 1, which contained an introduction, commentaries, panel studies and what not, this issue is quite bare and stripped to its essentials. Quite a number of the stories are so crazily short that there is not even a chance to develop anything resembling a narrative. A vast majority of the artwork is distorted and jumbled, mostly indecipherable. On top of that, the entire concept is already familiar through Volume 1, so that all the contributions delivered here would have had it far more difficult anyway to make an impact. They lack the element of novelty. And they are in total not very good either. Two halfway decent woks, two reasonable ones, one surprisingly good and one remarkable are not enough to save the anthology’s honour. They go under in a mess of raw concepts and frenzied lines that feel like something created by a spider high on caffeine and anxiety. In fact, hardly anything could win against some examples of hopeless imbecility, nor against people who should never ever be allowed near a drawing board or a script.
The few sound stories in this volume make honourable exceptions which would have deserved better treatment and better company. Just like the editor should have been able to cut his losses and face the fact that some things just won’t do. As it is, this collection feels mostly like a pot of leftovers somebody didn’t have the heart or character to throw away.
I have no idea whether the dynamic duos have been paired at random or chosen based on some sort of selection, but throughout the first three quarters of the volume it felt like the gods of lottery had been in the mood for some serious pranking here. Granted, I did have the opportunity to reencounter two of my most beloved artists (beloved for their work on my favourite childhood superhero comic), but neither was impressive here. There was Paul Dini’s very good and very canonical origin croquis, unfortunately paired with an extremely irritating drawing style; an instance where Paul Rivoche’s clean, classic artwork overshadowed a fair but cliché plot; another where you could recognise Dave Gibbons’ drawing in a heartbeat; yet another where Enrique Breccia’s very specific visual style, that had at first seemed too frenetic and chaotic, proved itself remarkably complementary to the story. You’ll also find Howard Chaykin’s and Jordi Bennett’s decent comic relief, a parody of old-school comics from the fifties, in plot, mind-set and drawing style alike. But distinguishing itself from anything offered here, stands a rounded story about Batman’s confrontation with Green Lantern, a hero so very different from himself, as well as his confrontation with his own beliefs and actions. Here you have it, black on white (pun intended), how much contents can be fitted into so little space. Good in itself, Alan Brennert’s story is trumped with superb artwork by José Luis García-López. So superb that I feel like digging up as much of his work as I can. His use of perspective, diagonal panels and his presentation of motion reminded me of my favourite classic X-Men story drawn by Neal Adams, though García-López’ work here is more sophisticated.
Unlike Volume 1, which contained an introduction, commentaries, panel studies and what not, this issue is quite bare and stripped to its essentials. Quite a number of the stories are so crazily short that there is not even a chance to develop anything resembling a narrative. A vast majority of the artwork is distorted and jumbled, mostly indecipherable. On top of that, the entire concept is already familiar through Volume 1, so that all the contributions delivered here would have had it far more difficult anyway to make an impact. They lack the element of novelty. And they are in total not very good either. Two halfway decent woks, two reasonable ones, one surprisingly good and one remarkable are not enough to save the anthology’s honour. They go under in a mess of raw concepts and frenzied lines that feel like something created by a spider high on caffeine and anxiety. In fact, hardly anything could win against some examples of hopeless imbecility, nor against people who should never ever be allowed near a drawing board or a script.
The few sound stories in this volume make honourable exceptions which would have deserved better treatment and better company. Just like the editor should have been able to cut his losses and face the fact that some things just won’t do. As it is, this collection feels mostly like a pot of leftovers somebody didn’t have the heart or character to throw away.
January 6, 2013
Like the first “Batman: Black & White” collection, this anthology contains some of the biggest names in comics putting together short Batman stories in black and white, but the overall effect is uneven with some great stories, some awful stories, and quite a lot of so-so stories.
My favourite by far in this collection was the opening story called “Case Study” by Paul Dini and drawn by Alex Ross, which takes a look at the Joker before he became the Joker and questions whether he really is crazy or not. After all, how could a crazy person put together and carry out so many complex criminal schemes? Couple Dini’s superb writing with Ross’ art and you’ve got a winner every time.
Dini also contributed an excellent short called “The Bet” where Harley and Ivy, bored while locked up in Arkham, make a bet to see who can kiss the most guards. Drawn by Ronnie Del Carmen in Bruce Timm’s style, it’s a fun story but if you’ve read the Dini/DC “Harley and Ivy” book then you’ll have already read this as it’s included in that book as well (in colour too).
Warren Ellis and Jim Lee’s “To Become the Bat” is an effective look back at how Batman developed the skills he has while inter-splicing scenes of a case he’s currently working on showing him using those skills. Lee’s art is excellent and Ellis masterfully concocts a layered story within just a few pages.
Walter Simonson and John Paul Leon’s “The Riddle” riffs on the ever-present Lewis Carroll themes in Gotham by having the Riddler seek out the answer to the unanswered riddle in “Alice in Wonderland” (“Why is a raven like a writing desk?”) in the house of a dead billionaire who was obsessed with Carroll. Leon’s art is brilliantly zany, taking familiar characters from Wonderland and darkly warping them while Batman appears as a sinister Cheshire Bat.
The rest of the stories have moments that I thought were interesting like exploring what Batman got up to in WW2, or a conversation between Batman and Zsasz while waiting for the GCPD to show up, and some of the art is fantastic. But overall, the book contains a few good stories but mostly only some mildly entertaining stuff - the rest is very forgettable. “B&W, Vol 2” is definitely not a must-read book of the Batman canon.
My favourite by far in this collection was the opening story called “Case Study” by Paul Dini and drawn by Alex Ross, which takes a look at the Joker before he became the Joker and questions whether he really is crazy or not. After all, how could a crazy person put together and carry out so many complex criminal schemes? Couple Dini’s superb writing with Ross’ art and you’ve got a winner every time.
Dini also contributed an excellent short called “The Bet” where Harley and Ivy, bored while locked up in Arkham, make a bet to see who can kiss the most guards. Drawn by Ronnie Del Carmen in Bruce Timm’s style, it’s a fun story but if you’ve read the Dini/DC “Harley and Ivy” book then you’ll have already read this as it’s included in that book as well (in colour too).
Warren Ellis and Jim Lee’s “To Become the Bat” is an effective look back at how Batman developed the skills he has while inter-splicing scenes of a case he’s currently working on showing him using those skills. Lee’s art is excellent and Ellis masterfully concocts a layered story within just a few pages.
Walter Simonson and John Paul Leon’s “The Riddle” riffs on the ever-present Lewis Carroll themes in Gotham by having the Riddler seek out the answer to the unanswered riddle in “Alice in Wonderland” (“Why is a raven like a writing desk?”) in the house of a dead billionaire who was obsessed with Carroll. Leon’s art is brilliantly zany, taking familiar characters from Wonderland and darkly warping them while Batman appears as a sinister Cheshire Bat.
The rest of the stories have moments that I thought were interesting like exploring what Batman got up to in WW2, or a conversation between Batman and Zsasz while waiting for the GCPD to show up, and some of the art is fantastic. But overall, the book contains a few good stories but mostly only some mildly entertaining stuff - the rest is very forgettable. “B&W, Vol 2” is definitely not a must-read book of the Batman canon.
January 8, 2018
A good anthology of Batman stories by some of the best writers and artists out there. And I do love black and white comic art! Like most collections of short stories it's hit or miss, but for the most part the majority of them are good stories. I do have Batman: Black and White Vol. 1 but unfortunately am unable to find it at the moment. Once I do, however, I will read that too.
February 12, 2013
It's an anthology, so of course it's a mixed bag, both from an art and story perspective. There are some really outstanding stories here. Paul Dini's "Case Study", the first story in the collection, is a nice and perceptive look at Joker's psychology, painting him as someone completely sane, possibly even hyper-sane, who uses the trappings of insanity as a mask. Howard Chaykin's "Blackout" took me surprise. It's set in the 40s and co-stars Catwoman, and surprised me by being an honestly good period piece. Most of the other pieces are decent reads, though there are a few clunkers. I very much could have done without "Batsman" or "Snow Job", and "The Black and White Bandit" is almost painfully forgettable. But there's more than enough good here to make this a worthwhile read, for Batman fans.
December 10, 2022
Segundo volumen de esta increíble, visualmente maravillosa y narrativamente entretenida recopilación de historias de Batman en blanco y negro. Cada una de las historias se destaca a su manera, y la variación de estéticas y estilos, tanto en el dibujo -que va de lo serio a lo grotesco, de lo pulcro a lo cargado- como en la narración -que pasa de los intimista a lo jocoso, de lo brutal a lo detectivesco- enriquecen el conjunto. El volumen se cierra con una tremenda historia de Batman ilustrada por Enrique Breccia, un Caballero Oscuro con rasgos de Alvar Mayor.
March 27, 2024
I thought this was a decent collection. Each story is a stand alone, with the art always being done in black and white. There are some truly top name creators involved, and while every story isn't a hit, the majority are pretty good. There's a lot of variety in the genres presented, and it does seem like the creators really had fun with the stories.
January 8, 2024
Excellent storytelling and artwork. Volume 2 does not let up. So many masters of their trades at their best; what love and darkness imbued in these vignettes of the Dark Knight.
December 14, 2023
If
Black and White Vol. 1
was more about getting to a more ethical, compassionate Batman, this series has more silly and edgy stories, not an upgrade in my opinion. However, there are some great stories, especially in the second half.
“Case Study” 4 Stars
Dini and Ross deconstruct the Joker, sort of. It’s great.
“Bats, Man” 2 Stars
Some okay gags, but overall, not great.
“A Matter of Trust” 3.5 Stars
Really enjoyed this take. This type of story has been done before, but it’s interesting here.
“Night after Night” 4 Stars
Love Sale’s Batman, and the end of this story really boosts it.
“Fortunes” 3 Stars
It’s a good detective story, but this series has done better.
Batman: Gotham Knights #1: "To Become the Bat" 2.5 Stars
While I like Lee’s art, this is a less than good version of the parallel origin story.
Batman: Gotham Knights #2: "Batman with Robin the Boy Wonder" 3.5 Stars
This one is really silly, but fun. Nice throwback to Adam West.
Batman: Gotham Knights #3: "Broken Nose" 3.5 Stars
Not sure I love the “eye for an eye” thing, but I did kinda laugh, so… Also, is that a Doctor Mabuse reference? I love it.
Batman: Gotham Knights #4: "Greetings from... Gotham City" 3 Stars
Very fine. The postcard art is kind of the best thing.
Batman: Gotham Knights #5: "Hide and Seek" 3.5 Stars
Another good one that’s playing with perception. It might be better if it’s not read in a row with some of the rest of these as they definitely repeat themes.
Batman: Gotham Knights #6: "The Riddle" 4 Stars
Good Riddler stories are probably the hardest to write, and Simonson does it so well. I wish the Cheshire cat smile panels were a little clearer, but the rest is gold.
Batman: Gotham Knights #7: "A Game of Bat and Rat" 3 Stars
I feel like it’s well drawn, but derivative of a certain Batman:the Animated Series episode.
Batman: Gotham Knights #8: "Scars" 3 Stars
Maybe the one of these that requires the most context for a minor villain: Victor Zsasz. Also, the end is too edgy for me.
Batman: Gotham Knights #9: "Blackout" 3.5 Stars
I rather love it when they do pulpy period stories, and this one is very fun, if a little predictable.
Batman: Gotham Knights #10: "Guardian" 4 Stars
It’s a pairing that I didn’t think I’d enjoy, let alone love.
Batman: Gotham Knights #11: "Snow Job!" 3 Stars
Cute.
Batman: Gotham Knights #12: "The Black and White Bandit" 3.5 Stars
A classic Golden-Age style tale with some fun to be had.
Batman: Gotham Knights #13: "Funny Money" 4.5 Stars Stars
Never underestimate Harlan Ellison. This has some excellent art with a superb story. I was not expecting that prison panel layout.
Batman: Gotham Knights #14: "The Bet" 3.5 Stars
The end and the art really make this one.
Batman: Gotham Knights #15: "Stormy Nether" 3 Stars
It’s another fine story.
Batman: Gotham Knights #16: "the Bat no More...?" 3.5 Stars
The art really sinks it here. The story’s pretty good, but man, fear gas is so cool.
“Case Study” 4 Stars
Dini and Ross deconstruct the Joker, sort of. It’s great.
“Bats, Man” 2 Stars
Some okay gags, but overall, not great.
“A Matter of Trust” 3.5 Stars
Really enjoyed this take. This type of story has been done before, but it’s interesting here.
“Night after Night” 4 Stars
Love Sale’s Batman, and the end of this story really boosts it.
“Fortunes” 3 Stars
It’s a good detective story, but this series has done better.
Batman: Gotham Knights #1: "To Become the Bat" 2.5 Stars
While I like Lee’s art, this is a less than good version of the parallel origin story.
Batman: Gotham Knights #2: "Batman with Robin the Boy Wonder" 3.5 Stars
This one is really silly, but fun. Nice throwback to Adam West.
Batman: Gotham Knights #3: "Broken Nose" 3.5 Stars
Not sure I love the “eye for an eye” thing, but I did kinda laugh, so… Also, is that a Doctor Mabuse reference? I love it.
Batman: Gotham Knights #4: "Greetings from... Gotham City" 3 Stars
Very fine. The postcard art is kind of the best thing.
Batman: Gotham Knights #5: "Hide and Seek" 3.5 Stars
Another good one that’s playing with perception. It might be better if it’s not read in a row with some of the rest of these as they definitely repeat themes.
Batman: Gotham Knights #6: "The Riddle" 4 Stars
Good Riddler stories are probably the hardest to write, and Simonson does it so well. I wish the Cheshire cat smile panels were a little clearer, but the rest is gold.
Batman: Gotham Knights #7: "A Game of Bat and Rat" 3 Stars
I feel like it’s well drawn, but derivative of a certain Batman:the Animated Series episode.
Batman: Gotham Knights #8: "Scars" 3 Stars
Maybe the one of these that requires the most context for a minor villain: Victor Zsasz. Also, the end is too edgy for me.
Batman: Gotham Knights #9: "Blackout" 3.5 Stars
I rather love it when they do pulpy period stories, and this one is very fun, if a little predictable.
Batman: Gotham Knights #10: "Guardian" 4 Stars
It’s a pairing that I didn’t think I’d enjoy, let alone love.
Batman: Gotham Knights #11: "Snow Job!" 3 Stars
Cute.
Batman: Gotham Knights #12: "The Black and White Bandit" 3.5 Stars
A classic Golden-Age style tale with some fun to be had.
Batman: Gotham Knights #13: "Funny Money" 4.5 Stars Stars
Never underestimate Harlan Ellison. This has some excellent art with a superb story. I was not expecting that prison panel layout.
Batman: Gotham Knights #14: "The Bet" 3.5 Stars
The end and the art really make this one.
Batman: Gotham Knights #15: "Stormy Nether" 3 Stars
It’s another fine story.
Batman: Gotham Knights #16: "the Bat no More...?" 3.5 Stars
The art really sinks it here. The story’s pretty good, but man, fear gas is so cool.
October 28, 2018
Batman: Black and White, Vol. 2 is a Batman anthology featuring black-and-white Batman short stories. Written and illustrated by various writers and pencilers, Batman: Black and White 2 is an anthology of backup stories from Batman: Gotham Knights #1–16 with a handful of new short stories. This trade paperback collects Batman: Gotham Knights #1–16 backup stories with five new stories.
For the most part, I really like most of these entries – the black and white gave the dark noir feeling that this anthology was trying to capture. Like most anthologies, there are weaker contributions, but that is only comparatively speaking, as even the mediocre stories were quite good.
With many writers, graphic artists and colorist it rather difficult to rate this anthology. For the most part, I rather enjoyed the narrative and penciling throughout – DC Comics has chosen their best luminaries and have them develop a short story. The penciling is a tad inconsistent, but it was not a problem as each story was rather short and the dislike of any penciling or writing style would be over quite quickly.
All in all, Batman: Black and White, Vol. 2 is a wonderful collection of short stories detective noir stories featuring Batman or one of his associates written and penciled by the crème de la crème of DC Comics best.
For the most part, I really like most of these entries – the black and white gave the dark noir feeling that this anthology was trying to capture. Like most anthologies, there are weaker contributions, but that is only comparatively speaking, as even the mediocre stories were quite good.
With many writers, graphic artists and colorist it rather difficult to rate this anthology. For the most part, I rather enjoyed the narrative and penciling throughout – DC Comics has chosen their best luminaries and have them develop a short story. The penciling is a tad inconsistent, but it was not a problem as each story was rather short and the dislike of any penciling or writing style would be over quite quickly.
All in all, Batman: Black and White, Vol. 2 is a wonderful collection of short stories detective noir stories featuring Batman or one of his associates written and penciled by the crème de la crème of DC Comics best.
November 2, 2023
My thoughts on these stories (note: these are not all of them)
-"Case Study" is another great story to begin with. It explores the idea that the Joker might not be insane after all, just evil. Written by Paul Dini and artwork by Alex Ross, it is one of my favorites of this volume.
-"Batsman: Swarming Scourge of the Underworld" is a parody, but I didn't like it.
-We, the readers and fans, know Bruce trained for years to become Batman, but "To Become the Bat" shows exactly what types of things he needs to know besides how to fight, such as the different size bullet wounds guns leave or the scents of different aftershaves.
-"Hide and Seek" is another one of my favorites in volume 2. It is another example of how Batman cares for the people of Gotham, finding a lost and hurt boy after a train derailment.
-"The Riddle" was interesting. I understand how it can be a Riddler story, but since the collector was obsessed with Lewis Carroll, I thought the Mad Hatter would be the rogue that would appear. Will we ever know the answer to why a raven is like a writing desk?
-I totally called the ending to "A Game of Bat and Rat"
-"Snow Job" is another comic I didn't exactly like. I can't imagine Bruce dreaming of a son to help with being Batman, especially since he has Robin as a partner.
-"The Bet" is another story written by Paul Dini, and therefore, reminds me of Batman: The Animated Series. Harley and Ivy make a bet for $1 that one of them can kiss all the males in Arkham Asylum (inmates, doctors, and guards), and it seems that Poison Ivy will win...
-"The Bat No More...?" is written by Alan Grant and features my favorite character, The Scarecrow. The artwork is sketchy and fits the story. Who will fold first: Batman, afraid of bats and the dark, or Scarecrow, afraid of words and his books?
-"Case Study" is another great story to begin with. It explores the idea that the Joker might not be insane after all, just evil. Written by Paul Dini and artwork by Alex Ross, it is one of my favorites of this volume.
-"Batsman: Swarming Scourge of the Underworld" is a parody, but I didn't like it.
-We, the readers and fans, know Bruce trained for years to become Batman, but "To Become the Bat" shows exactly what types of things he needs to know besides how to fight, such as the different size bullet wounds guns leave or the scents of different aftershaves.
-"Hide and Seek" is another one of my favorites in volume 2. It is another example of how Batman cares for the people of Gotham, finding a lost and hurt boy after a train derailment.
-"The Riddle" was interesting. I understand how it can be a Riddler story, but since the collector was obsessed with Lewis Carroll, I thought the Mad Hatter would be the rogue that would appear. Will we ever know the answer to why a raven is like a writing desk?
-I totally called the ending to "A Game of Bat and Rat"
-"Snow Job" is another comic I didn't exactly like. I can't imagine Bruce dreaming of a son to help with being Batman, especially since he has Robin as a partner.
-"The Bet" is another story written by Paul Dini, and therefore, reminds me of Batman: The Animated Series. Harley and Ivy make a bet for $1 that one of them can kiss all the males in Arkham Asylum (inmates, doctors, and guards), and it seems that Poison Ivy will win...
-"The Bat No More...?" is written by Alan Grant and features my favorite character, The Scarecrow. The artwork is sketchy and fits the story. Who will fold first: Batman, afraid of bats and the dark, or Scarecrow, afraid of words and his books?
July 6, 2024
This volume collects various stories by different creators, these stories were originally published as B stories in the Batman: Gotham Knights comic.
As with all anthologies some stories are hits and others are misses.
Some were funny, some were gripping, others were touching and a minority were confusing.
Still, I quite enjoyed reading this book. It was also interesting seeing some of the creators take advantage of the whole black and white gimmick.
A neat little gag I enjoyed was in Howard Chaykin's story, where Catwoman kissed Batman on the cheek and the kiss stain remained until Gordon notices and hands Batman a handkerchief. Quite cute!
I read this in January and it remained the only book I read for quite a while.
As with all anthologies some stories are hits and others are misses.
Some were funny, some were gripping, others were touching and a minority were confusing.
Still, I quite enjoyed reading this book. It was also interesting seeing some of the creators take advantage of the whole black and white gimmick.
A neat little gag I enjoyed was in Howard Chaykin's story, where Catwoman kissed Batman on the cheek and the kiss stain remained until Gordon notices and hands Batman a handkerchief. Quite cute!
I read this in January and it remained the only book I read for quite a while.
December 5, 2020
J’ai vraiment adoré le 1er volume de cette série!
La 2e est en complète continuité. Cela dit, globalement, les histoires me semblent moins percutantes! La première histoire du premier volume commençait sur une histoire très profonde!
Cela dit, les dessins sont magnifiques! C’est encore une fois la force de cette série! Voir l’interprétation du chevalier noir par différents artistes est toujours aussi inspirant! Des hommages aux années 40 (et une pluie de calembours à avoir des maux de tête!) aux dessins plus modernes, c’est parfait!
C’est vraiment dans les dessins que l’on voit la force de ce 2e volume!
La 2e est en complète continuité. Cela dit, globalement, les histoires me semblent moins percutantes! La première histoire du premier volume commençait sur une histoire très profonde!
Cela dit, les dessins sont magnifiques! C’est encore une fois la force de cette série! Voir l’interprétation du chevalier noir par différents artistes est toujours aussi inspirant! Des hommages aux années 40 (et une pluie de calembours à avoir des maux de tête!) aux dessins plus modernes, c’est parfait!
C’est vraiment dans les dessins que l’on voit la force de ce 2e volume!
July 29, 2023
While shorter than the other collections in this series, this is still a great collection of talent producing a diverse range of Batman tales.
The artwork is the main draw here, with a large variety on show, the quality of the stories however is very hit and miss. While the fact that some are pitched as humour with others going for high pathos gives an inconisitent feel, the main problem is many just don't really go anywhere. Perhaps that is down to a number in the collection coming from artists turning their hands to writing duties as well as illustration, and simply arent as experienced to make them effective.
The artwork is the main draw here, with a large variety on show, the quality of the stories however is very hit and miss. While the fact that some are pitched as humour with others going for high pathos gives an inconisitent feel, the main problem is many just don't really go anywhere. Perhaps that is down to a number in the collection coming from artists turning their hands to writing duties as well as illustration, and simply arent as experienced to make them effective.
November 5, 2021
Compared to the first volume, there is no overarching theme to the stories in this volume. The first few led me to think that this one would be more comic and satirical, but that was really just the first few. It's more than a 3 stars, but less than 4 imo.
These were the ones whose stories I particularly liked:
• Case Study
• Bats, Man (hilarious satire!)
• A Game of Bat and Rat
• The Black & White Bandit
I enjoyed the art in these ones:
• Case Study
• Bats, Man (lent itself well to the satirical content)
• The Black & White Bandit
• Funny Money
• The Bat No More..?
These were the ones whose stories I particularly liked:
• Case Study
• Bats, Man (hilarious satire!)
• A Game of Bat and Rat
• The Black & White Bandit
I enjoyed the art in these ones:
• Case Study
• Bats, Man (lent itself well to the satirical content)
• The Black & White Bandit
• Funny Money
• The Bat No More..?
January 21, 2018
Great anthology of short, sweet Batman tales. I appreciated this volume's sense of humor intermingled with more sobered takes on the Dark Knight. Paul Dini turns up for a few tales - really, the creative teams are just magnificent.
February 23, 2019
Oh boy I can't keep any of these straight anymore. They all had one or two pretty good stories and then a number of fair stories.
What's interesting is how many of them focus on Scarecrow and how few focus on the Joker. Also, few Robins.
What's interesting is how many of them focus on Scarecrow and how few focus on the Joker. Also, few Robins.
November 9, 2020
There's just not enough here. There are a bunch of talented creators, many not associated with Batman, telling very short black and white tales. Unfortunately, the stories are too quick. Nothing had any weight or gravitas. Overall, interesting but lacking.
January 22, 2022
A handful of great stories (Case Study, Night After Night, and The Riddle were the highlights for me) but wasn't as impressed with this volume as I remember liking the first. Still solid overall and cool to see this much visual variety within the Batman character.
March 29, 2022
There are some great writers and artists in this collection and there are some good stories but for me they are all just a bit disposable. I have read them, enjoyed some but will never need to read them again
August 26, 2022
Batman Black and White is interesting. It contains short stories in the Batman with each in a distinct art style. We got Alex Ross, Batman TAS, and some 70's version or something. Over all it is pretty neato.
3/5 spiffy, I like it.
3/5 spiffy, I like it.
September 11, 2022
Not quite as strong as the first collection overall. Half of them were on the same level and absolutely phenomenal but others didn't hit the mark quite as well. Still an amazing collection of batman stories, highlights include case study, night after night, funny money, the bet and the riddle.
May 6, 2017
not as perfect as the first !!!
May 17, 2019
A couple of good stories, but a disappointment compared to Vol 1.
October 4, 2019
Mostly very strong art, although this set of stories lacks vol. 1's stylistic range, abetted by passable scripts.
October 20, 2019
Lepší jak jednička, ale pořád je valná většina knihy taková nijaká.
3,5*
3,5*
September 13, 2020
This volume includes my #1 favorite Batman: Black & White story, "Guardian" by Alan Brennert and Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez.
November 5, 2022
good book aside from that creepy ass harley story
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