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Batman: Prelude to the Wedding #1-5
Batman: Preludes to the Wedding
Wedding bells are ringing in Gotham City…and the criminal underworld is determined to silence them! Following The Joker’s discovery that Batman and Catwoman are getting married, Gotham City’s villains jump into action. If they are going to lose one of their own, it’s not going to be so that their greatest enemy can be happy!
Spinning out of the pages of DC NATION and leading up to Tom King’s BATMAN VOL. 7, BATMAN: PRELUDES TO THE WEDDING is a collection of five one-shots starring Batman’s friends and foes, all trying to celebrate—or sabotage—the Dark Knight’s big day.
Harley Quinn knows a thing or two about dysfunctional relationships. When she hears that her old flame is trying to get in the way of a happy life for one of her best friends, the Maid of Mischief tracks The Joker down to give him a piece of her mind—and maybe a few blows from her hammer, too. Meanwhile, Nightwing fulfills his duty as best man by picking up the engagement ring when Hush interferes; Ra’s Al Ghul attempts to recruit Damian as the heir to the family business; Batgirl and the Riddler engage in a battle of wits; and Anarky taunts Red Hood as a failed Robin.
Writer Tim Seeley (Grayson, Nightwing, Green Lanterns), teams up with an all-star cast of artists to expand the world of Tom King’s critically acclaimed series, Batman!
Collects Robin vs. Ra’s Al Ghul #1, Nightwing vs. Hush #1, Batgirl vs. The Riddler #1, Red Hood vs. Anarky #1 and Harley Quinn vs. The Joker #1.
Spinning out of the pages of DC NATION and leading up to Tom King’s BATMAN VOL. 7, BATMAN: PRELUDES TO THE WEDDING is a collection of five one-shots starring Batman’s friends and foes, all trying to celebrate—or sabotage—the Dark Knight’s big day.
Harley Quinn knows a thing or two about dysfunctional relationships. When she hears that her old flame is trying to get in the way of a happy life for one of her best friends, the Maid of Mischief tracks The Joker down to give him a piece of her mind—and maybe a few blows from her hammer, too. Meanwhile, Nightwing fulfills his duty as best man by picking up the engagement ring when Hush interferes; Ra’s Al Ghul attempts to recruit Damian as the heir to the family business; Batgirl and the Riddler engage in a battle of wits; and Anarky taunts Red Hood as a failed Robin.
Writer Tim Seeley (Grayson, Nightwing, Green Lanterns), teams up with an all-star cast of artists to expand the world of Tom King’s critically acclaimed series, Batman!
Collects Robin vs. Ra’s Al Ghul #1, Nightwing vs. Hush #1, Batgirl vs. The Riddler #1, Red Hood vs. Anarky #1 and Harley Quinn vs. The Joker #1.
144 pages, Paperback
First published September 11, 2018
19 people are currently reading
1679 people want to read
About the author
Tim Seeley
1,648 books609 followersTim Seeley is a comic book artist and writer known for his work on books such as G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero, The Dark Elf Trilogy, Batman Eternal and Grayson. He is also the co-creator of the Image Comics titles Hack/Slash[1] and Revival, as well as the Dark Horse titles, ExSanguine and Sundowners. He lives in Chicago.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
September 12, 2018
What a great premise. The Joker is offended he didn't get an invitation to the Bat and the Cat's wedding and sicks Batman's rogues out to ruin it. The Bat-Family steps in to stop each of the villains. I had a lot of fun with this. All of the one-shots are by capable artists. A recommended read prior to the wedding.
Received a review copy from DC and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
Received a review copy from DC and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
September 6, 2018
You can find my review on my blog by clicking here.
While Batman and Catwoman might be just days from walking down the aisle and from going on one of the most special journeys they could ever live to enjoy, the Gotham underworld are far from ready to let this kind of happiness exist within their territory. After all, who would have actually thought that a wedding between these two could ever happen in peace? With a whole array of villains ready to jump on any opportunity to ruin a good moment, it was only a matter of time before things got out of hand and evil plots were unleashed to wreak havoc. But that doesn’t mean that there’s no one in Gotham to intervene and act as guardian angels for the Caped Crusader.
This collection features five one-shot stories all written by Tim Seeley with the help of various different artists. They each feature a battle between two characters and has the integrity of the upcoming wedding as the main connecting element. The first story puts Damian Wayne up against his grand-father Ra’s Al Ghul as he attempts to recruit his grandchild into his family business, while sowing the seed of doubt in Damian’s future within the soon-to-be new family. The second story features Nightwing as he is tossed into an unexpected battle against Hush who continues to suffer an identity crisis and brings Nightwing to live through the same existential questions. The third story has Batgirl going up against the Riddler as he makes her go through several riddles that has a bunch of innocent people’s lives at stake. The fourth story puts Red Hood on a mission to stop Anarky from achieving the chaos he wishes to bring forth right before the wedding. The final story is an interesting twist that has Harley Quinn going up against the Joker in order to stop him from ruining her friend’s wedding.
While Tom King isn’t the writer behind these stories, one of his stories is still inserted at the beginning of the collection and is undoubtedly the best story in the bunch. This story called “Your Big Day” was featured in the highly praised DC Nation #0 and has Tom King, with his trusted artist-friend Clay Mann, draw up a frightening and ridiculously beautiful moment between Joker and a clueless resident of Gotham. By bringing into play a Joker who is simultaneously composed and out of his mind, this creative team successfully showcase Joker’s unpredictable and volatile nature in a brilliant fashion. The story essentially comes down to the Joker waiting for an invitation for Batman and Catwoman’s wedding, while psychologically torturing this innocent resident. I can assure you that this story will send chills down your spine. It’s just that good.
The rest of the one-shots were minimally entertaining and had decent art, but they never truly went in any creative direction. Clearly, the goal of this collection was to hype up the impending wedding in the main Batman series (and get a couple of extra bucks out of fans). Often characters were also going on and on, almost as if they were on a soliloquy. The lengthy dialogues for some characters made it hard to find them authentic, especially when you’re drawing upon an event and characters built up by Tom King, who never made his characters say more than 10 words per panel. These inconsistencies made it hard to truly find yourself invested in the stories. The only way to enjoy these were to look at this collection as that magazine you pick up as you wait for the number on your ticket to pop up before it’s your turn to the main event.
Batman: Preludes to the Wedding is still a fun and quick read, but is far from being a quintessential volume in the bigger scheme of things. There’s nothing truly consequential in this volume, but at least there’s the little Tom King story that keeps this volume standing on two feet.
Yours truly,
Lashaan | Blogger and Book Reviewer
Official blog: https://bookidote.com/
While Batman and Catwoman might be just days from walking down the aisle and from going on one of the most special journeys they could ever live to enjoy, the Gotham underworld are far from ready to let this kind of happiness exist within their territory. After all, who would have actually thought that a wedding between these two could ever happen in peace? With a whole array of villains ready to jump on any opportunity to ruin a good moment, it was only a matter of time before things got out of hand and evil plots were unleashed to wreak havoc. But that doesn’t mean that there’s no one in Gotham to intervene and act as guardian angels for the Caped Crusader.
This collection features five one-shot stories all written by Tim Seeley with the help of various different artists. They each feature a battle between two characters and has the integrity of the upcoming wedding as the main connecting element. The first story puts Damian Wayne up against his grand-father Ra’s Al Ghul as he attempts to recruit his grandchild into his family business, while sowing the seed of doubt in Damian’s future within the soon-to-be new family. The second story features Nightwing as he is tossed into an unexpected battle against Hush who continues to suffer an identity crisis and brings Nightwing to live through the same existential questions. The third story has Batgirl going up against the Riddler as he makes her go through several riddles that has a bunch of innocent people’s lives at stake. The fourth story puts Red Hood on a mission to stop Anarky from achieving the chaos he wishes to bring forth right before the wedding. The final story is an interesting twist that has Harley Quinn going up against the Joker in order to stop him from ruining her friend’s wedding.
While Tom King isn’t the writer behind these stories, one of his stories is still inserted at the beginning of the collection and is undoubtedly the best story in the bunch. This story called “Your Big Day” was featured in the highly praised DC Nation #0 and has Tom King, with his trusted artist-friend Clay Mann, draw up a frightening and ridiculously beautiful moment between Joker and a clueless resident of Gotham. By bringing into play a Joker who is simultaneously composed and out of his mind, this creative team successfully showcase Joker’s unpredictable and volatile nature in a brilliant fashion. The story essentially comes down to the Joker waiting for an invitation for Batman and Catwoman’s wedding, while psychologically torturing this innocent resident. I can assure you that this story will send chills down your spine. It’s just that good.
The rest of the one-shots were minimally entertaining and had decent art, but they never truly went in any creative direction. Clearly, the goal of this collection was to hype up the impending wedding in the main Batman series (and get a couple of extra bucks out of fans). Often characters were also going on and on, almost as if they were on a soliloquy. The lengthy dialogues for some characters made it hard to find them authentic, especially when you’re drawing upon an event and characters built up by Tom King, who never made his characters say more than 10 words per panel. These inconsistencies made it hard to truly find yourself invested in the stories. The only way to enjoy these were to look at this collection as that magazine you pick up as you wait for the number on your ticket to pop up before it’s your turn to the main event.
Batman: Preludes to the Wedding is still a fun and quick read, but is far from being a quintessential volume in the bigger scheme of things. There’s nothing truly consequential in this volume, but at least there’s the little Tom King story that keeps this volume standing on two feet.
Yours truly,
Lashaan | Blogger and Book Reviewer
Official blog: https://bookidote.com/
February 28, 2020
A bit of a mixed bag. 5 stories with a couple of interlocking threads to connect them. Over all I wanted to give this 3.5 stars but it definitely deserves a round up instead of down especially on the strength of a couple of stories.
The upcoming (secret) marriage of Batman and Catwonan is just a day away. However word has got out to the underworld, since feel spurned, jealous, angry or outraged. Can the Bat-family get the happy couple to the alter?
The introduction Batman's deadliest enemy is up to their old tricks.
Damian and Catwoman on bond over last minute shopping. Damian must face his past and unknown or possible future.
Batman's bachelor party. I think Batman's thinking of putting Superman in charge of his batchelor party would make it uneventful and safe right? This is Gotham the city of lunatics. Nightwing must take one for the team.
Batgirl Vs the Riddler. This is my favourite of all the stories in ths book. Not just the Batgirl (Barbara Gordon) is the best suited to the Riddler's puzzles, crazy and affection, but because the fight are brutal I especially liked that fact that Tim Seeley and Otto Schmidt, not only wrote Batgirl perfectly, the also drew the bruises and bumps she hot along the way.
Red Hood is on bodyguard duty at the bachelorette party. What does he do whe he must choose between the bride or the city?
Harly Vs the Joker. The mind games and death traps. I have to say this version of the Jober is much more of a fighter the most incarnation. He leaves a huge body count through out this book most in hand to hand combat if bodies left are to go by.
The upcoming (secret) marriage of Batman and Catwonan is just a day away. However word has got out to the underworld, since feel spurned, jealous, angry or outraged. Can the Bat-family get the happy couple to the alter?
The introduction Batman's deadliest enemy is up to their old tricks.
Damian and Catwoman on bond over last minute shopping. Damian must face his past and unknown or possible future.
Batman's bachelor party. I think Batman's thinking of putting Superman in charge of his batchelor party would make it uneventful and safe right? This is Gotham the city of lunatics. Nightwing must take one for the team.
Batgirl Vs the Riddler. This is my favourite of all the stories in ths book. Not just the Batgirl (Barbara Gordon) is the best suited to the Riddler's puzzles, crazy and affection, but because the fight are brutal I especially liked that fact that Tim Seeley and Otto Schmidt, not only wrote Batgirl perfectly, the also drew the bruises and bumps she hot along the way.
Red Hood is on bodyguard duty at the bachelorette party. What does he do whe he must choose between the bride or the city?
Harly Vs the Joker. The mind games and death traps. I have to say this version of the Jober is much more of a fighter the most incarnation. He leaves a huge body count through out this book most in hand to hand combat if bodies left are to go by.
September 14, 2018
This was just okay. Just 5 different stories all concluding to Batman's big wedding. While the Nightwing one and Damien one were pretty solid the other 3 just kind of fell flat. None of them really added much and could be skipped but nothing terrible. A 2.5 out of 5.
October 9, 2018
This was a disappointment, especially after reading the very good Volume 6: Bride or Burglar just last week and the outstanding Volume 5: Rules of Engagement only a few months ago. (Also, Batman is barely a supporting character in this; Catwoman doesn't have much to do here, either.)
Preludes to the Wedding is a collection of short stories, with the connecting thread of course being the impending nuptials between Batman and Catwoman. The Joker segments bookending the volume are, respectively, a little too sadistic and weird. They don't really add anything to the mix.
My favorite was the Batgirl vs. Riddler crunchy action tale 'For Better or For Worse' -- Babs is forced to run all over Gotham City at the behest of Riddler to save kidnap victims. She receives her clues / instructions via cassette in a Sony Walkman - a little touch of nostalgia if you like that sort of thing.
Of the remaining stories 'From This Day Forward' at least has a touching finale (Damian and Selina coming to a tranquil understanding) while 'For Richer or For Poorer' (Nightwing gets violently separated from the bachelor party - chaos ensues) and 'In Sickness and In Health' (Red Hood is surveilling Selina's bachelorette party for security reasons - chaos ensues, yet again) were just okay.
Preludes to the Wedding is a collection of short stories, with the connecting thread of course being the impending nuptials between Batman and Catwoman. The Joker segments bookending the volume are, respectively, a little too sadistic and weird. They don't really add anything to the mix.
My favorite was the Batgirl vs. Riddler crunchy action tale 'For Better or For Worse' -- Babs is forced to run all over Gotham City at the behest of Riddler to save kidnap victims. She receives her clues / instructions via cassette in a Sony Walkman - a little touch of nostalgia if you like that sort of thing.
Of the remaining stories 'From This Day Forward' at least has a touching finale (Damian and Selina coming to a tranquil understanding) while 'For Richer or For Poorer' (Nightwing gets violently separated from the bachelor party - chaos ensues) and 'In Sickness and In Health' (Red Hood is surveilling Selina's bachelorette party for security reasons - chaos ensues, yet again) were just okay.
July 4, 2018
This was an ok collection of VS one-shots. As I was reading it, however, the fact that this book is just a pointless "Batman Wedding" cash grab was never far from my mind.
December 30, 2020
Beautiful art... eh stories.
It's an interesting concept having a bunch of tie ins to an event (I'm considering Batsy's wedding a mini event) be written by one author. I don't think I've ever seen that before across the big 2. It often leads to some stand out issues in spite of subpar events or some tie ins where established storylines stop dead to talk about the Big Event. In this case, DC let Tim Seeley write all of these tie ins... for better and for worse.
I gave Seeley's Rebirth Nightwing series a try for as long as I could stand before I called it quits. It just didn't have the charm that I associate with Dick Grayson and a lot of the choices were just annoying. In this case, I didn't love Seeley's writing of anyone save Babs. Considering I have expressed my deep dislike for Burnside Babs, it's interesting this is the only time I've read an iteration of this character that I didn't hate. Then again, the majority of that issue was narrated by and focused on the Riddler.
These are a collection of single issues chronicling the days leading up to Batsy's wedding to Catwoman.
So... the Selina and Damian issue is a light recommend from me. Their parts occur at the start and very end of the issue but I really enjoyed them. I'd say you can clearly give the rest of these a skip.
It's an interesting concept having a bunch of tie ins to an event (I'm considering Batsy's wedding a mini event) be written by one author. I don't think I've ever seen that before across the big 2. It often leads to some stand out issues in spite of subpar events or some tie ins where established storylines stop dead to talk about the Big Event. In this case, DC let Tim Seeley write all of these tie ins... for better and for worse.
I gave Seeley's Rebirth Nightwing series a try for as long as I could stand before I called it quits. It just didn't have the charm that I associate with Dick Grayson and a lot of the choices were just annoying. In this case, I didn't love Seeley's writing of anyone save Babs. Considering I have expressed my deep dislike for Burnside Babs, it's interesting this is the only time I've read an iteration of this character that I didn't hate. Then again, the majority of that issue was narrated by and focused on the Riddler.
These are a collection of single issues chronicling the days leading up to Batsy's wedding to Catwoman.
So... the Selina and Damian issue is a light recommend from me. Their parts occur at the start and very end of the issue but I really enjoyed them. I'd say you can clearly give the rest of these a skip.
January 25, 2022
40% | D+ | Meh
"Thanks for thinking of me. I'm happy to help, Bruce. Honoured, even. That'll be $150,000"
Eh. None of these stories manage to be anything more than just okay. Each one sees a member of the Batfam going up against a different Batman foe. The best has to be the one featuring Riddler and Batgirl which sees Babs going head to head in an intelligence battle with Nygma in order to save innocent citizens all across Gotham City. Jason Todd also has some fun moments, but his story isn't memorable in the least, and is solely carried by his personality. Honestly, I would recommend skipping this as it has little to nothing to offer, unless you really like seeing the Batfam and can ignore the blandness of the stories.
"Thanks for thinking of me. I'm happy to help, Bruce. Honoured, even. That'll be $150,000"
Some of Gotham's most notable villains find out about the wedding between Batman and Catwoman, and let's just say that they're not too pleased for the happy couple
Eh. None of these stories manage to be anything more than just okay. Each one sees a member of the Batfam going up against a different Batman foe. The best has to be the one featuring Riddler and Batgirl which sees Babs going head to head in an intelligence battle with Nygma in order to save innocent citizens all across Gotham City. Jason Todd also has some fun moments, but his story isn't memorable in the least, and is solely carried by his personality. Honestly, I would recommend skipping this as it has little to nothing to offer, unless you really like seeing the Batfam and can ignore the blandness of the stories.
August 24, 2018
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
3 stars. Given the obvious reasons for publishing this volume (making as much money off of the upcoming Bat-Cat wedding), I'm not sure that it met the mark.
Out of the lot, I enjoyed the Batgirl/Riddler chapter the best, and really disliked the Robin/al Ghul chapter. Seriously, what happened?
Overall, the artwork was very good, with the Harley/Joker chapter coming in with the best artwork.
3 stars. Given the obvious reasons for publishing this volume (making as much money off of the upcoming Bat-Cat wedding), I'm not sure that it met the mark.
Out of the lot, I enjoyed the Batgirl/Riddler chapter the best, and really disliked the Robin/al Ghul chapter. Seriously, what happened?
Overall, the artwork was very good, with the Harley/Joker chapter coming in with the best artwork.
February 27, 2019
Aw, what a disappointment.
The writing was very weak and the only one-shot I enjoyed was the Nightwing story (plus the artwork there was maybe my favorite, it's been a while since I've seen such an endearing Dick Grayson).
There are some ideas that I liked, like Damian's fear, and Jason's kindness and Harley's pain and empowerment, but most issues failed in the execution.
It took me a few days to finish this because ultimately it was soooo boring, plus I had a hard time reading through Batgirl's story, the overall cheesiness kind of irked me.
The writing was very weak and the only one-shot I enjoyed was the Nightwing story (plus the artwork there was maybe my favorite, it's been a while since I've seen such an endearing Dick Grayson).
There are some ideas that I liked, like Damian's fear, and Jason's kindness and Harley's pain and empowerment, but most issues failed in the execution.
It took me a few days to finish this because ultimately it was soooo boring, plus I had a hard time reading through Batgirl's story, the overall cheesiness kind of irked me.
August 8, 2018
[Read as single issues]
Not sure if you’ve heard, but Batman and Catwoman are getting married. Unfortunately, Gotham’s worst criminals are well aware of this joyous day, and they’re going to do their best to ruin it for everyone. Of course, Batman’s got friends, and they’re not about to let that happen. When Robin, Batgirl, Nightwing, Red Hood, and Harley Quinn face off against Ra’s Al Ghul, Riddler, Hush, Anarky, and the Joker, all bets are off and the countdown to the wedding begins with a bang!
I’ll admit I was sceptical when DC announced these one-shots; however, after reading them, I’m really glad that they exist. All written by Tim Seeley, with art from various excellent artists, these five issues tell one coherent story that really frames the Bat-Family in a great light as they come together to protect each other, because after all the horrific things that Batman has been through, he deserves a little happiness every now and then.
Each one-shot pits one Bat-Family member against one villain, with some kind of link to Batman and Catwoman’s relationship as the purpose. For example, Robin grapples with the idea that Catwoman might be his new mum as Ra’s Al Ghul returns, while Nightwing keeps the bachelor party safe from Hush, and Red Hood protects Catwoman’s hen night from Anarky. This allows Seeley to have superhero action as well as giving us perspective from the other members of the team about the marriage, which we haven’t really gotten anywhere else. Some of them are pleased, some of them aren’t quite sure; it’s a good range of opinions, and all perfectly understandable.
The real kicker is the epilogue pages in each issue, which build up to the Harley and Joker story at the end. The Joker is the biggest obstacle that Batman and Catwoman will face, so to see someone like Harley stand up and say no, my friend and her boyfriend deserve to be happy, is some perfect characterization for her given all she’s gone through at his hand. Her story is the best of the five, and that’s saying something since these are all really well done. The final cliffhanger ending feeds directly into Batman #48-49, which is surprising, since most comic preludes don’t actually tend to do that, but if you’re reading these then the urge to go on and read the rest of the wedding storyline will definitely be piqued.
As well as being very well written, these one-shots have great artists attached to them as well. Having one artist per issue would usually be a problem, but the change of focus and different characters means a new approach to each issue is warranted, and the artists chosen are all wonderful. Otto Schmidt handles all of the epilogue pages with creepy flair, while Brad Walker gets Robin, Minkyu Jung has Batgirl, Travis Moore takes Nightwing, Javier Fernandez has Red Hood, and Sami Basri brings up the rear on the Harley Quinn issue. Travis Moore deserves a special mention for drawing the most attractive Nightwing since Mikel Janin on Grayson, and Rafael Albuquerque’s joining covers are very well done too.
This collection is an unexpected surprise – what could have just been a shameless cash-in is actually a group of well constructed stories with a parade of great artists and a through-line that shows just how much the Bat-Family cares about Bruce and Selina.
Not sure if you’ve heard, but Batman and Catwoman are getting married. Unfortunately, Gotham’s worst criminals are well aware of this joyous day, and they’re going to do their best to ruin it for everyone. Of course, Batman’s got friends, and they’re not about to let that happen. When Robin, Batgirl, Nightwing, Red Hood, and Harley Quinn face off against Ra’s Al Ghul, Riddler, Hush, Anarky, and the Joker, all bets are off and the countdown to the wedding begins with a bang!
I’ll admit I was sceptical when DC announced these one-shots; however, after reading them, I’m really glad that they exist. All written by Tim Seeley, with art from various excellent artists, these five issues tell one coherent story that really frames the Bat-Family in a great light as they come together to protect each other, because after all the horrific things that Batman has been through, he deserves a little happiness every now and then.
Each one-shot pits one Bat-Family member against one villain, with some kind of link to Batman and Catwoman’s relationship as the purpose. For example, Robin grapples with the idea that Catwoman might be his new mum as Ra’s Al Ghul returns, while Nightwing keeps the bachelor party safe from Hush, and Red Hood protects Catwoman’s hen night from Anarky. This allows Seeley to have superhero action as well as giving us perspective from the other members of the team about the marriage, which we haven’t really gotten anywhere else. Some of them are pleased, some of them aren’t quite sure; it’s a good range of opinions, and all perfectly understandable.
The real kicker is the epilogue pages in each issue, which build up to the Harley and Joker story at the end. The Joker is the biggest obstacle that Batman and Catwoman will face, so to see someone like Harley stand up and say no, my friend and her boyfriend deserve to be happy, is some perfect characterization for her given all she’s gone through at his hand. Her story is the best of the five, and that’s saying something since these are all really well done. The final cliffhanger ending feeds directly into Batman #48-49, which is surprising, since most comic preludes don’t actually tend to do that, but if you’re reading these then the urge to go on and read the rest of the wedding storyline will definitely be piqued.
As well as being very well written, these one-shots have great artists attached to them as well. Having one artist per issue would usually be a problem, but the change of focus and different characters means a new approach to each issue is warranted, and the artists chosen are all wonderful. Otto Schmidt handles all of the epilogue pages with creepy flair, while Brad Walker gets Robin, Minkyu Jung has Batgirl, Travis Moore takes Nightwing, Javier Fernandez has Red Hood, and Sami Basri brings up the rear on the Harley Quinn issue. Travis Moore deserves a special mention for drawing the most attractive Nightwing since Mikel Janin on Grayson, and Rafael Albuquerque’s joining covers are very well done too.
This collection is an unexpected surprise – what could have just been a shameless cash-in is actually a group of well constructed stories with a parade of great artists and a through-line that shows just how much the Bat-Family cares about Bruce and Selina.
June 29, 2018
A mixed collection.
World: The art is solid, each issue has a different artist and some are better than others but overall the tone and the color matches and it’s consistent. The world building here is solid, it’s a bunch of tie-ins to the event and offer different parts of the overall world to give a larger picture of the Bat/Cat wedding. Solid.
Story: Five issues here and all different in quality. The best one is of course the Damien issue cause it ties directly with Cat and him and their relationship, it’s good. The Nightwing issue was rather ho hum and I honestly still don’t agree that Supes should be the Best Man but oh well. The Babs issue was okay, the art was good and a Riddler issue is always fun. The Jason issue was rather meh but the final character note was good. The Harley Joker issue was pretty good, it once again treads familiar ground of the problem with the relationship and Harley beating Joker around. Overall it’s a mixed and solid bag of issues but nothing really stunning.
Characters: The characters in this collection act they way they are suppose to. There is nothing huge and character changing here but just status quo and a play on these characters and their reaction to the Bat/Cat and it’s mostly pretty good. The banter and the chemistry is good.
A solid collection that ties into the Bat/Cat wedding. I can’t say you MUST read it but I can’t say they are completely useless like some tie-ins. Choose yourself.
Onward to the next book!
*read individual issues*
World: The art is solid, each issue has a different artist and some are better than others but overall the tone and the color matches and it’s consistent. The world building here is solid, it’s a bunch of tie-ins to the event and offer different parts of the overall world to give a larger picture of the Bat/Cat wedding. Solid.
Story: Five issues here and all different in quality. The best one is of course the Damien issue cause it ties directly with Cat and him and their relationship, it’s good. The Nightwing issue was rather ho hum and I honestly still don’t agree that Supes should be the Best Man but oh well. The Babs issue was okay, the art was good and a Riddler issue is always fun. The Jason issue was rather meh but the final character note was good. The Harley Joker issue was pretty good, it once again treads familiar ground of the problem with the relationship and Harley beating Joker around. Overall it’s a mixed and solid bag of issues but nothing really stunning.
Characters: The characters in this collection act they way they are suppose to. There is nothing huge and character changing here but just status quo and a play on these characters and their reaction to the Bat/Cat and it’s mostly pretty good. The banter and the chemistry is good.
A solid collection that ties into the Bat/Cat wedding. I can’t say you MUST read it but I can’t say they are completely useless like some tie-ins. Choose yourself.
Onward to the next book!
*read individual issues*
July 19, 2018
Basic Plot: As Bat and Cat get ready to marry, the Joker is very upset he has not been invited.
There were a lot of fun moments in this little lead up series to the wedding. I definitely got some smiles out of it. The art was solid. Each character addressed got a bit of time to connect to the wedding somehow, and did it in a way that made sense. I think this idea of the Joker being offended at not getting an invitation is a great one. It connects each individual story just enough to move it towards the final confrontation, undoubtedly either at the wedding or just before it.
There were a lot of fun moments in this little lead up series to the wedding. I definitely got some smiles out of it. The art was solid. Each character addressed got a bit of time to connect to the wedding somehow, and did it in a way that made sense. I think this idea of the Joker being offended at not getting an invitation is a great one. It connects each individual story just enough to move it towards the final confrontation, undoubtedly either at the wedding or just before it.
September 11, 2018
Solid without being as good as Kings arc. Good prelude into the wedding. Also provided some build up to what may happen at the actual wedding. Always love seeing the joker.
September 11, 2018
Thank you to Netgalley for the free e-copy.
As you would expect, a mixed bag. The Joker stories were the highlights for me, particularly as he waits for his invitation.
As you would expect, a mixed bag. The Joker stories were the highlights for me, particularly as he waits for his invitation.
February 25, 2024
Meh, but Travis Moore art is so gorgeous.
September 11, 2018
I love Batman and Catwoman. Two of my fav graphic novel characters out there and I SHIP them. So when this and the "Wedding Album" came out, I was ALL over requesting them. Since this one has the word "Preludes" in the title, I read this one first. I also assumed it would tie in with the "Wedding Album", but not so much, more's the pity, because this one was really quite great and I think the other one would have done better if it had followed the storyline in this one.
I don't want to get too much into spoiler territory, but let me say a few words.
1) Joker is mad creepy and I do not like him at all. Also, how the heck was he able to do what he did in order to get to the bad guys that he was able to get to? Did I miss the comic where he became super-human? So yeah, I don't like him.
2) I HEART Batman and Catwoman in this one, as well as all of the secondary characters. The first storyline was one of the best and the end of it was SO SWEET! I like how real and human they were all portrayed.
The artwork was, in my untrained eye, great. I loved the colors, the drawing, the storylines, all of it. This was a really great read and I completely recommend it if you are into Batman and Catwoman.
4, I really hate the Joker and he creeped me out dropping this to four, stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and DC Entertainment/DC Comics for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
I don't want to get too much into spoiler territory, but let me say a few words.
1) Joker is mad creepy and I do not like him at all. Also, how the heck was he able to do what he did in order to get to the bad guys that he was able to get to? Did I miss the comic where he became super-human? So yeah, I don't like him.
2) I HEART Batman and Catwoman in this one, as well as all of the secondary characters. The first storyline was one of the best and the end of it was SO SWEET! I like how real and human they were all portrayed.
The artwork was, in my untrained eye, great. I loved the colors, the drawing, the storylines, all of it. This was a really great read and I completely recommend it if you are into Batman and Catwoman.
4, I really hate the Joker and he creeped me out dropping this to four, stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and DC Entertainment/DC Comics for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
February 27, 2019
Various Batman sidekicks fight various Batman villains in contrived scenarios related to Batman and Catwoman's impending nuptials. Ostensibly, there's a plotline running through the mostly-standalone stories - Joker needs to find a way into Batman's wedding and he's somehow using the villains to get an invite. That plot never pays off. This collection is basically for completionists or those who prefer endless villain prattling to actual battle scenes.
July 6, 2019
This wasn't bad but seemed a little pointless. "There's a big wedding event coming up so we need some tie ins even if we have to force them" kinda thing. That being said, at least it was entertaining. The whole premise is the Joker is upset he didn't receive an invitation to the Batman/Catwoman wedding, so he's doing what he can to spoil things by leaking info to other nefarious rogues. Of course, Batman has pals to prevent this, and things go from there. If you're really into this whole Batman wedding thing, you'll like this.
June 27, 2018
Jasonowy zeszyt najbardziej mi podszedł do gustu i może dlatego tak wysoko oceniam, ale śliczna kreska w zeszycie Harley i to, jak ona podchodzi do Jokera teraz, mając go i jego manipulacje w dupie, również zasługuje na wysoką ocenę.
August 13, 2018
Note: I received a copy of Batman: Preludes to the Wedding from DC Comics via Edelweiss+ in exchange for an honest review. This review also contains some small spoilers.
What’s it about, Becca?
It’s the wedding that we’ve all been waiting for! Batcat is busy preparing their vows & attempting to enjoy their bachelor(ette) parties! In a few days, they’ll be exchanging their ‘I do’s’.. or will they? Not if the villains of Gotham City have anything to say about it. The Joker’s caught wind that Batman & Catman are getting married, and he’s not happy that an invitation hasn’t come his way. So, of course, he’s spreading the news, and making sure The Riddler, Anarky, Hush & Ra’s Al Ghul are alerted of this ceremony.
Batman: Preludes to the Wedding contains five one-shots starring some of the familiar faces of the DC Universe, as each person is trying to celebrate (or ruin) the wedding of the century. Batman: Preludes to the Wedding collects Robin vs. Ra’s Al Ghul #1, Nightwing vs. Hush #1, Batgirl vs. The Riddler #1, Red Hood vs. Anarky #1 and Harley Quinn vs. The Joker #1.
So, what’d ya think?
Y’all, just like The Joker, I too was waiting for an invitation to DC’s wedding of the year. For anyone who knows me, they know my love for the DC Universe, Batman & the Batfam, and of course, the villains of Gotham City. The Batman comics has played a major role in my life & I feel so thankful that I received & got to review a copy of the preludes to Batcat’s wedding.
This collection has everything I love: Batcat, the Batfam kicking ass & Harley Quinn attempting to save the wedding from her psychotic ex-boyfriend, The Joker. My favorite aspect of Batman: Preludes to the Wedding is just seeing the Batfam in action; each collected issue (besides Harley Quinn vs. The Joker #1) had a member of the Bat-family going against a villain in the DC Universe. Although Batman & Catwoman appeared in the collection, the fighting sequences & actions did not involve them; it felt as if they were just in the backdrop, but of course, the pair served as the reason for things to be going down.
Batman: Preludes to the Wedding also contains the cutest bachelor party of all time. Batman, Nightwing, and Superman head on over to Bat Burger, where the customers cosplay as their favorite heroes, and of course, believe that the trio’s costumes are just fan costumes. Unfortunately, as expected in the life of a hero, the night doesn’t stay completely on track, because lo & behold, Hush arrives with a bit of an anger issue.
I was also completely in awe with the bonding that occurs between Selina Kyle and Damian Wayne. In the beginning, I was under the impression that Damian would never accept the marriage, but as time continues in the first collected issue, we get to see a conversation occur between the two that shows that Damian may just be okay with his dad marrying the sneaky cat.
The final verdict?
I absolutely loved reading Batman: Preludes to the Wedding, and definitely plan on purchasing my own copy on September 11th, 2018 (the collection’s release date). I tend to collect a lot of solo issues, especially when it comes to DC comics, but I do much prefer to purchase volumes. Batman: Preludes to the Wedding flows together very well, and each issue’s epilogue leads to the next issue perfectly. As with most collections, the end holds black & white sketches of the issues collected, and it’s definitely an added bonus to the comic experience. I feel it can go without saying, but the artwork found in these pages is absolutely gorgeous. I’m so excited to continue reading to see what happens next for Batcat!
For more reviews by me, check out my blog!
What’s it about, Becca?
It’s the wedding that we’ve all been waiting for! Batcat is busy preparing their vows & attempting to enjoy their bachelor(ette) parties! In a few days, they’ll be exchanging their ‘I do’s’.. or will they? Not if the villains of Gotham City have anything to say about it. The Joker’s caught wind that Batman & Catman are getting married, and he’s not happy that an invitation hasn’t come his way. So, of course, he’s spreading the news, and making sure The Riddler, Anarky, Hush & Ra’s Al Ghul are alerted of this ceremony.
Batman: Preludes to the Wedding contains five one-shots starring some of the familiar faces of the DC Universe, as each person is trying to celebrate (or ruin) the wedding of the century. Batman: Preludes to the Wedding collects Robin vs. Ra’s Al Ghul #1, Nightwing vs. Hush #1, Batgirl vs. The Riddler #1, Red Hood vs. Anarky #1 and Harley Quinn vs. The Joker #1.
So, what’d ya think?
Y’all, just like The Joker, I too was waiting for an invitation to DC’s wedding of the year. For anyone who knows me, they know my love for the DC Universe, Batman & the Batfam, and of course, the villains of Gotham City. The Batman comics has played a major role in my life & I feel so thankful that I received & got to review a copy of the preludes to Batcat’s wedding.
This collection has everything I love: Batcat, the Batfam kicking ass & Harley Quinn attempting to save the wedding from her psychotic ex-boyfriend, The Joker. My favorite aspect of Batman: Preludes to the Wedding is just seeing the Batfam in action; each collected issue (besides Harley Quinn vs. The Joker #1) had a member of the Bat-family going against a villain in the DC Universe. Although Batman & Catwoman appeared in the collection, the fighting sequences & actions did not involve them; it felt as if they were just in the backdrop, but of course, the pair served as the reason for things to be going down.
Batman: Preludes to the Wedding also contains the cutest bachelor party of all time. Batman, Nightwing, and Superman head on over to Bat Burger, where the customers cosplay as their favorite heroes, and of course, believe that the trio’s costumes are just fan costumes. Unfortunately, as expected in the life of a hero, the night doesn’t stay completely on track, because lo & behold, Hush arrives with a bit of an anger issue.
I was also completely in awe with the bonding that occurs between Selina Kyle and Damian Wayne. In the beginning, I was under the impression that Damian would never accept the marriage, but as time continues in the first collected issue, we get to see a conversation occur between the two that shows that Damian may just be okay with his dad marrying the sneaky cat.
The final verdict?
I absolutely loved reading Batman: Preludes to the Wedding, and definitely plan on purchasing my own copy on September 11th, 2018 (the collection’s release date). I tend to collect a lot of solo issues, especially when it comes to DC comics, but I do much prefer to purchase volumes. Batman: Preludes to the Wedding flows together very well, and each issue’s epilogue leads to the next issue perfectly. As with most collections, the end holds black & white sketches of the issues collected, and it’s definitely an added bonus to the comic experience. I feel it can go without saying, but the artwork found in these pages is absolutely gorgeous. I’m so excited to continue reading to see what happens next for Batcat!
For more reviews by me, check out my blog!
July 30, 2022
English/Spanish review:
This was really sweet. Batman: Preludes to the Wedding is a bunch of versus stories but the real juice here is Joker's getting pissed about not getting his invitation to the wedding so,while everything's going on we get glimpses of how heartbroken he is. So he decides to piss Bats rogues to stop it from happening.
It was mostly about the relationship of the characters with the bride/groom + a mix up of fighting with each one of the rogues. While not really core to the book they're quick fights and don't interrupt the rhythm of the story,while easy on the surface it's pretty hard to not get too focused on each component of the story and forget about the other. The best fight tho is Batgirl's against Riddler,it was brutal how they're punching each other and it's narration was the best of the whole.
My favourite stories are the first one of Joker torturing some guy for the sake of it,it was depressing and very tense,the best by far.
And the happy condiment of the whole bunch is Bruce bachelor's party,I laughed a lot with that one and it was very sweet of Dick trying to spend some more normal time with Bruce. Plus,Superburguers franchise is expanding,there's a version of them in Metropolis as well!
Español:
Esto fue muy dulce. Batman: Preludes to the Wedding es un montón de historias versus,pero el verdadero jugo está en el Joker enojado por no recibir su invitación a la boda,así que, mientras todo sucede,vemos cuán desconsolado está. Así que decide enojar a los villanos de Bats para evitar que suceda.
Se trataba principalmente de la relación de los personajes con la novia/novio + una mezcla de peleas con cada uno de los malos. Si bien no son realmente centrales para el libro,son peleas rápidas y no interrumpen el ritmo de la historia,aunque en la superficie es fáci,no concentrarse demasiado en cada componente de la historia y olvidarse del otro es muy difícil. La mejor pelea es la de Batgirl contra Riddler,es brutal como se pegan y su narración fue la mejor de todas.
Mis historias favoritas son la primera de Joker torturando a un tipo porque sí, fue deprimente y muy tensa,la mejor con diferencia.
Y el condimento feliz de todo el grupo es la despedida de soltero de Bruce,me reí mucho con esta y fue muy dulce que Dick intentara pasar un más tiempo normal con Bruce. Además,la franquicia Superburguers se está expandiendo ¡también hay una versión de estas en Metropolis!
This was really sweet. Batman: Preludes to the Wedding is a bunch of versus stories but the real juice here is Joker's getting pissed about not getting his invitation to the wedding so,while everything's going on we get glimpses of how heartbroken he is. So he decides to piss Bats rogues to stop it from happening.
It was mostly about the relationship of the characters with the bride/groom + a mix up of fighting with each one of the rogues. While not really core to the book they're quick fights and don't interrupt the rhythm of the story,while easy on the surface it's pretty hard to not get too focused on each component of the story and forget about the other. The best fight tho is Batgirl's against Riddler,it was brutal how they're punching each other and it's narration was the best of the whole.
My favourite stories are the first one of Joker torturing some guy for the sake of it,it was depressing and very tense,the best by far.
And the happy condiment of the whole bunch is Bruce bachelor's party,I laughed a lot with that one and it was very sweet of Dick trying to spend some more normal time with Bruce. Plus,Superburguers franchise is expanding,there's a version of them in Metropolis as well!
Español:
Esto fue muy dulce. Batman: Preludes to the Wedding es un montón de historias versus,pero el verdadero jugo está en el Joker enojado por no recibir su invitación a la boda,así que, mientras todo sucede,vemos cuán desconsolado está. Así que decide enojar a los villanos de Bats para evitar que suceda.
Se trataba principalmente de la relación de los personajes con la novia/novio + una mezcla de peleas con cada uno de los malos. Si bien no son realmente centrales para el libro,son peleas rápidas y no interrumpen el ritmo de la historia,aunque en la superficie es fáci,no concentrarse demasiado en cada componente de la historia y olvidarse del otro es muy difícil. La mejor pelea es la de Batgirl contra Riddler,es brutal como se pegan y su narración fue la mejor de todas.
Mis historias favoritas son la primera de Joker torturando a un tipo porque sí, fue deprimente y muy tensa,la mejor con diferencia.
Y el condimento feliz de todo el grupo es la despedida de soltero de Bruce,me reí mucho con esta y fue muy dulce que Dick intentara pasar un más tiempo normal con Bruce. Además,la franquicia Superburguers se está expandiendo ¡también hay una versión de estas en Metropolis!
August 6, 2018
Weddings can bring people out of the woodwork, and that is certainly the case with the upcoming nuptials of Batman and Catwoman, Everyone wants to attend, from members of the bat family: Robin, Nightwing, Batgirl, and Red Hood; to some non invited guests: Ra's al Ghul, Hush, Riddler, and of course it would not be a party without the Joker and Harley Quinn. This collection of six issues creates a shadow that will hover over the couple as they move even closer to their big day. The art is on par with current Batman comics and the stories are deep enough to show how a marriage between Batman and Catwoman will affect both friend and foe. Added to this collection are a few sketches that became finished art in the book and two prints not seen in the individual issues.
September 25, 2019
Batman and Catwoman are getting married and the Joker is genuinely perplexed as to why he was not invited to the wedding. He truly thought that he and Batman had a closer relationship that warranted an invitation to such an auspicious event. In his way, he goes to Ra's al Ghul, Batman son's maternal grandfather, and Thomas Elliot, Bruce Wayne’s childhood best friend to find some answers. He asks, after a fashion, the Riddler to solve this conundrum and uses the Anarky, which also causes some problems.
Batman: Preludes to the Wedding collects "Your Big Day" from DC Nation #0 and the entire Prelude to the Wedding one-shot tie-ins: Robin vs. Ra's al Ghul, Nightwing vs. Hush, Batgirl vs. The Riddler, Red Hood vs. Anarky, and Harley Quinn vs. The Joker.
The trade paperback opens with the short story found in DC Nation #0 entitled "Your Big Day". It has the Joker breaking into a stranger's house awaiting the mail with him. Somehow, it is not explicitly mentioned, the Joker found out that Batman and Catwoman were getting married and he questions why he was not invited to such an auspicious affair – considering how close the two of them are with each other. He then goes off to question others that have a similar relationship to the Dark Knight – after killing the man of the house he broke into.
It then goes into the five tie-in one-shots all written by Tim Seeley with various pencilers. On average, these five tie-in one-shots are rather mediocrity executed. The stand out issues is Batman: Prelude to the Wedding – Robin vs. Ra's al Ghul and Batman: Prelude to the Wedding – Nightwing vs. Hush. These two issues really stand out, because the villains have real connections to Batman or Bruce Wayne.
Ra's al Ghul is his son's mother grandfather and Tommy Elliot was Bruce Wayne's childhood best friend. I liked what Seeley has done with his rendition of Damian Wayne – he shows his ethnic side as well as his venerable side – he questions Damian's station in his family if Batman and Catwoman decide to have more children. With Hush, the Joker convinces him that he does not want to be Bruce Wayne, but to return to those Golden Days where he was his best friend, so he reconstructs his facial features to look like Dick Grayson.
The tie-ins go down from there and did not have time to regain its footing. The Joker questions the Riddler about his quandary, but does not get a satisfying answer, but it got the Riddler thinking. Eventually, he wants to pair off and the only person he could think of that could match his intellect is Batgirl. Anakry reasoning to stop the wedding is rather convoluted and doesn't really make sense, albeit the manner on how he would stop the wedding was a rather good idea, unfortunately it wasn’t allow to shine as it should because of the tie-in one-shot restriction. It did go up slightly when Harley Quinn fought with the Joker, but it was a forgone conclusion that Harley Quinn would lose, because the story in the main Batman series dictates as such.
With the exception of "Your Big Day" from DC Nation #0, which was written by Tom King, Tim Seeley wrote the rest of the trade paperback. For the most part, I quite enjoyed what was written considering the constraints that he was in. Firstly, they are one-shots so there is not enough space to explore deeply what a typical multi-part story could and finally, they are tie-ins, which mean they cannot have much meat to them to actual change the main story.
It is good to have Tim Seeley writing Dick Grayson again and it really shows how much he knows the character, because that was the best issue of the bunch. I was slightly dismayed that Tim Drake as Red Robin did not have a role in these tie-ins. However, since he is on an existential exploration with Stephanie Brown it makes sense that he was not included. Furthermore, I doubt I can think of a viable villain that Tim Drake as Red Robin can fight.
Batman: Preludes to the Wedding has seven pencilers: Clay Mann penciled the short story "Your Big Day" from DC Nation #0 while Bard Walker, Travis Moore, Minkyu Jung, Javier Fernandez & Hugo Pertus, and Sami Basri penciled the five tie-in one-shots respectively. For the most part, I rather enjoyed all the pencilers. While different, the artistic flow was not all too bad or jarring. Although the tie-ins are written like one five-part story, it was advertised and numbered as one-shots, so having the same penciler or similar penciling styles is not such an important issue.
All in all, Batman: Preludes to the Wedding is written and conceived somewhat well. It is interesting having the Joker question his relationship with Batman and how he finds his answer – by turning the criminal underground asunder.
Batman: Preludes to the Wedding collects "Your Big Day" from DC Nation #0 and the entire Prelude to the Wedding one-shot tie-ins: Robin vs. Ra's al Ghul, Nightwing vs. Hush, Batgirl vs. The Riddler, Red Hood vs. Anarky, and Harley Quinn vs. The Joker.
The trade paperback opens with the short story found in DC Nation #0 entitled "Your Big Day". It has the Joker breaking into a stranger's house awaiting the mail with him. Somehow, it is not explicitly mentioned, the Joker found out that Batman and Catwoman were getting married and he questions why he was not invited to such an auspicious affair – considering how close the two of them are with each other. He then goes off to question others that have a similar relationship to the Dark Knight – after killing the man of the house he broke into.
It then goes into the five tie-in one-shots all written by Tim Seeley with various pencilers. On average, these five tie-in one-shots are rather mediocrity executed. The stand out issues is Batman: Prelude to the Wedding – Robin vs. Ra's al Ghul and Batman: Prelude to the Wedding – Nightwing vs. Hush. These two issues really stand out, because the villains have real connections to Batman or Bruce Wayne.
Ra's al Ghul is his son's mother grandfather and Tommy Elliot was Bruce Wayne's childhood best friend. I liked what Seeley has done with his rendition of Damian Wayne – he shows his ethnic side as well as his venerable side – he questions Damian's station in his family if Batman and Catwoman decide to have more children. With Hush, the Joker convinces him that he does not want to be Bruce Wayne, but to return to those Golden Days where he was his best friend, so he reconstructs his facial features to look like Dick Grayson.
The tie-ins go down from there and did not have time to regain its footing. The Joker questions the Riddler about his quandary, but does not get a satisfying answer, but it got the Riddler thinking. Eventually, he wants to pair off and the only person he could think of that could match his intellect is Batgirl. Anakry reasoning to stop the wedding is rather convoluted and doesn't really make sense, albeit the manner on how he would stop the wedding was a rather good idea, unfortunately it wasn’t allow to shine as it should because of the tie-in one-shot restriction. It did go up slightly when Harley Quinn fought with the Joker, but it was a forgone conclusion that Harley Quinn would lose, because the story in the main Batman series dictates as such.
With the exception of "Your Big Day" from DC Nation #0, which was written by Tom King, Tim Seeley wrote the rest of the trade paperback. For the most part, I quite enjoyed what was written considering the constraints that he was in. Firstly, they are one-shots so there is not enough space to explore deeply what a typical multi-part story could and finally, they are tie-ins, which mean they cannot have much meat to them to actual change the main story.
It is good to have Tim Seeley writing Dick Grayson again and it really shows how much he knows the character, because that was the best issue of the bunch. I was slightly dismayed that Tim Drake as Red Robin did not have a role in these tie-ins. However, since he is on an existential exploration with Stephanie Brown it makes sense that he was not included. Furthermore, I doubt I can think of a viable villain that Tim Drake as Red Robin can fight.
Batman: Preludes to the Wedding has seven pencilers: Clay Mann penciled the short story "Your Big Day" from DC Nation #0 while Bard Walker, Travis Moore, Minkyu Jung, Javier Fernandez & Hugo Pertus, and Sami Basri penciled the five tie-in one-shots respectively. For the most part, I rather enjoyed all the pencilers. While different, the artistic flow was not all too bad or jarring. Although the tie-ins are written like one five-part story, it was advertised and numbered as one-shots, so having the same penciler or similar penciling styles is not such an important issue.
All in all, Batman: Preludes to the Wedding is written and conceived somewhat well. It is interesting having the Joker question his relationship with Batman and how he finds his answer – by turning the criminal underground asunder.
September 11, 2018
Batman: Preludes to the Wedding includes six stories providing background to the events that occur in Batman and Catwoman: The Wedding Album.
The first and last story describe how the Joker receives his wedding invitation. The last also includes Harley Quinn. From This Day Forward includes a scene of Damien Wayne getting his wedding suit tailored where he describes his history to his soon-to-be stepmom, Catwoman. Later after returning from her bachelorette party, Catwoman and Damien have a serious talk. For Richer or Poorer makes the reader feel a part of Batman’s, anything but tranquil, bachelor party. For Better or Worse tells the Riddler’s tale. In Sickness and In Health, Red Hood crosses paths with an Anarky terrorist plot while watching over Catwoman’s bachelorette party.
This is a great entry point for those either just entering the DC multiverse or returning after a long absence. Most tales include a short history of the main character. Even for long-time fans, Batman: Preludes to the Wedding builds excitement for the wedding itself and foreshadows some complications. It is a worthwhile companion purchase.
I loved these simple short stories that were reminiscent of the comic books of my youth. 5 stars!
Thanks to DC Comics and NetGalley for an advance copy.
The first and last story describe how the Joker receives his wedding invitation. The last also includes Harley Quinn. From This Day Forward includes a scene of Damien Wayne getting his wedding suit tailored where he describes his history to his soon-to-be stepmom, Catwoman. Later after returning from her bachelorette party, Catwoman and Damien have a serious talk. For Richer or Poorer makes the reader feel a part of Batman’s, anything but tranquil, bachelor party. For Better or Worse tells the Riddler’s tale. In Sickness and In Health, Red Hood crosses paths with an Anarky terrorist plot while watching over Catwoman’s bachelorette party.
This is a great entry point for those either just entering the DC multiverse or returning after a long absence. Most tales include a short history of the main character. Even for long-time fans, Batman: Preludes to the Wedding builds excitement for the wedding itself and foreshadows some complications. It is a worthwhile companion purchase.
I loved these simple short stories that were reminiscent of the comic books of my youth. 5 stars!
Thanks to DC Comics and NetGalley for an advance copy.
March 14, 2021
This is a very mixed bag. While the Joker is on the hunt for a wedding invitation, the rest of the Batfamily have to contend with various supervillains trying to interupt or spoil the upcoming nuptuals.
The first, and best, features Damian Wayne facing off against his grandfather Ra's Al Ghul, who is upset about Batman not marrying Talia or something. It's unimportant. What's actually important is Damian feeling nervous about his father marrying someone he loves, who isn't his mother, and starting a 'real' family with a new son he wanted instead of a bastard child he never intended to have. Damian and Selina make a great pair and it's frustrating how infrequently we see them together. This certainly puts greather context to them, and feels like a natural extension of the Rules of Engagement arc.
Next up is Nightwing and Hush, as Bruce Wayne's eldest son and his childhood best friend fight to decide who is Batman's best man. It's neat, and ends on a touching moment between Bruce and Dick, but doesn't blow me away.
Batgirl and Riddler was bad. I really didn't enjoy it. Riddler learns that Batman is marrying a supervillain and thinks... hey! I'm a supervillain! I should marry a Bat! And sets an elaborate ploy to make Batgirl fall in love with him because... she's a woman! And a Bat! And she's smart, and he's obviously some super genius!!! Booooo.
Red Hood vs. Anarky was alright, I don't know if it's actually good or if I'm just happy to read more Red Hood content that isn't written by a known sexual harasser. Some of the character beats can feel forced (I'm not too familiar with either character so I don't know how natural some of the reveals are) but they're still good.
Harley Quinn and the Joker is more Harley Quinn and the Joker going about their usual plots and blablabla Harley is most interesting outside of the Joker I really don't care about them. Stop putting them together. Yes, I know it makes sense, because the Joker is apparently important to the wedding or wants to be important or whatever, but I don't like reading the same run-around over and over. Seeley does his best to bring something new to it, and kudos for trying, but it just doesn't work for me.
So overall... it's a fine collection. The stories are alright. Some of them are good check-ins for how Batman's closest family are reacting to his wedding. But that's just it- they're check-ins. None of these have actual plot repercussions, none of them are a must-read, and most of them get ignored by Tom King's grander plot. I think I heard that DC kept the events of the wedding so hush-hush that Tim Seeley didn't even know what it was, he just did his best to write about a generic Batman wedding plot. Which, given the events of the wedding... yeah. There's not a real purpose to this set of one-shots. I would still recommend checking out the Robin one, and maybe Nightwing or Red Hood if you're interested in those characters, but don't go rushing in expecting a masterpiece of a tie-in collection.
The first, and best, features Damian Wayne facing off against his grandfather Ra's Al Ghul, who is upset about Batman not marrying Talia or something. It's unimportant. What's actually important is Damian feeling nervous about his father marrying someone he loves, who isn't his mother, and starting a 'real' family with a new son he wanted instead of a bastard child he never intended to have. Damian and Selina make a great pair and it's frustrating how infrequently we see them together. This certainly puts greather context to them, and feels like a natural extension of the Rules of Engagement arc.
Next up is Nightwing and Hush, as Bruce Wayne's eldest son and his childhood best friend fight to decide who is Batman's best man. It's neat, and ends on a touching moment between Bruce and Dick, but doesn't blow me away.
Batgirl and Riddler was bad. I really didn't enjoy it. Riddler learns that Batman is marrying a supervillain and thinks... hey! I'm a supervillain! I should marry a Bat! And sets an elaborate ploy to make Batgirl fall in love with him because... she's a woman! And a Bat! And she's smart, and he's obviously some super genius!!! Booooo.
Red Hood vs. Anarky was alright, I don't know if it's actually good or if I'm just happy to read more Red Hood content that isn't written by a known sexual harasser. Some of the character beats can feel forced (I'm not too familiar with either character so I don't know how natural some of the reveals are) but they're still good.
Harley Quinn and the Joker is more Harley Quinn and the Joker going about their usual plots and blablabla Harley is most interesting outside of the Joker I really don't care about them. Stop putting them together. Yes, I know it makes sense, because the Joker is apparently important to the wedding or wants to be important or whatever, but I don't like reading the same run-around over and over. Seeley does his best to bring something new to it, and kudos for trying, but it just doesn't work for me.
So overall... it's a fine collection. The stories are alright. Some of them are good check-ins for how Batman's closest family are reacting to his wedding. But that's just it- they're check-ins. None of these have actual plot repercussions, none of them are a must-read, and most of them get ignored by Tom King's grander plot. I think I heard that DC kept the events of the wedding so hush-hush that Tim Seeley didn't even know what it was, he just did his best to write about a generic Batman wedding plot. Which, given the events of the wedding... yeah. There's not a real purpose to this set of one-shots. I would still recommend checking out the Robin one, and maybe Nightwing or Red Hood if you're interested in those characters, but don't go rushing in expecting a masterpiece of a tie-in collection.
August 9, 2019
#1 From This Day Forward...
As we progress towards the Big Day some of Batman's arch-nemesis' come out of the dark to make their feelings known... or to use them as an opportunity to strike at the Dark Knight and his family.
This issue pits Damian against his big bad granddaddy, Ra's. Though we're never sure if he genuinely is in Gotham or just in Damian's drug-addled mind. What we can be sure of though is that he and his League of Assassins are responsible for his drugged state. Though what Ra's chimaera says to Damian is accurate - He is his own worst enemy. The illusions in his trip prove this fact.
Writer, Tim Seeley does an admirable job of using this hook to show the reader Damian's perspective of the wedding and Selena Kyle. However, I have to ask if somebody trained by the League would be so vocal and visually hurt when pricked by a tailors pin? I don't think so. What Seeley does in this story is something King doesn't do in his Batman run. He gives Damian an air of maturity and precocity. This kid has been through such a lot and would have this pride and refinement. So I thank Seeley for this, let's hope some of this rubs off on King who sees all the Batboys, even Greyson, as a little more immature.
Brad Walker does a good job with the panels and has a nice eye for action sequences. Though I think his facial techniques can be a bit hit and miss. Sometime Selina and Ra's are a little off... though Damian is always faultless and he shows a wide range of emotion on his physiognomy.
A good story that is well drawn. Well worth a read, either in relation to the Batwedding or as a one-shot.
#2 For Richer Or For Poorer...
Tim Seeley is still on point with his second issue in the Prelude series. I thanked him for giving us a real Damian in issue one and I want to thank him for delivering a believable Grayson. Though, at times, Dick can be a little too chipper and cheerful.
Seeley again presents the reader with a side-kicks point of view on the impending wedding and how it will affect them. He also gives us a better insight into Hush's persona. On top of this, he brings us The Gone Men... a lot is happening in this issue. He's also very good with the witty lines - if he keeps this up for the other issues I'll be upset that he didn't get the Batman writing job - so far these are better than King's prelude Batman issues.
Travis Moore does a beautiful job with the artwork. I do admire his skill in portraying facial features. He is a virtuoso in this area. He'll be somebody I'll keep an eye out for. That said, not all of his panel compositions are that strong... but this is something that comes with experience.
Otto Schmidt is the epilogue artist and has a very different style to Moore. Though in this little segue, for the next Prelude issue, he does an okay job with Batgirl and Riddler.
#3 For Better Or For Worse...
This is the first time I've read anything with the Burnside Batgirl in and I have to admit I enjoyed it (though I do prefer the New52 Batgirl). It may have something to do with the fact that the artist Minkyu Jung's Batgirl looked very similar to Neil Addams representation. It's just something to do with the face and hair... So a BIG Thank You Minkyu for taking me back to my youth...
Anyway's Seeley is still on good form and shows very little slows him down. Writing a good Riddler story you need to be pretty clever to construct all the riddles and the crimes they pertain too. Seeley once again proves he's a contender as this one issue is better than The War Of Jokes And Riddles Riddler.
This is different from the previous Prelude issues as neither of the participants is involved in the Batwedding. Though what the news of the impending wedding does do is ignite a fire within Riddlers loins. He knows that he needs a woman with intellect to keep him stimulated and he believes it's Batgirl. So it's a love story... but a twisted one.
The story is good and strong and is a nice variation on a theme. The niggle in this issue though is the Cowl-com, great idea, Batman has one. The question is: If Batgirl has a Cowl-com then why does she swing one-armed through Burnside while on her cumbersome mobile phone(?). Surely, for convenience and safety, she'd route the call through her coms system(?) Not bad though, as it's the only niggle in three issues.
A worthy addition to the Prelude series and a nice tie-in though it's an intermission from the story... a respite from the wedding plans.
I'm still loving these issues.
#4 In Sickness And In Health...
This issue in the Prelude series in my least favourite so far. However, this is not all down to the writer, Tim Seeley. I think it stems from Anarky's personality. It appears most of DC's villains have wimped out a little from their New52 identities. This Anarky is just a wishy-washy twenty-something with father issues. I have to admit, I like the twist in the father outcome and Jason does the right thing. Anarky is meant to be a hacker and internet celebrity. Why wasn't this used in the story? An internet celeb will do just about anything to promote his prominence. I would have had drones flying and live-streaming; Anarky giving live commentary and spouting his chaos theories. What we get though is a watered-down bad guy.
This is a shame as the rest of the cast is great. I like Seeley's take on Jason Todd, though I'm not too sure the righteous speech at the conclusion is in his character. But for the most time, Todd is indignant, resentful, and a discontent. These are the perfect character flaws for him to possess after his disturbing and violent past. Todd has been given the duty of keeping Selena safe on her hen night... should something untoward happen. Kiss of death! Apart from Anarky, the story is sound and when the untoward happens Seeley keeps the action and humour coming to keep you reading.
Javier Fernandez is an okay artist, though, compared to the others in this series his style is more basic. However, he is very talented when it comes to panel composition. The way these are laid out and created add to both the action and atmosphere.
Not my favourite Prelude issue but does give a little more insight into Anarky's background - just wish he were a stronger character... a person who wants to bring chaos to the world should be motivated and strong.
#5 'Till Death Do Us Part...
The thing that stands out most in this issue is the artwork. Sami Basri's style is basic. There are not too many lines crowding the panels. What is there, however, is perfect. Add to this Jessica Kohlinne's colours and the pages POP beautifully. Very Awesome.
Seeley also hits top form again with the ultra-dynamic duo. Both Harley and Mistah J are excellent. He has their personalities so honed you believe these two have a love-hate relationship. It's their banter and their antics that make this the best issue in the Prelude series. Unfortunately, it's also this that casts a light on Tom King's work on the Batman title, since his Joker isn't that good.
That said, this should have been included in the Batman Wedding Volume as it ties in so well to the Best Man storyline.
Seeley has done such a wonderful job of penning these five issues that I hope he gets a shot at the Batman title soon - if he hasn't already... since I'm playing catch up with the DC issues.
If you haven't done so already, pick up copies of these titles and enjoy. You shouldn't be disappointed - I wasn't. My smile is nearly as big as Puddin's.
As we progress towards the Big Day some of Batman's arch-nemesis' come out of the dark to make their feelings known... or to use them as an opportunity to strike at the Dark Knight and his family.
This issue pits Damian against his big bad granddaddy, Ra's. Though we're never sure if he genuinely is in Gotham or just in Damian's drug-addled mind. What we can be sure of though is that he and his League of Assassins are responsible for his drugged state. Though what Ra's chimaera says to Damian is accurate - He is his own worst enemy. The illusions in his trip prove this fact.
Writer, Tim Seeley does an admirable job of using this hook to show the reader Damian's perspective of the wedding and Selena Kyle. However, I have to ask if somebody trained by the League would be so vocal and visually hurt when pricked by a tailors pin? I don't think so. What Seeley does in this story is something King doesn't do in his Batman run. He gives Damian an air of maturity and precocity. This kid has been through such a lot and would have this pride and refinement. So I thank Seeley for this, let's hope some of this rubs off on King who sees all the Batboys, even Greyson, as a little more immature.
Brad Walker does a good job with the panels and has a nice eye for action sequences. Though I think his facial techniques can be a bit hit and miss. Sometime Selina and Ra's are a little off... though Damian is always faultless and he shows a wide range of emotion on his physiognomy.
A good story that is well drawn. Well worth a read, either in relation to the Batwedding or as a one-shot.
#2 For Richer Or For Poorer...
Tim Seeley is still on point with his second issue in the Prelude series. I thanked him for giving us a real Damian in issue one and I want to thank him for delivering a believable Grayson. Though, at times, Dick can be a little too chipper and cheerful.
Seeley again presents the reader with a side-kicks point of view on the impending wedding and how it will affect them. He also gives us a better insight into Hush's persona. On top of this, he brings us The Gone Men... a lot is happening in this issue. He's also very good with the witty lines - if he keeps this up for the other issues I'll be upset that he didn't get the Batman writing job - so far these are better than King's prelude Batman issues.
Travis Moore does a beautiful job with the artwork. I do admire his skill in portraying facial features. He is a virtuoso in this area. He'll be somebody I'll keep an eye out for. That said, not all of his panel compositions are that strong... but this is something that comes with experience.
Otto Schmidt is the epilogue artist and has a very different style to Moore. Though in this little segue, for the next Prelude issue, he does an okay job with Batgirl and Riddler.
#3 For Better Or For Worse...
This is the first time I've read anything with the Burnside Batgirl in and I have to admit I enjoyed it (though I do prefer the New52 Batgirl). It may have something to do with the fact that the artist Minkyu Jung's Batgirl looked very similar to Neil Addams representation. It's just something to do with the face and hair... So a BIG Thank You Minkyu for taking me back to my youth...
Anyway's Seeley is still on good form and shows very little slows him down. Writing a good Riddler story you need to be pretty clever to construct all the riddles and the crimes they pertain too. Seeley once again proves he's a contender as this one issue is better than The War Of Jokes And Riddles Riddler.
This is different from the previous Prelude issues as neither of the participants is involved in the Batwedding. Though what the news of the impending wedding does do is ignite a fire within Riddlers loins. He knows that he needs a woman with intellect to keep him stimulated and he believes it's Batgirl. So it's a love story... but a twisted one.
The story is good and strong and is a nice variation on a theme. The niggle in this issue though is the Cowl-com, great idea, Batman has one. The question is: If Batgirl has a Cowl-com then why does she swing one-armed through Burnside while on her cumbersome mobile phone(?). Surely, for convenience and safety, she'd route the call through her coms system(?) Not bad though, as it's the only niggle in three issues.
A worthy addition to the Prelude series and a nice tie-in though it's an intermission from the story... a respite from the wedding plans.
I'm still loving these issues.
#4 In Sickness And In Health...
This issue in the Prelude series in my least favourite so far. However, this is not all down to the writer, Tim Seeley. I think it stems from Anarky's personality. It appears most of DC's villains have wimped out a little from their New52 identities. This Anarky is just a wishy-washy twenty-something with father issues. I have to admit, I like the twist in the father outcome and Jason does the right thing. Anarky is meant to be a hacker and internet celebrity. Why wasn't this used in the story? An internet celeb will do just about anything to promote his prominence. I would have had drones flying and live-streaming; Anarky giving live commentary and spouting his chaos theories. What we get though is a watered-down bad guy.
This is a shame as the rest of the cast is great. I like Seeley's take on Jason Todd, though I'm not too sure the righteous speech at the conclusion is in his character. But for the most time, Todd is indignant, resentful, and a discontent. These are the perfect character flaws for him to possess after his disturbing and violent past. Todd has been given the duty of keeping Selena safe on her hen night... should something untoward happen. Kiss of death! Apart from Anarky, the story is sound and when the untoward happens Seeley keeps the action and humour coming to keep you reading.
Javier Fernandez is an okay artist, though, compared to the others in this series his style is more basic. However, he is very talented when it comes to panel composition. The way these are laid out and created add to both the action and atmosphere.
Not my favourite Prelude issue but does give a little more insight into Anarky's background - just wish he were a stronger character... a person who wants to bring chaos to the world should be motivated and strong.
#5 'Till Death Do Us Part...
The thing that stands out most in this issue is the artwork. Sami Basri's style is basic. There are not too many lines crowding the panels. What is there, however, is perfect. Add to this Jessica Kohlinne's colours and the pages POP beautifully. Very Awesome.
Seeley also hits top form again with the ultra-dynamic duo. Both Harley and Mistah J are excellent. He has their personalities so honed you believe these two have a love-hate relationship. It's their banter and their antics that make this the best issue in the Prelude series. Unfortunately, it's also this that casts a light on Tom King's work on the Batman title, since his Joker isn't that good.
That said, this should have been included in the Batman Wedding Volume as it ties in so well to the Best Man storyline.
Seeley has done such a wonderful job of penning these five issues that I hope he gets a shot at the Batman title soon - if he hasn't already... since I'm playing catch up with the DC issues.
If you haven't done so already, pick up copies of these titles and enjoy. You shouldn't be disappointed - I wasn't. My smile is nearly as big as Puddin's.
March 23, 2024
"JOKER JOKES. RIDDLER RIDDLES. BUT HUSH? YOU NEVER SHUT THE HELL UP."
- Nightwing, tired of Hush's ranting.
Dude! Why did i get this clearly unnecessary tie-in? I despise these "vs" events.
- Joker murders a guy after extensive psychological torture. I detest the Joker. However, the artist here nailed the emotionally disturbing nature of Joker, without gore. Excellent facial expressions. Mad respect.
- Damien gets "higher than giraffe ass" in an arcade. Well, that seems reasonable for a thirteen-year old. Except, then he fights his grandfather. Basic Damien.
- Hush copied Dick Grayson's face, yet doesn't recognize, while fighting Nightwing, that they're the same guy. Nightwing's mask is available Party City for $5 a dozen. It covers nothing. I was a welder (seven years ago) and, to this day, I can't pass ANY weld without: "Human or robot? Position, process and material? Which hand? Sober or impaired?" And the author's telling me that a skilled tradesman (who copies faces, AS HIS HOBBY) didn't see the mouth, nose, chin and hear f@#$ing alarms?
- Selina attends her bachelorette party. Jason Todd, A.K.A Red Hood, fights Anarky. Yawn!
- Harley vs. Joker. 'Nuff said.
Overall, this book was okay. The Hush bit was my favorite, but I'm not really impressed with the rest. Two stars.
- Nightwing, tired of Hush's ranting.
Dude! Why did i get this clearly unnecessary tie-in? I despise these "vs" events.
- Joker murders a guy after extensive psychological torture. I detest the Joker. However, the artist here nailed the emotionally disturbing nature of Joker, without gore. Excellent facial expressions. Mad respect.
- Damien gets "higher than giraffe ass" in an arcade. Well, that seems reasonable for a thirteen-year old. Except, then he fights his grandfather. Basic Damien.
- Hush copied Dick Grayson's face, yet doesn't recognize, while fighting Nightwing, that they're the same guy. Nightwing's mask is available Party City for $5 a dozen. It covers nothing. I was a welder (seven years ago) and, to this day, I can't pass ANY weld without: "Human or robot? Position, process and material? Which hand? Sober or impaired?" And the author's telling me that a skilled tradesman (who copies faces, AS HIS HOBBY) didn't see the mouth, nose, chin and hear f@#$ing alarms?
- Selina attends her bachelorette party. Jason Todd, A.K.A Red Hood, fights Anarky. Yawn!
- Harley vs. Joker. 'Nuff said.
Overall, this book was okay. The Hush bit was my favorite, but I'm not really impressed with the rest. Two stars.
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