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Detective Comics by Peter J. Tomasi
Batman: Detective Comics, Vol. 6: The Road to Ruin
A CROSSROADS IN THE LIFE OF BATMAN.
In the aftermath of the Joker War, Bruce Wayne has lost his home, and is losing the battle for the hearts and minds of Gotham City's citizens. A groundswell of anti-vigilante protests is popping up throughout Gotham, stoked by the mayoral candidacy of Christopher Nakano—a former police officer wounded in the Joker's war zone. All this, plus mysterious new villain in the Mirror is rallying others to the anti-vigilante cause, taking to the streets and leading violent encounters that show no true winner.
This final volume of Peter J. Tomasi's epic Detective Comics run culminates in a battle with Robin, a hostage crisis with Hush, and the dawn of a new era for Gotham City.
This essneital volume of Detective Comics collects Detective Comics #1028-1033—the final arc penned by seminal Detective Comics scribe Peter J. Tomasi (Batman and Robin, Super Sons). It also features stunning art from Brad Walker (Aquaman), Kenneth Rocafort (Red Hood and the Outlaws), Bilquis Evely (Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow), Nicola Scott (Wonder Woman), and more!
In the aftermath of the Joker War, Bruce Wayne has lost his home, and is losing the battle for the hearts and minds of Gotham City's citizens. A groundswell of anti-vigilante protests is popping up throughout Gotham, stoked by the mayoral candidacy of Christopher Nakano—a former police officer wounded in the Joker's war zone. All this, plus mysterious new villain in the Mirror is rallying others to the anti-vigilante cause, taking to the streets and leading violent encounters that show no true winner.
This final volume of Peter J. Tomasi's epic Detective Comics run culminates in a battle with Robin, a hostage crisis with Hush, and the dawn of a new era for Gotham City.
This essneital volume of Detective Comics collects Detective Comics #1028-1033—the final arc penned by seminal Detective Comics scribe Peter J. Tomasi (Batman and Robin, Super Sons). It also features stunning art from Brad Walker (Aquaman), Kenneth Rocafort (Red Hood and the Outlaws), Bilquis Evely (Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow), Nicola Scott (Wonder Woman), and more!
128 pages, Hardcover
First published October 5, 2021
About the author
Peter J. Tomasi
1,297 books473 followersPeter J. Tomasi is an American comic book writer, best known for his work for DC Comics, such as Batman And Robin; Superman; Super Sons; Batman: Detective Comics; Green Lantern Corps; and Superman/Wonder Woman; as well as Batman: Arkham Knight; Brightest Day; Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors; Nightwing; Black Adam, and many more.
In the course of his staff career at DC Comics, Tomasi served as a group editor and ushered in new eras for Batman, Green Lantern, and the JSA, along with a host of special projects like Kingdom Come.
He is also the author of the creator-owned titles House Of Penance with artist Ian Bertram; Light Brigade with artist Peter Snejbjerg; The Mighty with Keith Champagne and Chris Samnee; and the critically acclaimed epic graphic novel The Bridge: How The Roeblings Connected Brooklyn To New York, illustrated by Sara DuVall and published by Abrams ComicArts.
In 2018 New York Times best-selling author Tomasi received the Inkpot Award for achievement in comics.
In the course of his staff career at DC Comics, Tomasi served as a group editor and ushered in new eras for Batman, Green Lantern, and the JSA, along with a host of special projects like Kingdom Come.
He is also the author of the creator-owned titles House Of Penance with artist Ian Bertram; Light Brigade with artist Peter Snejbjerg; The Mighty with Keith Champagne and Chris Samnee; and the critically acclaimed epic graphic novel The Bridge: How The Roeblings Connected Brooklyn To New York, illustrated by Sara DuVall and published by Abrams ComicArts.
In 2018 New York Times best-selling author Tomasi received the Inkpot Award for achievement in comics.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 22, 2021
If you wondered why there's a new mayor over in Tynion's Batman run, this arc explains how it happened. Most of this volume is setup for the events of Future State. The anti-mask sentiment is growing out of control. Mirror was a big letdown as an antagonist. He didn't really do much at all. I did like the Hush appearance. I was also glad we got to see Tomasi give us Batman and Robin one last time as they finally settled their differences.
July 6, 2021
This was so good!
It starts off with Bruce going after a guy whose killing cops to get justice for his father and that was a good one.
Then we have Nakano whose the new mayoral candidate having the anti vigilante stance and so Batman has to deal with that and finally there is a story with the new villain Mirror and so the Batfamily has to get involved and what happens when Hush enters and Batman is on the look for Damian? It all connects perfectly in a big story that will change the Bat mythos in a profound way.
I like how this volume had so much going on and lays the ground work for a lot of things to come for Damian and Bruce. And Bruce moving out. Nakano the mayor. And a great face off with Hush his childhood friend and all.
I like the art as usual but the writing was spot on and it's a perfect end to an amazing run and Tomasi certainly gets these characters unlike anyone. An amazing rin coming to a perfect end setting the stage for Infinite frontier.
It starts off with Bruce going after a guy whose killing cops to get justice for his father and that was a good one.
Then we have Nakano whose the new mayoral candidate having the anti vigilante stance and so Batman has to deal with that and finally there is a story with the new villain Mirror and so the Batfamily has to get involved and what happens when Hush enters and Batman is on the look for Damian? It all connects perfectly in a big story that will change the Bat mythos in a profound way.
I like how this volume had so much going on and lays the ground work for a lot of things to come for Damian and Bruce. And Bruce moving out. Nakano the mayor. And a great face off with Hush his childhood friend and all.
I like the art as usual but the writing was spot on and it's a perfect end to an amazing run and Tomasi certainly gets these characters unlike anyone. An amazing rin coming to a perfect end setting the stage for Infinite frontier.
October 21, 2021
A decent send off. I really enjoyed the moments with damien and Bruce. That felt like a goodbye to his Batman and Robin run. But hush returning as a villain was just annoying. But still decent.
November 26, 2021
Peter Tomasi's final arc of Detective Comics is collected here, featuring appearances from The Mirror and Hush, as well as paving the way for the new world order as Christopher Nakano makes a run at the Mayor's office.
There's unrest in Gotham after the Joker War, and that's the impetus for most of the stories in this volume. The Mirror is a bit of a quick intro/exit, but the idea behind them is pretty neat, and plays nicely into what's going on in Gotham as a whole. This also helps propel Nakano on his new path, and he'll be a big player in Gotham going forward too, so even with Tomasi on the out, he's doing his bit for the next creative team to step in.
Then there's the Hush story, which also documents the breakdown of Batman and Robin's relationship. This counterpoints the final arcs of Teen Titans that were running at the same time here, and again both play into sending Damian on his next storyline in his solo series going forward. There's a lot going on, but it's all balanced really well.
Artwise, Detective's flying high. There's an issue by Nicola Scott, one by Kenneth Rocafort, two by Bilquis Evely, and then Brad Walker returns for the final two issues to close out the run. Nary a bad pencil between them.
Tomasi's run doesn't really end on a huge note, but he's had some big milestones as part of it (1000 and 1027 especially), so I don't think it really needed it. These final arcs work well on their own, but there's an undercurrent of preparing for the changing of the guard that keeps the momentum flowing through to the next volume and beyond.
There's unrest in Gotham after the Joker War, and that's the impetus for most of the stories in this volume. The Mirror is a bit of a quick intro/exit, but the idea behind them is pretty neat, and plays nicely into what's going on in Gotham as a whole. This also helps propel Nakano on his new path, and he'll be a big player in Gotham going forward too, so even with Tomasi on the out, he's doing his bit for the next creative team to step in.
Then there's the Hush story, which also documents the breakdown of Batman and Robin's relationship. This counterpoints the final arcs of Teen Titans that were running at the same time here, and again both play into sending Damian on his next storyline in his solo series going forward. There's a lot going on, but it's all balanced really well.
Artwise, Detective's flying high. There's an issue by Nicola Scott, one by Kenneth Rocafort, two by Bilquis Evely, and then Brad Walker returns for the final two issues to close out the run. Nary a bad pencil between them.
Tomasi's run doesn't really end on a huge note, but he's had some big milestones as part of it (1000 and 1027 especially), so I don't think it really needed it. These final arcs work well on their own, but there's an undercurrent of preparing for the changing of the guard that keeps the momentum flowing through to the next volume and beyond.
February 12, 2022
You can find my review on my blog by clicking here.
Bad blood between two individuals is always a burden to lug around. Sometimes it’s also what’s needed for each of the concerned parties to walk down a path of self-reflection and unravel deep and complex issues. For Batman, the recent events have flipped his life upside down and led him to rethink his vision of Gotham and the peace he wishes for it. Although his grief-stricken life requires an additional effort of introspection, it is an intricate emotional and psychological journey that he doesn’t need to partake in alone. But will he be able to look beyond his habits to begin a new chapter in his life? Collecting issues #1028-1033, the latest volume in the Detective Comics series is the final story arc written by Peter J. Tomasi as he introduces a new mayor and new villains into the lives of the slowly-recuperating Batfamily.
What is Batman: Detective Comics: Road to Ruin about? Set after the events of The Joker War, Bruce Wayne looks to take a blind leap into a new future where his capital is without reach, and grief following the loss of a dear friend is behind him. Unfortunately, Gotham isn’t yet ready for any peace and quiet as a new series of gruesome murders reveals a trail of headless corrupt citizens with the Dark Knight also targeted by this deranged maniac. As Bruce Wayne also tries to figure out what Damian has been up to, fleeing to find a new resolution follow the recent tragedies, a new villain surge from the shadows and wishes to unmask the vigilantes who are roaming the streets, lining up his vision for Gotham similar to the mayoral candidate Christopher Nakano who wishes to rid the city of the masked and dangerous.
I am overly thrilled that this will be writer Peter J. Tomasi’s final story arc on this series. It was about time that he got off that road to ruin and found inspiration elsewhere. Thankfully, compared to the previous volumes, this turned out only forgettable. An overall sense of choppiness in the desire to introduce new characters and a new climate of conflict between political entities and masked vigilantes and villains makes for a rough and unengaging reading experience but the story doesn’t dwell long enough on any part to allow further criticism. The overarching themes of identity and trust do help tie together the narrative but the failed attempt to properly emphasize the mayor’s or the villain’s relevance forbids any of the subplots to bloom under his penmanship. While it was an ambitious decision to bring into play Hush’s character, there’s very little depth to the decision nor the finale to justify the decision in the end.
Unfortunately, as is often the case, this story arc collects the artistic vision of multiple illustrators and combines for an uneven and uninspiring visual experience. While each individual artwork can be appreciated for its respective strengths, the collected work simply emphasizes the absence of cohesion and the multiple plot threads that are sequentially and rapidly introduced to be later developed in future story arcs. Nonetheless, the colouring remains standard in its execution and strongly plays around darker tones and shadows. Although there isn’t a lot of action sequences, the final moments strongly compensate for the earlier absence, which was in fact mostly filled with detective work (after all, these stories had to cleverly tie into the series’ title). Hopefully, the next writer will be able to do something better with this series and the cards that have been dealt.
Batman: Detective Comics: Road to Ruin is a forgettable story arc introducing the rise of mayor candidate Christopher Nakano and the mysterious new villain The Mirror in Gotham city.
Yours truly,
Lashaan | Blogger and Book Reviewer
Official blog: https://bookidote.com/
April 22, 2024
Hush is Batman’s lamest villain, but at least Tomasi's integrated Batfamily members into the story.
September 29, 2021
A well constructed and heartfelt send off to what feels like the Tomasi stories that started with his Batman and Robin run. He always included Damian when he could and I love that. He deals with some threads left hanging by the Tom King stories.
Also brilliantly illustrated.
Also brilliantly illustrated.
January 27, 2022
An interesting storyline looking at an uprising within Gotham that is anti-vigilante, especially after the events of Joker War. This group believes Batman and his allies cause more problems than they're worth. They have "The Mirror" as a spokesmen who pushes their agenda, and also have Detective Nakano, running for mayor on a similar platform. Meanwhile, Batman has to track down Damian Wayne, who has stolen his Black Casebook and attempts to solve a mystery from within it.
Its a fun storyline, that turns into a Hush punchiest in its conclusion. If it kept asking questions on the nature of vigilantism, law and regulations, and on what makes a hero, then this could've been higher rated. Hush felt very forced into the narrative in the end, but it was still enjoyable overall. Tomasi's run isn't one worth writing home about or highly recommending, but it was consistent and engaging throughout. Can be skipped by non completionists, but for those wanting more Batman, you can't go wrong with Tomasi's tenure on Detective Comics.
Its a fun storyline, that turns into a Hush punchiest in its conclusion. If it kept asking questions on the nature of vigilantism, law and regulations, and on what makes a hero, then this could've been higher rated. Hush felt very forced into the narrative in the end, but it was still enjoyable overall. Tomasi's run isn't one worth writing home about or highly recommending, but it was consistent and engaging throughout. Can be skipped by non completionists, but for those wanting more Batman, you can't go wrong with Tomasi's tenure on Detective Comics.
December 23, 2021
Detective Comics Vol. 6 The Road To Ruin collects issues 1028-1033 of the DC Comics series written by Peter J. Tomasi and art by Brad Walker, Kenneth Rocafort, Bilquis Everly, and Nicola Scott.
Former police officer Christopher Nakano, who survived The Joker War but lost an eye, has decided to run for mayor of Gotham City on the platform of No More Masks, both villain and vigilante. Meanwhile The Mirror makes his debut in Gotham an an instigator in Gotham's growing distrust of the Batfamily.
This was a pretty solid ending to Tomasi's run on Detective Comics. I wish he had more flexibility in telling original stories without having to write around Tynion's Joker War. It was great revisiting Robin and his amazing run on Batman & Robin. The art was pretty strong throughout but it still baffles me how many artists work on Batboiks. Can we get some consistency?
Former police officer Christopher Nakano, who survived The Joker War but lost an eye, has decided to run for mayor of Gotham City on the platform of No More Masks, both villain and vigilante. Meanwhile The Mirror makes his debut in Gotham an an instigator in Gotham's growing distrust of the Batfamily.
This was a pretty solid ending to Tomasi's run on Detective Comics. I wish he had more flexibility in telling original stories without having to write around Tynion's Joker War. It was great revisiting Robin and his amazing run on Batman & Robin. The art was pretty strong throughout but it still baffles me how many artists work on Batboiks. Can we get some consistency?
April 16, 2022
3.5 Stars
There a new villain in town stirring up Gotham against all of the masked vigilantes. Damian solves an old mystery and everyone's still dealing with the fallout of the Joker War. Not a bad volume, but feels very transitional.
There a new villain in town stirring up Gotham against all of the masked vigilantes. Damian solves an old mystery and everyone's still dealing with the fallout of the Joker War. Not a bad volume, but feels very transitional.
October 30, 2024
The more "political" part with Nakao and The Mirror started off quite well. The Batman/Damian relationship was pretty interesting - and I've always hated Damian from the bottom of my heart.
And then Tomasi had the bright idea of bringing Hush out of his bag of ideas...
Sigh...
And then Tomasi had the bright idea of bringing Hush out of his bag of ideas...
Sigh...
January 18, 2026
after slogging through damian's teen titans era (which shoulda been a slam dunk), it's such a breath of fresh air to see him written so much better here. this still has to deal with the direction set by where teen titans left him, so obviously a lot of the specific plot points still needled me. (especially what a big deal is made about him rejecting the "r" symbol. for me, that incredible scene between him & maya in son of batman has a lot more to do with what that symbol means to him than whatever is going on between him & his father.) but tomasi just plain knows how to write the boy, and even when i don't like the overall direction it still at least doesn't feel like i'm reading a completely different character.
November 22, 2021
Still reeling from the aftershocks of Joker War, a couple subplots covered in this volume:
Bruce is dealing with the loss of his fortune
A new candidate for mayor is running for election
A rift occurs between Bruce and Damien, but this happens in another title. You get filled in here, and the ramifications are explored (one of the highlights).
One things I liked is that public opinion has grown against the Bat family to a level that I don't think has ever been seen before. Adds a new wrinkle and a new problem, although I'm not sure how long it will be kept as an obstacle.
Overall, not bad. Both the art and story are about average.
Bruce is dealing with the loss of his fortune
A new candidate for mayor is running for election
A rift occurs between Bruce and Damien, but this happens in another title. You get filled in here, and the ramifications are explored (one of the highlights).
One things I liked is that public opinion has grown against the Bat family to a level that I don't think has ever been seen before. Adds a new wrinkle and a new problem, although I'm not sure how long it will be kept as an obstacle.
Overall, not bad. Both the art and story are about average.
May 6, 2022
Tomasi ends his run on a good note, finding his voice for a Batman again and delivering a great one-shot to start followed a good Hush story arc. Kev Walker, Bilquis Evely and Nicola Scott illustrate the volume beautifully.
February 27, 2026
This was a great conclusion to the Batman Detective Comics series - BlueJay Approved 😏👍✅️ 🦇.
We begin with a wildcard arc that delves into the more mystery/Detective motif of Batman, as a Phantom horseman rides about Gotham, decapitating some rather specific targets, including a detective, a judge, & a prosecuting attorney. What do these three men have in common other than their connection to law enforcement? All is revealed when the Phantom calls the Attorney and instructs him to gather the evidence and meet him at the Police Station stables.
In our Main arc we are taken to the streets of Gotham where a Mirror Masked Man stands upon his soap box declaring to the public that the time is now to be rid of vigilantes in Gotham with the aid of officer Nakano who has initiate this grassroots movement. The Mirror purposes that the public is probably wondering why he would be so adamant to stand in opposition of the vigilante movement when he is also masked. To which the Mirror retorts by claiming his face is not his and own and rather the broader representation of the Gotham public...(read more if interested)
Meanwhile, Bruce is busy moving his possessions from Wayne Manor in light of the Joker stealing his family's fortune. Bruce admits that he has dreaded the day that he would need to remove Alfred's belongings as he is reminded of meaningful pictures and memories of his beloved father figure. Bruce begins the process but then before turns off the lights to leave the task for another day.
Later that evening a gang of thugs decides to rob a bank in Gotham and snag a hostage before taking off on a high speed chase. Batman is in hot pursuit via the batcycle and manages to get in close range with the vehicle. Once Batman is in the car he takes out the driver when the two remaining gang members decide to shoot him. Batman is not injured during these incredibly close range shots (*cough, good to see that the plot armor is working over time. Idk why the writters added this detail *cough.) Batman uses his Cowl to launch bat darts at the two (Ok now that's kinda funny 😂) then delivers the car to the police with the hostage safe & sound. The people in the crowd are divided as some cheer while others deman Batman "unmask".
Batman decides that it's time Bruce Wayne does some of the heavy lifting for once so he decided to go to a sponsored Yatch party held in the Honor of Nakano so he can further define his plans for Gotham. The party is dull as many of the richest men & women in Gotham wait for Nakano to finish his vision for their city. At the conclusion of his speach, Bruce approached Nakano to ask further questions on his no-vigilante agenda but the Yatch is taken over by a sqaud of pirate thugs who demand the rich pass over their belongings. Nightwing gets word via his comlink and glides in to intervene thereby saving the crowd from a worst fate. Nakano is pissed off that Nightwing showed up but our lovable Dick takes none of it to heart as he takes off.
Bruce returns to the Manor feeling somewhat defeated in his venture when he notices his chair at the Batcomputer is out of place. He then searches the area and finds that his Black Case book is missing and next to Alfred there was only one other soul who know of its existence.
In the following scene we focus on Christopher Nakano who is awakened by a gruesome nightmare about the death of his officer partner Bart and further blames his problems on Batman who was there that fateful night. Christopher clings to his wife who calms him. Once he regains his composure Nakano declares that he will run for mayor and his wife although reluctant agrees to support him.
We then pivot our attention to Batman who is reminiscing about his last interaction with his son, Damien. He recounts how Damien was actively pushing his father out of his life by engaging in a physical fight to which Batman received every strike refusing to actively defend beyond blocking. Finally he reflects on how his desires for his son to behave with more self control and restraint were tempered when Damien resigned his crest before denouncing his position as Robin. (This scene is very well done and elicits a mix of emotions from audience. However, the emotional depth we are seeking is once again greatly lacking from our protagonist Batman. This ultimately does a great disservice to his character growth and although this is sadly to be expected given how the writers are choosing to portray Batman...it still would have been nice if we had a bit more empathy from the dark knight towards his son.)
Batman lands on a rooftop to join the Batfamily (Signal, Bat, Batwoman, Red Hood, Nightwing, & Batgirl) as they discuss the problems pertaining to the anti-vigilante movement that has spread across Gotham. Essentially the citizens are revolting actively against the vigilantes by luring them to anwsers fake calls for help only to cause great harm by beating them or laying dangerous traps. Towards the end of the meeting, Signal expresses his relief that Batman called this meeting to which Batman retorts that he didn't rather Nightwing did. This leads to confusion but that is quickly dispelled as a hoard of civilians begin protesting against the Batfamily by climbing up the roof to attack causing the Bats to disburse (This is a great visual scene 👏.).
Meanwhile, Damien is busy in the GCPD cold case room where he has decided to solve one of his father's cases. The files lead him to uncover detective Catherine Podolsky who had previously been assigned to all of the attempted & failed murder cases set out on Bruce Wayne. Damien then enters to townhome of Catherine and sits perched on chair with Cleo (her cat) awaiting Detective Polosky's return. Catherine pours herself a glass of wine and begins searching the house for Cleo when she finds her intruder. Damien begins by inquiring about why she assigned to every case involving an attempted assassination on Bruce Wayne. The woman retorts that it was by happenstance to which Damien reveals that he is well aware of the money wires as well as her true identity, Cathrine Elliot, aka the half sister to Thomas Elliot who wired those transactions in the first place. Damien gives Catherine a chance to willingly turn herself into the GCPD to admit her crimes but she decides to pull a knife on Damien and half heartedly states that she would rather kill than do such an act. Damien gives his iconic *TT* and declares the woman to be no match. In the next scene we see Catherine tied & gaged to the chair with a stack of papers besides her as evidence of her hanious acts. Damien professes that he sent a copy to the media and that he will find Cleo a good home to go to before leaving her for the police.
On the opposite end of Gotham we see Nakano in his office researching the recent crime reports across the boroughs. He makes a phone call to his wife, Koyuki, expressing the reason he is running late. After a scuffle Nakano looks up and request the figure present to show themselves. The Mirror does so then commends Nakano for his sacrifices before laying a flash drive and Nakano's loaded gun on the table. Christopher asks the Mirror what he wants to which the man explains that they want the same thing which is to rid Gotham of vigilantes. The Mirror then explains that the flash drive he laid before Nakano ecompases blackmail details about his opponent. Nakano demands that the Mirror take the flash drive with him because he plans to win the election fairly. Mirror advises Nakano the real Gotham is a Battlefield to which Nakano retorts that is the reason he is running for Mayor.
We then direct our attention to the Batfamily who is stationed on various rooftops throughout Gotham. They document & inform each other of the growing crowds spreading across Gotham who all seem to be traveling to a very specific location. The people flock to their leader the Mirror who begins broadcasting his Call to Arms demanding the extinction of the vigilantes. At the exact moment, Batman gets a pin on Damien's location. The Batfamily advises him to go and locate Damien while they handle the crowd but Batman refuses claiming that this problem demands their immediate attention or else it will result in deviation. The crowd travels as a unit lead by the Mirror but are cut off my an opposing group of civilians dressed in homemade masks. The Mirror asks "who are you?" to which the opposition replies with the names of various vigilantes in Gotham "I am Robin, I am Batgirl, I am Batman, I am Signal etc." The Mirror retaliates asking why they would choose to defend the vigilantes who have created the vilians plaguing their city to which the opposition declare that the vigilantes have saved countless souls and must stay. Mirror takes the first hit at the opposition resulting in a brawl of physical violence and opposing philosophies. The Batfamily rushes in to break up the fight but are quickly outnumber by the sea of civilians. Batman rises from the shadows behind Mirror declaring "This Ends Now!" Mirror agrees and the two begin to duel. Batman retorts that he is sick of psychos taking over his city and Mirror agrees holding the shoulder pieces of Batman's cape taught. Batman breaks free and the Mirror runs to the safety guard above the harbor. Batman calls out demanding the man stops because the drop is deadly. Mirror replies that he is now an idea stronger than fleash and every movement needs a Martyr before jumping off the edge and blowing himself up.
The crowd settles down in light of what they witnessed. Some yell out that Batman made Mirror jump while others claim the man did it himself. Batman lifts his voice crying out to crowd "Don't you see what is happening?" "Can't you see what's in front of your eyes?" The Dark Knight declares that the vigilantes of Gotham fight for this city and that he chose this fight when his life was destroyed at a young age and that he wears a mask to prevent that that dispare from happening to another as does the rest of the vigilantes in Gotham. He ends his rally cry asking for the public to return to their homes. Nightwing makes a call on his comlink telling Batman they are making their way through the crowd and will manage the rest from here. Batman asks if Nightwing is sure to which he confirms telling Batman to find Robin.
We then zoom out to see the unconscious Batfamily laying on the ground of a van tied up with Hush poised over Batgirl with a gun to her head. Hush rises from his position to take Nightwing's comlink before administering a tranquilizer.
We are awakened with our protagonists the Batfamily restrained to an upright surgical table. Hush begins by discussing the old Greek proverb "Youth is easy to deceive because it is quick to hope" then proceed to explain that he has taken the liberty of paralyzing their vocal cords and plans to tag their specific blood types then harvest their bodies in exchange for money on the dark web to once in for all destroy Bruce Wayne by murdering his extended family. ( Uh-huh, so that went real dark, real fast 😐. Not going to lie this type of crazy antics is more in line with the obsessionof the Joker or brutalityof Profesor PYG. Although, the fact that it's Thomas Elliot who was an ex-surgeon kinda make this arc better because of the familiar ties that he has to Bruce via their shared backgrounds as childhood friends. It's a deeper level of psychopathy & obsession that outmatches all including the Joker.) Hush draws attention to the theater that is his current base of operation and the series of photos hung about the room that shows both the Elliot & Wayne families together over the years. Elliot's tone is seething and dark as he reflects upon them then begins drawing blood.
Meanwhile, Batman has traced Damien's whereabouts to the old Gotham World's Fair grounds. Batman goes through the roof of an observation deck believing that his son has likely set up motion sensors & alarms throughout the grounds. Once inside the base Batman identify thermal lined film on the windows that ceased his ability to detect Damien soon as well his Black Case book near the makeshift bed suggesting that Damien has set up camp for a while. Upon browsing through the book he finds multiple pictures of Alfred and realizes how blind he's been towards his son during this difficult time. Batman stops for a moment to gaze upon a photo of Alfred & Damien then expresses "Alfred was just as much a father to him as I was...Possibly even more." Bruce takes a moment to feel relief at the idea of getting his son back when suddenly Damien arrives outraged. A duel breaks out amongst father & son. Damien is enraged that his father infiltrated his base to which Batman retorts that he is here to talk but sees that Damien clearly isn't in the mood to do so. Damien sarcastically notes his father's perceptions while Batman observes that his presence in Damien's life only seems to fuel his hatred so why would he retrieve his Black Case book if the goal was distance. Damien doesn't reply rather attacks Batman with full force causing the structure beneath them to crumble as the fall to ground ontop of the rubble.
We then breifly direct our attention back to Christopher & his wife, Koyuki who is preparing to leave for the appointment arranged for her husband that he has rescheduled twice. Koyuki lovely states that she is cursed to love her husband regardless but that this is ultimately his choice. The couple arrives at Dr. Leigh's office and it's revealed that this appointment is for the placement of a new eye prosthetic for Nakano. He seems to be reluctant at first explaining that the eye patch has become his mask but his wife reminds him that it takes a strong man to wear a mask but an even stronger man to be willing to reveal and embrace himself. Dr. Leigh begins setting the prosthetic explaining the procedure for how to properly care for it. Nakano notes the craftsmanship of the eye and Dr. Leigh explains that he would expect no less as it was gifted by Bruce Wayne. Nakano immediately begins digging into his eye socket demanding the eye be removed. Dr. Leigh complies then explains that Mr. Wayne purchased the eye because Officer Nakano was injured on his property as a sign of good will but Nakano doesn't pay any heed then crushes the eye on the title declaring that he can't be bought before leaving with wife.
At the theater, we see Hush making a series of phone calls as he seeks to find matches for each of the Batfamily members. He is successful in efforts as he gives his account information for the deposits. Hush then begins the procedure by pulling Red Hood aside to the center of the theater explaining that his kidneys will be the first to be harvested as he administers chloroform for an anesthetic. Meanwhile, the dynamic duo rush across town to the theater upon Batman reaching out to the Batfamily with news of locating Damien but received radio silence across all lines. Thereby prompting their swift response.
Our scenes collide, as Hush stands menacingly over Red Hood prepared to make his first incision when Batman & Robin crash in from the roof. Batman demands for Hush to stand down while Hush whips out his duel pistols while expressing his anger towards Batman for stopping him from killing his family by slicing them up into a million pieces. Hush then concedes that killing Batman surrounded by his family will have to suffice. A rain of gunfire strikes the dynamic duo as they find cover. Robin purposes that he strikes high while Batman goes low but Batman retorts and demands that Robin free the other leaving Hush to him.
The Dark Knight's unbridled rage comes to the surface into full force as he engages in hand to hand combat with Hush. He curses Elliot for dare strike his family in light of all that he's been through. Elliot retorts asking the rhetorical for why he should care about Bruce's family when he didn't even care about his own. Thomas carries on by discussing how his family kept him from his fortune by remaining alive despite his attempts to kill them while squeezing the stylomastoid foramen on Batman's face, paralyzeing his facial muscles. Meanwhile, Damien makes swift work to free the Batfamily when he notices the predicament his father is in mid fight. Damien aims the disregarded surgical instruments at Hush hitting his back resulting in the release of Batman from his clutches. Batman makes swift work to reset his muscles then uses his gauntlet to pin Damien to the wall before diverting his attention back to Hush.
The two crash land at the front of the theater then scramble to regain their position. Batman retorts with a crass statment about how he would like to believe that his friend wouldnt be actively trying to kill him. Hush replies by reflecting on the joy he felt to know that Thomas Wayne was killed in crime ally but how his joy turned to anger to learn that his mother also passed leaving the Wayne fortune to Bruce, the sole heir, while his mother lived due to Thomas' surgical skills years prior thereby robbing Elliot of his fortune. Batman removes his cape and engages in one final round of hand to hand combat taking down Thomas Elliot.
Damien applauds his father's efforts from the seat of the balcony. Batman asks how the others are doing to which Damien responds that they are recovering from the chloroform haze. Batman tells Damien that he would like to continue their talk but he vanishes to the roof.
On the roof, Damien declares that he has successfully solved the first case in Bruce's Black Case book and vows to solve the rest even if his father is long gone. Batman state that there is still more to discuss but Damien retorts that everything has already been said and that his father has cast to big of a shadow. Batman is disappointed that his son doesn't seem to understand then declares that a shadow is nothing rather it is the person within that makes you who you are.
Damien shares his father's disappointment by expressing that he is far more impatient and will never live the life his father has due to their formative years being vastly different from each other's. Batman asks how Damien has coped with lossing Alfred to which Damien retorts that he will always hold himself responsible for Alfred's death and nothing can change that. Batman hands Damien his Robin crest declaring it to be his to which Damien replies that it belongs to him.
Wow this was a very interesting, thrilling, and disturbing Detective Comics arc. I found the Mirror arc to be more philosophical as it push the threshold of what makes a symbol as symbol and what constitutes as the public's responsible as opposed to the vigilantes of Gotham and whether they cause more harm than good. While the arc pertaining to Thomas Elliot aka Hush was more disturbing on both a psychological & physical level. The emotional depth and turmoil was present in this nearly turned tragedy as the audience grips onto every page. I personally found the tragedy of Thomas Elliot to perfectly match Bruce Wayne in terms of intensity as both set off my cataclysmic reaction in the wake of the Waynes' murder. However, one was led by greed while the other was cast into a seemingly endless grief. I also appreciated how the arc attempted to reconcile Damien & Bruce's relationship as father & son but ultimately found the emotional constipation of Bruce to be irritating as it ultimately resulted in further pushing his son away. This is a common theme presented in the Batfamily specifically Batman & his protégés. Sill it would have been nice if we received that emotional cathartic ending we needed to resolve the internal conflict both Bruce & Damien have been feeling as a result of grieving Alfred's passing. 9.8/10 🌟 This was great final Volume in the Detective Comics run by Tomasi & Tamaki.
We begin with a wildcard arc that delves into the more mystery/Detective motif of Batman, as a Phantom horseman rides about Gotham, decapitating some rather specific targets, including a detective, a judge, & a prosecuting attorney. What do these three men have in common other than their connection to law enforcement? All is revealed when the Phantom calls the Attorney and instructs him to gather the evidence and meet him at the Police Station stables.
In our Main arc we are taken to the streets of Gotham where a Mirror Masked Man stands upon his soap box declaring to the public that the time is now to be rid of vigilantes in Gotham with the aid of officer Nakano who has initiate this grassroots movement. The Mirror purposes that the public is probably wondering why he would be so adamant to stand in opposition of the vigilante movement when he is also masked. To which the Mirror retorts by claiming his face is not his and own and rather the broader representation of the Gotham public...(read more if interested)
Meanwhile, Bruce is busy moving his possessions from Wayne Manor in light of the Joker stealing his family's fortune. Bruce admits that he has dreaded the day that he would need to remove Alfred's belongings as he is reminded of meaningful pictures and memories of his beloved father figure. Bruce begins the process but then before turns off the lights to leave the task for another day.
Later that evening a gang of thugs decides to rob a bank in Gotham and snag a hostage before taking off on a high speed chase. Batman is in hot pursuit via the batcycle and manages to get in close range with the vehicle. Once Batman is in the car he takes out the driver when the two remaining gang members decide to shoot him. Batman is not injured during these incredibly close range shots (*cough, good to see that the plot armor is working over time. Idk why the writters added this detail *cough.) Batman uses his Cowl to launch bat darts at the two (Ok now that's kinda funny 😂) then delivers the car to the police with the hostage safe & sound. The people in the crowd are divided as some cheer while others deman Batman "unmask".
Batman decides that it's time Bruce Wayne does some of the heavy lifting for once so he decided to go to a sponsored Yatch party held in the Honor of Nakano so he can further define his plans for Gotham. The party is dull as many of the richest men & women in Gotham wait for Nakano to finish his vision for their city. At the conclusion of his speach, Bruce approached Nakano to ask further questions on his no-vigilante agenda but the Yatch is taken over by a sqaud of pirate thugs who demand the rich pass over their belongings. Nightwing gets word via his comlink and glides in to intervene thereby saving the crowd from a worst fate. Nakano is pissed off that Nightwing showed up but our lovable Dick takes none of it to heart as he takes off.
Bruce returns to the Manor feeling somewhat defeated in his venture when he notices his chair at the Batcomputer is out of place. He then searches the area and finds that his Black Case book is missing and next to Alfred there was only one other soul who know of its existence.
In the following scene we focus on Christopher Nakano who is awakened by a gruesome nightmare about the death of his officer partner Bart and further blames his problems on Batman who was there that fateful night. Christopher clings to his wife who calms him. Once he regains his composure Nakano declares that he will run for mayor and his wife although reluctant agrees to support him.
We then pivot our attention to Batman who is reminiscing about his last interaction with his son, Damien. He recounts how Damien was actively pushing his father out of his life by engaging in a physical fight to which Batman received every strike refusing to actively defend beyond blocking. Finally he reflects on how his desires for his son to behave with more self control and restraint were tempered when Damien resigned his crest before denouncing his position as Robin. (This scene is very well done and elicits a mix of emotions from audience. However, the emotional depth we are seeking is once again greatly lacking from our protagonist Batman. This ultimately does a great disservice to his character growth and although this is sadly to be expected given how the writers are choosing to portray Batman...it still would have been nice if we had a bit more empathy from the dark knight towards his son.)
Batman lands on a rooftop to join the Batfamily (Signal, Bat, Batwoman, Red Hood, Nightwing, & Batgirl) as they discuss the problems pertaining to the anti-vigilante movement that has spread across Gotham. Essentially the citizens are revolting actively against the vigilantes by luring them to anwsers fake calls for help only to cause great harm by beating them or laying dangerous traps. Towards the end of the meeting, Signal expresses his relief that Batman called this meeting to which Batman retorts that he didn't rather Nightwing did. This leads to confusion but that is quickly dispelled as a hoard of civilians begin protesting against the Batfamily by climbing up the roof to attack causing the Bats to disburse (This is a great visual scene 👏.).
Meanwhile, Damien is busy in the GCPD cold case room where he has decided to solve one of his father's cases. The files lead him to uncover detective Catherine Podolsky who had previously been assigned to all of the attempted & failed murder cases set out on Bruce Wayne. Damien then enters to townhome of Catherine and sits perched on chair with Cleo (her cat) awaiting Detective Polosky's return. Catherine pours herself a glass of wine and begins searching the house for Cleo when she finds her intruder. Damien begins by inquiring about why she assigned to every case involving an attempted assassination on Bruce Wayne. The woman retorts that it was by happenstance to which Damien reveals that he is well aware of the money wires as well as her true identity, Cathrine Elliot, aka the half sister to Thomas Elliot who wired those transactions in the first place. Damien gives Catherine a chance to willingly turn herself into the GCPD to admit her crimes but she decides to pull a knife on Damien and half heartedly states that she would rather kill than do such an act. Damien gives his iconic *TT* and declares the woman to be no match. In the next scene we see Catherine tied & gaged to the chair with a stack of papers besides her as evidence of her hanious acts. Damien professes that he sent a copy to the media and that he will find Cleo a good home to go to before leaving her for the police.
On the opposite end of Gotham we see Nakano in his office researching the recent crime reports across the boroughs. He makes a phone call to his wife, Koyuki, expressing the reason he is running late. After a scuffle Nakano looks up and request the figure present to show themselves. The Mirror does so then commends Nakano for his sacrifices before laying a flash drive and Nakano's loaded gun on the table. Christopher asks the Mirror what he wants to which the man explains that they want the same thing which is to rid Gotham of vigilantes. The Mirror then explains that the flash drive he laid before Nakano ecompases blackmail details about his opponent. Nakano demands that the Mirror take the flash drive with him because he plans to win the election fairly. Mirror advises Nakano the real Gotham is a Battlefield to which Nakano retorts that is the reason he is running for Mayor.
We then direct our attention to the Batfamily who is stationed on various rooftops throughout Gotham. They document & inform each other of the growing crowds spreading across Gotham who all seem to be traveling to a very specific location. The people flock to their leader the Mirror who begins broadcasting his Call to Arms demanding the extinction of the vigilantes. At the exact moment, Batman gets a pin on Damien's location. The Batfamily advises him to go and locate Damien while they handle the crowd but Batman refuses claiming that this problem demands their immediate attention or else it will result in deviation. The crowd travels as a unit lead by the Mirror but are cut off my an opposing group of civilians dressed in homemade masks. The Mirror asks "who are you?" to which the opposition replies with the names of various vigilantes in Gotham "I am Robin, I am Batgirl, I am Batman, I am Signal etc." The Mirror retaliates asking why they would choose to defend the vigilantes who have created the vilians plaguing their city to which the opposition declare that the vigilantes have saved countless souls and must stay. Mirror takes the first hit at the opposition resulting in a brawl of physical violence and opposing philosophies. The Batfamily rushes in to break up the fight but are quickly outnumber by the sea of civilians. Batman rises from the shadows behind Mirror declaring "This Ends Now!" Mirror agrees and the two begin to duel. Batman retorts that he is sick of psychos taking over his city and Mirror agrees holding the shoulder pieces of Batman's cape taught. Batman breaks free and the Mirror runs to the safety guard above the harbor. Batman calls out demanding the man stops because the drop is deadly. Mirror replies that he is now an idea stronger than fleash and every movement needs a Martyr before jumping off the edge and blowing himself up.
The crowd settles down in light of what they witnessed. Some yell out that Batman made Mirror jump while others claim the man did it himself. Batman lifts his voice crying out to crowd "Don't you see what is happening?" "Can't you see what's in front of your eyes?" The Dark Knight declares that the vigilantes of Gotham fight for this city and that he chose this fight when his life was destroyed at a young age and that he wears a mask to prevent that that dispare from happening to another as does the rest of the vigilantes in Gotham. He ends his rally cry asking for the public to return to their homes. Nightwing makes a call on his comlink telling Batman they are making their way through the crowd and will manage the rest from here. Batman asks if Nightwing is sure to which he confirms telling Batman to find Robin.
We then zoom out to see the unconscious Batfamily laying on the ground of a van tied up with Hush poised over Batgirl with a gun to her head. Hush rises from his position to take Nightwing's comlink before administering a tranquilizer.
We are awakened with our protagonists the Batfamily restrained to an upright surgical table. Hush begins by discussing the old Greek proverb "Youth is easy to deceive because it is quick to hope" then proceed to explain that he has taken the liberty of paralyzing their vocal cords and plans to tag their specific blood types then harvest their bodies in exchange for money on the dark web to once in for all destroy Bruce Wayne by murdering his extended family. ( Uh-huh, so that went real dark, real fast 😐. Not going to lie this type of crazy antics is more in line with the obsessionof the Joker or brutalityof Profesor PYG. Although, the fact that it's Thomas Elliot who was an ex-surgeon kinda make this arc better because of the familiar ties that he has to Bruce via their shared backgrounds as childhood friends. It's a deeper level of psychopathy & obsession that outmatches all including the Joker.) Hush draws attention to the theater that is his current base of operation and the series of photos hung about the room that shows both the Elliot & Wayne families together over the years. Elliot's tone is seething and dark as he reflects upon them then begins drawing blood.
Meanwhile, Batman has traced Damien's whereabouts to the old Gotham World's Fair grounds. Batman goes through the roof of an observation deck believing that his son has likely set up motion sensors & alarms throughout the grounds. Once inside the base Batman identify thermal lined film on the windows that ceased his ability to detect Damien soon as well his Black Case book near the makeshift bed suggesting that Damien has set up camp for a while. Upon browsing through the book he finds multiple pictures of Alfred and realizes how blind he's been towards his son during this difficult time. Batman stops for a moment to gaze upon a photo of Alfred & Damien then expresses "Alfred was just as much a father to him as I was...Possibly even more." Bruce takes a moment to feel relief at the idea of getting his son back when suddenly Damien arrives outraged. A duel breaks out amongst father & son. Damien is enraged that his father infiltrated his base to which Batman retorts that he is here to talk but sees that Damien clearly isn't in the mood to do so. Damien sarcastically notes his father's perceptions while Batman observes that his presence in Damien's life only seems to fuel his hatred so why would he retrieve his Black Case book if the goal was distance. Damien doesn't reply rather attacks Batman with full force causing the structure beneath them to crumble as the fall to ground ontop of the rubble.
We then breifly direct our attention back to Christopher & his wife, Koyuki who is preparing to leave for the appointment arranged for her husband that he has rescheduled twice. Koyuki lovely states that she is cursed to love her husband regardless but that this is ultimately his choice. The couple arrives at Dr. Leigh's office and it's revealed that this appointment is for the placement of a new eye prosthetic for Nakano. He seems to be reluctant at first explaining that the eye patch has become his mask but his wife reminds him that it takes a strong man to wear a mask but an even stronger man to be willing to reveal and embrace himself. Dr. Leigh begins setting the prosthetic explaining the procedure for how to properly care for it. Nakano notes the craftsmanship of the eye and Dr. Leigh explains that he would expect no less as it was gifted by Bruce Wayne. Nakano immediately begins digging into his eye socket demanding the eye be removed. Dr. Leigh complies then explains that Mr. Wayne purchased the eye because Officer Nakano was injured on his property as a sign of good will but Nakano doesn't pay any heed then crushes the eye on the title declaring that he can't be bought before leaving with wife.
At the theater, we see Hush making a series of phone calls as he seeks to find matches for each of the Batfamily members. He is successful in efforts as he gives his account information for the deposits. Hush then begins the procedure by pulling Red Hood aside to the center of the theater explaining that his kidneys will be the first to be harvested as he administers chloroform for an anesthetic. Meanwhile, the dynamic duo rush across town to the theater upon Batman reaching out to the Batfamily with news of locating Damien but received radio silence across all lines. Thereby prompting their swift response.
Our scenes collide, as Hush stands menacingly over Red Hood prepared to make his first incision when Batman & Robin crash in from the roof. Batman demands for Hush to stand down while Hush whips out his duel pistols while expressing his anger towards Batman for stopping him from killing his family by slicing them up into a million pieces. Hush then concedes that killing Batman surrounded by his family will have to suffice. A rain of gunfire strikes the dynamic duo as they find cover. Robin purposes that he strikes high while Batman goes low but Batman retorts and demands that Robin free the other leaving Hush to him.
The Dark Knight's unbridled rage comes to the surface into full force as he engages in hand to hand combat with Hush. He curses Elliot for dare strike his family in light of all that he's been through. Elliot retorts asking the rhetorical for why he should care about Bruce's family when he didn't even care about his own. Thomas carries on by discussing how his family kept him from his fortune by remaining alive despite his attempts to kill them while squeezing the stylomastoid foramen on Batman's face, paralyzeing his facial muscles. Meanwhile, Damien makes swift work to free the Batfamily when he notices the predicament his father is in mid fight. Damien aims the disregarded surgical instruments at Hush hitting his back resulting in the release of Batman from his clutches. Batman makes swift work to reset his muscles then uses his gauntlet to pin Damien to the wall before diverting his attention back to Hush.
The two crash land at the front of the theater then scramble to regain their position. Batman retorts with a crass statment about how he would like to believe that his friend wouldnt be actively trying to kill him. Hush replies by reflecting on the joy he felt to know that Thomas Wayne was killed in crime ally but how his joy turned to anger to learn that his mother also passed leaving the Wayne fortune to Bruce, the sole heir, while his mother lived due to Thomas' surgical skills years prior thereby robbing Elliot of his fortune. Batman removes his cape and engages in one final round of hand to hand combat taking down Thomas Elliot.
Damien applauds his father's efforts from the seat of the balcony. Batman asks how the others are doing to which Damien responds that they are recovering from the chloroform haze. Batman tells Damien that he would like to continue their talk but he vanishes to the roof.
On the roof, Damien declares that he has successfully solved the first case in Bruce's Black Case book and vows to solve the rest even if his father is long gone. Batman state that there is still more to discuss but Damien retorts that everything has already been said and that his father has cast to big of a shadow. Batman is disappointed that his son doesn't seem to understand then declares that a shadow is nothing rather it is the person within that makes you who you are.
Damien shares his father's disappointment by expressing that he is far more impatient and will never live the life his father has due to their formative years being vastly different from each other's. Batman asks how Damien has coped with lossing Alfred to which Damien retorts that he will always hold himself responsible for Alfred's death and nothing can change that. Batman hands Damien his Robin crest declaring it to be his to which Damien replies that it belongs to him.
Wow this was a very interesting, thrilling, and disturbing Detective Comics arc. I found the Mirror arc to be more philosophical as it push the threshold of what makes a symbol as symbol and what constitutes as the public's responsible as opposed to the vigilantes of Gotham and whether they cause more harm than good. While the arc pertaining to Thomas Elliot aka Hush was more disturbing on both a psychological & physical level. The emotional depth and turmoil was present in this nearly turned tragedy as the audience grips onto every page. I personally found the tragedy of Thomas Elliot to perfectly match Bruce Wayne in terms of intensity as both set off my cataclysmic reaction in the wake of the Waynes' murder. However, one was led by greed while the other was cast into a seemingly endless grief. I also appreciated how the arc attempted to reconcile Damien & Bruce's relationship as father & son but ultimately found the emotional constipation of Bruce to be irritating as it ultimately resulted in further pushing his son away. This is a common theme presented in the Batfamily specifically Batman & his protégés. Sill it would have been nice if we received that emotional cathartic ending we needed to resolve the internal conflict both Bruce & Damien have been feeling as a result of grieving Alfred's passing. 9.8/10 🌟 This was great final Volume in the Detective Comics run by Tomasi & Tamaki.
June 19, 2021
An interesting Hush tale gets buried amid pandering pro-riot crap.
October 12, 2022
Oh, I totally didn't realize this was the end of Tomasi's Batman Detective Comics runs. Aw.
I'm going to miss Tomasi's cool gadgets (like the super cool portable X-Ray-ish Tablet thing he had in the graveyard in issue #1028, and the very cool pointy ear darts from his cowl (#1029) and costume powerwash thing in the cave, which is just so smart), and his emotionally immature Batman (he feels, he just doesn't know how to express).
The first story in this volume is a cool murder revenge plot that kills some dirty cops (and a DA?). We get to see Batman on a black horse, and it is majestic!
#1029 introduces us to The Mirror who is leading an anti-vigilante movement (more like an anti-bat movement) in Gotham. What's new, am I right?
But this time, post-Joker Wars, there's a lot of traction in the populace for a no more mask movement.
The mayoral candidate, Christopher Nakano, (the police officer we met at the end of Joker Wars) is now running for Mayor on a super anti-mask platform as well.
#1030 -everything in this issue (it apparently happened in Teen Titans) was new to me. Damian quitting being Robin, him punching Batman(!!), him going off the grid, all of it! I knew I hadn't seen him in a long while (since Alfred's "wake"), but I was so sad to learn all this! I really like Damian (Ever since Tomasi's "Batman & Robin" series) and my heart breaks that he is so alone and broken right now. Batman is on the hunt for Damian though, trying to find him after Damian snuck into the cave and stole Batman's Black Casebook (i.e. his book of unsolved crimes).
There's a little batfamily reunion on a rooftop in Gotham and Batman asks everyone to let him know if they see Damian. (╯︵╰,)
But! Uh-oh, none of the batfamily actually called the meeting. Their comm-link frequency was hacked and they were lured into a trap by The Mirror and his gang! Dun dun dun!
(They're fine, don't worry!)
And we see Damian's first unsolved Black Casebook case is... a contained period of a bunch of unsolved murder attempts on Bruce Wayne's life!
Issue #1031 has a cool Bat-loving citizens of Gotham vs. the Mirror et al. showdown.
The Mirror: "And just what do you expect to achieve wearing those?"
Citizen in a Batman mask: "To show that there's a large percentage of Gotham that knows how necessary heroes have been! The monsters they've kept at bay --the sheer number of souls they've saved over the years. We expect you to take a closer look at the good of what they've achieved --the service they've provided to those in danger --the crazies with masks and makeup they've kept off the streets. You say they have to go --we say they have to stay! And we'll happily raise our voices to show our support!"
AW <3 <3 <3
We get the awful Batman/Damian showdown in #1032.
There's a really weird scene where Christopher Nakano is literally about to get fitted for a fake eye and then smashes it on the ground when he hears it was bought for him by Bruce Wayne. Does he super hate Bruce Wayne, and I missed it before?
Oh, and the whole Batfamily was kidnapped by Hush in the last issue.
Batman and Damian team up to go save the fam (#1033). LOVE the nod to Batman and Robin! Gosh, that was a good Tomasi series!
Anyway, Hush is lame-o, as per usual. Complaining how his Mommy didn't die when he tried to kill her, blah blah blah.
Damian saves the batfamily, and Batman knocks Hush out. They finally have their talk, though it is very abrivated, and more sad than angry.
The very end of the volume (#1033) is Bruce packing up the Batcow, dogs, cat, and finally Alfred's things, and moving them out of Wayne Manor (which is still a F*ing insane plot point to me). HOW in the world will Batman/Bruce live outside the manor? What if someone discovers the Batcave? How is this a good idea DC?!).
Altogether, this vol. gets a 3-star rating from me. Things happen, but in a little vacuum with lame-o villains and new mayor drama. Fine reading, but it def. suffered from last-volume-in-the-run vibes.
ONE TEENY-TINY COOL JEWISH THING at the end. On the last page, Bruce puts a stone on Alfred's grave before he leaves the manor, which is a Jewish custom (instead of flowers, which die, rocks/stones are placed on Jewish graves to symbolize the circle of life in a bit more of a permanent representation), and I just think that's so cool, even though it confuses me a little bit. (Is the nod to Bruce's Jewish fam on the Kane side? Is my fav, Alfred, Jewish?! Who knows!)
On to the next run!
I'm going to miss Tomasi's cool gadgets (like the super cool portable X-Ray-ish Tablet thing he had in the graveyard in issue #1028, and the very cool pointy ear darts from his cowl (#1029) and costume powerwash thing in the cave, which is just so smart), and his emotionally immature Batman (he feels, he just doesn't know how to express).
The first story in this volume is a cool murder revenge plot that kills some dirty cops (and a DA?). We get to see Batman on a black horse, and it is majestic!
#1029 introduces us to The Mirror who is leading an anti-vigilante movement (more like an anti-bat movement) in Gotham. What's new, am I right?
But this time, post-Joker Wars, there's a lot of traction in the populace for a no more mask movement.
The mayoral candidate, Christopher Nakano, (the police officer we met at the end of Joker Wars) is now running for Mayor on a super anti-mask platform as well.
#1030 -everything in this issue (it apparently happened in Teen Titans) was new to me. Damian quitting being Robin, him punching Batman(!!), him going off the grid, all of it! I knew I hadn't seen him in a long while (since Alfred's "wake"), but I was so sad to learn all this! I really like Damian (Ever since Tomasi's "Batman & Robin" series) and my heart breaks that he is so alone and broken right now. Batman is on the hunt for Damian though, trying to find him after Damian snuck into the cave and stole Batman's Black Casebook (i.e. his book of unsolved crimes).
There's a little batfamily reunion on a rooftop in Gotham and Batman asks everyone to let him know if they see Damian. (╯︵╰,)
But! Uh-oh, none of the batfamily actually called the meeting. Their comm-link frequency was hacked and they were lured into a trap by The Mirror and his gang! Dun dun dun!
(They're fine, don't worry!)
And we see Damian's first unsolved Black Casebook case is... a contained period of a bunch of unsolved murder attempts on Bruce Wayne's life!
Issue #1031 has a cool Bat-loving citizens of Gotham vs. the Mirror et al. showdown.
The Mirror: "And just what do you expect to achieve wearing those?"
Citizen in a Batman mask: "To show that there's a large percentage of Gotham that knows how necessary heroes have been! The monsters they've kept at bay --the sheer number of souls they've saved over the years. We expect you to take a closer look at the good of what they've achieved --the service they've provided to those in danger --the crazies with masks and makeup they've kept off the streets. You say they have to go --we say they have to stay! And we'll happily raise our voices to show our support!"
AW <3 <3 <3
We get the awful Batman/Damian showdown in #1032.
There's a really weird scene where Christopher Nakano is literally about to get fitted for a fake eye and then smashes it on the ground when he hears it was bought for him by Bruce Wayne. Does he super hate Bruce Wayne, and I missed it before?
Oh, and the whole Batfamily was kidnapped by Hush in the last issue.
Batman and Damian team up to go save the fam (#1033). LOVE the nod to Batman and Robin! Gosh, that was a good Tomasi series!
Anyway, Hush is lame-o, as per usual. Complaining how his Mommy didn't die when he tried to kill her, blah blah blah.
Damian saves the batfamily, and Batman knocks Hush out. They finally have their talk, though it is very abrivated, and more sad than angry.
The very end of the volume (#1033) is Bruce packing up the Batcow, dogs, cat, and finally Alfred's things, and moving them out of Wayne Manor (which is still a F*ing insane plot point to me). HOW in the world will Batman/Bruce live outside the manor? What if someone discovers the Batcave? How is this a good idea DC?!).
Altogether, this vol. gets a 3-star rating from me. Things happen, but in a little vacuum with lame-o villains and new mayor drama. Fine reading, but it def. suffered from last-volume-in-the-run vibes.
ONE TEENY-TINY COOL JEWISH THING at the end. On the last page, Bruce puts a stone on Alfred's grave before he leaves the manor, which is a Jewish custom (instead of flowers, which die, rocks/stones are placed on Jewish graves to symbolize the circle of life in a bit more of a permanent representation), and I just think that's so cool, even though it confuses me a little bit. (Is the nod to Bruce's Jewish fam on the Kane side? Is my fav, Alfred, Jewish?! Who knows!)
On to the next run!
December 8, 2021
Quite a bit of the back story of this I already knew from being further ahead in the main Batman title, but with this being Peter J Tomasi's last story on Detective Comics, I knew I had to read this anyway. Looking forward to seeing what's next for this very long running title.
Highlights:
- We start with a good old fashioned detective story where Batman is investigating a cop killer. This mounted killer chops off heads with a police issued saber, and of course Batman finds him. Steven Holman, son of accused corrupt cop, only wants to clear his father's name and make sure the crooked cops get what's coming to them. Case solved, but Steven goes off to jail too, for the murders he did.
- Anti-mask sentiment is rising strongly throughout the people of Gotham, and head of that movement is a masked man who calls himself "The Mirror". Leading chants of "Unmask" while he himself is masked, is odd... but I'm anxious to see who he is soon.
- Running on an anti-mask, anti-vigilante campaign is Christopher Nakano, a former cop who lost his eye during "Joker War". He makes good points and is, by Volume's end, elected the new mayor of Gotham.
- Bruce has begun packing up Wayne Manor to move into the city. Lots of reflection on his life with Alfred.
- Damien steals Bruce's black book of unsolved cases and begins to work one. But... he will have to assume a Robin-like role again to help Batman when...
- Hush makes his return here, having both hired "The Mirror" and abducted the rest of the Bat Family. He wants to sell their organs on the black market. Of course he is stopped, but Tomasi does a great job creating suspense and action. Always good to see Bruce to go toe to toe with his childhood friend.
Overall, a good Volume. Art could have been better or at least more consistent.
Recommend.
Highlights:
- We start with a good old fashioned detective story where Batman is investigating a cop killer. This mounted killer chops off heads with a police issued saber, and of course Batman finds him. Steven Holman, son of accused corrupt cop, only wants to clear his father's name and make sure the crooked cops get what's coming to them. Case solved, but Steven goes off to jail too, for the murders he did.
- Anti-mask sentiment is rising strongly throughout the people of Gotham, and head of that movement is a masked man who calls himself "The Mirror". Leading chants of "Unmask" while he himself is masked, is odd... but I'm anxious to see who he is soon.
- Running on an anti-mask, anti-vigilante campaign is Christopher Nakano, a former cop who lost his eye during "Joker War". He makes good points and is, by Volume's end, elected the new mayor of Gotham.
- Bruce has begun packing up Wayne Manor to move into the city. Lots of reflection on his life with Alfred.
- Damien steals Bruce's black book of unsolved cases and begins to work one. But... he will have to assume a Robin-like role again to help Batman when...
- Hush makes his return here, having both hired "The Mirror" and abducted the rest of the Bat Family. He wants to sell their organs on the black market. Of course he is stopped, but Tomasi does a great job creating suspense and action. Always good to see Bruce to go toe to toe with his childhood friend.
Overall, a good Volume. Art could have been better or at least more consistent.
Recommend.
October 29, 2021
There are at least three plots running through this volume, handled without much conviction. First, we have the worn out trope of anti-vigilante sentiment by Gotham's citizens and leaders even though the vigilantes have saved more lives than caused deaths over the years. Yes, in the real world if someone dressed up as a bat and took the law into his own hands, he would be quickly arrested. But this is a fantasy world full of superpowered beings and I think you just have to accept that if you're going to have any kind of interesting story. The second plot line has Hush making an appearance in some kind of crazy effort to kill all the Bat-Family members. Hush was a great one-time villain, but to keep bringing him back dilutes his character for no real good reason other than the writers seem to think readers want to see the same villains over and over. The third plot line is Damian Wayne throwing a tantrum and going off on his own, but not before helping Batman for a second. This seemed like editorial deciding that Damian needs to be an independent agent for some upcoming project, not organic character development. The artwork by a variety of artists is good, but I wish one person could do a whole run and give some consistency to the book's look.
Kindle edition, 137 pages
Kindle edition, 137 pages
December 28, 2021
An awesome book. In the aftermath of the Joker War, Gotham has changed, people's opinions have changed and Bruce has lost most of his fortune.
It say a new direction and it really delivers. It is not just Batman who the city has turned against. Bruce Wayne is no longer the favorite son. Seeing Bruce pacing up his home and memories is hear breaking.
A new tide is coming in to Gotham. The city is divided on their opinions of the masks/vigilantes. The Batfamily is also divided. An old enemy could use this to take advantage. Old cases, wounds and difficult conversations will be met head on. On a personal note I am really glad that a "personal" battle was finally done here.
I really enjoyed this book a very good powerful storyline, heartbreaking in places and definitely shows the changes coming to Gotham. After this things cannot go back the way they were. The artwork is great. I love the gritty and dark images. The fights are brutally well done. I can't wait to see what is next. The book finishes with a varient full page cover gallery.
It say a new direction and it really delivers. It is not just Batman who the city has turned against. Bruce Wayne is no longer the favorite son. Seeing Bruce pacing up his home and memories is hear breaking.
A new tide is coming in to Gotham. The city is divided on their opinions of the masks/vigilantes. The Batfamily is also divided. An old enemy could use this to take advantage. Old cases, wounds and difficult conversations will be met head on. On a personal note I am really glad that a "personal" battle was finally done here.
I really enjoyed this book a very good powerful storyline, heartbreaking in places and definitely shows the changes coming to Gotham. After this things cannot go back the way they were. The artwork is great. I love the gritty and dark images. The fights are brutally well done. I can't wait to see what is next. The book finishes with a varient full page cover gallery.
April 6, 2022
After the abysmal last volume, that forcefully tied into The Joker War storyline, this book was a significant step up and a welcome surprise.
It collects the last issues of Peter Tomasi's Detective Comics run that, while not exactlyt stellar, was nonetheless overall a very fun read with pretty good artwork, and it closes out his run in a high note.
It further fleshes out the ani-vigilante sentiment that is brewing in Gotham that ties to Tynion's work in the Batman title, while telling its own story without getting derailed or sidetracked. It also ves us a Batman and Robin team up, somethig we have not seen in a while, and its well handled (hardly surprising, as Peter Tomasi is one of the few writers who can actually write Damian Wayne as a compelling character instead of just an annoying brat).
Artwork varies, but its mostly good, particularly Brad Walker's pages, which seems to be back in his A-game.
Overall, a good end to a fun, if unremarkable run, that's very worth reading if one is looking for some self-contained Batman stories.
It collects the last issues of Peter Tomasi's Detective Comics run that, while not exactlyt stellar, was nonetheless overall a very fun read with pretty good artwork, and it closes out his run in a high note.
It further fleshes out the ani-vigilante sentiment that is brewing in Gotham that ties to Tynion's work in the Batman title, while telling its own story without getting derailed or sidetracked. It also ves us a Batman and Robin team up, somethig we have not seen in a while, and its well handled (hardly surprising, as Peter Tomasi is one of the few writers who can actually write Damian Wayne as a compelling character instead of just an annoying brat).
Artwork varies, but its mostly good, particularly Brad Walker's pages, which seems to be back in his A-game.
Overall, a good end to a fun, if unremarkable run, that's very worth reading if one is looking for some self-contained Batman stories.
December 1, 2021
Basic Plot: Gotham is starting to show serious anti-mask sentiment, Damian has quit being Robin, and Hush takes advantage of the chaos.
There is a lot going on in this arc. Joker War has left Bruce packing up the manor and Batcave, plus it has left Gotham with some very understandable conflict over the presence of masks in the city. The action was good, and I felt like even with all of the various elements of the plot, it all felt very cohesive. The art was good, and there were some very striking panels, especially when Bruce and Damian were interacting. The end ties up nicely before Future State begins.
There is a lot going on in this arc. Joker War has left Bruce packing up the manor and Batcave, plus it has left Gotham with some very understandable conflict over the presence of masks in the city. The action was good, and I felt like even with all of the various elements of the plot, it all felt very cohesive. The art was good, and there were some very striking panels, especially when Bruce and Damian were interacting. The end ties up nicely before Future State begins.
June 24, 2024
The initial chapter is a great one-off detective story for Batman with clean artwork by Nicola Scott. The main story is fairly interesting, following both the anti-vigilante movement in Gotham in parallel with Damian trying to solve an early Batman case on his own. Unfortunately, the climax involves a sudden villain reveal that should have been set up in the Damian storyline, but actually is almost totally unrelated. It's also a bit jarring to have different lead artists in nearly every issue.
April 26, 2022
I'll give this four stars for Tomasi run over all. He's done what any writer can do with a character like Batman: Play in the sandbox and keep it interesting. All the other setup with new mayors, no Robin, and anti mask sentiment is gravy. The art has awesome moments, especially the fight with Hush.
January 5, 2024
As Bruce Wayne prepares to leave Wayne manor, officer Nakano has begun a campaign for mayor, running on a ticket to end masked vigilantes. At the same time, a new villain calling himself Mirror has riled up the public to demand an end to all masks as well. Meanwhile, an old foe is using the distractions to take down Batman and family in an effort for revenge.
January 18, 2024
Tea by the rolling Ballard
This was a great instalment of barman detective comic
Like watching a whale perform the classic guitar solo for the 1960s
Or a hedgehog winning the Paris marathon after years of training and coming last
Watching an elephant finish its first memoir
A duck sailing the world 🌎
All these things are an amazing feat so pick up this excellent book today.
This was a great instalment of barman detective comic
Like watching a whale perform the classic guitar solo for the 1960s
Or a hedgehog winning the Paris marathon after years of training and coming last
Watching an elephant finish its first memoir
A duck sailing the world 🌎
All these things are an amazing feat so pick up this excellent book today.
March 12, 2024
I liked everything until the short Hush arc. Those two issues really felt rushed abd had poor characterisation to allow the plot to happen.
Otherwise, it was good. Some great art with Nicola Scott and Bilquis Evely too.
The Nakano set up was good. I didn't appreciate him in Tamaki's run, maybe I shoudl try that again? Life is short though.
Otherwise, it was good. Some great art with Nicola Scott and Bilquis Evely too.
The Nakano set up was good. I didn't appreciate him in Tamaki's run, maybe I shoudl try that again? Life is short though.
September 4, 2024
A smaller and much better story than joker wars- Mayor Nakano seems like an interesting character and expect his “feud” with Batman and masked vigilantes to continue.
The Mirror is a great new character (I will be so mad if it’s hush or the joker or something under the mask). Leading a protest against vigilantes-
The Mirror is a great new character (I will be so mad if it’s hush or the joker or something under the mask). Leading a protest against vigilantes-
September 30, 2025
Probably the best volume by Tomasi. The Mirror story was good; we had the whole family together, and even though The Mirror himself was not given a proper conclusion, his movement gave us a good opposing force. But then finishing with Hush… I don’t know. I still struggle to see Hush as a big villain. I liked Nakano as a new character. Ps. Give me more Bilquis Evely Batman stories, please!
March 28, 2022
I don’t enjoy the steps towards future state. The ending makes really no sense to me. Abs I fell like 2 stories are jumbled here with the rise if anti-maskers in Gotham (huh that’s got a whole new meaning now) and a Villain story (name redacted).
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