Synopsis: As the Gang War reaches a bloody climax, Batman and Jason Bard must bear witness to the horrifying last stand of The Penguin! Plus, Jim Gordon makes a terrible decision that will shape the rest of his life.
The Gang War continues this week, with some deadly consequences. Bard continues his badassery (or does he) and Gordon’s conversation with his son haunts his decisions. Oh, and Batman overseas all of it… because he’s awesome.
Batman:Eternal continues to add layers to its already epic tale, while giving us some action and solutions in the process. Does everything make sense? Hell no. Does it all connect? Umm… sure? Does it bother me? Not in the slightest. At this point, we should all trust what Snyder and co. are up to, because this year-long, 52 issue story wouldn’t have started if it didn’t all come together. And this week, we get a better sense of the ringleader… even if we never see him.
Here are a few things to look for:
- Scarecrow’s Kitty Pryde powers (sorry I’m mixing with a Marvel reference)
- Angry bird
- Bard’s first compliment
- Big bust
- The decision
- Extra baggage
- Bad cop?
- Daddy’s girrrl
Another solid effort from the Eternal Team (just came to me). Though a collaborative effort, James Tynion IV gets the most credit for this script and a fine job he does with it. On the drawing board is Jason Fabok, who is one I’m ALWAYS behind. His Arkham Asylum is pitch perfect!
A few minor complaints though. This story with Harper Row and Red Robin is moving sooooo slow and isn’t gaining any interest from me. Maybe it’s my bias towards her (possible) replacement as Nightwing (please don’t let it happen!) but nothing has happened with her that’s gotten me on board. Also, we get hints about another big guy (the Lion)… yet we never see him! He’s even on the cover!
Other than that, great issue. The story is coming together nicely. But despite it’s title, nothing lasts forever.
Rating: 8/10