“Crack-Up!” – Part Two
Writers: Alan Burnett and Paul Dini
Artist: Ty Templeton
Color Artist: Monica Kubina
Letterer: Josh Reed
Review by James Attias
Batman: The Adventures Continue #3.4 is full of The Animated Series references, twists, turns, and a little glimpse at a Future that is Beyond Batman.
What the Future holds
This issue picks up right where where the previous one left off, the strange costumed woman sending Batman on his way is strong, armed, and… not trying to kill him? This is definitely unusual for the Dark Knight. There are some wonderful references this issue, but I don’t want to give too much away. It always feels so fun to read, as I’m instantly transported back to being a kid when they mention anything to do with the animated universe.
Let me just say that knowing the future they’re talking about is “years away” makes me feel both happy and sad. Happy that we’re seeing the seeds being planted for the Future of Batman, and sad because we know what happens to Bruce on that path (holding back the tears, people).
The Joker is on fine form this issue, and with every line of dialogue I hear Mark Hamill’s signature voice. We learn what lengths he went to, to obtain Staightman as his lackey/ally/weapon! We see the shady government dealings building their super soldier program. A lot of villains and betrayals have led a poor confused soldier to where he is. This issue definitely makes us feel sorry for poor Carl Finley. Will he get a happy ending by the end of this story? With Professor Hugo Strange, The Joker and Amanda Waller all after him. It’s looking bleak.
Drawing us in
The art this issue was wonderful again, I feel like I’m watching the time between The New Batman Adventures and Justice League. It’s so wonderful to read and let each issue play like a cartoon in my head. Ty Templeton is definitely a winner for me every time I read a comic he’s drawn.
The writing was also very fun. We see characters together that we’ve never seen before, we have backstory for those of us who need a refresher on events leading to this issue, plus, my favorite of all, references to one of the best Batman: The Animated Series episodes – “The Strange secret of Bruce Wayne”. This issue was a fan’s dream to read.
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of the animated universe, if you enjoy great comics, this is a book for you! A very enjoyable read. Batman: The Adventures Continue #3.4 was a wild ride full of fun references.
Images Courtesy of DC Entertainment
Review Written In Loving Memory of Kevin Conroy. Always Our Batman.
