Gotham Nocturne: Intermezzo – “Batman, Outlaw” – Part Four, and “Voyage Into The Light”
Writers: Ram V and Dan Watters
Artists: Jason Shawn Alexander, Liam Sharp, and Juan Ferreyra
Color Artists: Dave Stewart and Juan Ferreyra
Letterer: Steve Wands
Review by James Attias
Detective Comics #1079 Brings our Ocean’s Eleven-style adventure to a head, but did Selina’s team save the Bat or did he hang?!
A Cat by Any Other Name
So, after the heist of the century, the team fooled, sneaked, and beat their way through to the Orghams, to save Batman. Did it work? Well… No. At the end of the last issue, the Dark Knight was seemingly hanged in the town square. Could this be? Could our hero really be dead? Well if you know anything about the Ocean heist movies, you would have been expecting a little twist, something that seems impossible until it happens. I won’t give anything away, but it was a fun read, and some seeds were planted. I won’t say more, but this was a great issue.
The art style fits the writing here, spooky, Tim Burton-esque… it reminded me of the Batman stories of the early 90’s. It also really fits in with the demonic monster villains that have taken over Gotham. It’s been a long time coming, but this story is starting to get good again. Let’s hope it keeps this level, as I’d hate another Grand Canyon-sized lull. With “Beast Wars” now in full flow., however, it might just happen.
Voyage Into The Light
Does anyone remember how this storyline started? With the Orghams and how they came to power? It seems so long ago now, that even my recollection is fragmented. Also, can anyone name all of the Orghams who are currently ruling over the city with a spooky iron fist? I’m struggling.
So, this tale is about Mummy Orgham, with her big headpiece and unusual attire, sailing into Gotham, and wanting to instill fear into the hearts of all who stand in her and her family’s way. This short story made me connect to the character a lot more than all the issues that have come before. I’m hoping we get to know the rest of the spooky family a lot more going forward.
Conclusion
Detective Comics #1079 was a great read. I will give credit where credit is due. This series has drastically improved over the last few months and I’m glad it’s back on a steady course.
Images Courtesy of DC Entertainment
