“Into The Unknown”
Writer: Chip Zdarsky & Tim Howard
Artists: Mike Hawthorne & Marianna Ignazzi
Color Artist: Romulo Fajardo Jr. & Giovanna Niro
Letterer: Clayton Cowles
Review by Max Byrne
Batman #151 is an enjoyable romp of an episode that contains a potent mix of action, adventure, a heist and cunning disguises, not to mention an excellent team up of Batman and Catwoman. As an extension of the current Absolute Power arc, it works really well, with its simple plot depicting our heroes attempting to steal a mother box from the Far East.
I have always been a fan of the times when Batman adopts a new persona when going undercover, and here we get a fresh new one. Matches Malone isn’t utilized this time, instead let me introduce you to Mr Blackwell, head of Sentryglobe, a private military contractor. Visually a spitting image of Oliver Queen, this slick, corporate operator is an interesting look at the man Bruce Wayne may have become if not for that fateful night in Crime Alley. This showcases Bruce’s acting talents and ability to change to any situation, an interesting facet of the Dark Knight.
Of course, where The Bat & Cat go, violence is never far behind. Seeing them in full flow against Waller’s new Suicide Squad is a real thrill, especially when Bizarro enters the fray. Zdarsky pits him against Batman in an intriguing way, as our titular hero employs a cerebral method to ensure victory when he is physically totally outmatched.
Artwork Am Not Stunning
Mike Hawthorne’s artwork is stunning throughout this issue, but where he really shines is when he depicts the action panels. The blows that the characters rain down on each other are often accompanied by onomatopoeic words that enhance the impact, such as “fzwah” and “skatoom”. The latter word frames a wonderful showing Bizarro landing on the ground with huge force and it practically leaps off the page!
The issue is left on a tantalizing cliffhanger too, as our heroic pair are left in a seriously sticky situation in their quest to steal Waller’s mother box. No spoilers here, but their backs are against the wall and they are going to have a hard time getting out of this one.
The secondary story on offer here, entitled Absolute Power Plant, is an entertaining short story focussing on Harley Quinn attempting to keep Gotham City in order in the absence of the Bat-Family. It’s light and humorous, as befits the character. It also features several other characters from Batman’s rogues gallery and is well worth a read.
Conclusion
Batman #151 is a snappy issue that is light on plot and heavy on espionage and action. Whilst it doesn’t move the status quo onwards dramatically, it is highly enjoyable and a really nice read. As Absolute Power starts to pick up pace, this tie in issue is essential reading for the interested fan. Go and check it out.
Images Courtesy of DC Entertainment
