“THE GOTHAM CYCLE” Part Two
Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson
Artists: Javi Fernánandez and Carmine Di Giandomenico
Color Artist: Marcelo Maiolo
Letterer: Steve Wands
Review by James Attias
Batman and Robin #21 is a guilt ridden thrill ride that makes you feel guilty for ever thinking sidekicks were acceptable. Let’s step in with our heads down and ashamed.
Child Soldier
When I first started reading this series, it was a reboot of the title, a new villain Shush, (Hush is my favourite story) so I was immediately enthralled, and now, 21 issues later, Batman and Robin are in a bad place. Robin has been captured. Life in danger. Batman is trying desperately to find him. But has the Dark Knight seen the error of his ways? Having his 14 year old son, chasing down immortal serial killers? Cults? and Psychopaths? This issue shows that heavy is the guilt of the caped crusader.
Batman and Damian
The issue itself is a trippy ride that lets the reader think they know what is going on at every page, but constantly keeps surprising us. The art style that changes between present day, flashback and hallucination is great, it really helps with the storytelling experience. This issue didn’t capture my heart as much as the last issue, but it definitely made me feel Bruce: the father’s pain. Well worth a read.
Conclusion
Batman and Robin #21 is a great read that sets up the next issue like a powder keg! Don’t miss out on this title Bat-Fans!
Review Written to Honor Steve J Ray – May he Rest in Peace.
Images Courtesy of DC Entertainment