REVIEW: ‘Tim Drake: Robin,’ Issue #1

Tim Drake: Robin #1 is the start of a new series published by DC Comics, written by Meghan Fitzmartin, art by Riley Rossmo, colours by Lee Loughridge, and letters by Tom Napolitano. Tim Drake has set out on his own adventures, moving to Gotham Marina. He is quickly drawn into a murder mystery very close to his new home.

The story of this new series is established quickly, detailing the important aspects of the new plot. The world and the tone are a mix of dark and youthful optimism, detailed within a few pages. The characters are brought into the comic as a way of building the foundations, but it is not long before it is shaken by a murder. After this, the comic becomes a murder mystery as Robin tries to hunt for the killer. The structure is interesting, as a lot happens within a smaller period of time, with the clue gathering able to be achieved in a single splash page. The concise nature of this tactic creates a style for this series and it would be great to see not only more of it as the series progresses but for an extended period in the individual comics. The last part of Tim Drake: Robin #1 is a frantic and terrific fight scene with a foe that was new and unexpected.

This issue allows Tim to step out from the shadow of not just Batman, but the rest of the associated family. That is a group that can often feel crowded, so there is now freedom for the hero to flourish. For one there is a new relationship with his boyfriend, Bernard. It is fresh and building, an early example of Tim having to deal with secret identities that aren’t just his own. It is also really great to see parts of his training and upbringing be part of his personality but in a way that separates him from the other sons of Bruce. Being a detective and analytical feels more specific to Drake than the other Robins.

Robin heading to a different party of Gotham also leads to it being brought to life by one of the best character artists in Rossmo. Every individual human looks entirely different due to the art style’s entirely unique shapes and figures. But even the neighbourhood itself has been transformed to be run down. Each building and boat has had time devoted to it so it does not look similar to the object next to it. Every corner seems oppressive and dangerous, but that can also be used to play with misconceptions. I was initially not enjoying Tim’s design by Rossmo, with facial features that were slightly too small for his face. But that changes when he transitions into his Robin costume. The shape of the mask and the cape is perfect in this art style.

The colours are brilliant are influencing the atmosphere of the comic. So much of this book is incredibly dark, with pitch-black skies and backgrounds with blue buildings in front of it. When needed, natural light is implemented from a streetlight, bringing a yellow cone to a specific part of the panel. This is held to a certain scale so the light is large when close up and smaller when the next page shows the whole location. It brilliantly gives a sense of place. The colours also really come to life when the Robin suit comes out. It is superbly vibrant and the blending of shades is excellent. The lettering is fantastic and brings colour to pages that may be too dark without it.

Tim Drake: Robin #1 is a terrific start for a character that deserves the spotlight. A Robin that is often overshadowed by those around him, Tim now has a whole book’s worth of space to shine. There is an excellent blend of his upbringing having an effect on his personality and what he has developed for himself. He is gathering a supporting cast that is unique to him and all are brilliantly brought into the comic, taking place within a magnificent mysterious story.

Tim Drake: Robin #1 is available where comics are sold including with our Comixology affiliate link.