ADVANCED REVIEW: ‘Batman’ Issue 1

Batman Issue 1 is published by DC Comics, written by Matt Fraction, art by Jorge Jiménez, colors by Tomeu Morey, and letters by Clayton Cowles.

Batman tries to adapt to a changing Gotham.

Batman Issue 1 marks the beginning of a new series featuring a famous figure in comic writing. It had been a while since Fraction had been at the helm of a major superhero comic, and the early stages of the series are showcases of why he shines. The plug opens up new avenues while continuing the work that Chip Zdarsky started in his run. The changes in the hierarchy of Gotham’s finest institutions, the deaths, and the symptoms are all still in place and respected. This creates a fractious city for Batman to operate in and offers little help to the Caped Crusader.

Batman Issue 1 shows how alone he is, and the distrust in a police force that Batman once worked with. There is a great energy to the comic, and a fresh feeling that should always come with a new series. Batman Issue 1 also brings changes, which affect the tone of the comic. It is dark and dangerous, like all Batman stories. But by the end, the first chapter gets strangely serene and hopeful. It’s still sad, achingly so, but it ends the comic in a thoughtful manner.

The characters in Batman Issue 1 are incredibly recognizable, carrying their classic personalities that have made them so fascinating for decades. But many are in different places. Jim Gordon is no longer the commissioner; instead, in a different role with the Gotham City Police Department. The commissioner is the immortal and truly evil Vandal Savage, the most notable move that Zdarsky made. This makes the police a potential threat, always there to cause issues instead of resolving them.

Batman is pretty talkative, revealing his intelligence and ability to converse with multiple people in respective occupations. Bruce is rarely lonely in Batman Issue 1, even if there are no Robins or other sidekicks. He finds other company, computer-generated or otherwise. And despite the conversations and signs of how clever Batman is, there is also the opportunity for him to change.

The art is phenomenal in Batman Issue 1. Jiménez is a modern master, especially on Batman. A redesign of the Batsuit features both a back-to-basics approach with some subtle changes. The expressions and body expressions are perfect. He suddenly appears on the page, causing a spike in tension every time. For some, Batman and the other vigilantes are the only firm of hope and protection, and to see the imposing power and influence of the Bat is fantastic.

When there are action scenes, there is a flurry of swift, brutal, and decisive strikes. Gotham itself looks superb and as hostile to Batman as ever. The villains are nefarious, unsettling, and fierce, unwilling to show mercy. But despite the harsh conditions and surroundings, Batman Issue 1 can also be magnificent, finding moments of calm and quiet.

The colors are utterly stunning. The title of Batman Issue 1 is “Vast Colors in the Dark”, and Morey makes that the case. The city and the shares are incredibly vibrant. When Batman glides across Gotham, there’s a resplendent view of Gotham at its most hideous. The sun is going down, the sky is a beautiful orange, and there’s a kaleidoscope of other colors in the city.

Batman’s suit is also more colorful, with Morey opting for the blue cape and cowl instead of black. Alongside this, the headlights of the Batmobile and the glow of other objects on the page make this version of Gotham one of the most vibrant to date. The lettering is exceptional. One of the newer features is a small caption that explains a gadget, detailing what it does. It’s unobtrusive and helpful, showcasing the technology without revealing the objects through dialogue.

Batman Issue 1 revitalizes DC’s true flagship title. Fraction returns to superhero comics with energy, pace, and clarity. It continues what comes before while still feeling fresh. There is a streamlined focus as Batman sets off on a new mission, exploring a Gotham that looks so. Jiménez and Morey make the city and its citizens look sensational, making the whole comic look re-energised and lively. But it’s also a book that welcomes change and evolution.

Batman Issue 1 is available wherever comics are sold on September 3.