Written by James Robinson
Illustrated by Stephen Segovia
Published by DC Comics
This is the first part of a guest arc by James Robinson and Stephen Segovia. I wasn’t sure how I was going to like it. It was much better than I anticipated and I love how Robinson wrote this. It feels like the James Robinson we used to read about twenty years ago and the quality of great work he used to give us.
The opening shot is of Commissioner Gordon and Batman standing over a dead body. It’s a beautifully drawn picture by Stephen Segovia and sets the mood for the entire issue. Gordon says it seems like a simple murder and Batman remarks there is nothing ever simple about murder.
And then we are off!
Batman then goes off and does what he does best. He is a detective in this issue. Bruce has been very remote since his breakup with Selina. There is a scene where Alfred comments on that as Batman continues his investigations. Bruce is obviously hurting.
In the best moment of the issue, Alfred tells Bruce that he is proud of him. It’s simple and very emotional and above all, it completely works.
Bruce’s investigation eventually has him find a villain called Lady Firefly. They have a big fight. This fight is again beautifully illustrated by Segovia. I’m so happy with his work here. It’s pretty gorgeous to look at and gives this book a good feel.
This fight takes up the majority of the issue. The ending of the issue has a nice surprise. I’m excited about where this is going. Robinson has crafted a great story and it shows. It’s very simple but he really makes it count.
I’m going to praise Stephen Segovia one more time. His work here is exemplary. I hope he stays on this title or on a Batman related title for some time to come. His work is just excellent. This is a good, solid issue from the creative team.
RATING: A-
