Written by James Tynion IV
Art by Guillem March
Published DC Comics
James Tynion IV continues his run as writer of the book. It is another completely flat story that meanders all over the place, yet remains completely impressed with itself. It is so grating that sometimes I get lost about what is actually happening in this story.
The issue begins with a beaten Penguin in the hospital. Cops are surrounding him. He tells everyone what a good samaritan he is. Gordon then has a quiet moment with Bullock. It doesn’t add up to much.
After this scene, we are subject to some true punishment as a reader.
The Riddler issues a challenge to Gotham!
Then, the story jarringly takes us to a fight between Batman and Deathstroke.
Then the Riddler is there taunting Batman and Deathstroke.
Then, we cut over to Harley Quinn and Catwoman and their current plight!
And then to Punchline!
And more!
By the end, I was exhausted.
This issue is all over the place with the narrative. If you don’t have A.D.D., you will after reading this. Just when you think you are into this story, Tynion quickly yanks you into another direction! And then another! It truly assaults you on many levels.
The art by Guillem March assaults you as well. It makes you actually want to look away at times. It is a hard book to read and seemed like it may have been created in anger.
Hopefully this book turns around, but I found it to be a difficult and trying book to get into.
RATING: C-
