Regular Cover Variant Cover
DC Comics – July, 2008 – $2.99 – 32 pg. – Color
Writer: Grant Morrison – Artist: Tony Daniel – Cover: Alex Ross (Variant by Tony Daniel)
I won’t sugar code this. Unless you’ve been a regular reader of Batman, you probably won’t understand a single thing happening in this first issue of Grant Morrison’s epic tale: Batman: R.I.P. Morrison is literally using the sum of every part of his run on the series. So you pretty much need to know everything about the new Bat-mobile, the three Batmen, Damien(Batman’s son), the Black Glove, the League of Villains, Batman’s days in an isolation chamber, and even his days in Thogal. So, warnings aside, let’s take a peak at the story.
The issue starts with a small splash page showing Batman and Robin with Batman saying Batman and Robin will never die. We’re then taken back six months earlier where we are finally introduced to the Black Glove and his League of Villains. The book then shows a deranged rogue’s gallery wannabe terrorizing a family by driving their car like mad. Then, when the madman expects it(I’m not kidding), Batman’s glorious new ride appears. All I have to say about the car is how I love it’s Neo-classic feel. You need only look at the hood of the car to know what I mean. After some typical Batman/Robin banter, the Bat-mobile cleverly takes down the wacko and gives him what he deserves–a lack of a butt kicking in front of a crowd.
Batman and Robin then return to Wayne Manor, where Batman returns to Jezebel Jet for some R&R while Alfred and Robin discuss Batman’s mental health openly. The subject of Damian Wayne eventually shows up and it seems he’s the real deal, although they only hint at the subject. Bruce Wayne later learns he’s been invited to a formal Danse Macabre in a quirky sort of way. The last scene is absolutely perfectly executed. I really can’t say much on the subject, but this final scene is further proof Grant Morrison is the king of comic book insanity.
The art in this book is also nothing short of amazing. Alex Ross’ cover will likely become a classic among his best covers and Tony Daniel’s pencils are the perfect combination of details and grittiness. The only real complaint I have is the story moved relativly slow, but it’s not surprising since this is a first issue.
Story: 8.5, Writing: 9.5, Art: 9, Cover: 9.5 (Cover Score is based on original by Alex Ross)
Overall: 9.1
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I’m Out! 🙂
