Batman Issue 1 Review

Batman #1 - Review The New 52

Written by: Scott Snyder
Art by: Greg Capullo (pencils) and Jonathan Glapion (inks)
Colours by: FCO Plascencia
Letters by: Richard Starkings and Jimmy Betancourt
Cover by: Greg Capullo
Published by: DC Comics
Cover Price: $2.99 (USD)

I had enjoyed Dick Grayson’s run as Batman, especially during Grant Morrison’s Batman and Robin, so I was initially disappointed when it was announced that Bruce Wayne would once again be the only Batman.(Ed. Note: Me too}
However, this Batman #1 from Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo does a lot to make me forget that disappointment.
Snyder really does get a lot done in this issue, employing a few clever plot devices that allow him to both introduce key elements of the Batman mythology, while also setting up his own story.
A breakout at Arkham allows for a look at many of Batman’s key villains, some of which have new designs. Even though Arkham’s security has been breached a ridiculous number of times, this opening fight sequence doesn’t feel forced and it is complimented by Snyder’s other key plot device, making use of a Gotham newspaper column, Gotham is…
This allows Batman to narrate about the nature of Gotham, its heroes, its villains, its place and its purpose. This scene is helped greatly by some incredibly dynamic and stylish work from the art team; Capullo clearly understands how Batman should move and fight.
As the issue moves on both Jim Gordon and the extended Bat family are introduced and Snyder begins to set up what will be most important for his story.
After a Bruce Wayne interlude (which contains an unfortunate case of same face between Bruce and Gotham Mayoral candidate Lincoln March) its right back to Batman and a grisly murder that makes it clear what sort of enemies that Batman will soon be coming up against.
The main thing that struck me about this Batman #1 is that Snyder and Capullo are clearly having fun making this comic and that makes it much easier for the reader to do so as well. I’m excited for this series and can’t wait to see how it will develop.

9/10
Review by Niall Doonan