Batman #153 – Chip Zdarsky, Writer; Jorge Jimenez, Artist; Tomeu Morey, Colorist
Ray – 9.5/10
Ray: Chip Zdarsky is one of a few writers to stick around for the All In era – and that’s because he still has a lot to say. This first issue is packed, almost shockingly so, with new developments. At the start, Gotham seems to be in a better place than it has been in a long time, as is illustrated by a scene where a lost family wanders down an alley – and meets a friendly resident who tells them the fastest route to their destination. Batman and PI Jim Gordon are enjoying the fresh start – but they’re not the only ones getting one. In the biggest twist of the first issue, Edward Nygma has been sprung from prison after reveals of the tortures and experiments he experienced at Arkham, and has wasted no time starting a powerful tech empire – something neither Batman nor Mayor Nanako trust him to maintain. This is not the first time Riddler has seemingly reformed, and it’s probably my favorite version of the character.
One thing I really like about this issue is how Bruce’s role has been revised. He’s now back at the head of Wayne Enterprises, has appointed a new CEO, and is dedicating his efforts to the company’s charity outreach – including helping Leslie Thompkins expand her clinics around Gotham. But not everyone approves of this, as the company has protests from far-right agitators outside every day. And at the same time, Nanako has been convinced to appoint Vandal Savage as Police Commissioner, a new vigilante called Commander Star is bringing a jingoistic approach and a loaded gun to crime control, and the city’s government might be falling apart from within. The issue ends with not one but two huge cliffhangers threatening to throw Gotham into complete chaos – exactly as I like it. This feels like a continuation, but also a new run in many ways – one that gets Batman’s vibe absolutely right.
To find reviews of all the DC issues, visit DC This Week.
GeekDad received this comic for review purposes.
