Detective Comics #935

Writer: James Tynion IV

Artists: Eddy Barrows, Eber Ferreira, Adriano Lucas

The second chapter of "Rise of the Batmen" is one of those stories that require a double pass for maximum enjoyment. While the first chapter of this arc was all about introducing the main players and how they come together, "Apocalypse now" is about establishing relationships between the characters, and throwing those early signs of inevitable conflict and inner turmoil.

     

Covers by Eddy Barrows and Rafael Albuquerque

Speaking of conflict, it should be expected that Batman has ulterior motives with this new initiative of his; yet, it comes as a surprise to find out that, as with everything else, he is being Batman, and there is more to it than just training the next generation of vigilantes. Now, the reason why one must take a second pass at this book is the art. Just forget for a moment that the issue has any dialog or lettering in it, and let the beautiful artwork just sink in.

Art by Eddy Barrows, Eber Ferreira, and Adriano Lucas

There is so much detail in every panel: the expressions, the backgrounds, the small features, the light effects, the shadows, and those wonderful colors. The care with which each page was done truly shows, and that is what makes issue 935 a great reading experience.

Titans: Rebirth

Writer: Dan Abnett

Artist: Brett Booth

Being that the main theme of 'Titans' is friendship, here is how I would pitch this issue to a friend: "Dude, that book was awesome! It was all about Wally right after 'Rebirth.'  He meets the other Titans, and cuts right to the chase without dragging it on forever."

     

Covers by Brett Booth and Mike Choi

"It was pretty cool because it had flashbacks of Wally hanging out with each one of them, you know, classic Titans; but the best part was definitely when Dick remembered Wally, it was like the final episode of 'Lost' when they were recovering their memories one at a time. The art was amazing! Booth, Rapmund, and Dalhouse can do no wrong, man; there is this double spread of the team surrounding Wally, and it's sweet... finally all of them together after like a million years."

The Titans by Brett Booth, Norm Rapmund, Andrew Dalhouse

"I bet you, 'Titans' can easily become DC's flagship title if they do it the right way. A lot of people like the Teen Titans, and the JLA obviously is great, but the grown-up Titans rock it, because they are right at that age where you are like half-serious and half-silly, so they can write all sorts of stories with them. I can't wait for the next issue, but you have to check this one out, though!"

Detective Comics #934

Writer: James Tynion IV

Artist: Eddy Barrows

DC's second longest-lasting title returns to its original numbering, this time as an exciting and engaging team book... a family book, it could even be argued. Batman recruits cousin Batwoman to co-lead an eclectic ensemble of crime fighters, and prepare it for a yet unseen -albeit ominous enough to worry Batman- menace hiding in the shadows.

     

Covers by Eddy Barrows and Rafael Albuquerque

For four years many fans were clamoring for the return of Stephanie Brown and Cassandra Cain; many others were lamenting the way in which Tim Drake had been basically demoted from his station as Robin and nearly removed from the Bat-Family; and with the arrival of 'DC You,' Batwoman had been all but forgotten. 'Detective' brings all these characters to the forefront once again and returns them to their earned places in the Batman mythos, thanks to writer James Tynion IV.

Batwoman by Eddy Barrows, Eber Ferreira, and Adriano Lucas

The art team of Eddy Barrows, Eber Ferreira, and Adriano Lucas, however, is the show stealer in this issue; their work is impeccable. All in all, this is a well executed book that sets the bar quite high for the rest of the run.

Flash Returns!

Wally West uncovers a secret that will destroy his friends!

Titans #1 - July 27th

Wally West Flash by Brett Booth, Norm Rapmund, Andrew Dalhouse

Green Lanterns: Rebirth

Writers: Geoff Johns & Sam Humphries

Artists: Ethan Van Sciver & Ed Benes

As the two newest Corps members assigned to planet Earth, Jessica Cruz and Simon Baz herald the 'Rebirth' era for the Green Lanterns in the classiest of fashions. Geoff Johns and Sam Humphries write what can be described as a multi-purpose inaugural issue, and a successful one at that.

     

Covers by Alex Garner and Ethan Van Sciver

First, it introduces newcomers in a simplified and elegant manner to space sector 2814 and its protectors. Second, it takes long-time readers on a trip back to the days of the original 'Rebirth,' via Ethan Van Sciver, whose artwork evokes nostalgia for one of the most cherished storylines within the franchise. Finally, it sets the premise for the entire series, the same way the pilot episode for a TV show in prime time would.

Artwork by Ed Benes - Colors by Jason Wright

In this case, the show is about a pair of rookie space cops with clashing personalities and intriguing backgrounds, getting thrown into a new assignment, with the coolest mentors the academy can offer, and with a fan-favorite antagonist who also serves as the p.o.v. character that presents the overarching story. 'Green Lanterns: Rebirth' cements a solid foundation for the next chapter in the saga of the emerald warriors.