Adil Syed Comic Reviews

People have speculated that this could be this generation's version of The Dark Knight Returns. If this first issue is any indication of what comes next, I would go so far as to say that this might even be better. This series has the chance to be to Batman comics what The Dark Knight is to Batman movies. I can't wait to read more.

In the next issue(s), I think it's worth keeping an eye out for any mention of Robin and continuing to watch Jack to see how pure his motives really are. He seems to want to make positive change, but he's willing to use questionable methods to achieve it. I guess this makes him no different from Batman in the end. Perhaps that's the point he's trying to make.

This issue leaves us on a cliffhanger with Marian Drews entering a room filled with Gotham's greatest villains. Murphy has already said that more of her story will be revealed in the coming issues so I'm excited to learn more about her character as well as how she could potentially throw a wrench into Napier's plans. I'm also eager to see how Napier's partnership with Duke turns out as well as what his next move will be. It will also be interesting to see if Batman's relationship with his allies further deteriorates given his fragile mental and emotional state.

Obviously the big cliffhanger from this issue is the revelation that Victor Fries' father might have been a Nazi defector who had some kind of partnership with Bruce's parents. I'm going to wait until the next issue to get more information before I comment on that further, but suffice it to say that I am highly intrigued. As it is, I think I've said more than enough. In my opinion, this is the strongest issue thus far in a series that is an instant classic in the Batman mythos. Don't wait to read it.

The book concludes with major changes to Batman's role in the story. He has uncovered his familys association with Fries, he is now an outlaw in the eyes of the GCPD and his allies are slowly distancing themselves from him. I have to think we are close to the scene we saw in the first issue where Napier visits Batman in a prison cell. I'm looking forward to learning more about the Wayne family in the next issue.

Yet another issue that continues a riveting narrative with gorgeous art. This issue has everything; including an incredible car chase sequence, a brutal fistfight, characters coming to terms with the consequences of their own actions and a fresh take on a classic villain. That's all without mentioning the cliffhanger and the potential return of the greatest villain of them all. An all-time classic Batman story moves gracefully into its final act.

One of the best issues in the series thus far. I highly recommend this book to any comic book fan. The next issue will sadly be the final issue of this story. Feel free to sound off in the comments or on Twitter about your thoughts on this story and any predictions for the final issue.

The conclusion to one of the greatest Batman stories ever. It's required reading for every Batman and comic book fan. This story features a fresh interpretation of Batman and Joker engaging with complex political and social issues while simultaneously exploring the natures of their own relationships. There's also enough action, humor, and romance to keep readers engaged. It's a timely and impressive addition to the Batman mythos.

A must read issue that delivers on the hype and sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling story.

The plot thickens as we continue to get candid looks into the minds of our favorite characters. King continues to explore what being a hero or villain really means and it is all rendered with beautiful artwork from the art team.

Top notch art and writing team up to deliver an interesting installment of this mystery story. It may have readers off-balance with their expectations right now, but it also feels as if the bigger picture is just about to start coming into focus.

An outstanding issue that really captures the personality and multifaceted nature of these great characters.

Another great issue at the halfway point of this series.

A deep dive into the psyche of Wally West and Gnarrk. Definitely an issue you dont want to miss.

A very well crafted issue that explains the complicated emotions Wally is dealing with as he struggles to get rectify events that spiraled out of his control. I encourage everyone to read it and reserve judgment until the story has concluded next month.

While the plot may not stick the cleanest landing possible, this issue features some incredibly powerful moments from multiple characters all rendered with beautiful art. And if youve been enjoying Heroes in Crisis, thats what you are here for.

If you like a more grounded and down-to-earth Batman story with great action sequences and cool art, then this is a book for you.

The art in Batman: City of Madness #1 speaks for itself. I would also recommend this book to anyone who enjoys some horror elements in Batman stories as well as psychological thriller themes and secret societies with mythical connections.

The art is phenomenal, especially the varied range of colors. There are a lot of characters on the table and themes at play, and I worry that they won't all be fully explored.

The art and colors continue to be absolutely phenomenal and is the main draw for me with this book. I actually think this style and design would work amazingly well for an animated film. Ward understands the visual aspect of the comic book medium like few others right now. I hope to see him do more work at DC, and in Gotham specifically, in the future.

A really strong issue with awesome art that explores Tatsus character and builds on her relationship with Jefferson. Definitely one to pick up if you have been reading this series or are a fan of Katana or Black Lightning.

A spectacular introduction to what should be a stellar ongoing series brought to you by a very talented team of creators.

A spectacular issue with beautiful art that delivers action in the best way the comics medium can offer. This is definitely one to pick up.

An outstanding issue that really builds up to what should be an action-packed conclusion to the first arc.

Intense action and a few good character moments help push the story forward. Definitely an issue to pick up if you've been following this story and/or if you like great art.

High speed and high stakes action with some good art.

A two-part annual thats kind of a mixed bag but still supplements the main story.

A slower and more conservative story than the Teen Titans special issue. It doesn't take many chances, but it establishes the team and sets the stage for the main antagonist going forwards.

The Roundhouse subplot lacks the emotional resonance it should have, but Swerve and the team growing together make this an issue that is worth a read.

A very fun issue that explores how a team of young people can come together and grow collectively.

A fun, character-driven issue that tests the teams cohesiveness by putting them in a situation where they have to prioritize trust over their own personal issues.

Another strong installment in one of the better series DC is currently producing.

An excellent issue of your favorite heroes just hanging out and getting to know each other better.

The stage is set for yet another showdown between the Teen Titans and Deathstroke.

Another solid entry in the conflict between the Teen Titans and Deathstroke.

A delightful issue that re-introduces key members of the Teen Titans while giving readers something more than just a primer for what lies ahead. A wonderful look into the minds of three sidekicks at crucial points in their careers. I wish there was a second special to introduce readers to the other lesser known members of the team, but I guess that will just happen in the next issue.

This is a great introduction to a very creative story illustrated with gorgeous artwork. Definitely a book you want to pick up.

If youve been following this story, youll want to pick up this issue to keep up with what is happening. But it does feel like this issue is a deep breath before all hell breaks loose.

A fun yet unspectacular issue that doesnt quite capture the same magic from the previous crossovers.

If you are into large scale action and superhero fights, then this issue is definitely for you. Just dont expect anything more than a fun crossover with action and beautiful art.

If you have been following along the story so far, you probably dont want to miss out on the finale. If you just want to see your favorite characters like the Bat-Family and the Ninja Turtles hanging out together and beating bad guys (or robots), then this is also the book for you, just dont expect anything deeper than a fun adventure.

This is a steady start to a mini-series dedicated to exploring the mystery of Duke's powers as well as the presence of other metahumans in Gotham. If you are like me and want to see Duke's character developed further, as well as explore what Gotham would be like during the day, this book is definitely for you. I hope we get more stories that build this character's history and present after this mini-series is over. Just as Nightwing has Bludhaven and Batgirl has Burnside, it would be great if Duke gets his own area of Gotham, but still interacted with the rest of the Bat-Family.

This mini-series is drawing close to its conclusion with many questions still unanswered and a few concepts left unexplored. Unfortunately, this miniseries seems to be turning into the kind of generic detective story we see as filler in other comic series. Hopefully, it can finish off strong.

When I got to the end of this story, I had to ask myself, What was the point?. While this three-issue arc is a decent detective story, I'm not sure it does anything more than that.

Unfortunately, in my opinion, this is not a very well crafted issue. Many of the characters' actions do not match their motivations and there are more than a few inconsistencies. On the positive side, we are starting to see more characters from the classic TV show make appearances. That being said, Payback as the big reveal doesn't really do it for me especially when it's heavily hinted at that it is Kenny Stanton's father and not Kenny himself. It is very doubtful that Payback's motivations won't be fully explained in the next issue.

This issue was kind of underwhelming in my opinion. I've wanted to like this story because I've enjoyed Jurgens' work with Superman, but I haven't really been able to get past the plot holes. Between Stalker's quest to feed to his people and the emotional story of Kenneth Stanton's life, it feels like this story should have much more heart than it does. I expect the next issue will explore how Batman and Ten escape Payback. I'm sure we will also see Terry's reaction to Bruce letting Matt go out as Robin without consulting him. I'd also like to see some progression in the subplot regarding Melanie/Ten's relationship with Terry.

A solid conclusion to a story arc that has had its ups and downs and perhaps went on a bit too long. This issue and story arc will always be remembered for being the first time we see Matt as Robin. It's still unclear as to whether this will be a full-time thing, but I'd guess that Matt retains the title of Robin going forward. I'm looking forward to seeing where we go with the next story arc.

A solid start to what promises to be a very interesting story for Terry and Matt.

A simple but visually appealing and fun read that keeps an interesting story moving along smoothly.

An unevenly paced issue with continuity errors that continues to build the suspense for the conclusion.

A solid issue that leads the reader into what should be the finale for this story arc in the following issue.

An anti-climactic finish to the Villa Hermosa era with a few bright spots.

This issue is a must read for those who are ardent shippers of the Dick-Barbara relationship or for those who enjoy Bat-Family history.

In my opinion, the second issue of "The Summer of Lies" story arc doesn't quite build on the momentum established in the previous issue. One of the brightest spots in the first issue was the dynamic between Batgirl and Nightwing, and that isn't quite captured the same way in this issue.

After a promising start, the Summer of Lies story arc has had a somewhat underwhelming middle act. There are still quite a few plot threads to tie up in the next issue. Of course, we are all eager to see how the latest potential development in the Babs-Dick relationship plays out. Hopefully Larson can tie up the loose ends and end the story with a definitive conclusion.

The conclusion of the Summer of Lies doesn't live up to the potential I felt it had after reading the first issue. The storyline with Ainsley ended up being less emotional than I thought it would be because I still don't know why Barbara or Dick feel guilty or responsible for what happened. There also wasn't a lot of synergy between this story and what was happening in other DC titles. I also felt that including the flashbacks made the present day story feel too rushed for four issues. Since the flashbacks were an integral part of the story, it would have been beneficial to expand the arc beyond four issues. Doing so would have also allowed the creative team to explore more of the early Barbara and Dick relationship that was the biggest bright spot of this story.

In my opinion, this is a holiday issue that can't overcome the plot holes to deliver the light-hearted fun and holiday spirit that comes naturally to this collection of characters. However, the gorgeous artwork and colors give the issue a huge boost and is definitely worth a look.

This issue really didn't resonate with me. I struggled to get into the story and found the inconsistencies and plot holes to be distracting. In the next issue we should get answers about Penguin's potential ulterior motives as well as more information about Qadir's top secret job. So far we have no idea what the larger plan here is, but I'd be willing to bet that Penguin is trying to benefit somehow.

An issue filled with clunky tech speak, bad puns, awkward dialogue, a poor characterization of the main characters, a heavy handed approach to the dangers of technology and a plot that is just spinning its wheels. Give this story arc a pass and pick up Percy's run on Green Arrow instead.

A story about the dangers of technology and mass surveillance that doesn't really live up to it's potential.

An action-packed issue filled with tech-related puns, plot inconsistencies, and technology that pushes the boundary of belief. It's ostensibly the finale to the Bleeding Edge story arc but doesn't conclude it in a satisfying way.

A superbly crafted issue with a very intriguing premise that delivers action that will have you on the edge of your seat.

An anticlimactic conclusion that leaves many plot threads unresolved, but still features enough action and character moments to keep a reader entertained.

This is an issue with some great art and a story that feels inorganic and forced in so many ways. While I didn't always enjoy every part of it, it's still a shame Percy did not get to finish his story the way he wanted.

It's painfully obvious that the story is cobbled together at the last moment from leftover scraps and a few new ideas from the new creative team. It's extremely disjointed and would get lower than a neutral grade if it weren't for Moore's art.

Final Thoughts: A very disjointed narrative with art that doesnt do the characters justice.

A really well-done issue that makes the most of the current status quo.

A reasonably interesting issue that does a good job of balancing the many storylines.

Amazing art only goes so far towards saving this issue from an illogical plot, uneven pacing and awkward dialogue. Probably one to pass on.

A thin issue that sets up the villain of the next story arc while repeating many of the same points as previous issues.

Not every meal you want in life has to be at a five star restaurant. Sometimes you just want a nice solid burger and fries. Thats kind of how I feel about this issue. Its a solid, but unspectacular issue. It sticks to developing the story line and doesnt make any mistakes in the narrative or art. Id personally like to see a story line involving both Trinities without magical influence, but this story arc is doing a decent job of working the magical element into things. In some ways it is reminiscent of the Justice League Dark animated movie that came out earlier this year.

In my opinion, the plot appears to be unraveling a bit in this issue. However, the dialogue and character dynamics continue to be very strong aspects of this arc. The art continues to be excellent and there's also lots of great action and fight sequences. I'm optimistic that the arc can close on a higher note and tie up some loose ends.

A lot of the fun character moments present in previous issues are absent in this final issue. There are also numerous plot holes and inconsistencies that make this issue get a lower rating than it should get. I hate to give such a low rating because I really appreciate the incredible amounts of hard work and dedication that comic book creators have to put in, but I really feel like there are some glaring problems with this issue and story that I cannot ignore.

Not a lot of holiday spirit or payoff in this one shot story. It feels like a missed opportunity because this is a team book and Deadshot's relationship with his daughter is one of the more complex parent-child relationships in the DC Universe. I'm interested to see what a new creative team will bring to this series starting in 2018.

Overall, this is a safe but unspectacular opening to a new story arc. The mystery of what is happening with Skartaris and Warlord is enough to keep me interested but there isn't anything here that truly amazes.

The plot in the second installment of the series stagnates and doesnt capitalize on the stellar start in the first issue. However, the creative setting and good art remain constant.