Robin Rises: Alpha #1

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi Artist: Andy Kubert Publisher: DC Comics Release Date: December 24, 2014

It all ends here! Batman's been to the hells of Apokalips and back just to retrieve his son's body.  But what has he brought back with him? And who is the new Robin?

  • 9.0
    WhiteLantern Dec 24, 2014

    Damien has super strength and super speed, and there might be more to see! The conclusion of Robin Rises gives you exactly what's promised - the return of Robin. I love the idea of giving Damien powers, as it creates a whole slew of stories to tell with him and Batman. It changes their relationship, their dynamic, and it's a bold choice to go with. Peter Tomasi doesn't deliver a lot of heart in this issue, but he doesn't need to. We got the emotional climax last week in Batman and Robin #37, with that killer two page spread of Bruce and Damien embracing. Here, we get a kind of flashback to that, which some might see as a little too long, but for me, works (even if taking out a page or two wouldn't have hurt). Andy Kubert nails the reunion of our two leads, and it's gorgeous to look at. Like I said, while we don't get much heart, we do get a lot of action, including a huge showdown between Kaliback and the Bat-Team. It's a great way to introduce Damien's powers to the reader in a natural way, without needing any expository, overwrought narration. We find out what powers Damien has when he does, which is how the story should be told. Kubert shines on art duties, able to bring this saga of Batman and Robin to a close. We're also given a callback to an earlier issue, with Alfred wanting one night off for the two, but the Bat-Signal lighting up the sky. A small touch, but a good one. Overall, a fantastic end to a story that, honestly, didn't begin in issue #29, but issue #1. This is the end of the single story of a disconnected father and son coming together that we've seen play out over 3 years. Well done. It's highly recommended.

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