[Editor’s note: This review may contain spoilers.]
Writer: James Tynion IV
Artist: Eddy Barrows
Detective Comics #939 is an amazing issue that is full of the importance that was missing in the last flashy, action-packed episode. Tynion set up an amazing story on the sly in the previous issue about the past and how Batman and Batwoman, and more importantly the Waynes and Kanes, are connected. Everyone knows the story of Martha & Thomas Wayne. Tynion puts an interesting spin on the effects that event had, not on Bruce, but the Kanes.
Jacob Kane, a military man took their death, the death of his beloved sister just as hard as Bruce. Instead of training around the world and becoming Batman, Jacob worked the military and advanced through the ranks. He built connections to people with insane power and tech, then he advanced so high in the military that he was able to operate unchecked. He became a military armed Batmen. Is this the perfect counter to the Dark Knight?
For Kate, the death of Martha and Thomas Wayne wasn’t a big emotional event, but a learning experience. She learned that family was more important than anything and when family is hurt, you support them.
Now that Kate and Bruce’s new family has come under attack from the Batmen, are they ready to be a family again? Or, will the new Bat-Family burn to the ground?
The Positives
This issue brings together each of the previous in a beautiful way while pushing the stakes further with an ending that will have you on the edge of your seat.
The Negatives
You have to wait two weeks to read the next issue! The art in this issue was gorgeous. When showing the past, inker Eber Ferreira chose to fade everything and make it slightly tinted. It feels like you are reading an old picture exposed to too much light.
Verdict
This issue is fantastic. Using subtle storytelling Tynion weaved an amazing story of family and the past, while explosively bringing us into the present. I didn’t expect such a powerful story, nor for it to come in such a subtle way!
