[Editor’s note: This review may contain spoilers.]
Writers: James Tynion IV & Marguerite Bennett
Artists: Ben Oliver & Szymon Kudranski
Summary
In this, the conclusion to the short but sweet “Batwoman Begins” arc, a lot is revealed and set into motion. We get to see a glimpse of the original meeting between Batman and Batwoman as well as being introduced to a new monster. This issue is chock full of awesome Kate Kane action and is the perfect way to set up the new Batwoman series on sale Feb 15th.
With the Belfry under attack by the Colony’s top soldier, Batman and Batwoman have their hands full. Quickly the whole Belfry turns on them as this new armored adversary hacks his way into the system. With all of the studying they have done of Batman, much like Kate did, the Dark Knight is quickly subdued and it’s up to Batwoman to defend their home.
Positives
Getting a new take on the original meeting between Batman and Batwoman is very interesting and it goes a long way to show new readers exactly what motivates Kate Kane while also beautifully marrying into the current story arc and those to come.
The art of Ben Oliver is great in this issue, being a merge of comic and slight photo realism with regard to the shading and detailing of features. Included in this issue is a two page artist change to Szymon Kudranski. With his unique and beautiful style which you can see in Penguin: Pain and Prejudice, Batman: The Dark Knight (New 52) for a few issues, and many others including Spawn. He would be a welcomed addition to Detective Comics.
Negatives
Given that this is the conclusion to this arc, it feels as though the readers have been cheated. Very likely this particular story will continue in Batwoman: Rebirth #1 because it certainly needs an ending and one that Batman won’t be able to give it. We’ll just have to pick up a copy of Batwoman when it comes out in two weeks to find out.
Verdict
Overall, this issue was great. it has lots of action and two awesome twists that I didn’t see coming in the end. I’m sad to see Marguerite Bennett leaving but I’m sure she has lots to do in Bombshells!
