A welcome change in scheduling brings Snyder’s “Batman” out a week early, more Owls attack Batgirl and Robin, and we take a trip back to the world of Arkham City…
Here’s a list of all the Batman comics coming out this week, May 9th, graded on a scale of my own anticipation.
None. – I’ll get to it…eventually – Eh…meh. – Bring it. – TAKE MY MONEY
Scroll to the bottom of the page and post in the comments section what books you’re most looking forward to this week!
May 9th, 2012
Batman #9
Written by Scott Snyder
Penciled by Greg Capullo
Back-up written by Scott Snyder & James T. Tynion IV
Back-up penciled by Rafael Albuquerque
40 pages
$3.99
This is the most important Batman comic of the month because this is the one that’s driving the “Night of the Owls” crossover, every other series is just coming along for the ride. Bruce and Alfred were on the ropes in last month’s issue as Wayne Manor was overwhelmed with talon assassins, but by the final page it was clear that Batman, in a giant suit of armor, had had enough. This is going to be an action-packed issue for sure and it’s also going to be the debt of Greg Capullo’s batmobile design. And if you’re a friend of Alfred (and who isn’t?), you’ll be pleased to know that the back-up story making up the final 8-10 pages focuses on Alfred’s past.
Anticipation Level: TAKE MY MONEY
Batman Vol. 1: The Court of Owls
Written by Scott Snyder
Penciled by Greg Capullo
176 pages
$24.99
If you haven’t been reading the monthly issues then this hardback edition of the first 7 parts of Snyder and Capullo’s run is a must-have. Naturally I’ve already read all of these and reviewed them here so I won’t be giving an anticipation score. Not a single issue compiled in this hardcover book received a score lower than 8/10 from me and if you look around the net I think you’ll see similar praise.
Batgirl #9
Written by Gail Simone
Penciled by Ardian Syaf
32 pages
$2.99
I hated last month’s issue, but this month’s “Night of the Owls” tie-in has real potential. Unlike the other crossover books in which the heroes are trying to protect one of Gotham’s elite from The Court, Batgirl will be protecting her own father. That connection should give the action here a bit more heft than the other titles.
Anticipation Level: Bring it.
Batman & Robin #9
Written by Peter J. Tomasi
Penciled by Patrick Gleason
32 pages
$2.99
Batman is busy this month fighting owls in “Detective Comics” and “Batman”, so that leaves Robin. Damian Wayne will be fighting the Court of Owls all by himself in this month’s issue which marks the first adventure since the conclusion of the “Born to Kill” saga. This is one of my favorite Bat-titles right now so I have high expectations for it.
Anticipation Level: TAKE MY MONEY
Batman: Arkham Unhinged #2
Written by Derek Fridolfs
Penciled by Brian Ching
40 pages
$2.99
Issue #2 collects parts 4-6 of the ongoing digital series. I’ve already reviewed the story called “Observations” in its three individual parts and I can say that if you enjoyed last month’s debut issue of Unhinged, you’ll really love this one. Of all the Arkham Unhinged stories I read, this was by far my favorite in both art and story. You’ll especially like it if you felt Gordon wasn’t given enough attention in the Arkham City video game. In fact, between this and “Batgirl” it appears to be a good week for fans of the Commish.
Anticipation Level: I already read it, but it’s quite good and I’ll buy it again.
