Batman and Robin #2: Playing Hooky

Batman and Robin #2 arrives during an interesting time for readers. While the events of Batman and Robin coincide with the current Gotham War event, Josh Williamson gives readers a smaller-scale story focusing on the relationship between Bruce and Damian. Chip Zdarsky’s Batman run finds Bruce in a really intense time in his life with practically everyone in his life opposing him… except Damian. Williamson’s Batman and Robin takes the focus off of Bruce versus the Bat-Family and shifts solely towards the father and son duo. Issue #1 contained direct links and references to the Gotham War but issue #2 puts a little distance, which is a good thing. It has been a long time since readers have had a proper Batman and Robin series.

Simone Di Meo’s art is undeniably exciting and flashy and an especially great fit for a character like Damian. All of the character designs look amazing, for that matter. Di Meo produces some exciting and dynamic action, but sometimes the intensity of it can become distracting and disorienting, especially in the quieter moments. Sequences in the brownstone and the high school don’t need the added urgency. These moments would benefit from slowing down which is exactly what Bruce wants Damian to do. It is safe to say that Di Meo brings a fresh coat of paint to the characters that blend well with what Williamson is trying to do.

Batman and Robin #2 gives readers a good look at the new villain, Shush. The name and appearance are a play on Hush, which will be obvious to most readers. It is clear that Williamson isn’t reinventing the wheel, but playing with it in fun ways. Sometimes it feels like writers on Batman titles jump at the chance to create new characters but this feels a little different. So far Shush has done some interesting things, including hitting Batman with some type of toxin that makes bats swarm him. Readers are in for a treat, Williamson is putting a lot of work into developing Damian as well as his relationship with Bruce. A focus on just Batman and Robin facing a fun and new villain sounds like exactly what readers could use.