Batman vs. Robin #4: Father-Son Bonding

Batman vs. Robin #4 is seriously action-packed. Even the quieter moments have excitement. The action of the series has been consistently good, and we truly get Batman vs. Robin across all four issues. A lot happens in this issue, and it leaves a lot to think about. For one, what exactly is Lazarus Planet? Despite feeling a little crowded towards the end of the issue, I think Mark Waid successfully paced the series to get where we are. My first time reading this issue, I had my criticisms, mainly on the characterization of Damian. I’ve taken time and reflected on it and now see what Waid was doing. It seemed like Waid was doing his own thing without reading more recent things with Damian, but by the end of the issue it makes sense. I think Waid is making a big push for growth for the character. 

For the most part, the entire issue is a fight. Batman is taking a beating but there is a big shift when Damian realizes his father wouldn’t be beaten so easily. I’m not super into the “Batman is prepared for anything” idea, but you know what? He is. I’m not going to overthink logistics or planning. Plus, Batman is going to be wearing the Helmet of Fate in two seconds. This book is filled with awesome images. Batman in Helmet of Fate is worth the price of admission alone (it has bat ears!). Scott Godlewski really knocked it out of the park with this issue. From the more grounded and personal fight between Batman and Damian to Batman and Nezha having a full on magic battle, Godlewski’s pencils capture a sense of movement that really enhances the excitement of the action.

Jordie Bellaire’s colors add its own brilliance to the issue. The whole issue is in a cave with Lazarus pits, so there is obviously a lot green. The green glow of the pits is a really nice effect and especially lends itself to the wide shots and silhouettes Godlewski provides. The magic fight uses a lot of bright color that dominates the page. Batman’s magic is blue and Nezha’s is red. Blue and red representing good and evil is so classic but still works. There is a lot happening throughout the issue but Bellaire still makes sure everyone looks awesome and highlights some great details. Steve Wands’ lettering pairs well with the coloring. Batman’s black narration boxes are heavy throughout the issue and work brilliantly. They work as an anchor for the reader in all of the excitement. He also makes use of bright red brilliantly. Whether it’s for a frantic “NO!” or for onomatopoeia, the color pops so well over the green glow. Wands does an excellent job conveying emotion through his letting. There is one instance where the lettering of Damian screaming, “What was it, old man? TELL ME!”  plus the emotion in Damian’s face creates a really intense moment. There are so many moments in this issue that are effective like this because of the lettering.