Detective Comics #1073
Seth A. Romo
Recap
Where there’s a will, there’s a way. And for Bruce, that will is Batman…because myths don’t bleed, right? Well, Batman, with the last ounce of strength he has, will have to test that theory out with the Orghams as he fights through Prince Arzen’s three powerful protectors to find out. Hope is not all lost, though, as Jim Gordon and Sorrow rush their way through Gotham to help Batman before it’s too late and an Azmer demon is placed inside him…
Review
Detective Comics #1073 is everything you would want from a comic featuring a legacy character as prominent as Batman. This issue has everything from its epic cover designed by Evan Cagle to the story design that challenges Batman physically and existentially.
After the Orgham building exploded last issue due to Batman choosing to sacrifice himself, it’s quickly evident that it was a trap meant to get the attention of the citizens of Gotham to mass manipulate them. While the issue begins with the Bat Family checking in on their respective statuses, the core revolves around Batman against Arzen and their physical and mental battle with each other.
Scripted by Ram V, the story shifts from the issue’s explosion to a Batman-centric struggle. Questioning the necessity of Batman isn’t exactly new, but the theme of internal and external strife fits into the style of this run. We’ve seen Batman prevail and discover truths behind the newest family in Gotham, and now we are seeing him lose a fight and witness the journey to win the war. What is notable about the overarching story is the emphasis on supernatural elements in Gotham. It lends itself to the early issues of Detective Comics, where werewolves and hypnotic villains were lurking around every corner.
Adding to the story is the art by Ivan Reis, Goran Sudzuka, and Brad Anderson. The panels have weight with every punch and blood splatter from Batman’s fight with Arzen. The colors make fiery panels feel full of heat, and electric panels are full of intense light.
In addition to the main story, Dan Watters’ backup story about Arzen’s childhood has a sinister plot that is tragic and creepy. Stefano Raffaele and Lee Loughridge do a tremendous job with the art. Using the back story to enhance the main story is a nice touch and continues to build out the ancient world the Orgham Family comes from.
For me, the biggest highlight of this issue has to be the cover done by Evan Cagle. The entire piece is scary and beautiful at the same time. The image of Batman surrounded by giant bat wings is just a creative approach and is one of the best Batman covers I’ve seen. It won’t hurt to pick up this issue for the cover if you’re not following Detective Comics.
Final Thoughts
The entire run so far has been a great journey, but this particular issue feels like a high standard to compete against.
Detective Comics #1073: Inner and Outer Demons
- Writing - 9/109/10
- Storyline - 9.5/109.5/10
- Art - 9/109/10
- Color - 9.5/109.5/10
- Cover Art - 10/1010/10
