Batman #142
DC Comics
Written by Chip Zdarsky
Art by Giuseppe Camuncoli and Andrea Sorrentino
Inks by Stefano Nesi and Andrea Sorrentino
Colors by Alejandro Sanchez and Dave Stewart
Letters by Clayton Cowles
The Rundown: An incident in the wake of Batman and Joker’s first meeting could hold to the key to a future crime.
In the wake of their first encounter, the newly born Joker finds himself dealing with not only his growing insanity, but also his gang abandoning him. As Batman continues to investigate both the gang and their missing leader, Gordon finds himself the target of his corrupt colleagues.
In the future, a plan to neutralize Joker for good is compromised and his eventual escape will lead Batman to work alone in a world filled with darkness and a city populated by Jokers.
The Story: Zdarsky crafts an entertaining and interesting new story for Batman. Admittedly, I have gotten burned out by the Batman/Joker dynamic, but this issue delivers an interesting new take on their dynamic by splitting the story between the past and future. I look forward to seeing where this arc goes next.
The Art: Camuncoli and Sorrentino deliver some beautifully detailed and stylish art throughout the issue. I love the contrast in the visual styles and how they complement each other.