Batman 89 Echoes #1
DC Comics
Written by Sam Hamm
Art by Joe Quinones
Colors by Leonardo Ito
Letters by Carlos M. Mangual
The Rundown: Batman is missing in Gotham and new and dark threats begin to rise.
Batman is missing and in the wake of his disappearance a series of copycat vigilantes find themselves dead by common criminals. The murders prompt the new commissioner Gordon to pay a visit to Wayne Manor and speaking with Alfred who tells her that Bruce has been missing for months.
At the same time, Dr. Harleen Quinzel continues to explore the psychology of the Joker on television and clashes with the producer when Firefly is discovered by the police. Back at Arkham, Firefly’s case is handed off to Professor Jonathan Crane who has his own plans for the criminal.
The Story: Hamm delivers an interesting story in this first issue. As interesting as it is, the story takes some strange leaps that didn’t connect with me. A lot of it seems to go for the trope of the villains being more interesting than the hero and the core of Batman gets lost. I am intrigued with the mystery in the issue and will read the next issue to see where it goes.
The Art: Quinones delivers some beautifully detailed art in the issue. I really like the character designs and look forward to seeing what comes next visually.