Batman #98
DC Comics
Written by James Tynion IV
Art by Jorge Jimenez
Colors by Tomeu Morey
Letters by Clayton Cowles
The Rundown: Batman must take a trip inward to heal while Harley confronts Punchline for round two.
Harley has given Bruce a concoction that will purge Punchline’s toxin from his system, Unfortunately, with Batman down for the count, Harley is left alone to watch over the Dark Knight. An activity that becomes increasingly difficult when Punchline finds the pair and decides to take them out.
While Harley fights Punchline and protects Batman, Bruce finds himself trapped in his own mind and given the rare opportunity to examine himself, his trauma, his guilt and his purpose with the one constant in his life. A opportunity that just might embolden the hero to finally step beyond his past to find a new purpose.
The Story: The second confrontation between Harley and Punchline was immensely satisfying. Both characters dealing with their own psychological issues while trying to analyze the other was some great writing from James Tynion IV. Contrasting those moments with Batman working through his own trauma and having Alfred act as the catalyst for him to finally embrace the real truth of who he is made for a great issue all around. This story has great character moments throughout mixed in with great action and surprises.
The Art: Jorge Jimenez delivers some beautifully detailed art. There is an energy to every page and panel and the tone of the story is perfectly reflected in how Jimenez renders the characters and their biggest moments, especially Batman.