“Batman Universe” #4
Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: Nick Derington
Color Artist: Dave Stewart
Letterers: Josh Reed and Tom Napolitano
Review by Steve J. Ray
Batman Universe #4 feels like the ultimate tribute to Bat-Lash, Jonah Hex, and all the other wonderful DC Comics western characters, from back in the day. It’s also the Back To The Future tribute I never knew I needed. I love this silly, fun, guest star-packed, universe hopping, time-jumping craziness sooooo much.
From Faberge eggs to fantastic fashion choices, this issue delivers. Both Hal Jordan and Bruce Wayne look great in clothes from the old west… in fact, this could be one of the coolest Batman looks ever! Nick Derington and Dave Stewart must have had a great time designing and coloring those threads. There are no lantern or bat symbols to be seen anywhere, but you just know that we’re looking at Hal Jordan and Batman.
Double The Fun
This series has had multiple letterers – this issue alone boasts two – but if I hadn’t read that on the title page I honestly never would have known. Josh Reed and Tom Napolitano are two of the finest talents in their field and have their own unique styles, but they way they made two halves of this story flow seamlessly like one, is amazing.
This series is giving us so many surprises and incredible guest stars, and there are still two issues to go! I’m sure that what happens to the magic egg this issue at the hands of the Dark Knight is a clue as to the truth behind it. I also get vibes of Grant Morrison’s excellent “Return Of Bruce Wayne” and “Time And The Batman”, from the pre-New 52 days.
Conclusion
This is one of the titles that make my eyes light up when I pick up my pull-list from my comic shop. It’s always entertaining, engaging and full of energy. Batman Universe #4 is the kind of comic you can buy for your kids and pretend that it’s actually for them, while you secretly devour and enjoy every page yourself.
I love this title, and after that cliffhanger I cannot wait for issue #5.
Images Courtesy Of DC Entertainment
