Nerdlocker Reviews – Detective Comics #1

Jim – I will state this with every review I write for the DC Relaunch, I’m a Marvel guy so I know very little of the DC world beyond the heavy hitters (Batman, Superman, Green Lantern, etc.), and even to that end I have not kept up with their latest story lines. I found the recent relaunch extremely enticing in that I might find a better connection with these characters. I will start by saying this, I have no idea where this book is going, but hot damn I’m on board to find out! You could argue this book is more of Joker’s story than Batman’s, but that might be why it is so intriguing. It never appears that the ultimate super villain has a plan, yet when everything plays out it usually comes together just fine for the Clown Prince. For a relaunch, I cannot think of a better way to “reintroduce” two of DC’s iconic characters. And once again, this is another example of a book that should have lead the relaunch effort and not Justice League #1. Anywho, I also really enjoyed the art in this book. I find it truly amazing when an individual can write just as well as he can draw, and Tony Daniel does just that. In perfect Joker fashion, the last panel truly amazed and left me desperate to find out more. #2 cannot come soon enough. I give this book 4 out of 5 Nerdskulls.

Jazmin – DC has returned to the ’90s with this version of Batman, full of one-liners that have long since been turned into jokes. I will not take any Batman seriously who still says “I am the night, I am Gotham.” Overall it was indeed an interesting book taking a flagship character like the Joker and seemingly changing things up a bit. But it left much to be desired in terms of art and overall writing. 3 out of 5 Nerdskulls.

Brandon – The thing I’ve always loved about Batman and Detective Comics was that it showed you both sides of The Caped Crusader. In Batman we usually get to see him swinging into action, taking down the villains head on and saving the day. While Detective Comics was the book to read if you wanted to see Batman living up to his title as the world’s greatest detective. Sadly, I really don’t see this element emerging with this current storyline. I much prefer Tony Daniels as an artist than a writer, and my opinion is unchanged after reading issue one of Detective Comics. Ryan Winn does a solid job on art. Honestly, I was thinking about dropping this book, until I got to the last page. The jaw-dropping conclusion did intrigue me enough to keep reading. But I really hope this book goes back to the roots of being a detective comic rather than just another Batman book. I’ll give Detective Comics 3 out of 5 Nerdskulls for keeping me hanging on…for now.

Don’t forget to check out all our other reviews on the New 52! Visit DC Comics at www.dccomics.com!