Batman and Robin #7 Review: Exploring the Dynamic Duo in The Batman Universe

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In Batman & Robin #7, a new arc begins with excitement. Flatline arrives in Gotham, and Man-Bat has a cult?!

Title: Batman & Robin #7, “Cult of Man-Bat Part One”Writer: Joshua WilliamsonArtist: Simone Di MeoColors: Giovanna NiroLetterer: Steve WandsMain Cover: Simone Di MeoVariant Covers: Derrick Chew, Kael Ngu, Simone BianchiRelease Date: March 12, 2024

This comic book review contains spoilers.

Bats fly through the Gotham night. Man-Bat addresses his cult followers, getting them worked up. Shush is unimpressed, but Man-Bat assures that the time is near. On a rooftop in Gotham, Batman encounters Flatline.

She explains that she has come to Gotham in search of her missing sister, Mila. Robin offers help, but Batman ultimately approves the mission with a reminder to follow Rule #1 (“no killing”). Flatline and Robin set off into the night, bantering as they catch up. A vision of Ra’s al Ghul appears, warning Flatline to tell Robin the truth, but she dismisses him.

The duo follow a lead to the closed Iceberg Lounge and are ambushed. Smiling, they spring into action before Mila reveals herself as the ringleader.

Meanwhile, Batman captures and questions a cult member. The member gives a speech and then ingests a capsule provided by Man-Bat. He dies. Shush proposes a team-up to a stern Batman as a halo of bats swirl around.

The new arc in Batman & Robin starts off with a bang. From the vivid depiction of the Gotham night filled with bats to the intriguing opening lines – “We have always been here” – the Cult of Man-Bat arc takes off like a race car. Cult storylines are a common theme in The Batman Universe and comics in general. When executed well, like in this case, they can be quite enjoyable.

After the slower pace of the “Gotham High” arc, writer Joshua Williamson injects a new energy into the story. This issue stands out as one of the more dynamic TBU books recently reviewed. Batman, especially Robin and Flatline, are in constant motion through the skyscrapers of Gotham, creating an exciting read. Guest artist Simone Di Meo excels in this issue, with a particularly stunning panel on p. 10. Robin and Flatline leap into the night from an unusual and dramatic angle. The imagery pays homage to Bruce Timm, with Batman in the background, shrouded in shadow. The composition and lighting create a mesmerizing scene that captivates the reader.

Image Credit: DC Comics

Williamson skillfully matches the dialogue with the action on every page. The conversation between Flatline and Robin balances catching up with foreshadowing. The artwork propels the characters towards each other and their search for Mila while highlighting the tension in their relationship. Flatline is a compelling character, and Williamson portrays adolescent relationships with maturity and respect, a refreshing approach.

Damian Wayne, as written by Williamson, is a standout character. The care and respect for the character are evident, showcasing how capable minors can navigate adult situations. In this book, Damian is portrayed in a way that makes him relatable and intriguing, a character you want to know more about.

The twist at the end of the book adds an ironic touch. Shush, who was being sought, ends up approaching Batman. Nearly everything in this issue works, from the dialogue to the characterizations of the Dynamic Duo to the art. Simone Di Meo’s work shines, and I hope to see more of it in future issues.

Even the variant covers, like Derrick Chew’s, are impressive with their realism and warmth in portraiture.

It’s becoming apparent that Batman & Robin is a top Batman book worth following. Fans are in for a treat!

Editor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with an advanced copy of this comic for review purposes. You can find this comic and support TBU by purchasing it digitally on Amazon or a physical copy through Things From Another World.