This month’s issue focuses on story finales, including a black and white short. This is unusual because the individual stories have different numbers of chapters and breaks between Tom King’s entries. Initially, it seemed like this could be the end of the title, as anthology sales are typically low. However, next month is solicited with the beginning of new stories. So, let’s take a look at how these stories wrap up.
Batman: The Winning Card part 4 concludes the debut four-part Joker story after nine issues. It has been a faithful recreation of the original 1940 story, with some added and expanded scenes. However, this story diverges from the original plot. The focus shifts to Bruce’s relationship with Alfred, which is the strongest element of the story. The dynamic between the two characters is portrayed excellently, filled with dry sarcasm and playful jabs. The hatred between Batman and Joker is also well-executed and believable. The fight between them captures their animosity perfectly. The artwork by Mitch Gerad maintains the ethereal atmosphere and evokes similarities to The Killing Joke. However, the joke Batman makes in this story doesn’t add much to the narrative. The story continues with an epilogue that highlights Batman’s trauma and portrays him as an irrevocably broken man. While exploring Batman’s trauma can be interesting, it becomes problematic when it becomes his sole motivation. It reduces him to a character wallowing in trauma rather than a hero protecting others. Overall, the story delivers a strong conclusion to Batman and Joker’s relationship, but the latter half leans too heavily into Batman’s trauma.
Wild Dog: Here Comes Trouble! part 3 surprises with its sincerity. Despite its initial premise as a satire of the superhero genre, the story manages to make readers care about it. After facing defeat, Wild Dog feels broken and like a failure. This shift in tone adds a tragic element to the story. Gizmo’s reign of terror is depicted as terrifying, highlighting the power of even C-list super villains. The art effectively portrays Gizmo as larger than life. The finale builds anticipation for Wild Dog’s return and his confrontation with Gizmo. It’s an underdog story where readers root for the hero in the college-mascot-themed costume. Despite its ridiculousness, Wild Dog becomes a true hero.
Aquaman: Communion part 3 continues the story with an “alright…”
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