Comics / Comic Reviews / DC Comics

Review: Batgirl #29

By Philip Schweier
December 20, 2018 - 16:08

The conclusion of the current story arc, as Batgirl faces off against Grotesque, who is determined to wipe out Gotham’s elite because, well, because they’re the elite. A (more) twisted form of social justice, I guess. Unfortunately, Commissioner Gordon is in the line of fire. And that is something that just will not do.

What sets Batgirl apart from other characters in the franchise is her relationship with her father. Bruce and Dick are both orphans, so are Jason and Tim, and Batwoman has a rather fractured relationship with her dad. Barbara seems the only one who gets along with any parent. And that comes through in this issue very clearly.

As far as the narrative goes, I must say I’m a wee bit disappointed. I hate to give anything away, so let me just say that it’s a bit of a deus ex machina for a bad guy to suddenly develop a conscience. It diminishes the scope of the conflict, as if the good guy isn’t much of a hero for defeating a bad guy that isn’t so bad.

With this storyline over, I do hope Paul Pelletier and Norm Rapmund will remain on the title. Rapmund also inked this month’s issue of Batman Beyond, so he’s well liked in the Bat-office, but I prefer his work with Pelletier over that of Brett Booth. Fingers crossed.

Rating: 8/10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12