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Review: Detective Comics #985

By Philip Schweier
July 25, 2018 - 05:34

One of my favorite super-hero moments is the scene in Batman Returns (1992), when Bruce and Alfred expose the Penguin’s political conspiracy from the Batcave. Bruce doesn’t even suit up; it’s all handled by remote control. Seeing the hero be a hero without the need to get into character is refreshing – once in a while, otherwise there’s not much story.

In this issue of Detective Comics, Bruce analyzes his clues as to the identity of Karma, the latest addition to his roster of foes. Rather than sit fully masked at the Bat-computer processing data, Bruce takes one of his vehicles out for a spin, allowing the adrenaline and mental rush feed his mental processes. It’s hardly a new concept. Who among us hasn’t experienced the result of the analytical side of our brain working quietly in the background?

MEANWHILE… Jefferson Pierce is experiencing doubts as to his suitability to train and coach the Bat-team of Batgirl, Cassandra and the Signal (???). As an educator in his civilian life, he applies teaching methods to the process, rather than para-military training one might expect. I’m all for a different approach, but I wouldn’t expect Batgirl to be included. I believe she’s has proven herself capable after all these years.

Karma has upped the ante, proving himself as lethal a foe as the Joker. His taste for murder rivals that of the Joker’s early days, but regrettably, Bruce recognizes this too late. His origin almost echoes a scene from this week’s Batman Beyond, suggesting a certain irony seeds planted in the current Batman titles come to fruition a generation later. I rather fancy that idea. But more importantly, it may harken a return to Batman’s solo career, without an extraneous team surrounding him. I see that on the CW shows, and that’s what has contributed to me abandoning them.

Rating: 7/10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12