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Review: Red Hood and the Outlaws #25

By Philip Schweier
August 8, 2018 - 05:58

This issue is touted as an “extra-sized anniversary issue.” Extra size, yes, but I am uncertain what the anniversary is. Possibly just the 25^th issue, or maybe its Jason Todd’s first appearance. Either way, it’s all rather vague, suggesting it’s hype on the part of DC Comics. This seems to be the latest series about to undergo some sort of radical change. Others include Detective Comics and the Green Lantern titles.

The issue features a showdown between Batman and the Red Hood, following the assassination of the Penguin. Red Hood blames the Penguin for the death of his father. Meanwhile, Artemis is trying desperately to prevent the destruction of their floating headquarters. Its creator, Bizarro, has regressed to the monosyllabic moron we all know and love.

In the middle of the fight between Batman and Red Hood, there is a sequence in which Batman seemingly disappears and reappears. I don’t know why. I can only attribute it to poor storytelling by the art team. But eventually it leads to a form of closure for this era of Red Hood and the Outlaws, and possibly a new direction beginning next issue – if there is one.

Cuz the fate of Artemis and Bizarro is left in doubt, complete with sound effects that probably don’t actually exist (like the sound of explosions in space). But that doesn’t mean they won’t be back. DC promises answers in Red Hood and the Outlaws Annual #2.

 

BUT WAIT! There’s more. There is an 8-page back-up story, partly illustrated by Phil Hester and Ande Parks. Hints are made at deeper secrets of Jason Todd’s background, as well as laying the groundwork for future tales of the Outlaws. So perhaps this isn’t the end.

Rating: 8/10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12