After the events of “Bad Seeds”, Cassandra Cain is looking to relax with some donuts.
Unfortunately for her, someone else has crashed her dining plans. A ghost from her past has returned to Gotham with a vengeance.
His name is David Cain…her father!
BATGIRL #25 by Tate Brombal, Takeshi Miyazawa, Mike Spicer & Tom Napolitano (DC COMICS) present a family reunion like no other.
Let’s see how this all plays out.
BATGIRL #25 by Tate Brombal, Takeshi Miyazawa, Mike Spicer & Tom Napolitano (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Brombal teases a deadly showdown with the opening pages. The flash forwards elude to a dark road for Batgirl. This is quickly dashed away when Cass and company go for donuts. The dialogue is light as the fallout of “Bad Seeds” takes over. Cain’s inner monologue teases peace in her life for the first time. Reflecting on how she’s grown as a person. This becomes quickly dashed as she goes for a simple snack break.
David Cain’s re-appearance comes with much uneasiness. Their relationship is very strained. David’s words come across as meaningful, but lack in delivery. Cass’s rage is slowly climbing higher and higher. This eventually breaks when the ruse is finally up. The writing brings in the signature action fast. There isn’t much mercy shown as David’s plans come into focus. This explodes on pages heading into a cold close. The final page speaks volumes as there will be no family bonding happening this go-around.
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Miyazawa & Spicer bring the violate action early with a shocking full page image of Cass striking. This breaks to show a softer side as Cain’s life moves into more enjoyable moments. Panels bring out a new side of the fierce warrior as it appears happiness is trying to break in. This leads into the main event with many looks to match.
Readers watch as David Cain enters via half panel. The interactions never break stride as Cass is none too happy to see her father. On the flipside, David attempts to come off charming and happy to be reunited. This quickly fades as the true reason for the meeting takes place via a bold full page. It speeds into a terrifying reality where Cass’s options are limited. Action picks up with a wild series of two page spreads. The art continues to grow more intense till a shocking final look leaves readers with much anticipation.
Brombal is joined by Damion Scott, Alex Guimarães & Napolitano for “Happy Birthday Tenji”. The story centers around Tenji tryign to escape his sisters shadow via sparring. Brombal drives home the desire to break out of the mold he feels he’s in. Scott’s dynamic style is a sight for longtime Cain fans. A stunning two page spread caps off the action to leave on a solid note. It’s a teling sign with more room to revisit if needed.
FINAL GRADE: 8.5
David Cain’s return is “complicated” to say the least as Cass is now a target to kill! Brombal constructs a complex family feast with the writing. Miyazawa & Spicer bring the chaotic action to life in the panels with great success. Brace for impact with what’s unfolding here.
Let me know your thoughts on Batgirl #25 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
