BATMAN #7 (DC COMICS)
Can people really change? Dr. Annika Zeller’s experimental work has done wonders, but Batman is not convinced.
As his search for clues has led him into new directions, One patient has called out for him.
It is a voice he knows all too well. The embodiment of Evil. A devious soul. Clown Prince of Crime. In this case, he is known as Patient Ten. All he wants to do is talk with the Dark Knight. Wat could go wrong?
BATMAN #7 by Matt Fraction, Jorge Jiménez, Tomeu Morey, & Clayton Cowles (DC COMICS) sees THE JOKER request an auidence.
Let’s not wait another second and dive into this issue.
BATMAN #7 by Matt Fraction, Jorge Jiménez, Tomeu Morey, & Clayton Cowles (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Fraction’s vision for this series has redefined how Batman looks at his rogues. Trying to use the Joker in this mold can be tricky. The opening pages set the stage, teasing what’s coming. Zeller’s dialogue with Batman shows her over-confidence in whom she’s dealing with. Batman counters with a cold reminder of who is locked up inside the lab. Once they formalities are out of the way, the true story begins. It is definitively a new take on Joker tales that one might be used to.
Readers watch as the old foes get right down to business. Joker’s demeanor is classic as it leans into the unhinged behavior. The conflict begins its’ slow brew. No matter what is trying to be sold here, Batman isn’t listening. As more banter rolls out, it becomes a duel of wits between the pair. The writing doesn’t shy away from Joker’s sadistic nature. Watching him control the room makes for sheer terror. Seeing the angle playing of being “a true friend” is very familiar territory. It also moves the story into the true reveal of plans. This pushes to a final page some may not be ready for. It’s a big swing that readers will have to see if it paid off.
Jiménez & Morey play into a routine for the visuals of this chapter (which is NOT a bad thing). It gives the panels a very clear look which is welcomed for this story. The lead-in for Batman is classic in set-up. A full shot of him on a rooftop with Gordon and Bullock makes a loud statement. Bullock’s reaction softballs the line to get Batman to swing at. This leads into the usual credits spread, which features the Batmobile for this chapter. It’s arguably the only traditional look this book has.
Once Batman enters Level Ten, the near full shot starts off the uncomfortable face-off. How Joker’s eyes are presented sells this conversation. This is the routine that was previously mentioned. Using close-ups of Joker’s eyes sells his attempt to frustrate the Dark Knight. A full page image reveals who’s been helping the Joker from inside the room. All of these incredible images take a back seat to a magnificent fold-out history of the Bat and the Clown. There might not be enough compliments I can give Jiménez on this stunning work, but all are high praise. From here, the grid panels never loose sight on Joker’s glaring eyes. This moves into the showstopping final page. The full image stops everything immediately to leave a few questions to linger until next chapter drops. Another exciting visual experience.
FINAL GRADE: 9.4
A chilling reunion of “frenemies” leads into a dangerous talk in this thrilling chapter. Fraction takes readers into the mind of a maniac with the writing. Jiménez & Morey construct impactful images on every page with ease! Just wait till the last page hits! Brace for impact!
Let me know your thoughts on Batman #7 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
