BATMAN AND ROBIN: YEAR ONE - DYNAMIC DUOS #2 (DC COMICS)
A group of wayward kids are running around wild in the streets of Gotham City.
Their actions are drawing attention from a legendary Dynamic Duo. It also has a certain Feline Fatale taking notes as well.
BATMAN AND ROBIN: YEAR ONE - DYNAMIC DUOS #2 by Mark Waid, Chris Samnee, Mat Lopes and Clayton Cowles (DC Comics) continues its’ throwback look at the early days of Bruce Wayne and Dick Grayson.
Let’s take a closer look at what unfolds now.
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Waid and Samnee bring out one of the more timeless tricks involving the duo early in this story. Watching Dick Grayson attempt a disguise has a whimsical charm to it. The banter with Batman is classic as Grayson’s youthful quips hit. Alfred’s calm intervention is perfectly timed to steer things in a better direction. This allows Batman to use his Bruce Wayne persona to start gaining some intel. It provides an honest look at the crime-fighting skills before turning attention to Ms. Selina Kyle.
Readers watch as one of the children arrive at her doorstep. It indicates the something more sinister is lurking about this gang. The dialogue is welcoming as Selina tries to get the full story. Their talk ends abruptly but not before leaving an impression. Once the tale gets back to the main theme, Waid structures a solid mystery for Batman to solve. The trail leads to some more familiar friends, conversing about event. It sets up the closing act with much wonder behind it. Grayson’s time to shine is stained with a dark deception. This concludes with a shocking cliffhanger. An excellent read form start to finish.
read last issue’s review!
Samnee and Lopes tease fans with a strong set-up to Grayson’s disguise reveal. The moment occurs with a laughable full page shot. It’s a solid break point to have Alfred take over. His quiet smile is unavoidable as he helps the youthful hero prepare. This moves Batman into detective move. A series of panels show his breakdowns to get intel. It’s a subtle lead in for his work later. Once the spotlight goes to Kyle, the mood reflects the more serious nature of her involvement.
Panels show Selina showing sympathy for Mehitabel after her latest ordeal. There’s genuine care being shown with a surprise conclusion. This allows another major mystery to occur. The art time shines in putting together a “pulp” look to the failed rescue attempt of a secretary. Lettering pops off in this moment to give the scene a vintage look. Batman’s follow-up work showcases a classic stand-off with a rogue villain. It diverts attention away to make the closing act hit hard. Grayson’s infiltration of the group sways in the looks shown. The build is great heading into the closing pages. A wild full page closing scene sends readers with many thoughts as this series is only getting started.
FINAL GRADE: 9
Catwoman’s involvement in the Duo’s latest case forces Dick Grayson to make a dangerous choice in a thrilling read. Waid blends themes of humor with grounded drama into a strong script. Samnee, Lopes & Cowles amaze with the artwork. A classic adventure awaits!
Let me know your thoughts on BATMAN AND ROBIN: YEAR ONE - DYNAMIC DUOS #2 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
