Dick Grayson’s infiltration to the Wolf Pack crossed paths with Selina Kyle.
Having an impossible choice to make, Grayson opted to risk blowing his cover. The move paid off with giving the Dynamic Duo a possible lead.
But you know the saying, two’s company and three is a crowd….
BATMAN AND ROBIN: YEAR ONE - DYNAMIC DUOS #4 by Mark Waid, Chris Samnee, Mat Lopes and Clayton Cowles (DC Comics) continues its’ throwback tale.
Let’s take a deeper dive into the latest.
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Waid and Samnee know how to craft a classic crime story. The opening is a more humble one with Robin looking to drive the Batmobile after his long night out. His banter with Batman reflects the difference in personalities. It also helps put together a much needed break in their latest case. The move also camouflages Alfred’s questionable actions as the detective work comes into full view.
Readers watch as the duo breaks down features to hone in on a suspect. The writing shows a tragic fall from grace crafting this latest rogue. It also steers attention back to Selina Kyle. Her view of the world offers more conflict as another player tests her patience. After the smoke clears, Batman confronts her for information. The dialogue can’t be any better as they go back and forth. Even Robin’s jabs are well placed. This sets up a shocking action which spirals everything heading into the closing act. The move amplifies even more with some earlier set-up work. This concludes events on an exciting note as one character is forced out of their comfort zone rather quickly. Excellent script.
read last issue’s review!
Samnee and Lopes begin the chapter with more drawn out panels. Alfred’s pained look doesn’t escape view as the story pushes forward. Robin’s costume pops as the dark tones hover in the Bat Cave. It is a small tweak in visuals but is very noteworthy. The art shows the detective skills come into play as they search for suspects. After a choice is made, the art switches gears and pallets into fresh territory.
A phenomenal two page spread begins the tragic villain origin. The use of red in this area makes the panels come alive. It hints at the evil brewing right to its’ transition point. Once events come back to street level, it moves into a more vintage look with Catwoman fighting “crime”. Her fight with “A King” is fast but helps to establish a better confrontation with Batman looming. Their talk is as classic as one can imaging. It is interrupted by Cowles strong lettering as an event changes everything. The stunned looks on faces adds much gravity to the situation. It pushes to a strong but tense finish. The frantic pacing ultimately stops with a jarring final full image. Talk about a mic drop moment. Superb art on display here.
FINAL GRADE: 9
The Dynamic Duo’s investigation stalls when a shocking act knocks everything off track! Waid pens a highly driven script, focusing on the legendary detective work. Samnee, Lopes & Cowles continue to impress with the visuals. This is a timeless look at one of comics most legendary duo for good reason!
Let me know your thoughts on BATMAN AND ROBIN: YEAR ONE - DYNAMIC DUOS #4 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
