BATMAN: BAD SEEDS - GOTHAM CENTRAL #1 (DC COMICS)
The streets of Gotham City have been taken over!
Pamela Isley’s deadly deal has unleashed a geological assault never seen before! It’s poisoning the air and crashing the technology. The Bat family has their hands full.
They’re not the only ones fighting the good fight. Jim Gordon is on patrol with Espinoza. They’re trying to save some lives. Next on their list is one Dr. Annika Zeller. The doctor has someone trying to kill her. It’s gonna be a long night in the old City.
BATMAN: BAD SEEDS - GOTHAM CENTRAL #1 by Christopher Cantwell, Jacob Phillips & Becca Carey (DC COMICS) continues the latest Batman event!
Let’s take a closer look at this installment.
BATMAN: BAD SEEDS - GOTHAM CENTRAL #1 by Christopher Cantwell, Jacob Phillips & Becca Carey (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Cantwell gives a very sharp approach to the chaos Isley caused with this chapter. The dialogue between Gordan and Espinoza is all business as they process what they’re seeing. It is refreshing to hear the banter of how Isley’s and Savage’s position of power reflect in the citizen’s eyes. Their trek into the Arboretum unlocks more mystery as dead bodies start appearing. It casts a looming feel as the story moves to another figure of Gotham.
Anarchy’s involvement is a unique but fitting addition. The writing shows him taking full advantage of the insanity in the streets. It provides a pivot back to Gordon’s case. Once here, the story gains momentum to push the immediate threat to the forefront. Cantwell crafts a panic filled crossroads to unite the various cast. Readers watch as the mistrust and breakdowns of falling hop take hold. This steers events into a solid finishing point. A great side piece to complement the growing problems at hand.
MORE BAD SEEDS!
Phillips opens with a direct shot of Gordon and Espinoza heading into the madness. Their expressions make a loud statement as they watch the city fall. This leads into a stop at the Arboretum. Their arrival pays homage to “The Dukes of Hazard” with an exciting full shot. Upon arrival, the panels keep the gritty looks as they unveil the disturbing finds. Readers can easily tell the angst in their faces once they hear Savage give new orders.
Readers move from this point to Anarchy’s robbery. Panels show the madman celebrating his crimes. It is a mood breaker in comparison to Gordon’s findings. The crime scene vents to a grizzly breakdown and possible lead. The use of red coloring highlights a startling discovery at the morgue. This allows the chaotic sequence at the subway station to garner more importance. Panels show the varying emotions to raise the dooming feel haunting the event. This only gets worse as the story progresses. The closing act sets up the cliffhanger final page with ease as the situation takes a deadly turn. Brace for it.
FINAL GRADE: 8.7
Gordon and Espinoza become entangled in a dangerous encounter no one might walk from in this strong opening chapter. Cantwell taps into the heavy weight of saving Gotham in the writing. Phillips weaves in emotional points through the rough waters with superb art. The beat never sleeps for Gotham’s real finest! Check it out.
Let me know your thoughts on BATMAN: BAD SEEDS - GOTHAM CENTRAL #1 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
