DETECTIVE COMICS #1107 (DC COMICS)

Bruce Wayne has new neighbors in Gotham City.

Oliver Queen has come to town. The Emerald Archer is setting up shop from Star City and moving in with Black Canary. This proves to be an issue when Queen crashes a case Batman is working on. Get ready as a new Trinity of heroes is poised to make evil run in fear or destroy each other in the process.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1107 by Tom Taylor, Pete Woods and Wes Abbott (DC COMICS) begins an all new team-up of combustible personalities.

Let’s take a closer look at how this all begins.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1107 by Tom Taylor, Pete Woods and Wes Abbott (DC COMICS)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Taylor opens up with a solid lead-in for the new case at hand. A witness in a high-profile case dies mysteriously. The narration tips off this isn’t the only death with such unique circumstances behind it. Events lead to Green Arrow’s introduction to Gotham’s mean streets. His heroic efforts in stopping a corrupt cop put him in the direct path of Batman. Their dialogue reflects their professional courtesy. Queen’s stance contrasts the business aspect of Batman’s outlook. Readers watch as the pair play off each others comments. It’s a more friendly exchange than one will see out of Batman. This mood moves into a more touching point of the issue.

Dinah Lance’s heartfelt speech at Wildcats’ gym is a touching nod to the fallen hero. This leads into a fitting tribute from Batman concerning Ted Grant’s influence. Good times end fast as the closing act shows a more somber tone. Readers watch Queen, Lance and Wayne show their sadness to their fallen friend. Taylor switches gears when a surprise figure crashes the scene. It is a very puzzling moment which is followed by unwelcomed guests. This leads into the parting pages, which teases more of this ever evolving case. A very strong intro to something greater en route.

READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!

Woods steps in for art duties on this starting chapter. The sequence of trying to get the witness into protective custody has a very nervous feel to it. It sets more questions in motion once the victim has passed. This uneasy feel continues with a dealer shaken down by a corrupt cop. The near full image of Arrow issuing justice out makes a loud statement. As Batman’s ruse is exposed, the mood becomes more lighter but not by much. Both vigilantes have strong personalities. This is on full display during this interaction. No better example than Queen’s claim of false “ownership” of Gotham. The interactions lead into a more caring perspective once events move to Wildcat’s gym.

Lance’s beaming expression shows her honor in continuing Grant’s mission. The group shot reactions cover much ground. This leads to a gesture by Wayne matched by a rare smile. His sparring match with Lance gets a fantastic two page splash. It helps to break up the tension before moving into the closing act. The graveyard image leads to a more sad tone while reflecting on the fallen. Once the first party crasher shows, the mood takes a quick detour. Readers watch as tempers begin to flare as this is no place for cordial greetings. The final panel is a solid parting place with more teased of what is coming. A very steady pace locks readers in for this curious case. Can’t wait to see where this leads now.

FINAL POINT: 9

Green Arrow’s moves in Gotham City lead into a very complex mystery in this excellent first round. Taylor balances out the drama with a slow build on the actual case at hand. Woods crafts a personal look at the “frienemies” as the new case starts to unfold. There is no better time than right now to jump on aboard for what’s coming next!

Let me know your thoughts on Detective Comics #1107 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!