Ram V’s epic Detective Comics run begins its finale this week in a story titled, “Gotham Nocturne: Act III Crescendo Part 1.” Gotham has been taken, Batman was literally hung, went to the desert, and finds himself before returning to the end of the last issue. He has plenty of reason to want revenge, but at the very least, he needs to reclaim his city. A city that the Orgham family has somehow brought less crime to. In this first issue of the last story arc, Batman questions the “peace” they brought and sends a message.
Detective Comics #1084 picks up where we left off with Batman back in Gotham. He’s getting his bearings and figuring out what he missed as he checks in with key characters. He seems more confident and prepared for the battle ahead, so much so that he sends a message that’s quite badass and forward, especially for Batman.
Along the way, we get to see Bruce and Talia connect. It’s nice to see them be more than just enemies. It also shows the rather complicated nature of their relationship. They love each other, but it’s a love that’ll never work.
Batman’s still got it!
Credit: DC Comics
Fans of continuity and canon will be pleased to see Ram V further explore Batman’s role. He’s been tested, and Ram V has made strong statements about who he is. It seems this last story arc will play a part in defining him going forward. That’s exciting and adds a layer of purpose to the story.
The main story feels quite slow, with more setting up than dropping a hammer. Ultimately, this is the calm before the storm, even with a rather surprising figure entering the story on the final page.
Javier Fernandez gets to show off with great fight scenes utilizing a fun layout design. The romantic scenes with Talia are pulled off well with good character acting in their demeanor. These two care for one another, and Fernandez makes it feel not very easy through body language and facial expressions. The epic message Batman sends will send shivers down your spine, and there’s a great play of light here. There’s also some fabulous mood thanks to a running sunset with colors by Dave McCaig.
Also contained here is a backup story by Alex Paknadel and Robbi Rodriguez focused on Cassandra Cain, aka Batgirl. The events of this story reveal how a certain something ended up in the main story while proving Cassandra has what it takes to be a hero of Gotham. Paknadel makes a strong point about not living up to other people’s expectations, and Rodriguez brings fun energy to the action. It’s a short but sweet action scene that’ll please Cassandra fans.
Detective Comics #1084 is the calm before the storm, only this time, Batman has all the cards and is ready to take his city back. The grand finale of Ram V’s epic run has all the makings of an all-time great tale.
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