The cover of this issue reads “Voiceless,” and you know what that means, don’t you kind reader? Why, the issue has no words to speak of! That can be a good thing at times, but I’ve noticed these wordless comics tend to be such quick “reads” they are difficult to warrant a purchase. How about this one though? Is it good?
Batman: The Dark Knight #26 (DC Comics)
The issue opens with a hispanic woman who works in a sweatshop. The entire first third of the book follows her ordeal as she tries to get medicine for her dying baby. It doesn’t work out and she eventually turns to Gotham to find a new lease on life. Unfortunately, along the way her child is taken from her and sold to a sweatshop in Gotham. Something tells me Batman won’t be too pleased with these events.
What is she making, angel bottles?
Of course the sweat shop is making Christmas junk and the kid has full view of the rich enjoying the holiday right outside her window. Writer Gregg Hurwitz has crafted a rather sad tale here, and it’s not until we reach page twelve that Batman shows up. The rest is wallowing in the sad state of immigrants which makes this issue very much about the message and less about action or intrigue. There is a bit where a woman tries to save the children, which comes with some strong layouts by Alberto Ponticelli, but for the most part it’s a slow, more methodical story being told here.
Ponticelli’s art is strongest in its detail, with little flourishes here and there to make the world that much more real. His rendition of Batman reminds me of Paul Pope’s work with the character as the facial expressions and mouth in particular are quite specific in their emotion. The heavy ink work also helps set the mood which further increases the sorrow of the story.
“Lil elf workshop” now that’s just mean.
7.5
- Strong message in the story
- Moody art fits the story nicely
- Not the most invigorating and happy story
Is It Good?
Not too shabby as far as wordless comics go. The book has an important message to tell with just the right amount of emotion, especially coming from Batman himself, that makes the story felt.
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