The Clockwork Killer story arrives at chapter two today, and I have to say this issue was jam-packed with entertainment, clues, beautiful art, and moments that will make you do some double-takes. Geoff Johns, Tim Sheridan, and Jeremy Adams have a very worthwhile mystery for us, the readers, and quite the lead character who believes that none of it matters. I appreciate that the momentum picked up with this issue, and here are some new insights into the series.
Initially, we should know things will ignite with the regular cover when the Psycho-Pirate shows up. That character has quite the history with Crises and Multiversal events, and with the Pirate being here, the drama and mystery amplify. Also, don’t forget that Psycho-Pirate and Flashpoint Batman did work together in the Batman: I am Bane story arc by Tom King. The Pirate’s mask had a significant hand in The Button story teaming Batman and Flash early in the Rebirth era.
Going into the story, the trio of writers does a fantastic job peeling back the layers to let the readers into their world. We get a great recap on our first page that has more mentioning of Flashpoint versions of famous DCU time travelers’ murders, so whoever is behind this has a good grasp of both worlds. When I read those moments in the story, I appreciate that the writing team knows their stuff and plays to the imagination of the Multiverse to add to the arc.
Along with that recap, the writers give voice to their Batman, showing that he is a very old, very angry man. They then put him onto his adventure for this issue, and I like how each setting plays into the following location. The best moment was at Arkham Asylum when Flashpoint Batman investigates the crime scene. Give yourself some time to analyze the visuals because the payout is very worthwhile. In my viewing of the issue, two things stuck out to me; one is a codename and the other is a common name with a famous DC last name. They don’t have much meaning, but if you read the Stargirl Spring Break Special, you’ll be happy to see the two bridge together.
While Flashpoint Batman is in Arkham, he has a conversation with a new inmate that has you feeling more sadness for Dexter Dent, reminding us of what he has been through and how this interaction will add more trouble to his life. In that scene and afterward, the violence picks up, and this is where Xermanico gets to shine. He has an angry Flashpoint Batman dealing with the incident that just happened go out on patrol in Gotham; more like release his anger instead of patrol. You’ll get more variations of characters here, and it is interesting to see them play in this world. Xermanico’s last page will also have a pair of variants meeting that should play out nicely in the next issue.
Of course, the epilogue by the writers and Mikel Janin adds to the overall mystery as we see our Batman, Bruce Wayne, talking with Time Master Corky Baxter about the snow globe. I am waiting to see what Bruce is planning and how the Time Masters will deal with his actions. Barry’s inability to handle his mother’s death led to the Flashpoint event; now we have Bruce and his “father,” so this could be wild. A very entertaining issue that captures attention and rewards with its embedded clues and reveals, this series is looking to tie up some loose ends, and I appreciate that from the creative team.
Also, I want to share with you the variant cover to Flashpoint Beyond #2 by Ivan Reis. I usually don’t go for variants, but these “History of the DC Timeline” covers have just been beautiful pieces of art that are fantastic. Those of you who trade wait, hopefully, they’ll be included in the collection; otherwise, good luck collecting!
The best issue in this series yet that builds the mystery and anticipation. Flashpoint Beyond #2 supplies you with clues that will excite your inner DC fan! Sit back with your favorite notepad, write down the clues and connections, and be ready to be entertained with an adventure that hits like a Crisis and doesn’t overwhelm you.
Join the AIPT Patreon
Want to take our relationship to the next level? Become a patron today to gain access to exclusive perks, such as:
- ❌ Remove all ads on the website
- 💬 Join our Discord community, where we chat about the latest news and releases from everything we cover on AIPT
- 📗 Access to our monthly book club
- 📦 Get a physical trade paperback shipped to you every month
- 💥 And more!
You must be logged in to post a comment.