Batman ’89: Echoes is the sequel to Batman ’89, a comic series set in the Tim Burton movie universe of Batman (1989) and Batman Returns (1992). The first six-issue miniseries received great reviews and was a welcome addition for fans of the Burtonverse Batman flicks. Echoes reunites writer Sam Hamm, artist Joe Quinones, colorist Leonardo Ito and adds letterer Carlos M. Mangual to the team. Does Batman ’89: Echoes provide more than just nostalgia bait for elder millennials? Read on to find out!
Credit: DC Comics
It’s been two years since the events of Batman ’89 and no one has seen hide nor hair of the real Batman. A slew of imitators have been filling the role, however, and recently four have ended up dead. Enter Captain Barbara Gordon, who has taken a keen interest in these faux Batman murders and has been climbing up the ranks of GCPD since we last saw her. We learn that she made a bargain with Bruce Wayne to hang up the cowl to avoid prosecution. It turns out, however, that not even Alfred knows where Bruce is – he vanished almost a month ago without a trace.
We also get introduced to this universe’s versions of Harleen Quinzel and Jonathan Crane, better known as Harley Quinn and Scarecrow respectively. While there are some hints at their future alter egos, at this point in the story they’re simply rival doctors working in Arkham Asylum.
The issue really kicks things into high gear when we join a tactical team closing in on Robert Lowery aka The Firefly. He’s been on the lam since attempting to set off a dirty bomb in Central City. Through several twists and turns, they finally bring their man in, but is The Firefly really who the authorities think he is?
Credit: DC Comics
For fans of the movies or previous series, Batman ’89: Echoes is a slam dunk. Hamm creates an interesting story with mysteries galore that pulls the reader in from the get-go. Is Crane somehow manipulating veterans who suffer from PTSD into an unreasonable fear of Batman? Why has Bruce Wayne disappeared for the last month and what is he planning?
The issue is also peppered with little Easter eggs for longtime Batman fans, like Bullock saying “criminals are a cowardly, superstitious lot” or Harley saying Joker had a “really bad day”. The character designs are great, fitting right in with the established world. Harley is modeled after Madonna, who was rumored to play Harley Quinn in an unmade sequel film. And although we don’t see Scarecrow’s costume in the interiors, the design on the cover is nearly perfect, incorporating elements from Batman: The Animated Series such as the noose around his neck. The art by Quinones and colors by Ito are vibrant while still being atmospheric. Gotham is a dark and dingy city while Wayne Manor is still the imposing, gothic mansion that can be made to feel warm and cozy with a fire and kettle of tea supplied by Alfred.
Batman ’89: Echoes successfully builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, delivering a captivating narrative set in the iconic Tim Burton movie universe of Batman. Sam Hamm, along with the talented artistic team of Joe Quinones and Leonardo Ito, continues to immerse readers in the dark and atmospheric world of Gotham. The character designs, including a Madonna-inspired Harley Quinn and a meticulously designed Scarecrow, seamlessly blend with the established aesthetic while the vibrant yet atmospheric art captures the essence of Gotham. This issue proves to be more than just a trip down memory lane. It stands as a testament to the creative synergy of the team, offering a satisfying continuation of the Burton-inspired Batman saga. Whether you’re a devoted fan of the movies or a Batman enthusiast, this comic series continues to deliver a compelling narrative that keeps readers eagerly anticipating the next twist in the shadowy streets of Gotham.
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