The penultimate issue of Chip Zdarsky’s run of Batman releases today, and a lot is going on in this story arc. A new superhero called Commander Star is in Gotham and doesn’t like Batman, Riddler is meddling as a CEO, Mad Hatter messed with James Gordon’s mind, and Batman may have a long-lost brother. Throw in the fact that the Court of Owls is somehow involved, and we have ourselves one of the most over-stuffed arcs in Batman in some time, and that’s not even mentioning the political ties to our world. Luckily, if you’re looking for plot progression, you’ll find it in Batman #156.
Batman #156 opens with riots in the streets of Gotham while Commander Star looks on with a smile. Meanwhile, Batman breaks James Gordon out of jail after discovering Mad Hatter’s tech framed him, and he zaps cops left and right. We soon learn there’s a ticking clock, making Batman rush to stop Riddler from empowering the Court of Owls, adding ample stakes and a high pace to the issue.
Zdarsky does a good job keeping the tension high as Batman races from one threat to another. You’ll never feel bored or confused about what is going on. There are also good check-ins for characters like Gordon and the late mayor’s wife, and the Mad Hatter gets a moment or two in there as well.
Batman has probably attacked more cops than criminals, pound for pound.
Credit: DC Comics
This issue has all the makings of a story arc that is barreling toward its finish so the next creative team can kick things off, for better or worse. That means the slower pace of previous issues seems to be thrown out the window with little time to explore the intriguing new angle of Riddler, for instance. Even Commander Star, an interesting mystery at the start of the arc, gets a quick reveal, making for a less satisfying build-up.
Drawing the issue is Tony S. Daniel, who brings his Triple-A quality detail and dynamic artistry to the story. Batman does a lot of punching in this book and looks slick throughout. Given how much exposition is taking place, he keeps you invested every page of the way.
While Batman #156 manages to keep you on the edge of your seat with its action-packed plot and stellar visuals, the hurried pacing and lack of depth for key story elements make it feel like a missed opportunity in what could have been a more nuanced conclusion to Zdarsky’s run. Fans of fast-paced superhero action will enjoy the ride, but those seeking more thoughtful exploration may feel let down.
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