Welcome back to another edition of Fantastic Five, where we shout out the best comics of the week! This week saw two perfect 10s, one from DC and one from Marvel. Let’s get to the books!
Best comics of the week: August 20, 2025
#5: Drawing Blood #8
Drawing Blood #8 returns with a somber story, as its protagonist hits rock bottom and faces the literal ghosts of his past. I’m glad this book is back, and I’m glad it’s handling these moments with the sincerity and the gravity they deserve. The creative team should definitely take the time it needs for this final stretch of issues.
Read Collier Jennings’ full review!
#4: Detective Comics #1100
Detective Comics #1100 is a milestone issue that delivers four distinct, beautifully crafted stories showcasing different sides of Batman’s heroism, from intimate compassion to high-octane action, cementing it as a must-read celebration of the Dark Knight. There’s a high likelihood that at least one of these stories will stick with you long after you’ve finished reading.
Read Dave Brooke’s full review!
#3: Escape #1
Even as I was thrilled by the action sequences, I felt a pit in my stomach through much of this first issue, and some of the plot elements that have been teased here and in the creative team’s interviews about the series have me fully invested in seeing where it goes. Without any fear of hyperbole, I think Escape could end up being this generation’s action-packed answer to Maus. Sadly, just like the latter book, the themes explored by Escape feel eternally relevant.
Read Nathan Simmons’ full review!
#2: Psylocke #10
‘Psylocke’ #10 is a full circle ending to a magnificent series
Psylocke #10 is a satisfying conclusion to a series that has always been synonymous with high-quality art and superb storytelling. Watching Kwannon succeed in overcoming her traumatic past is both inspiring and humanizing for the character. Looking at the series as a whole, Psylocke has been impactful in how Wong approaches Kwannon as a character struggling to reconcile her past, present, and future selves. Kwannon’s character arc in the book is meaningful in terms of how she comforts her past, and navigates the path to healing with the help of supporting characters Devon and John Greycrow.
#1: Absolute Batman #11
Absolute Batman #11 pulls back the curtain on how Bane is born. Both Scott Snyder and Clay Mann go all out, no holds barred. It’s brutal. It’s exciting. And by the end, I’ll guarantee you’ll take away two things: feeling bad for Batman and clamoring for more comics from Clay Mann.
