Batman: Universe #3 // Review
Continuing to re-release the once Walmart exclusive stories, Brian Michael Bendis and Nick Derrington bring a colorful and high spirited take on the Dark Knight. Implementing a far less decompressed storytelling route, the use of smaller vignettes that weave into an overall more substantial story work perfect for these monthly re-releases. Nick Derrington’s unmistakable pencils backed by Dave Stewart’s colors are indeed a sight to behold. This title easily stands head and shoulders above the other previously Walmart exclusive titles and makes for a perfect jumping-on point with every issue.
Continuing his investigation surrounding an ominous Faberge egg and The Riddler, the Caped Crusader finds himself on the planet Thanagar, home of Hawkman. After proving his identity and affiliation with Katar Hol, his restraints are released before an all-out war against long time Thanagarian villain, Onimar Synn ensues. At the last moment, Batman is pulled across the universe only to find Vandal Savage had already laid waste to the once glorious Gorilla City. After awaking back in the Hall of Justice, Bruce and Green Lantern Hal Jordan set out for dinosaur island in the hope of some answers.
The signature pencil work of Nick Derrington continues to awe and inspire with every new page. From the macro to the micro-scale, Derrington’s range continues to elevate this title and bring back the fun and hope into the Dark Knight. The more Silver Age aesthetic is complemented perfectly by the beautiful Dave Stewart colorwork as the two work together and deliver something truly breathtaking.
Hands down Brian Michael Bendis’ best work at DC thus far, he is genuinely within his wheelhouse helming the Dark Knight. Working in his own sandbox of sorts works perfectly for Bendis. Without being hampered by current events and new continuity changes, he tells a fun and rich story for all readers. Without devolving to camp or cheap laughs, it’s genuinely the Derrington and Stewart art that helps to bring about the more light-hearted tone.
In a time where Batman can’t escape his own inner demons, Brian Michael Bendis and Nick Derrington bring about a breath of fresh air. For readers looking for something a bit more light in tone. Taking Batman on a mystery across the universe in search of a strange egg is just the kind of story the Caped Crusader and readers needed. Not only were the previously exclusive Giants exclusively distributed in the US. In a lot of cases they had, tripled or quadrupled in price within the secondary market, making the reprints that much more desirable.
