Writer Warren Ellis
Pencils Brian Hitch
Inks Kevin Nowlan
Colors Alex Sinclair
Letters Richard Starkings
Cover Hitch & Sinclair
It’s a wonder that Bruce survives all the turmoil that he goes through. He’s been shot, stabbed, broken and bruised. Each time returning to the fray with a new understanding himself and how he wants to deliver justice. One can’t help but wonder if he’s done it all the best he can, or the best way possible really.
Warren Ellis opens us up to his short series buy asking us that very question. Couldn’t Bruce have done better for Gotham from buying it? Rather than have his military liaison talk him through his current operations o his capers to abuse the poor. How much better would Gotham be if Bruce uplifted its economy, rather than subjugate its desperate?
Alfred can’t help but worry about his wayward son. With his contributions to Bruce’s habits and growth, he also can’t helo but feel responsible at the same time. When the day is over only one thing is certain, Alfred is convinced he will be burying his child before this Batman escapade is over.
Thoughts
Despite it being a relatively slow read. The content of this issue makes it very good in my opinion. Taking the time to step back and ask the question “Are we doing the right thing?” Which is something we just don’t see in Batman comics. The artwork helps the audience feel at ease in Wayne Manor, the writing helps bring us back to an unease that is necessary to really process the question Ellis is asking us.