New 52 'Batman: Zero Year – Dark City' Graphic Novel Review

This was released in 2012.

Scott Snyder, Greg Capullo, Danny Miki, and FCO Plascencia bring us to part two of DC’s New 52 origin for Batman: Zero Year Dark City. The graphic novel also includes the epic finale Savage City.

The Riddler has taken over Gotham City and the only hope for freedom is to either solve one of the villain’s riddles or stump him with one. Many think Batman is dead, but he is not and he’s coming after Edward Nigma (The Riddler) with a vengeance. Helping him along the way are Jim Gordon, Lucius Fox, and especially Alfred Pennyworth.

As the Riddler seems to have everyone cornered, Batman devises a bold plan to defeat him and forever make himself the Guardian of Gotham.

Capullo once again wins with the artwork. He has a unique style that he honed with Spawn and now utilizes it to bring the Caped Crusader to life on the page.

It is an excellent story full of action, suspense, and a whole lot of punching. I did think the dialogue occasionally drug on, but other than that, I found it very entertaining and worthy of being a new origin for the Dark Knight.

While I still favor Batman Year One and The Long Halloween, this story brings Batman into the twenty-first century and gives him an epic reason to later join the Justice League to go on missions to save the whole Earth. Snyder truly has a reverence and respect for the character as he brings this tale to life.

What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, movie, or anime you would like me to review.