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Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points! It’s the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!
For this entry, we’re tagging along with Gotham City’s dynamic duo as they search for a classic rogue. Since its’ debut, Batman and Robin has had a whole different aura and look than anything else from the Bat Family. Now getting back on the case, a ghost from Damian Wayne’s past has arrived. How does this character influence the case?
BATMAN AND ROBIN #7 by Joshua Williamson, Simone Di Meo, Giovanna Niro and Steve Wands (DC Comics) looks to answer that question and give fans some unforgettable moments along the way.
Let’s take a closer look at where things head now!
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
A voice narrates the skyline of Gotham City. The mood is dark. A figure is standing in the shadows of the rooftops. The narrator leads the reader into their disdain for Batman and his “soldiers”.
The voice is revealed to be Dr. Kirk Langstrom aka Man-Bat. Man-Bat is standing over a group of masked figures. His speech is leading the mob to “take their image back”.
Soaking in the adoration, another figure isn’t so keen with Man-Bat’s pampering. Shush is frustrated at the pause in plans to take down Batman and Robin. Man-Bat tries re-assuring her that the plan is still on track and to be patient.
Meanwhile, the dynamic duo has someone else crash their investigation. Flatline has caught up with her “close” friend Damian Wayne.
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She’s in Gotham looking for her sister Mila. However, readers soon find out that a simple search mission might be more than it seems.
What secrets is Flatline hiding? How does her arrival change the search for Man-Bat? The action shifts into a new direction as Damian’s heart guides his actions. Reveals unfold heavily in the closing pages. The final image throws everything in flux, much to fans delight.
Williamson continues to impress with this series. The latest chapter gives readers an insight on Damian rarely seen. With Flatline in the mix, the usually brooding Damian fades away.
In its’ place is a teenage boy hanging out with his first love. It’s a stark contrast but one that proves to hit its’ mark.
Batman’s reactions are priceless including a certain one liner about “One Not To Lecture”. It’s a refreshing change that leaning into the strong family dynamic that makes this series such a hit.
CHECK OUT THE PENGUIN!
Di Meo returns after being off the previous two issues and wastes no time bringing the excitement with Niro and Wands. There is an incredible two-page spread showcasing Batman and his “soldiers”.
The flashback panels of Flatline and Robin make for a nice break in the action. Damian’s reactions throughout the issue bring the hidden “human” side of him to the readers.
The action sequences are gifted another excellent two-page shot of Flatline and Robin handling trouble. The Batman panels are perfectly set up right till the final image. Once readers see that, the whole story is turned on its axis. It’s another high level craft of storytelling.
FINAL POINT: 9.5
The family bond between father and son has some competition when first love comes to town in this latest chapter. Williamson balances the serious case with family bonding like no one else. Di Meo’s return brings an electric feel to the brooding Gotham City for a chapter you won’t want to miss.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on Batman and Robin #7. Thanks for reading Parlay points on Nerd Initiative.
