Batman and Robin Face Gotham’s Haunting Secrets

In Batman and Robin #22, Bruce Wayne descends deeper into the underworld of Gotham, not just its physical depths but also its metaphysical horrors. With Damian missing in the city’s shadowy labyrinth, Batman must confront not just literal demons but the ghosts of his own past. The demon Etrigan stands between Bruce and the truth—both about his son’s whereabouts and Gotham’s hidden history.

Creative Team:

• Philip Kennedy Johnson – Writer
• Javi Fernandez (pg 1-2,6-24) – Artist
• Carmine Di Giandomenico (pg 3-5) – Artist
• Marcelo Maiolo – Colorist
• Steve Wands – Letters

The Writing

Phillip Kennedy Johnson continues to impress with a tightly woven narrative that balances high-stakes present-day action with compelling, well-paced backstory. The emergence of Momento’s origins ties directly into Bruce’s own childhood trauma and the city’s dark legacy, giving this arc an emotional weight that deepens its mystery.

Johnson also respects the reader’s intelligence—characters don’t withhold realizations for the sake of plot convenience. When a revelation hits, it lands with intent, adding realism and tension to already heightened circumstances. This transparency enhances character dynamics and ensures each twist is earned.

Check out Issue 20 Review Here!

The Art, Colors and letters

Javi Fernandez and Carmine Di Giandomenico deliver visually gripping pages, with Marcelo Maiolo’s colors setting the tone. The issue’s flashback sequences are drenched in a red-tinted palette that immediately signals their temporal shift. This clever visual storytelling technique helps guide readers through layered narratives with ease.

The facial expressions, particularly in horror-laced moments, are deeply effective—capturing the dread and desperation that define this chapter. The lettering by Steve Wands reinforces the pacing and emotional beats, with distinct font choices enhancing the eerie tone and separating the multiple timelines.

Final Thoughts:

Batman and Robin #22 is a standout installment that expertly blends gothic horror with grounded emotional storytelling. With its rich world-building, supernatural stakes, and psychological undercurrents, this issue is not just a rescue mission—it’s a descent into the very soul of Gotham.

Overall Grade: 9/10

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