BAD SEEDS: GOTHAM CENTRAL #1: Leave it to Gordon

Batman can always be counted on when Gotham is in need of help, but he doesn’t act alone. In fact, you can always leave it to Jim Gordon to come to the aid of Gotham’s citizens no matter what dangers await him. Mayor Ivy’s plants have taken over the city and chaos reigns supreme, but crime hasn’t stopped, and neither will Gordon.

Creative Team: Christopher Cantwell, Jacob Phillips, and Becca Carey.

The Story:

This issue caught my attention right away because it isn’t focused on vigilantes; instead, it takes the story to the streets, and we get to spend time with Patrolman Gordon and his partner, Espinoza. Amid the chaos, the duo is trying to solve a murder, which leads them on a chase as one of Gotham’s most dangerous men hunts them. This isn’t all of the story, though, which Christopher blends with another storyline featuring Anarky, and everything is converging on a train deep below the city. Chris does an incredible job merging these two stories together and, at times, causing our hearts to race as Gordon is trying to save lives. While Jim may be reduced to being a beat cop currently, he still has the respect of the city, and his experience is keeping people alive. What really surprised me in a good way with this issue was there being some pulls, such as having Bullock appear and Flass name-dropped. Bits of lore spread throughout this issue showcase how widespread this danger is in Gotham, and it’s all hands on deck.

The Art:

I was excited to see Jacob’s name on the art as someone who is a big fan of his. He brings a familiar style that works perfectly when dealing with a gritty setting such as this one. Jacob opts to let the colors stand out, and the shadows leave our imaginations running while Gordon andEspinoza investigate the murder. Our victims face isn’t seen but we do see the trail of blood which is a subtle detail but, letting the blood and vines appear more in the foreground immerse us in the story more so. Phillips also does a wonderful job of making the reader feel enclosed and panicked when the story moves into the subway. People are in a panic, and the background is full of faceless citizens trying to survive while our main characters appear to stand out. Becca’s artistic craft with the letters lends a hand in the panic being wrought throughout this issue, and overall, this was one of the stronger artistic issues in the Bad Seeds event so far!

Final Thoughts:

Bad Seeds: Gotham Central #1 takes us down to the street-level side of Gotham and encases the reader on all sides of the chaotic scenario playing out in the city. This was a wonderful issue that at times made me feel as though I needed to get fresh air and added a new perspective to Savage and Ivy’s on-going battle.

Overall Grade: 10/10

Let us know how you feel about the Bad Seeds event so far and check out more reviews by Matt!