The Dynamic Duo are back in action within the pages of “Batman and Robin” #38. Robin’s transformation from mortal boy to the resurrected “Super” Robin begins nicely in this issue. Father and son are a team once again. Damian Wayne’s new superpowers aren’t the Boy Wonder’s only new traits. A surprising new depth has been added to Damian’s characterization as well.
Written by Peter J. Tomasi
Illustrated by Patrick GleasonThe team of Batman and Robin are together again! But what is the new dynamic for this crimefighting duo now that Damian has super powers of his own?
“Batman and Robin”’s longtime creative team of writer Peter J. Tomasi, artist Patrick Gleason, inker Mick Gray, and colorist John Kalisz usher in a new dynamic for the Dynamic Duo’s relationship in and out of costume. In issue #38, Damian is back and must struggle with changes to not only his body, but his psyche as well. Tomasi’s tight script allows for Gleason to demonstrate his talent at conveying powerful and very real emotions. Many readers may be leery about Damian’s new status quo when it comes to his super abilities, yet those powers become an afterthought in a story that focuses on a hero’s heartfelt journey.
Tomasi’s writing brings a dichotomy between Damian’s usual petulant side and a new and more thoughtful mindset that has transformed him into a slightly more mature character. However, he retains that endearing brusqueness. This is a boy who has gone through tremendous growth and struggles with the horrendous treatment he endured from his mother’s hand. Damian has Bruce’s superhuman drive, yet now reacts (judging by this issue alone) in a way that is more expected of the Robin mantle. In a scene between Damian and an appropriate guest star, Tomasi gives us a glimpse of Damian’s compassion. He is truly his father’s son, yet is a “Robin” in the most cliché, yet vital and important way: he’s the light to Batman’s darkness.
Humor is the most surprising element of this issue and it has noticeably and instantly changed the title. The familiar condescending “tt” that Damian has so famously and repeatedly uttered over the years opens the issue. Robin is playful and acts exactly the way he’s supposed to: like a child. His humor has become a bit less mean and that is evident in his interactions with Alfred and others that he interacts with in this issue. I couldn’t help but smile when Damian flicks a bullet off his shoulder after being showered with an abundance of them. Even Batman utters two particular lines that elicit a smile.
Gleason is one of the most underrated artists and deserves heaps more praise. It’s usually the writer who is given credit for bringing heart and soul to a story. Gleason, however, deserves just as much credit as Tomasi for vividly creating such empathetic characters in this issue. Damian’s facial expressions and body language are fraught with an abundance of masterly detail. The opening splash page has Damian hovering over his sleeping father and that dismissive expression of “tt” tumbles so blatantly off his lips. Anger, frustration, and pure joy are clearly and beautifully expressed in ways that are appropriate for a child who has the twin callings of heroism and deceit in his blood. Damian may be a conflicted boy, yet Tomasi and Gleason are perfect partners when it comes to drawing out the hero’s complexity.
That complexity comes through in quiet moments that require no speaking. Gleason has the opportunity to move the story along while building character in silent, solitary moments. Because of Tomasi’s economy of words and lack of inner monologues, “Batman and Robin” #38 is a perfect showcase for Gleason’s talent as a consummate storyteller. Whether admiring beauty in the open air or plumbing the depths of a frightening and oppressive physical environment, the levity or sadness of a moment is felt through Gleason’s superb abilities and the artistic assistance of Gray and Kalisz.
Gray’s inks bring a richness to Gleason’s pencils, whether it’s a quiet scene or one filled with monstrous images. While Bruce and Damian are riding in the Batmobile, Gray’s inks add shadow and texture to the dark surroundings. Only the lights of the console illuminate their faces. The two page dream sequence is enhanced by Gray’s meticulous inks. The creases in a certain villain’s face are deep and expressive, while the aquatic nature of the dream bursts from the page with intricate inking. This is just one instance of how Gleason’s art is transformed into something more cogent because of Gray’s inks.
Continued belowKalisz’s color palette is varied throughout the issue and, like Gleason and Gray, he is able to arouse such rich emotions from page to page. The iconic red, yellow, and green of Robin’s costume jumps right at the reader from an incredible splash page. A muddy night sky containing different hues of brown is illuminated by a night sky filled with stars. In one simple, yet poetic use of color, Kalisz transforms the ocean’s depths into a desolate and haunting place.
Damian forcefully proclaims that he is “still here”. “Batman and Robin” #38 is proof that his return promises to be a great thing. Both Bruce and Damian have endured much heartache and tragedy in their lives, yet both are clearly dealing with it in their own way. Tomasi, Gleason, Gray, and Kalisz demonstrate their love of Damian by giving us an opening chapter of the Waynes’ second chance at a life together as a family (with Alfred and Damian’s menagerie, of course). Whether you wanted him back or not, this issue is convincing evidence that a layered and deeply personal journey has just begun.
Final Verdict: 8.5 – “Batman and Robin” #38 is a great place to begin following the exploits of Batman and the resurrected prodigal son. This was a fun comic and, surprisingly for a Bat-book, is full of moments meant to make you smile.
