Batman #71 Review

Writer: Tom King / Artists: Mikel Janín & Jorge Fornes / DC Comics Team-ups have always been my favorite narrative tool. One of the reasons for that is that a good ensemble can bring infinite variables into play and give a story a lot of potential. In Batman #71, we see the return of (most of) the Bat-family as they come to Bruce’s aid when he needs them the most. The reunion isn’t complete as two of the most important members, Dick/”Ric” and Jason, aren’t around, but it’s still quite a joy to see everyone else on one rooftop. The biggest takeaway from this issue is that we’re in uncharted territory for Batman. For once, he’s a completely unreliable narrator due to the events he’s been through. This is a bold move, to say the least, because it shows that the reader can’t trust a single thing they’re seeing and it’s not even clear how long this has been the case. One of the most appealing and comforting things about Batman stories is that they always give off the impression that Batman/Bruce has control over whatever situation he’s thrown into. Outside of access to billions of dollars and a mysterious ability to avoid years of tax fraud, Batman’s superpower essentially is his ability to establish control. So taking that away from him is a little off-putting and makes me feel like I’m walking into a fog without any idea of what’s ahead of me. But that could ultimately turn out to be a good thing if King can stick the landing and we get back to the Bruce Wayne/Batman we had …