Batman D*mned #2 Review

Writer: Brian Azzarello / Artist: Lee Bermejo / DC Comics And the Joke Continues… I admire Batman Damned #2’s ability to callback trauma and make it pop up in different entities. There are four parts to a joke: the subject, timing, direction, and the effect. Brian Azzarello takes the darkness we know about Batman and fractions it. Batman Damned #1, showed us “unmasking” as an art form. How does unmasking something reveal the layers beyond the surface? Batman Damned #2 takes us on a path of control. What is it about control that makes Batman who he is; and why does the lack of control manifest itself in different forms? The Joke At The Right Time The best part about dark jokes is that it parades in its inconvenience. Batman always seems prepared for any form on inconvenience. Hence the reason why he is “always” in control. The thing about taking away power is that it always seems to come at a time when you can’t handle it. Batman’s loss of control throughout the comic speaks through the volumes of a gun, a separation, a fire, and a nemesis. Not only do these vices serve as a filtration method by separating Bruce’s control and savior complex but readers will be able to recognize danger as a “safe zone.” Bruce’s childhood was filled with danger and depression; therefore always being able to time it, creates a willingness to face it. Azzarello brought forth the “funny” part about Bruce’s sorrow: it always follows him. Sorrow never allows itself to be resolved.

Artistic Benevol…