The DC All-In initiative officially launched last week and continues this week with Batman & Robin #14. Official jump-on points Phillip Kennedy-Johnson and Javier Fernandez took over the series after a great run from Joshua Williamson. This series is about the bond between Bruce and Damian, and that continues to some degree with this new story arc.
Batman & Robin #14 begins in 1892 Gotham. It’s a mysterious opening and ends well on a cliffhanger. Something strange and supernatural is happening!
The story then jumps into the present, with criminals in a high-speed chase and guns blazing. A shadowy bat figure appears and chases one of the archers off the bridge. Javier Fernandez delivers wicked, sharp, and kinetic art that perfectly captures the frenetic action and quick movements of Batman and Robin.
Batman looks a little stockier and Robin looks a little older too. This is especially true later in the issue when Robin and Batman go to a function without costumes. There is a good balance between the two when they are in costume and when they are not, reminding us that there are different levels of their relationship.
That poor criminal.
Credit: DC Comics
Returning to the action, Johnson and Fernandez round out the opening action sequence with incredible speed and skill. Don’t miss it.
In terms of the main thrust of the story, this issue has to do with Bruce’s childhood. This is a clever way to draw Damian into Bruce’s past while also showing that Damian needs to grow up a bit. It’s too early to know what’s going on with the character who knows Bruce’s father, but it’s exciting to see the story go in this direction.
Johnson responds to fans looking for some father-son time. Their bond is real and it’s a nice touch to have Damian’s grandfather involved. It’s a great check-in as Damien continues to tackle comic art and the rather serious question of what dinner is.
Alongside Damian, who tries to get a seat at the kids’ table, Bruce goes rogue and shows he can do Batman things without a costume. The final action sequence reminds us that Bruce is just as smart and cool as James Bond.
Batman and Robin #14 is an exciting start and a great jumping off point. It sets up a new supernatural mystery, establishes a father-son dynamic, and has some crackling action to go with it.
“Batman and Robin” #14 will captivate you with intense action
batman and robin #14
Batman and Robin #14 is an exciting start and a great jumping off point. It sets up a new supernatural mystery, establishes a father-son dynamic, and has some crackling action to go with it.
Ultra-fast action with a heavy feel
Intriguing paranormal mysteries and exploration of Bruce’s past
Damian and Bruce’s relationship is solid
The character knowing Bruce’s father is only established, with little explanation as to why he is needed.
