Three years have passed since the events of last issue, and Gotham, as well as the rest of the planet, are getting ever closer to a showdown with Brainiac. There are many questions to answer, including how exactly will Bruce survive until 2030 if the world is supposed to end in 1985? What is it like in Gotham City, where Batman and his rogues gallery form a tentative alliance? At the conclusion of Mark Russell and Michael Allred’s masterful take on the Batman mythos, we learn all about this and much more.
Pariah’s hostile takeover of Wayne Enterprises is over.
Credit: DC Comics
story
Mark Russell does a great job of wrapping up Bruce Wayne’s story and tying it to the previous Superman: Space Age series. Until this issue, there was no direct connection between the worlds of Superman: Space Age and Batman: Dark Age, but we finally see some connective tissue. As big fans of the previous films in Russell and Allred’s “Age” universe, possibly starring Wonder Woman and potentially an eventual incarnation of the Justice League, we’re excited to see the possibility of further iterations. I am.
Russell transforms a brash, entitled teenager who didn’t seem to care about anyone or anything into the Dark Knight, who uses his wealth, privilege, and power to improve the lives of all of Gotham’s citizens. . By the end of this series, the Dark Age Batman achieves more than most versions of the caped crusader. One of the benefits of this type of contained story is that it allows the characters to grow and change the status quo. Bruce Wayne is allowed to have a relationship and even temporarily retire. To live happily ever after, at least for a few years, and pass on the mantle of the Bat to a new generation. But even in this world, Bruce Wayne can’t stay happy forever. There is still tragedy and loss to overcome.
Bruce Wayne in 2030 has a gloomy and melancholic expression in most scenes. His diary entry is melancholy, but until now it has not been clear what his major regrets are. We learn that Dick Grayson has passed away and that his doctor is the daughter of Dick and Barbara Gordon. We learn the consequences of Brainiac’s attack on Earth in 1985, and the devastating consequences for Bruce and the rest of Earth. Bruce lost a lot that day, but he didn’t let it bother him. He was still kind and kind to his fellow Gothamites and never forgot his father’s legacy of the City of Tomorrow.
Another highlight of this series, which I feel is often overlooked, is Russell’s ability to lighten the mood with well-placed jokes. Bruce and Dick both like to joke, which makes them truly endearing and helps soften the ultimately tragic story being told.
Dick lightens the mood with a clever twist.
Credit: DC Comics
art
Michael Allred knocks it out of the park again in this issue. The layout and organization of his pages is dynamic and refreshing. I don’t think the same panel layout is repeated throughout the entire 40-page book. One of my favorites is the scene between Batman and Catwoman on the rooftops of Gotham. Behind it is a very large and detailed full moon. It appears in three panels and is then replaced by a giant bat signal across the page with two people hugging each other.
There are some great designs and uses for vehicles, including Batman and Batgirl’s motorcycles and the Batmobile. The vehicles practically pop off the page. Allred also designs Nightwing and Batgirl suits that are instantly recognizable, but also includes some unique details that firmly anchor them in this world.
There’s so much going on in the last third of the book that it moves at an exciting pace with every turn of the page. The interweaving choreography of the two final showdowns between Brainiac and the Justice League and the Joker, Nightwing, and Batman creates a spectacular climax to the book. There are lots of explosions and fires, and that’s where colorist Laura Allred really shines. Whether it’s a huge skyscraper with huge flames pouring out of its windows or a car loaded with TNT exploding, the colors really give a sense of heat and intensity.
final thoughts
In Batman: Dark Age #6, Mark Russell and Michael Allred bring Bruce Wayne’s journey to a stunning and emotional conclusion in a story that captures both the grit and hope that has always defined Batman. is woven together. Russell’s talent for blending personal tragedy and resilience allows this Batman to rise above the typically gloomy days and finally find a glimpse of happiness, however fleeting. Michael Allred’s artwork transforms every panel into a vibrant, meticulously crafted Gotham that comes to life, culminating in a breathtaking showdown that jumps off the page. Masu. Laura Allred’s colors further accentuate explosive moments, conveying high-stakes action with intense, tactile realism. Although the ending is bittersweet, it does not rest solely on loss. It’s a fitting testament to Bruce Wayne’s journey and growth, and a reminder of why he remains a hero in Gotham and in the hearts of his fans. This final issue not only cements Dark Age as the preeminent exploration of the Batman mythos, but also leaves readers eagerly awaiting where Russell and Allred’s world will adventure next.
Batman: Dark Age #6 brings a satisfying conclusion to the series
Batman: Dark Age #6
Mark Russell and Michael Allred bring Bruce Wayne’s journey to a surprisingly emotional conclusion, weaving a story that captures both the grit and hope that have always defined Batman.
Russell combines Bruce Wayne’s personal journey with Gotham’s high stakes, crafting a complex story that blends introspection and action.
Allred’s dynamic, non-repetitive layout enhances your reading experience, making each panel fresh and visually appealing.
It would have been fun to see more of Nightwing and Batgirl’s relationship
