DC Comics reviews 6/8/21 – Detective Comics #1037, Rorschach #9

Batman The Detective #3

Writer Tom Taylor and artist Andy Kubert are already making good on their dream pairing with The Detective. In this issue, Batman reflects on his complicated past and apprenticeship with Henri Ducard.

Ducard was gunned down and barely clinging to life prompting Bruce Wayne’s old memories before the start of his vigilante career. Taylor gives Ducard the kind of charismatic demeanor that would easily make him a role model of sorts for an impressionable Bruce Wayne. During this tenure, Bruce learns some valuable lessons he would take with him as he becomes Batman.

Kubert draws Ducard in a full panel way to give him that larger than life presence as well. That leads to a Ducard/Batman sequence that delivers on the action front and Kubert brings a full cinematic presentation to those moments. Sandra Hope’s inks bring out the rich details in the art while Brad Anderson’s colors provide vibrant visuals that aren’t always associated with Batman.

Batman The Detective continues to deliver on thrilling Batman action regardless of how it actually fits into standard continuity. This has been a very consistent read since it began and the cliffhanger at the end of this issue ensures it’s not going to limp towards a weak conclusion.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10