This month’s issue of
RED ROBIN is the second installment of a four-part crossover event that began in last month’s
BATMAN #708. Long story short, Michael Lane -- the new Azrael -- has come to Gotham with a couple of dangerous “disciples.” Their mission? To judge Batman, Red Robin, and Catwoman by putting them through a series of trials. If any one of them proves successful, Gotham will be spared from a terrible fate.
If that doesn’t sound like the framework for a crossover, I don’t know what does. This issue of RED ROBIN -- and the next installment in GOTHAM CITY SIRENS -- essentially follows what was set up beforehand in BATMAN. The two installments focus upon the “trial” that Azrael and his followers have set up for their respective hero (or heroine). That’s good if you weren’t interested in the crossover because there isn’t much story to retread and they can easily be read as a standalone story. On the other hand, if you’re into this crossover, don’t be surprised that the overall narrative doesn’t really go anywhere. I’m pretty sure that’ll be saved for the final installment in BATMAN #709.
A couple of things make the issue of RED ROBIN particularly interesting. First, Fabian Nicieza -- the original writer on AZRAEL -- picks up where David Hine left off. It’s great to see him return to the character he relaunched, although Azrael himself doesn’t play a huge role in the issue. However, Nicieza takes the aspects of faith and religion presented from Azrael and masterfully applies them to Tim Drake and his struggles as Red Robin. It’s pretty refreshing to have the opportunity to see a side of the character that you usually don’t have the chance to reflect upon.
The other cool thing here is that Freddie Williams II provides the artwork for this issue. While I’m a huge fan of what Marcus To has done lately in the pages of RED ROBIN, it’s a treat to see Williams return. He wrapped up the original ROBIN title (along with Nicieza), and I loved seeing him take a crack at drawing Tim in his new persona. The opening page in particular sets a great tone for the struggles that Tim faces throughout the issue, while the action scenes are very dynamic and suit the story well.
Unfortunately, the GOTHAM CITY SIRENS installment doesn’t have quite as many advantages. The storyline (main character has a trial and “fails” it) feels like a retread since the same thing happened in RED ROBIN. Selina’s task in the issue involves a villain established earlier in the series, and while it “works,” I’m just not a huge fan. Maybe it’s just me, but I want more Catwoman interacting with Batman. The Bruce Wayne Batman, that is.
So, after these two intermediate installments, this crossover wraps up in BATMAN #709. Be sure to check out Chris Clow’s review to see how it all turns out. Check back here next month to catch up with RED ROBIN -- now free of crossovers! By all accounts, it looks like the title will return to its roots and it’s definitely got me excited.
SYNOPSIS: In the first part of a 3-part crossover with GOTHAM CITY SIRENS and BATMAN this month, Gotham City faces final judgment as the Angels of Death seek to spare the city by finding one person who is without sin. After putting Red Robin through physical and emotional trials, have they found the city's salvation? What is the one thing they learn about Tim Drake that might change their minds? Guest-starring Catwoman and Batman!