By Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV, Ray Fawkes, John Layman, Tim Seeley, Dustin Nguyen, Derek Fridolfs & John Kalisz

As Jim Gordon faces the consequences of his alleged actions, Batgirl (Barbara Gordon) ruthlessly seeks out the truth to set her father free. Stephanie Brown continues to spiral into a deeper web of deceit and Batman has a little chat with Carmine Falcone…

Arguably the most fascinating scene in this issue is when Batman and Falcone finally see each other face-to-face after so many years. Carmine presents the idea that Batman, in a way, is the mafia don leading all the “masks” and “freaks” in the city. This is not a new concept, but always a fascinating one when it is incorporated well into a story. By having the the old way of Gotham confront the present state allegorically and literally, the reader can’t help but wonder if Batman is truly making a difference in Gotham. With these kinds of themes at play, the creative team continues to not only provide fan service with more Bat-characters, but elevate and give deep insight into the Bat-mythos. This is something only  a weekly series can really accomplish and devote time to…smart move by DC! All the story threads are progressing and the heavy point is when Gordon is sent to be with those he helped put away. With that bit of story alone, I’m sold for the next issue!

Seeing Dustin Nguyen take over for Jason Fabok was such a treat! Despite him not being as detailed in his characters, he has a unique style all his own. The way he depicts Batman’s cape in various panels almost makes one believe it has a life of its own. There are two panels I’m in love with in this book; one is of Stephanie Brown walking alone in the slums of Gotham. It is a huge contrast to rest of the panels on the page. The other is the last page, where Gordon is slowly being swallowed by the shadows of his new cell. With the wonderful collaboration of Derek Fridolfs (inker) and John Kalisz (colorist), these images truly evoke the darkness present within everyone, especially in Gotham City…

Batman Eternal continues to deliver strong story and imagery. Comic fans in general should be picking this bad boy up!!

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About The Author Erik Gonzalez

I was exposed to comics early on, one of my earliest vivid memories was picking up the entire run of Dark Horse’s Aliens vs. Predator(1990). Odd and perhaps morbid choice for a kid, I know...At the same time, I was immersed in the pop culture of the time which included, but not limited to: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Ghostbusters, Jurassic Park, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, and of course, Batman: The Animated Series. Upon reflection, it’s fairly evident why I’m such a zealous geek. My day job is in television operations, so basically I’m exposed to media at every turn, which is where I want to be! Writing comic book reviews is another outlet to convey my respect and fanaticism for the this graphic medium. I hope what I have to say will resonate with others and also spark heart-felt discussion. Simon Pegg said it best, “Being a geek is extremely liberating.”

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