BatWatch Review; Legends of the Dark Knight
Unlucky Thirteen
I've heard bad things about this issue. It's a simple one shot written by Tim Seeley (former writer of Devil's Due's Hack and Slash: The Series and current writer of Legends of the Dark Knight, IDW's Neverwinter Tales and G.I. Joe/Transformers, Top Cow's Witchblade and Image's Revival) with art by Freddie E. Williams II. (former artist of Robin and current artist for Legends of the Dark Knight, The Movement and Dark Horse's Dark Horse Presents) I do not even recall the criticisms I've heard on this issue, but I know I heard bad reviews. I wish I didn't have that tainting my judgment, but it's too late now. I know Williams II from his work on Robin which I quite enjoyed, but I don't think I've ever come across Seeley though I have heard of him. With nothing other than the title, Unlucky Thirteen, it's hard to know what to expect from this issue.
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Is this a lucky day for fans of Legends of the Dark Knight or has Legends luck completely run out?
In this issue, Batman comes across a punk with bad luck who goes by the street name Thirteen.
Fun Times
Since I'm running way behind, I'll keep it very short and sweet. I thought the criticism for this issue was misplaced. This issue was a lot of fun.
I suppose I can see how someone who wanted a serious take on Batman might be disappointed, but as long as you are willing to share in a more light hearted narrative, I don't see any reason not to enjoy yourself with this one. Thirteen is a lovable loser who partners with the Dark Knight for his own protection, and in the ensuing chaos, we get a little discussion about the philosophy of luck. It's a fun story, pure and simple.
Bat Droppings
1. It was nice to see Freddie E. Williams at work again. It took me a few seconds, but pretty soon I was getting a nostalgic buzz as I recalled his work on Robin.
(Spoilers until Conclusion)
2. The story was not perfect by any stretch of the imagination. For instance, a metahuman named Polar Joe was in the story, and his odd appearance felt like it needed to be addressed. Also, Batman immediately deduces what happened when Thirteen begins blowing gas out his mouth. I can see Bruce figuring that out quickly, but that was a little too quick.
Conclusion 8/10
As long as you are in the mood for something kind of funny and off beat, then you'll enjoy this issue.