We are witnessing what may be the telling of Gotham City's birth...and destruction.
The Good
Has there ever been a story on the birth of Gotham City as we know it? We've seen Gotham change over the years (especially after Tim Burton's films and the earthquake in the comics). I can appreciate the history that must have existed but I never found myself on the edge of my seat wondering what event went into the design and construction of the city...up until now. Scott Snyder and Kyle Higgins have definitely aroused my curiosity. We saw little glimpses of Bruce's past and history during Grant Morrison's Return of Bruce Wayne but it's what we're seeing here that makes me want to know more about Bruce's ancestors and also those of Gotham's other first families.
During the parts set in the present, there are so many excellent moments. I love the way we're Dick, Tim, Cassandra and Damian work together with no sign of Bruce. We have a pretty dire situation and it's great to see the other step up to the challenge. We get some more insight into Dick's mind and I have to mention there is an interesting conversation between Cassandra and Damian.
I liked Trevor McCarthy's art last issue but I like it even more here. Seeing the construction of Gotham, a couple characters walking through the sewers and Cassandra and Damian on a stakeout looked so amazing.
The Bad
Cassandra Cain's new codename.
The Verdict
I am so completely sold on this series. We are witnessing the begin of Gotham City as we know it. Yes Gotham existed before the skyscrapers but we're seeing what went into the design. There is a connection with that past and the destruction going on in the present. Dick, Tim, Cassandra and Damian have to take the case and work together in order to save Gotham and the first families. While there is some crazy action that takes place, what kept me on the edge of my seat was some of dialogue between characters. There is an encompassing feel that something huge is going to happen...and it's not going to be a good thing. Simply put, it's a great story with great art. This is what a Batman comic should be about.