Sunday, October 01, 2006

CZ

So Cz sent a comment for this blog on my other blog because I'm an idiot that forgot to allow anyone to post in my settings. I have corrected the problem and anyone may comment at any time. I thought the comment was very post worthy and I like his points so here it is:

(I added links, illustrations and occasional commentary for your pleasure)

***click on names for links***


"Have you read any of the Frank Miller BATMAN? If you haven't, I highly recommend it. He is usually credited for making Bats more psychologically complex and darker during the 80's when the character was portrayed more campy. I credit these books for making me like Batman the best.


Batman: Year One - This was some of the source material for Batman Begins (but not really). The book deals with both Bruce and Lt. Gordon. I think it's great because it sets them up as equal partners instead of Gordon just being someone he goes to when he needs the police.


The Dark Knight Returns - Parallel universe story about what would happen if Bats just disappeared and came back 10 years later after corruption and politics take over Gotham. It's pretty dated (1986 era) but it has the best fight scene between Bats and Superman and a female Robin. Shares a lot of themes with V for Vendetta.


The Killing Joke - Not Miller, but Alan Moore. It's a great story about the relationship of Bats and the Joker. Joker basically kidnaps Gordon and tries to make him go mad while Bats tries to save Gordon and talk to Joker about the possibility that they will eventually kill each other.


The Long Halloween - Also not Miller, but it is a sequel to Year One. This time it explores Bats, Lt. Gordon, and Harvey Dent before he becomes Two-Face. The three join up to end the control of the Mob in Gotham.

Anyway, you may have already read these titles, if not you should give these a try and let me know what you think of them."

CZ: I have read three of the four...I haven't checked out Batman: Year One yet. You mentioning these gave me an idea though...I think I will list a few "must reads" for each of the big three! I have a few to mention about Batman since we are on the subject...


HUSH vol 1 and 2- Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee; This is such an addictive story! What happens when Batman decides to tell a girl about his secret id? We get a great view of Batman's rogues gallery in this twelve part story...and a peek into another slice of Bruce Wayne's childhood. Who is Hush??? Read it to find out! BTW: This storyline came back to haunt Batman this year...SCANDALOUS!


A Death in the Family- Jim Starlin, Jim Aparo, Mike DeCarlo; This is the death of Robin story I mentioned in my overview of the Big Three. It is a major moment in Batman history. Fun Fact: Robin had the chance to survive this storyline...readers were given a choice (and numbers to call to vote) for death or life. America killed Robin! There were 2 different endings written for the story!



Thanks for the input CZ! Feel free to offer more of your favorites! Oh! We still have your V for Vendetta! See ya soon in NY!




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