A Killer loose in Gotham. This is no ordinary rogue by any means. The Wound Man strikes during the early stages of Batman’s career. Underneath the grotesque appearance lies an even greater mystery. Can Batman solve the case before the body count grows higher?
BATMAN: DARK PATTERNS #2 by Dan Watters, Hayden Sherman, Tríona Farrell and Frank Cvetkovic continues its initial case as the spotlight is thrown on the World’s Greatest Detective.
Let’s take a closer look at what is happening now!
BATMAN: DARK PATTERNS #2 by Dan Watters, Hayden Sherman, Tríona Farrell and Frank Cvetkovic (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Watters continues to layer the mystery with some notable points. The initial lead begins with Batman laying out his plan. This takes readers along as his investigation proves to be correct. However, that is when things take a turn for the worse. Arguably the strongest point of this series is Batman’s inexperience. He isn’t a polished product. One costly guess sways the story into a new direction.
Playing off the cards dealt, Batman must trust an unlikely source. Readers watch as the suspicions play out to a surprise twist. Events also lead Batman into a new environment in search of answers. It is refreshing to see the detailed detective work come to the forefront. In its wake is a more puzzling ending. Considering the uncertainty of the Wound Man, seeing the last page play out fits the narrative of the case. There is never a dull moment with this story.
Sherman and Farrell begin events with a near full page of Batman and Gordon. The mood seems tense under the Bat Signal backdrop. It gives a very vintage feel as Batman begins his investigation. The full page images of Batman watching the suspect will win fans over.
The fight between the Wound Man and Batman moves swiftly. It gives readers a very unlikely image in its’ conclusion. Seeing Batman legitimately scared of what happened will get people talking. This moment causes a domino effect with the pages. Pacing speeds up to a very unique panel of Batman’s “thoughts”. Readers watch as the panels grow bolder with Batman searching for answers. The story concludes with a page changing gears as the mid way point is hit. Panels have a very stylistic look throughout this issue right to the end. there’s much to enjoy with the art.
FINAL POINT: 9.2
The case of the Wound Man takes a few turns in its’ second chapter. Watters keeps readers guessing with the writing. Sherman, Farrell and Cvetkovic mash up classic images with the horror unfolding. There’s something for everyone with this dark tale of the past.
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