Haven’t you heard? Batman died. But he got better — maybe better than he’s been in a long time.

Let me explain: DC Comics killed off the famous Caped Crusader late last year in one of their publishing mega-events and put all his titles on hiatus. Then, Batman’s various associates squabbled over the right to wear the creepy cape and cowl and once that was decided a new Batman hit the mean streets of Gotham. And now? The Dark Knight’s poised on the brink of a brave and bold new era in his long history – which just happens to hit 70 years this year. Coincidence? Hey, this is comic books; ain’t no such thing.

Batman and Robin No. 1

Bruce Wayne found himself fried in “Final Crisis” but he went out like the champion he was, thankfully. Fans were not terribly impressed, being a bit jaded by such comic book stunts. DC then attempted to cement the idea in their minds with a three-issue series called “Battle for the Cowl.” It all came down to the guy who most people thought really deserved to win the name, Dick Grayson, the original Robin, and Jason Todd, a formerly dead former Robin. Dick won and though reluctant at first, became Batman. No fake.

June brings “Batman and Robin” #1, a brand-new title in the Bat-line that’s already garnered rave reviews from readers despite the fact that underneath the mask lurks not Bruce Wayne but his former ward. Helmed by Grant Morrison, he who killed Bruce in the first place, the book’s a perfect jumping-on point for both the curious and concerned. Oh, who’s Robin, you ask? Damian, Bruce’s son. Long story. Pick up the book.

This month also unveils the reactivated “Batman” title and three new series, “Red Robin,” “Batman: Streets of Gotham” and “Gotham City Sirens,” all of which put the Bat-supporting cast through their refreshed paces. Finally, the month-long inauguration culminates with the return of one of DC’s granddaddy titles, “Detective Comics,” which hits #854 as it welcomes its new star: Batwoman. You may remember her from the media-driven “controversy” over her homosexuality a while back.

So, sounds complicated? It is, but in some ways that’s the beauty of comics. Rich, multi-layered stories, interweaving series and a bevy of stars to thrill us – comics had it all long before such things as “Lost” and “Star Trek.” And they still have it.

And Bruce? He’ll be back. It is comics, after all.

This entry was posted on Friday, June 19th, 2009 at 12:00 am and is filed under Arts and Life.
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