Just this issue and then one more after that before we close out Batman Eternal. It’s been a long ride and had its fair share of ups and downs, but we made it.
We’ve finally seen who the bad guy behind everything might be. Is it good?
Batman Eternal #51 (DC Comics)
Lead Writer: James Tynion IV
Other Writers: Scott Snyder, Kyle Higgins, Ray Fawkes and Tim Seeley
Artist: Alvaro Martinez
Story:
As the city burns around them, Cluemaster has Batman tied up to the Bat Signal, gloating about how he’s won and pulled off the ultimate plan against him. He yanks off Batman’s cowl, realizes his secret identity of Bruce Wayne and gloats even more. Elsewhere, the rest of the Bat Family is doing their best to save everyone and figure out what areas need the most help from the great fire.
Spoiler Corner:
Selina watches from her nightclub as the city burns, some of her associates asking why they are not using the opportunity to raid and loot the city for money (they got an invitation to do so). Selina says she is thinking about it and when one of the guys questions her, she beats the crap out of him and reminds him who is in charge.
Jim Gordon and Jason Bard put together a game plan so the police can start taking the city back. Bard says Jim should be in charge, since no one really respects or listens to him anymore. However, Jim says Bard should stay in charge and encourages him to step up and do his job, pretty much saying that Gotham needs him as well.
Cluemaster starts monologuing about his plan and how it came to fruition, but Batman isn’t having any of that. He frees himself and starts beating up on the guy. However, all that constant fighting and no sleep for days on end has finally taken its toll and he’s not fighting as strong as he usually is. Cluemaster gets the advantage and is about to kill him when someone appears behind him and slashes his throat. It was the last remaining member of the team, one who has been formulating his own plan. It’s Lincoln March, AKA Owlman.
Thoughts:
To be fair, I sort of knew this last minute surprise was coming. I mean, the clues were all there after all and it only makes sense for it to happen like it did. Plus, for people who weren’t sure about the Cluemaster reveal last issue, they should be satisfied with this issue moreso.
Either way, the issue was great and it really feels like things are all wrapping up nicely for this big finish, though there are some minor points that might not sit well for everyone. The writing, the characterization, and the artwork are all reading and looking good here. It gives me hope for a big and exciting ending next issue.
Best Moment:
Ah, sly dog, you caught him monologuing again.
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