Fresh from the critical and commercial success of “The Dark Knight Returns” set as an Elseworlds story outside the DC Universe, Miller worked on another Batman storyline. This time, set in the main universe which focuses on The Caped Crusader’s first year as well as Jim Gordon’s career as a lieutenant in the Gotham City Police Department before he became a commissioner.
“Batman: Year One” officially published in 1987 (same year RoboCop came out) earning huge praise from critics, readers and fans alike. Two sequels, “Year Two” & Year Three were published in 1987 and 1989. Year One became an influential storyline within the Batman mythos. Elements of Year One’s storyline borrowed in “Batman: Mask of the Phantasm” & “Batman Begins.” Bruce Timm produced an animated film adaptation of Year One.
Anyway, Robert Pattinson will reprise his role as The Dark Knight in “The Batman Part II.” It’ll be released in October 1, 2027. Like the first entry and The Penguin mini-series, it’s not tied to James “JG” Gunn’s DC Universe. Speaking of JG, “The Brave and the Bold” is currently in development which is set in the aforementioned universe.
This review contains no SPOILERS.
Strong & Weak Qualities
Strong; Say what you will about Frank Miller, he (mostly) did a great job writing all four issues.
David Mazzucchelli’s artwork reflects the dark tone.
Action Sequences are solid displaying Batman’s skills and abilities.
Character Development involving Batman & Gordon. As the storyline progresses, they adapt to overcome difficult challenges pushing themselves to the limit in their own early days. After Year One ended, they eventually become experienced.
Both Batman & Jim Gordon’s perspective shift between. A perfect balance. They often narrate. Predating Frank Miller’s highly acclaimed comic book series, “Sin City.”
Unlike Superman, Batman is portrayed as a normal guy who lacks powers. He endures injuries and makes some mistakes due to his inexperience. Similar to real life, starting your first year at any job after graduating high school or college is gonna be a rough start.
Fun Facts
Holly Robinson & Commissioner B. Loeb make their debuts in issue #404. The former appeared in “The Dark Knight Rises.” The latter appeared in Batman Begins & “The Dark Knight.” You can tell Christopher “Chris” Nolan did his homework.
As you know, the 1980s made Batman a bonafide badass. He’s not the only one, Wolverine also became a bonafide badass in his first solo mini-series back in 1982.
Random Thoughts
- I’m giving Frank credit for inspiring Mr. Nolan’s “The Dark Knight Trilogy.”
- Whenever I read any Batman comic in post-1985, I listen to Hans Zimmer’s soundtrack to get into the mood.
- Every time I read Batman’s dialogue I hear the late Kevin Conroy’s voice or Christian Bale’s croaky voice. “WHERE WERE THE OTHER DRUGS GOING?!”
Storyline’s influenced by ‘70s crime dramas including “Serpico,” “The French Connection” & Taxi Driver.” Joaquin Phoenix’s “Joker” was also influenced by the aforementioned films.
The Tone has a dark and gritty atmosphere.
The last issue sets up Batman’s greatest enemy. You know who.
Weak: If you’re a pure Catwoman fan, you’re gonna be really upset. She’s portrayed as a dominatrix.
Pacing felt fast. Not enough material to cover four issues. Wolverine’s solo mini-series worked. It had enough coverage. Batman: Year One on the other hand isn’t labeled as a mini-series. It’s supposed to be a longer storyline.
The Final Verdict: B, FOR BIGGER AND BETTER!
Batman: Year One is a great storyline. If it were longer and made a better depiction of Catwoman, I would’ve given it my highest grade, an A, FOR APEX. B is close enough. If you’re interested in reading this classic storyline, order a physical copy of DC Finest: Year One and Two.” If you’re on a tight budget, subscribe to DC Universe Infinite. The choice is yours. Which DC storyline should I review next? Please leave a comment.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 