Set in 1800s Gotham within DC Universe’s reboot, “The New 52,” scarred bounty hunter, Jonah Hex is recruited by future Arkham Asylum founder, Amadeus Arkham to hunt down a serial killer. Jonah reluctantly accepts the job. Together, they uncover a strings of murders linked to a secret society within Gotham. All six issues of All-Star Western: Guns and Gotham were officially published in 2011-2012. It received good reviews from critics, fans and readers alike.
As I’ve mentioned on my previous New 52 themed reviews, I’ve been reading a few titles to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the DC Universe’s reboot. Which ones should I review next? Please leave a comment.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS.
Rich & Poor Aspects
Rich: Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray both did a solid job writing all six issues.
Action Sequences display Jonah’s combat skills.
Random Thoughts
- I consider Guns and Gotham a prequel to Batman’s highly acclaimed storyline, “Night of the Owls.” The Court of Owls were around back in 1800s.
- Whenever I read Jonah’s dialogue, I think of Billy Bob Thornton’s voice. His southern accent suits the character. As of 2026, we’ve yet to see a proper film or television adaptation of Jonah. Josh Brolin’s movie doesn’t count. He’s better off as Thanos and Cable.
- Okay, I admit. I never read a single Jonah Hex comic. I know he made guest appearances in “Batman: The Animated Series,” “Justice League Unlimited” & “Batman: The Brave and the Bold.”
Jonah’s chemistry with Amadeus served as the main highlight.
A full on reboot, it’s not necessarily required to read previous Jonah Hex comics. Again, I never read a single comic book of the character.
1800s Gotham expands Batman’s lore. For example, Bruce Wayne’s ancestors reside in Wayne Manor.
The sixth issue sets up the next storyline, “The War of Lords and Owls.”
Poor: Secondary Stories featuring El Diablo and Barbary Ghost have zero connection to the main story. Best described in one word, “Disjointed.” They’re not as interesting as Jonah. I don’t give a crud about the former pair.
Moritat’s artwork is hit-and-miss. Sometimes a panel looks good, sometimes it looks ugly.
Pacing for each issue felt fast. Given the aforementioned backup stories are disjointed, it hurts progression.
The Final Verdict: B-
All-Star Western: Guns and Gotham is an average storyline. As of March 2026, I’ve yet to read other Jonah Hex storylines before and after The New 52. If you’re into westerns, give this one a try. Someday, James Gunn’s DC Universe might give us a faithful Jonah Hex movie or TV series. Perhaps a low budget western like “Bone Tomahawk.” If DC’s considering a TV series, perhaps a something like HBO’s “Deadwood.” If Netflix can make Daredevil awesome again, so can HBO.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 