Well, here we go again with the sequel to the nostalgiabaiting breathtaking Batman 89, this time titled Echoes. I have no idea of the significance of this title but maybe the comic will tell us? Let’s find out.
So You Were Expecting a Batman Appearance in Your Batman Comic?
One of the rather glaring issues of Batman 89 was how little the comic seemed to have Batman in the cowl. Now that we are two issues in, it is clear that Echoes is following the footsteps of its predecessor a bit too closely. In fact, Bruce Wayne has yet to show up in this comic, not only as Batman but also as himself.
Now, this is an alternate universe, so normally, I wouldn’t mind the lack of Batman and would even be interested to see where the creative team was going with this. But this series’ premise is that it continues the story of a very specific version of Batman who remains beloved to this day. It does give off the vibe that the writer Sam Hamm is more interested in telling his own story and sprinkling in a few Batman identifiers to tell his tale under the Batman name.
Those Who Don’t Learn From Batman Forever Are Doomed to Repeat It
The other big draw of Batman ‘89 was seeing the origin of Billy Dee Williams’ Two-Face. Mileage will vary on the end result, but I did appreciate the alternate origin, abrupt as it was. Here, we have two would-be villains — Jonathan Crane (“played” by Jeff Goldblum) and Harleen Quinzel (“played” by Madonna)– both of whom were considered for these roles at one point, though nothing came of it in the end.
However, we are two issues in, and though we have been shown glimpses of what these characters will become, there’s a lack of urgency sapping the book of any momentum. Crane is seemingly set up to be the major threat of the comic, as he seems to have a plan in place, but he is unable to convey any sense of intimidation. I did find Harleen far more interesting as the story tries to show how the men in positions of power use her to get what they want, leading to her eventual villainous turn.
Quick side note: While on one hand, the depiction of Crane and Harley as “quacks” would be period accurate, there’s something about seeing mental health professionals being incompetent at best and abusing their power at worst that just rubs me the wrong way.
The Art is Decent, But…
Joe Quinones and Leonardo Ito do a rather admirable job with the artwork, with Ito’s colors really making each environment feel bright and colorful. The issue I have with this is…Batman’s world, especially this Batman’s world, has always been defined as having a gothic style. I have heard the style being described as ‘art deco,’ a style that would go on to redefine Batman across media and make its way back into the comics themselves. The closest we get to that style is the cover which is also by Quinones, so I don’t know if the decision to make the interiors less so was a conscious choice or one made due to a lack of time.
Speaking of the cover, we are teased about the appearance of Batgirl in this universe…and a tease is all it is, as Barbara is completely absent this issue. As for the costume, it is an extremely bland rendition of Keaton’s Batsuit with a red wig. I hope the eventual costume ends up looking a bit more distinct, especially considering that Madonna Harley’s outfit looks amazing.
Recommended If
- You wanted a sequel to Batman ‘89.
- You wanted to see Bruce Wayne go undercover in Arkham.
- You enjoy a slow burn.
Overall
Batman 89 Echoes #2 threatens us with the possibility that something interesting will happen in the future. Unfortunately, until that future arrives– with a potential third villain teased as well, whose fan casting might be a bit disrespectful– this book remains all setup and no payoff.
Score: 6/10
DISCLAIMER: DC Comics provided Batman News with a copy of this comic for the purpose of this review.
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