In this sequel to Batman: The Long Halloween, we’re given an account of how Batman and Robin first met, and of how the events of the first story took lasting tolls on all the characters involved. In many ways, it’s the perfect sequel, because it feels like a natural continuation of the event in the previous one – although I suppose it’s overall story is quite similar to the first one, which might be disappointing for some.
So, basically, what happens is that the killings which coincide with holidays start happening again, and of course, Batman is on the case to investigate it… the problem is, that since everything that happened with Harvey Dent, Batman has become even more isolated than he was before, and it’s effecting his capabilities. He needs someone by his side, so it’s lucky that he happens to meet Robin through the course of his investigation.
What I really liked about this story was the fantastic atmosphere that comes from Jeph Loeb’s writing style and Tim Sale’s art. Some comics are all about the action and the fights, but, like the last part, this is genuinely written with all the depth that you’d find in a murder mystery novel. There’s a moody feeling that runs through all of it, almost like a more modern day noire style, and it gives a strong impression of life in Gotham City.
The setting is just part of it, the biggest thing for me was the fantastic cast of characters. Obviously, there’s Batman and Robin, who are always great, but then there’s also various members of the Falcone crime family, commissioner Gordon, and loads of iconic Batman characters like Catwoman, The Joker, The Riddler, and more.
I think what I liked most of all was the way that it had so many different characters who all had their own unique motivations, and then drama ensued from the way in which their different trajectories through life intersected. I was invested in all of them, and for that reason, several moments throughout the story felt really shocking. If you’ve read The Long Halloween, I definitely recommend following it up with this.
Rating: 9.1/10
