The conclusion of the Revenge of the Red Hood storyline is creatively woven together by the very talented Grant Morrison. Philip Tan also continues to provide a solid depiction of the dynamic duo. We also learn that inside, Jason Todd remains to be the most hated character in Batman history.
While Morrison’s second story arc wasn’t quite as enjoyable as the first, it still provided us with some terrific character developments and entertaining reading. I feel that throughout this arc, Morrison did a very solid job exploring Jason Todd’s character. He is arguably the first writer to bring a consistent characterization of Jason Todd since Todd’s days as Robin. I feel that issue three contained many clever plot points that helped the story along such as the opening panels; Todd and Scarlet are streaming a live web cam session that will reveal the identities of Batman and Robin after one million calls. I also think the introduction of the Flamingo was intriguing; he appears to be a sadistic maniac that scared the hell out of me. Flamingo shooting Damien also let us see how emotional Dick becomes when Damien is in need. Morrison does a great job of working in little creative details throughout the issue. I also feel Todd’s epic speech at the end of the issue gives us insight on just how lost his’ soul really is. He also strikes Dick’s nerves when he tells him that he will always live in Bruce’s shadow. Scarlet’s mask is also ripped off by Flamingo and so is her evil alter ego. However, the high point is the conclusion of the issue where we learn that Oberon Sexton has been blackmailed by none other than Simon Hurt. We then cut to a panel where Dick has made his way to Wayne Tower. Dick makes his way to a chamber, where the password he enters is, of course, “Zur en arrh”. I found issue six to be the high point of Morrison’s second story arc, he leaves us with an epic conclusion that will keep us thinking, and awaiting the arrival of issue seven.
I think Philip Tan is a terrific artist, but the art is the low point of the issue. While I enjoyed the art in issue six, Tan’s inconsistencies are apparent in almost every panel. Tan seems to struggle drawing the human anatomy consistently from panel to panel. I also feel that, like issue five, the inks are poorly done. They appear blotched and muddy throughout the issue. However, I feel that Tan has received harsh criticism while drawing this book that I do not understand. While the art has its’ problems, it doesn’t distract you from enjoying the story. I also feel that Frank Quietly doing the covers doesn’t help Tan out either. I think some people look at Quietly’s covers and expect that to be the interior artwork which is not the case. Tan has a different style that I think lends itself well to Morrison’s story.
I felt that Morrison did an excellent job of wrapping up the Red Hood’s storyline, as well as Scarlet’s. While I hope we will see her again, Morrison left me very content with her character’s state of being. He leaves us picking up our jaws off the floor and keeps the reader intrigued. Batman and Robin continues to be the best bat-book on the shelves with no signs of letting up.
Batman and Robin #6:
Reviewed by Zfactor