Comic book issue #157 of Batman signifies two conclusions. Initially, it concludes Chip Zdarsky’s tenure, which began approximately three years ago with Batman #125 and led the titular character on an exhilarating odyssey where he confronted a menace born from his own actions. More importantly, however, Batman #157 wraps up the “Dying City” storyline. Although this issue presents Batman in a climactic battle against Commander Star for Gotham’s destiny, the denouement is more about Batman determining his identity as a hero following all he has experienced. It’s a noble objective and one that’s skillfully achieved, but one that leaves readers pondering if any of the lessons learned by Batman — and Bruce Wayne — will endure, for both the character and for Gotham City.
The story continues from Batman #156, as Batman chases Leonid and his aircraft, which carries Nygma’s code. If the Russians obtain control of this code, they could infiltrate Gotham, potentially causing World War III to erupt. Simultaneously, within Gotham, the police are grappling with a building explosion, Jervis Tetch, and Commander Star inciting the citizens to riot. While the police prefer to operate as they do in Gotham (collaborating with Batman), Vandal Savage has different intentions. The main events unfold in the skies, where Batman attempts to thwart the Russians and recover the code. He succeeds, but during this mission, an out-of-control plane threatens the city. Quick thinking averts disaster, setting up a confrontation between Commander Star (revealed to be KGBeast) and Batman.
The topic at hand carries multiple layers, not just about its intense conflicts, but the ideas it tries to express. A significant aspect of this narrative so far revolves around Bruce Wayne’s efforts to use his wealth positively in his public life rather than just as Batman. However, he encounters resistance from the public during their ‘eat-the-rich’ era. This theme is emphasized, especially when Leonid explains why the Russians were plotting against Commander Star and dismantling all of Bruce’s endeavors. The reason? As Leonid points out, Gotham represents America, a place where the wealthy rule behind the scenes. From Leonid’s perspective, Gotham is the bogeyman in their tales, symbolizing “all that is wrong with your country.
The message becomes more pronounced on the bustling streets of Gotham, where KGBeast, under the guise of Commander Star, is orchestrating the sacrifice of the Wayne CEO to spark a rebellion among the have-nots against the haves. It’s unclear what the ultimate objective behind all this is. Some might argue that a revolution in Gotham, led by the oppressed against their suppressors, could potentially lead to the kind of improved city Bruce Wayne desires. However, it seems that the main goal, beyond just the narrative, appears to be the creation of chaos and the demise of Batman. Yet, despite the chaos, Batman remains unshaken. The story concludes with all threats being contained (except for the persistent issue of Vandal Savage as police commissioner) and both Batman and Bruce Wayne left to confront themselves and the lessons they’ve gleaned from these events.
Structurally speaking, this comic delivers a powerful narrative. The 157th issue of Batman, in particular, maintains a steady pace, keeps readers intrigued, and raises thought-provoking questions about the storyline as well as its real-life implications. It’s refreshing to see Bruce Wayne grappling with his own human nature at the end, learning valuable lessons that seem to stem from his experiences throughout the Zdarsky run. However, there’s a sense of flatness in this issue due to the impending change in the creative team for the next installment. It leaves us wondering how much of the introspective growth and personal development depicted will continue, given Batman’s apparent reservations about the longevity of his recent experiences as expressed by his comment, “all we can try to do is be good men.” To an extent, it seems like a neat conclusion for what should ideally be a more complex and messy narrative.
Regardless of the uncertainty about Batman’s future, Batman #157 offers an enjoyable reading experience. Zdarsky concludes the lengthy narrative he initiated nearly three years back, leaving Batman slightly wiser and perhaps subtly altered. The artwork by Jorge Jimenez and Tony S. Daniel is commendable throughout, and the combination of art and story serves to emphasize that while Batman stands apart from many DC characters in certain aspects, he possesses a wealth of depth and complexity as he transitions from darkness to light.
Published by DC Comics
On February 5, 2025
Written by Chip Zdarsky
Art by Jorge Jimenez and Tony S. Daniel
Colors by Tomeu Morey
Letters by Clayton Cowles
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2025-02-05 18:09