[Editor’s note: This review may contain spoilers!]
Writer: Tom King
Pencils: Mikel Janin
Summary
Has the war between Joker and Riddler reached a turning point? It seems it has as a truce has been called for a meeting–at Bruce Wayne’s house! In an attempt to stem the bloodshed that pours on Gotham City streets, Bruce Wayne has dinner with the two adversaries in an effort for peace. However, Bruce soon makes an offer neither Joker nor Riddler can ignore! Just what is Batman’s plan to stop the War of Jokes and Riddles?
Positives
From the very beginning of this book I found myself laughing at the very concept. Wayne Manor is full of Batman’s Rogue’s Gallery–Two Face, Killer Croc, Poison Ivy, Clayface, Penguin, Mr. Freeze and more are all over for dinner. Following Bruce’s mother’s example, Bruce attempts to discuss negotiations between Joker and Riddler over dinner, and the two agree. There’s no G.C.P.D and a promise that Batman won’t appear, all in the effort to negotiate. I never thought I’d see Batman’s worst enemies all in his home–having dinner nonetheless.
Negatives
This issue isn’t action packed, but King is setting us up for a great read in the next issue. Bruce Wayne is offering either side one billion dollars to kill the other–to end the war once and for all. He asks them to give their reasons to why each one should be allowed to kill the other and the Batman. At first I wondered–why would Bruce Wayne ultimately finance and also place a billion dollar contract on himself? King answers this question at the end of the book, with Bruce deciding that if all the attention is on Batman, then it means no more innocents will be killed. A bold move by Bruce I must admit, and I’m eager to see how it plays out.
Verdict
Tom King basically gave us a story that details just why this war is so crucial between Joker and Riddler. Here you see everything from both their points of view and you can see firsthand just why they hate Batman so much. Throughout the entire book as Joker and Riddler mutually discuss their hate for Batman, it’s too funny because they’re having dinner with the Dark Knight right now and don’t even realize it! Now Bruce Wayne has to decide who he’s going to give the one billion dollars to. I’m looking forward to seeing his decision in the next issue!
