Batman: Black & White is unfortunately coming to an end, with this issue being the final of the six. With Batman: Black & White stories are written out of the main universe continuity so that gives writers and artists more freedom to write to their heart’s desire. This issue, much like the entire Batman: Black & White mini-series is divided into five short stories written by various writers and artists.
Clay
Written and Illustrated by Cliff Chiang
This story focused on a young Dick Grayson who it seems just took the role of being Robin. It’s a great and relatable story about being young, getting a new job or role and learning to prove to yourself and others that you can do it. At times the dialogue was a bit corny but ironically fit the nature of the story. It gave off a classic Batman and Robin vibe. The artwork by Chiang is great and balanced! It does not overwhelm the page and is comfortable on the eyes.
Bruce
Written by Olly Moss and Illustrated by Becky Cloonan
When I first saw the name Olly Moss, I recognized him not from his work as a writer but his work from being an illustrator and poster designer. He designed the cover for Batman: Black and White #3. At first, when reading this story I was a bit cynical seeing that it was focused on Bruce Wayne’s dates, to put it nicely. The story starts off focused on these women and then the tables turn to the duality of Bruce Wayne and Batman. The artwork by Cloonan is good but where she amazed me were in the final three pages of the story. Her artwork, along with Moss’ writing fit together well especially in those final pages of the story, which I believe, made the story even more powerful.
The Batman Hiding in Plain Sight
Written and Illustrated by Dave Taylor
This story was my least favorite from the set of five. The dialogue and artwork was too much! Literally 90% of the panels were loaded with huge word balloons filled with a massive amount of text. The artwork was also very crowded each panel loaded with material. It would have helped if Taylor added some type of grey or balance to his artwork. Overall, the script was weak and when trying to be humorous, it just fell flat. Just, skip this one.
 She Lies at Midnite
Written and Illustrated by Adam Hughes
Adam Hughes is an amazing illustrator, but who knew he could write amazing stories as well? The story features Batman in a somber state of mind while Selina Kyle aka Catwoman is hurt in the hospital and how Batman deals with her being injured. The story features a nice twist and also a great throwback to The Killing Joke. Obviously, the artwork was amazing, it is Adam Hughes! He is the Norman Rockwell of comics! This was one of my favorite stories in this issue.
To Beat The Batman
Written and Illustrated by Dave Johnson
Let me just say when an illustrator uses halftone shading, it makes me happy! That was one of the many things that caught my attention in this story. From the get go, the first panel with Batman on the rooftop staring at the narrator/love struck crook, was fantastic! Johnson’s writing felt like an episode of Batman: The Animated Series. I cannot praise this story enough; it was awesome and full of heart! Everything about this story was fantastic! Best story of the issue by far!
Rating: 4/5
Summary:
The final issue of Batman: Black & White ends strongly. Four of the 5 stories are well written and entertaining. Overall, the artwork throughout the issue was great, but the standout artists of this issue have to be Adam Hughes and Dave Johnson. If you’re looking for great artwork, fun entertaining short stories of the Dark Knight, pick up this issue!Â
