Surrogate Part II: "The Blinding"
Writer: Andersen Gabrych
Artists: Pete Woods(p), Cam Smith(i), Jason Wright(c)
Publisher: DC
My amazement over Detective Comics continues Mr. Gabrych once again presents a multidimensional Batman who shows off his ability as a detective, a hero and a vigilante.
When last we left Batman, he stood in the empty operating theater of Leslie Thompkins' clinic. The Dark Knight in this chapter of "Surrogate" investigates Leslie's disappearance first through the discovery of bound and gagged victims and next in the smart, sci-fi means of anticipating and preventing crime from occurring.
As a detective in the mold of Sherlock Holmes, he identifies a chemical compound by scent alone. His narration is rich and full with insight to who this character is and how he really thinks. We get inside Batman's head, and it's a good, sane place in which to rest.
With his clues gathered, the Dark Knight mounts his steed--the Batcycle and zooms to the rescue in an updating of Zorro imagery. On his way, his mind drifts back to a moment of childhood happiness occurring after the Wayne murder. Mr. Gabrych above all treats Batman realistically. Moments of happiness are easy to find, and while young Bruce Wayne is still the walking wounded, even Batman can take pleasure in these moments.
Back in the present day, Batman's direct approach for entering a villain's hideout via a disregard for the law and private property brings a smile to the face. The tactic is so very in his character. If Batman is going to obey the law all the time, then why on earth does he not simply join the ranks? Batman breaks the law to serve justice.
When the Caped Crusader discovers the whereabouts of Leslie Thompkins, artist Pete Woods choreographs a chilling fight scene that keeps Batman smart in the way he takes care of the weapons first and then the men behind them. No matter how much you beef up the threat, Batman can figure out a way to defeat the upgraded menace and make the strategy he employs appear to be child's play.
Detective Comics merges strong, engrossing writing with supple and dynamic artwork. In short, the Bat is back, and I'm getting very close to adding this book back to my subscription list.
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