Title Batman (2016) #16
Story by Tom King
Art by David Finch, Danny Miki, Jordie Bellaire
Publisher: DC Comics
Release Date: 2/1/17
In Batman issue 16 King starts the storyline of I Am Bane picking exactly where I Am Suicide left off. I have to say I am expecting more from this arc than I Am Suicide that had its ups and downs. With Bane getting a major upgrade in Rebirth the Bat-family will be pushed to their breaking point.
The issue starts with Bane attempting to break the Psycho-Pirate from Arkham Asylum tying in well with the last storyline. Batman stops this prison break as he focuses on getting Gotham Girl the treatment only Psycho Pirate can provide. Later, Batman arrives in a Batman themed burger joint meeting all the former Robins plus Duke and details the Bane situation and to stay far away from the pressing danger. This gives the issue some jovial nature given the grim nature of the hour with the Robins banter ranging from hair loss to how Bruce eats a hamburger.
Tying with the previous Catwoman storyline Selina makes a brief cameo before making a quick escape from Detective Gordon. Later that night Bruce leads Claire down to the Batcave for her treatment. However, when they finally get down there they are shocked to see that all the Robins are hanging from the rafters with the words “I Am Bane” written on them. It is evident that they did not listen to Bruce’s advice leading to Bane’s entrance.
The story ties in well with the previous arcs incorporating all of the main points during King’s Batman run. The pacing is smooth throughout with elements of darkness as well as light to balance the issue out.
The art is the main deterrence from this issue being great in my book with the lack of detailing in the art notably Finch’s penciling. While there is some moments that are decent mostly including Batman and Bruce background characters were often generic. These background characters include the Robins who have nearly identical features from Dick to Damian. The gritty nature of the issue is captured by the art leading to cohesion from the artists to King.
Batman #16 delivers what the fans asked for…One Pissed off Bane. King connects this issue in with all the previous storylines leading for I Am Bane to have a bright future. The only slight drawback is in the artwork that makes the background characters look extremely generic.
Rating:8.7/10
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