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Batman Post-Crisis #184
Batman: Battle for the Cowl
"Batman: R.I.P." and FINAL CRISIS saw the end of Batman. Now, months following the disappearance of her protector, Gotham City sits at a precipice and it may be too far gone for Nightwing, Robin, Commissioner Gordon and the rest of the city's heroes to save the day. Amid the fires, rioting, looting and gang warfare, one question rings out from the souls of Gotham's desperate citizens: Where is Batman?
With guest-stars galore, the destruction of a sacred Gotham City institution and an ending that will have everyone talking, this event written and drawn by Tony Daniel (The Tenth) and other top creators features the battle to take on the Mantle of the Bat. Who has earned the right? Who thinks they deserve it? Robin? Nightwing? Jason Todd? Two-Face? Catwoman? Batgirl? Who will ultimately win the BATTLE FOR THE COWL?
Collecting BATMAN: BATTLE FOR THE COWL #1-3, GOTHAM GAZETTE: BATMAN DEAD? #1 and GOTHAM GAZETTE: BATMAN ALIVE? #1
With guest-stars galore, the destruction of a sacred Gotham City institution and an ending that will have everyone talking, this event written and drawn by Tony Daniel (The Tenth) and other top creators features the battle to take on the Mantle of the Bat. Who has earned the right? Who thinks they deserve it? Robin? Nightwing? Jason Todd? Two-Face? Catwoman? Batgirl? Who will ultimately win the BATTLE FOR THE COWL?
Collecting BATMAN: BATTLE FOR THE COWL #1-3, GOTHAM GAZETTE: BATMAN DEAD? #1 and GOTHAM GAZETTE: BATMAN ALIVE? #1
160 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 2009
About the author
Tony S. Daniel
666 books87 followersTony Salvador Daniel is a comic book author and illustrator. He is sometimes credited with is full name as Antonio Salvador Daniel.
For the science fiction writer, see Tony Daniel.
Tony S. Daniel decided to become a comic book artist in the 4th grade and has never looked back. He made his professional comics debut in 1993 on Comico's The Elementals and went on to illustrate X-Force for Marvel Comics and Spawn: Bloodfeud for Image Comics as well as writing and illustrating several creator-owned titles of his own: Silke, The Tenth, Adrenalynn and F5 — the last two of which led him, for a time, into the alternate reality known as Hollywood.
After being lured back into comics in 2005 to work with writer Geoff Johns on TEEN TITANS for DC Comics, Daniel landed his dream job in 2007 penciling the adventures of DC's Dark Knight Detective in BATMAN where he first collaborated with writer Grant Morrison and then went on to write and draw the book himself. In 2011 he re-launched DETECTIVE COMICS for DC’s New 52, writing and drawing most of the first year of the historic series. In 2012 Daniel moved from one icon to another when he began illustrating the adventures of Superman in ACTION COMICS.
For the science fiction writer, see Tony Daniel.
Tony S. Daniel decided to become a comic book artist in the 4th grade and has never looked back. He made his professional comics debut in 1993 on Comico's The Elementals and went on to illustrate X-Force for Marvel Comics and Spawn: Bloodfeud for Image Comics as well as writing and illustrating several creator-owned titles of his own: Silke, The Tenth, Adrenalynn and F5 — the last two of which led him, for a time, into the alternate reality known as Hollywood.
After being lured back into comics in 2005 to work with writer Geoff Johns on TEEN TITANS for DC Comics, Daniel landed his dream job in 2007 penciling the adventures of DC's Dark Knight Detective in BATMAN where he first collaborated with writer Grant Morrison and then went on to write and draw the book himself. In 2011 he re-launched DETECTIVE COMICS for DC’s New 52, writing and drawing most of the first year of the historic series. In 2012 Daniel moved from one icon to another when he began illustrating the adventures of Superman in ACTION COMICS.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 303 reviews
March 14, 2024
(B+) 77% | Good
Notes: The writing lacks confidence: drowning narrative in action, cameos and moments, it’s all poster shots and cutscenes.
Notes: The writing lacks confidence: drowning narrative in action, cameos and moments, it’s all poster shots and cutscenes.
March 6, 2023
This interesting post-Final Crisis Batman event sees a Gotham without Batman seemingly besieged by a mob war that sees a battling Penguin, Black Mask and Two-Face, with Jason Todd around. Plus there's a great Oracle vs Calculator battle; a new Azrael and more. An example of the multi-Batman villain, multi story arc, multi Gotham books that had by now become the mainstays of Batman events for over 2 decades! 6 out of 12, Three Stars.
2012 read
2012 read
June 2, 2019
3.5 stars
So, I greatly enjoyed a lot of this!
I was on a kick of finding more interactions between Jason Todd and Dick Grayson. I really love the contrast between their personalities and their views on what the cowl should be. To Dick, it's a great honor and a burden: Bruce warned him away from it, he never felt worthy and he feared it turning him into a darker figure. Jason saw it as a potential to inspire fear into the hearts of Gotham's criminals. He always thought Bruce didn't go far enough. Putting these two characters together with the added conflict of them being family made for an interesting plot.
I'll admit, the Tim parts of this weren't perfect for me. I did appreciate Jason being surprised at Tim fighting back as well as he did. Damian was incredibly out of character in my opinion. Again, I think characterizations of Damian fail when they make him behave like a typical 10 year old kid. I found it hard to believe Damian took a girl with him on a joyride in the batmobile?
The little oneshots at the end of this trade were unnecessary. I didn't need them and we got enough of Stephanie's storyline in Batgirl? Why are these here? And more importantly, why do male artists never pass up every opportunity to give us every asshot imaginable?
But alas, why did I enjoy this so much?
I enjoyed seeing Dick's inner turmoil as he tried to reconcile his father's words to him with what Gotham needed at the moment.
I enjoyed Jason as the Batman (though I definitely do not think he should ever actually have the job).
I enjoyed Jason having the gall to ask Dick to "be his Robin". I was fascinated in seeing them fight because of the mix of styles. I would love if they made this storyline into an animated film but I don't see that happening. It's a shame because I would die to see their fighting styles in action like that.
So, this was awesome for the batfam interactions. A lot of this was superfluous, to be honest.
So, I greatly enjoyed a lot of this!
I was on a kick of finding more interactions between Jason Todd and Dick Grayson. I really love the contrast between their personalities and their views on what the cowl should be. To Dick, it's a great honor and a burden: Bruce warned him away from it, he never felt worthy and he feared it turning him into a darker figure. Jason saw it as a potential to inspire fear into the hearts of Gotham's criminals. He always thought Bruce didn't go far enough. Putting these two characters together with the added conflict of them being family made for an interesting plot.
I'll admit, the Tim parts of this weren't perfect for me. I did appreciate Jason being surprised at Tim fighting back as well as he did. Damian was incredibly out of character in my opinion. Again, I think characterizations of Damian fail when they make him behave like a typical 10 year old kid. I found it hard to believe Damian took a girl with him on a joyride in the batmobile?
The little oneshots at the end of this trade were unnecessary. I didn't need them and we got enough of Stephanie's storyline in Batgirl? Why are these here? And more importantly, why do male artists never pass up every opportunity to give us every asshot imaginable?
But alas, why did I enjoy this so much?
I enjoyed seeing Dick's inner turmoil as he tried to reconcile his father's words to him with what Gotham needed at the moment.
I enjoyed Jason as the Batman (though I definitely do not think he should ever actually have the job).
I enjoyed Jason having the gall to ask Dick to "be his Robin". I was fascinated in seeing them fight because of the mix of styles. I would love if they made this storyline into an animated film but I don't see that happening. It's a shame because I would die to see their fighting styles in action like that.
So, this was awesome for the batfam interactions. A lot of this was superfluous, to be honest.
December 5, 2018
Though his name is right up there in the title, this is (understandably) a Batman-less volume. The first-half is the good, physically action-oriented title story - it's not called 'battle' for nothing - starring Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, and Tim Drake, plus a slew of brief cameo appearances by other mid-level DC heroes and villains. The latter section, Gotham Gazette, was not as good and less interesting with its largely civilian-level (Vicki Vale, Harvey Bullock, Leslie Thompkins) approach.
July 30, 2022
This was pretty solid!
We basically see Dick having doubts of being Batman after Bruce's death and we see the crime rising in Gotham and a new violent Batman taking to the streets and killing and that sets off the bat family and we see their hunt for this new Batman and trying to stop the villains and Dick confronting this guy and finally accepting his fate and who he has to be and its an epic story about legacy and the next generation and one of the most fascinating Batman stories, I loved the reveals and the fight and the fast pacing!
We get some filler stuff with whats going on with different people like Leslie thompkins and Harvey and well they are okayish, not the best but the ones with Steph were fun and showed her feelings after all that happened with her during that time and also does some interesting stuff with Vale. Its an alright filler stuff.
So overall makes for an okayish read I will say. I definitely recommend reading it one time!
We basically see Dick having doubts of being Batman after Bruce's death and we see the crime rising in Gotham and a new violent Batman taking to the streets and killing and that sets off the bat family and we see their hunt for this new Batman and trying to stop the villains and Dick confronting this guy and finally accepting his fate and who he has to be and its an epic story about legacy and the next generation and one of the most fascinating Batman stories, I loved the reveals and the fight and the fast pacing!
We get some filler stuff with whats going on with different people like Leslie thompkins and Harvey and well they are okayish, not the best but the ones with Steph were fun and showed her feelings after all that happened with her during that time and also does some interesting stuff with Vale. Its an alright filler stuff.
So overall makes for an okayish read I will say. I definitely recommend reading it one time!
October 23, 2014
Batman is “dead” which should be little surprise to those following the build up to to this result or who read the blurb of this graphic novel (so I don't consider it a spoiler). In this installment Gotham City is going downhill now that all the bad people know the Dark Knight is slain so even though the deceased Batman's lieutenants try to control the situation it obviously gets out of control.
A lot of characters in the Batman world make their appearances but this time around I won't say who as it would likely be minor spoiler indications of the tale.
Tony S. Daniel does a great deal of the artwork, including the cover, and writes the first part of the novel as well. The first part is titled “Battle for the Cowl”. The second section is titled “Gotham Gazette” and the write is Fabian Nicieza. There are a ton of artists and supporting artists so a bit too many to list in a short review.
Some tie ins to this are an “Oracle” miniseries and a Azrael trilogy. There is also, of course, a new Batman and Robin series that takes place, too.
ARTWORK: B plus to A minus; STORY/PLOTTING: B; CHARACTERS/DIALOGUE: B minus to B; BATMAN MYTHOLOGY FOCUSES: B; WHEN READ: July 2012; OVERALL GRADE: B.
A lot of characters in the Batman world make their appearances but this time around I won't say who as it would likely be minor spoiler indications of the tale.
Tony S. Daniel does a great deal of the artwork, including the cover, and writes the first part of the novel as well. The first part is titled “Battle for the Cowl”. The second section is titled “Gotham Gazette” and the write is Fabian Nicieza. There are a ton of artists and supporting artists so a bit too many to list in a short review.
Some tie ins to this are an “Oracle” miniseries and a Azrael trilogy. There is also, of course, a new Batman and Robin series that takes place, too.
ARTWORK: B plus to A minus; STORY/PLOTTING: B; CHARACTERS/DIALOGUE: B minus to B; BATMAN MYTHOLOGY FOCUSES: B; WHEN READ: July 2012; OVERALL GRADE: B.
July 3, 2022
A book that delivers what the title promises, but in a way that leaves a lot to be desired. Certain characterisations feel a little off or weak, perhaps as a result of the focus on action sequences rather than character development. With so many members of the Batfam present, it's not surprising that many get greatly reduced roles when part of an ensemble, however, it feels like a shame to use so many pages on fighting scenes when there are a plethora of interesting ideas that could have been explored instead.
June 4, 2011
Pretty good story, but I was kind of hoping for more out of it. I think this is what I get for reading books out of order.
July 14, 2023
I remember having a lot of fun with these, especially the issues starring personal favorites of mine like Wildcat and Black Canary, and I truly loved Dick Grayson's Batman. Damien is a delight, as always, and the costume that Tim Drake briefly dons is one of my favorite of all time!!
7/14/23
****
7/14/23
****
August 9, 2020
3.5⭐️
February 15, 2018
After the events in Batman R.I.P. and Final Crisis, Battle for the Cowl now welcomes us to a new era where nothing seems bright. With the disappearance of Batman, the mantle of the Bat is left hanging and chaos reigns in Gotham. Every villain in the book sees this as a golden opportunity to take control of one of the darkest cities out there, and establish brand new order that will satisfy their evil desires. The story essentially goes on for three issues and features a special a Gotham Gazette storyline in the end. Short as it is, it's pretty hard to see this volume as a major game-changer or an instant classic. It does however attend to the biggest question of them all: Who will be the Batman?
While the answer seems evident, Tony S. Daniel does a nice clean job at putting forth all the dilemas possible that surrounds the question. To make things even more interesting, a mysterious individual roams the streets of Gotham and establishes himself as being the Batman, with a much more brutal discipline. Who that person was was way too evident and something I wish would've been far more interesting. The Gotham Gazette special features Vicki Vale, Stephanie Brown, Leslie Thompkins and Harvey Bullock, but the story isn't anything special. It does set things up for more side-stories in the future regarding the identity to the vigilantes, but the story itself wasn't very compelling. The artwork also greatly varied from one issue to another, never being quite exceptional. However, the three main issues revolving around the Battle for the Cowl had pretty decent artwork, and even a touch of sexiness for a lot of the female vigilantes.
Battle for the Cowl is nothing more than a set-up for things to come. New villains, new battlegrounds and new heroes. Gotham is in a shit hole and it now needs saving more than before.
P.S. Full review to come.
Yours truly,
Lashaan | Blogger and Book Reviewer
Official blog: https://bookidote.com/
While the answer seems evident, Tony S. Daniel does a nice clean job at putting forth all the dilemas possible that surrounds the question. To make things even more interesting, a mysterious individual roams the streets of Gotham and establishes himself as being the Batman, with a much more brutal discipline. Who that person was was way too evident and something I wish would've been far more interesting. The Gotham Gazette special features Vicki Vale, Stephanie Brown, Leslie Thompkins and Harvey Bullock, but the story isn't anything special. It does set things up for more side-stories in the future regarding the identity to the vigilantes, but the story itself wasn't very compelling. The artwork also greatly varied from one issue to another, never being quite exceptional. However, the three main issues revolving around the Battle for the Cowl had pretty decent artwork, and even a touch of sexiness for a lot of the female vigilantes.
Battle for the Cowl is nothing more than a set-up for things to come. New villains, new battlegrounds and new heroes. Gotham is in a shit hole and it now needs saving more than before.
P.S. Full review to come.
Yours truly,
Lashaan | Blogger and Book Reviewer
Official blog: https://bookidote.com/
December 27, 2011
Following the events of Batman RIP, Gotham is thrown into chaos as the Black Mask returns to wreak havoc upon the city and free the cavalcade of villains from Blackgate and Arkham that Batman put away. Meanwhile, Dick Grayson refuses to put on the cowl while a new Batman in the form of Jason Todd appears in Gotham, guns blazing. As the Robins, Grayson, Tim Drake, Jason Todd and Damian converge, along with other assorted superheroes, the battle for the cowl begins...
Tony Daniel's artwork throughout is fantastic and he writes a decent script that props up Grant Morrison's epic storyline, letting fans know what's going on while Bruce is travelling through time. Though it does seem inevitable, Grayson does become the new Batman of Gotham through some great fight scenes with the crazy Jason Todd (whose alternative Batman outfit was pretty cool) and the book is worth reading just for that.
There are extras included at the back focusing on the smaller characters in Gotham, Bullock in the GCPD, Stephanie Brown (Tim Drake's ex and fellow superhero), Vicki Vale (sometime girlfriend of Bruce Wayne and Gotham's answer to Lois Lane), and a few others. These were less interesting stories and the art varied from ok to poor and dragged the book down a bit.
Overall though not a bad read and essential for those following this massive storyline point to point.
Tony Daniel's artwork throughout is fantastic and he writes a decent script that props up Grant Morrison's epic storyline, letting fans know what's going on while Bruce is travelling through time. Though it does seem inevitable, Grayson does become the new Batman of Gotham through some great fight scenes with the crazy Jason Todd (whose alternative Batman outfit was pretty cool) and the book is worth reading just for that.
There are extras included at the back focusing on the smaller characters in Gotham, Bullock in the GCPD, Stephanie Brown (Tim Drake's ex and fellow superhero), Vicki Vale (sometime girlfriend of Bruce Wayne and Gotham's answer to Lois Lane), and a few others. These were less interesting stories and the art varied from ok to poor and dragged the book down a bit.
Overall though not a bad read and essential for those following this massive storyline point to point.
May 26, 2017
This was pretty entertaining (and super easy) read. Batman is dead (Don't worry guys it's only for a year.) and now the fight for his cowl is on. Actually, it's just Jason being a asshole and trying to take the mantel from all the other robins. So let's talk what works and what doesn't.
What I liked: The art is pretty solid. Action is smooth and no complaints on that end. I like that all the robins are dealing with the death of their father figure (or father) in this book in different ways. I also liked Dick coming to terms of what the Legacy was meant for and what he had to do. A protector of all just like his father, even if he didn't want to, he is needed. I also liked Jason being a psycho fucking idiot and trying to kill everyone and play mind games. He's def a sick fuck in this.
What I didn't like: The backstory of the villains uprising didn't really do anything for me. I also disliked Damien's character in this. Weak the whole time is not who Damien is. I also really didn't like the extra two stories thrown in at the end. Felt out of place.
Overall this was a entertaining and fun read. It's not great. It doesn't REALLY need to be read. However it's kind of fun and get to see the Robins figure shit out with big old Bruce being gone. So for that I had fun.
What I liked: The art is pretty solid. Action is smooth and no complaints on that end. I like that all the robins are dealing with the death of their father figure (or father) in this book in different ways. I also liked Dick coming to terms of what the Legacy was meant for and what he had to do. A protector of all just like his father, even if he didn't want to, he is needed. I also liked Jason being a psycho fucking idiot and trying to kill everyone and play mind games. He's def a sick fuck in this.
What I didn't like: The backstory of the villains uprising didn't really do anything for me. I also disliked Damien's character in this. Weak the whole time is not who Damien is. I also really didn't like the extra two stories thrown in at the end. Felt out of place.
Overall this was a entertaining and fun read. It's not great. It doesn't REALLY need to be read. However it's kind of fun and get to see the Robins figure shit out with big old Bruce being gone. So for that I had fun.
May 24, 2019
2.5 stars. This time it's a case of 'it's-not-the-book-it's-me' because to be honest I dislike the artwork and the only thing keeps me reading is the main storyline about how Nightwing (Dick Grayson) and Co. deal with the aftermath of Bruce Wayne's death and Gotham city going out of control.
This main story alone can easily win 4 stars. However, I found almost all of the side stories pointless, therefore the rating has to be lowered.
What a shame, Batman: Life After Death had worked like a charm with me, but not this one.
Review: Red Hood: Outlaw vol. 1 https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review: Batman: The Long Halloween (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...)
Review: The Greatest Batman Stories Ever Told Vol. 1 (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...)
This main story alone can easily win 4 stars. However, I found almost all of the side stories pointless, therefore the rating has to be lowered.
What a shame, Batman: Life After Death had worked like a charm with me, but not this one.
Review: Red Hood: Outlaw vol. 1 https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review: Batman: The Long Halloween (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...)
Review: The Greatest Batman Stories Ever Told Vol. 1 (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...)
May 11, 2015
I love everything about this story! Seeing the effect of the death of Bruce Wayne/Batman on the people closest to him. I have a couple of favorite parts in this book. Tim saying: "It has to be one of us, Dick". Alfred beating Dick Grayson in a little fight with bamboo sticks. Tim wearing the cape and cowl. Damian taking the Batmobile for a joyride with some female company. And Oracle getting rid of the girl by remotely activating the ejector seat of the Batmobile. I loved the part where Alfred says to Nightwing: "An honest mistake. No one can be him. But someone can represent what he stood for. The ideals that made Batman. Justice, consequence and ironclad resolve to protect. And there is none other that has the wherewithal to uphold those ideals than you... Richard Grayson". It was great seeing Nightwing as the leader of all these Batman allies. I always love seeing all the Robins togheter and this story delivered on that front too. The fights were great, so was the end battle and the last two pages left you wanting more. They leave you wanting to pick up the next book to continue this story. Highly recommended! The stories in the back featuring "B-listers" of the Batman cast were enjoyable too.
November 8, 2013
Batman: Battle For The Cowl has taken a lot of hits over the years. I actually enjoyed it. Tony Daniel has done a good job writing a compelling story.
There may always be a Batman, but it will not always be Bruce Wayne under the cowl. Enter Batman: Battle for the Cowl , one of the most anticipated comic books to be released this year. Following Bruce Wayne's time and space displacement in Final Crisis , Batman: Battle for the Cowl is the story of a Gotham City that thinks its protector dead and the heroes, villains, and even friends that he left behind.
Written and drawn by Tony Daniel, Grant Morrison's artistic co-conspirator for a good deal of his tenure on Batman, Batman: Battle for the Cowl is an entirely different kind of story than Morrison's landmark run. Morrison was always most intrigued by the psychological underpinnings of a man who chooses to dress as a giant bat and use his tremendous wealth and attributes to fight costumed crazies.
Tony Daniel, on the other hand, is interested in telling a chaotic and engrossing action story. In this first issue, which is told mostly from Robin's point of view, we quickly shift from one bombastic fight scene to the next. Sure, Nightwing and Robin get in a ponderous moment or two, but from the first panel the overall tone of the story is set. The characters are running and fighting, and the reader is racing to catch up.
The issue features appearances by many of Batman's cohorts and adversaries, and it's to Daniel's credit that he manages to preserve the chaos of the story without reverting to chaotic storytelling. The story is quite tight and focused, even as it quickly transitions between scenes and characters.
Daniel's dialogue is also fairly strong, and while he may not be as interested in the psychology of these characters as Morrison was, he provides some nice insights via Robin's internal monologue. Particularly telling is when, while discussing a violent Batman impersonator that's terrorizing Gotham's criminals, he refers to Bruce Wayne as his "father."
That gun-toting Batman is just one problem facing the heirs of the caped crusader. There's also a revived Black Mask, who enlists the majority of Gotham's most notorious criminals to form a new underworld fraternity. References are also made to a gang war between Two-Face and the Penguin.
Daniel's art is even more impressive than his writing in this issue. If you weren't a fan of his artistic style during Morrison's run, you won't find much here to change your mind. But Daniel's art is more suited to the kind of fast-paced, action-oriented story being told in these pages, so perhaps even his detractors will appreciate his style in this context.
So this ends up being a very good Batman tale, despite the fact it doesn’t even contain the Batman we know and love. As an introduction to the next episode in Dark Knight history it’s a solid piece of work. Batman is dead. Long live Batman!
March 28, 2012
The copy for the book sets it up as an epic battle for control of the Batman identity between Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, Tim Drake, Catwoman, Two-Face, and Batgirl. Catwoman and Two-Face aren't actually battling for the cowl, Dick spends almost the entire book adamant that he doesn't want it and nobody else should have it, Tim didn't seem too attached to it, and I could swear that Batgirl wasn't even in this book. It's really more about the chaos that ensues when Batman isn't around to take care of his city, and the criminals know it. There is a battle for the cowl, yes, but that's just to keep Jason from using it.
Misleading summary aside, the writing is... Well, it's ok. There's some pretty good ideas, and I think the setup and the characterization are realistic, for Gotham and for the Batfamily. But the execution, sadly, leaves something to be desired. It's a mediocre take on what could have been a really outstanding story, and a way to say goodbye to Bruce Wayne by having Dick take his place. It just never came together.
Misleading summary aside, the writing is... Well, it's ok. There's some pretty good ideas, and I think the setup and the characterization are realistic, for Gotham and for the Batfamily. But the execution, sadly, leaves something to be desired. It's a mediocre take on what could have been a really outstanding story, and a way to say goodbye to Bruce Wayne by having Dick take his place. It just never came together.
June 13, 2017
Re-read: With Bruce Wayne thought dead, who will rise up to wear the cowl as Black Mask unleashes hell on a Batman-less Gotham?
Three Robins -- Dick, Tim and Jason -- have their own ideas or reluctances and the Battle for the Cowl ensues.
Honestly this story has gotten both better and worse with time. On the good side, the concept and elements of the story are great. There are some seriously badass moments, too, and it really shows these characters wrestling with not only one another and the Black Mask, but with their own inner demons.
And that's the drawback: the ideas are great, the execution of these ideas just doesn't rise to the challenge. It's a solid 3.5 but could have been a 4/4.5.
Three Robins -- Dick, Tim and Jason -- have their own ideas or reluctances and the Battle for the Cowl ensues.
Honestly this story has gotten both better and worse with time. On the good side, the concept and elements of the story are great. There are some seriously badass moments, too, and it really shows these characters wrestling with not only one another and the Black Mask, but with their own inner demons.
And that's the drawback: the ideas are great, the execution of these ideas just doesn't rise to the challenge. It's a solid 3.5 but could have been a 4/4.5.
May 25, 2017
It's good, the only problem is that it is a brief story, it happens so fast and is short. Still great, but take my advice, Don't read the tie-ins, they're a waste of time.
October 5, 2022
Just to be clear , i read all the companion pieces to this book as well , making it 16 individual books and a grand total of 400 odd pages .
This followed the events of Batman's death , and we witness how everyone is dealing with the aftermath. As usual the most affected by the death is Gotham , which has become a hell hole worse than what it was when batman actually started .
The whole psyche of Jason Todd and his descent into what he became along with how Jim Gordon comes to accept the harsh truth of Batman's absence is what truly got me.
That said the story felt hollow with how some of the closer allies like Damian , Barbara, Alfred were dealing with the loss .
Nightwing's reaction weren't much better either nor was Selina's .
Overall i was also disappointed with the whole treatment of Jason , but the art style is slick and the action good . Overall a decent book, but not worth re-reads
This followed the events of Batman's death , and we witness how everyone is dealing with the aftermath. As usual the most affected by the death is Gotham , which has become a hell hole worse than what it was when batman actually started .
The whole psyche of Jason Todd and his descent into what he became along with how Jim Gordon comes to accept the harsh truth of Batman's absence is what truly got me.
That said the story felt hollow with how some of the closer allies like Damian , Barbara, Alfred were dealing with the loss .
Nightwing's reaction weren't much better either nor was Selina's .
Overall i was also disappointed with the whole treatment of Jason , but the art style is slick and the action good . Overall a decent book, but not worth re-reads
December 15, 2010
With DC Comic's most recent shakeup, heroes and villains alike are settling into a whole new world. One of the biggest changes was the death of Batman, a.k.a. Bruce Wayne. This has left a vacuum in Gotham City as many of Batmans enemies clamor to take over the city. Nightwing (the original Robin) along with most of the bat-family (Batwoman, Huntress, Oracle, Batgirl, Robin, and Catwoman) is doing what can be done to try and hold the line. Even the help of allies such as Black Canary is just not enough.
Two-Face and the Penguin are each divvying up the city with the hopes of being the ultimate ruler of the city. The result is a mafia-style civil war that is leaving behind a massive body count. The police, under the leadership of Commissioner Gordon, are joining the rest of the city as being the victims of the fighting.
While no one thought it was possible, things get worse when all of the crazies kept in Arkham Assylum are liberated and let loose upon Gotham City, wreaking even more havoc. The real question is who might have let them loose. The Penguin and Two-Face are each pointing their fingers at each other, but it soon becomes clear that it is some other nefarious villain.
Just when everyone had started to give up, there are rumors that Batman may have returned. Hiding in the shadows, some mysterious person is stepping in to push back against the city's villains, both meta and normal. The problem is that this new Batman is taking things too far. Rather than justice, he seems to seek vengeance and punishment, which flies int he face of everything that Bruce Wayne hoped for when he donned the original cowl. What makes things even more interesting is that this new Batman knows too much not to have been part of the bat-family inner circle. Just who is this madman?
Dick Grayson, now wearing the mantle of Nightwing, has promised not to step in for his former cohort. The question is whether he can keep that promise if doing so will bring down his beloved Gothic City.
This tale really captures everything that has made Batman one of the most popular superheroes in the field. Besides the usual level of action (and violence), there is a clear examination of what makes a villain ... and a hero. There is a deeper underlying examination of the idea of promises, honoring our loved ones, and a look at how people are affected over the long haul by who we treat them.
The illustrations are perfectly designed to present the story, both the horrors and violence and the emotional explorations.
Fans of the DC Universe will not be able to pass this one up.
Two-Face and the Penguin are each divvying up the city with the hopes of being the ultimate ruler of the city. The result is a mafia-style civil war that is leaving behind a massive body count. The police, under the leadership of Commissioner Gordon, are joining the rest of the city as being the victims of the fighting.
While no one thought it was possible, things get worse when all of the crazies kept in Arkham Assylum are liberated and let loose upon Gotham City, wreaking even more havoc. The real question is who might have let them loose. The Penguin and Two-Face are each pointing their fingers at each other, but it soon becomes clear that it is some other nefarious villain.
Just when everyone had started to give up, there are rumors that Batman may have returned. Hiding in the shadows, some mysterious person is stepping in to push back against the city's villains, both meta and normal. The problem is that this new Batman is taking things too far. Rather than justice, he seems to seek vengeance and punishment, which flies int he face of everything that Bruce Wayne hoped for when he donned the original cowl. What makes things even more interesting is that this new Batman knows too much not to have been part of the bat-family inner circle. Just who is this madman?
Dick Grayson, now wearing the mantle of Nightwing, has promised not to step in for his former cohort. The question is whether he can keep that promise if doing so will bring down his beloved Gothic City.
This tale really captures everything that has made Batman one of the most popular superheroes in the field. Besides the usual level of action (and violence), there is a clear examination of what makes a villain ... and a hero. There is a deeper underlying examination of the idea of promises, honoring our loved ones, and a look at how people are affected over the long haul by who we treat them.
The illustrations are perfectly designed to present the story, both the horrors and violence and the emotional explorations.
Fans of the DC Universe will not be able to pass this one up.
February 25, 2015
A great batman read! So Bruce Wayne is 'dead' and now the big question is who will be Batman? The book mainly focuses on Tim Drake, Dick Grayson and Jason Todd as the three Robins fight for the cowl! Jason Todd is badass in this, his suit is cool and it's nice to see a batman who actually uses guns! I remember when this story orgianlly came out it filled my families house in with many debates about who will be batman! Overall great story!
December 17, 2011
The book series took a distinct turn toward awful with this addition. I respect the writing, but the story never should have been written in the first place.
July 7, 2019
Gotham in chaos, it’s fast and flashy, firefights and fistfights, infighting and gang feuds. The Bat-Family learns what it means to be the Batman, especially when he’s gone.
August 23, 2011
BATMAN: BATTLE FOR THE COWL (2/5)
Has any of you ever wondered who would become Batman in case Bruce Wayne ever died? It's not an irrational possibility; the man does a dangerous job and despite his vast abilities, his life is constantly on the line. Naturally, a comic book hero is never supposed to die, especially when he is of that magnitude. But just in case Wayne ever...went away, who would protect his beloved city from the homicidal lunatics that swarm it?
Some years ago, Chuck Dixon and Doug Moench attempted to answer that question with their KnightSaga. During which, Bruce Wayne is crippled by a vicious criminal and a young man named Jean-Paul Valley inherits the mantle. As some of you probably know, the man was slightly less psychotic than the freaks he was hunting down (Joker excluded). After reclaiming the mantle, Wayne passed it on to Dick Grayson, his first and best Boy-Wonder. Despite the Dark Knight's expectations, Grayson fails as well in his role as Batman, his disastrous performance resulting in one man getting killed along with endangering the original Batman's life.
Conclusion? Bruce Wayne sucks at choosing successors. So, I guess it's a good thing he is not around this time to repeat the same errors. However, without the king present to hand over the crown (or, in this case, cowl), the would-be successors are locked in a fierce battle for the right to be called the next Batman.
The candidates are naturally the three ex-Robins; Dick Grayson, Jason Todd and Tim Drake. Well, to be exact, Drake is technically still Robin but he will stop soon enough. He sure seems ready for the big change as he wears a costume Batman used to wear during the '70s and roams the streets. Todd on the other hand prefers some more...originality. So he basically builds an armor of a suit that makes him look like a really lame version of the stereotype devil, equips himself with a couple of handguns and starts killing thugs.
On the other hand, Grayson avoids wearing the costume and keeps his Nightwing identity throughout this story. He mainly deals with Damian Wayne who after the "Batman R.I.P." storyline is left with the Bat-family. He is so much of a pain in the a$$ that at some points you might find yourself feeling sorry for Grayson. He is in really bad shape here. Emotionally, I mean. He takes no part in the fight between Drake and Todd until it's absolutely necessary.
While the three sons of Wayne fight over who will inherit the family business, the revived mob boss known as Black Mask blows up Arkham Asylum and frees its patients. After finding a way to control them, he sets them loose all over the city.
In the off-chance you don't know or can't guess who becomes Batman by the end of this book, I won't spoil it for you here. With its plot twist rendered useless by common sense and the mystery being lame beyond words, few will see anything in this story besides the visually impressive but yet still flawed artwork. Tony Daniel falls below his usual mediocre storytelling abilities here and wastes one hell of a promising project with huge potential. Shame.
Has any of you ever wondered who would become Batman in case Bruce Wayne ever died? It's not an irrational possibility; the man does a dangerous job and despite his vast abilities, his life is constantly on the line. Naturally, a comic book hero is never supposed to die, especially when he is of that magnitude. But just in case Wayne ever...went away, who would protect his beloved city from the homicidal lunatics that swarm it?
Some years ago, Chuck Dixon and Doug Moench attempted to answer that question with their KnightSaga. During which, Bruce Wayne is crippled by a vicious criminal and a young man named Jean-Paul Valley inherits the mantle. As some of you probably know, the man was slightly less psychotic than the freaks he was hunting down (Joker excluded). After reclaiming the mantle, Wayne passed it on to Dick Grayson, his first and best Boy-Wonder. Despite the Dark Knight's expectations, Grayson fails as well in his role as Batman, his disastrous performance resulting in one man getting killed along with endangering the original Batman's life.
Conclusion? Bruce Wayne sucks at choosing successors. So, I guess it's a good thing he is not around this time to repeat the same errors. However, without the king present to hand over the crown (or, in this case, cowl), the would-be successors are locked in a fierce battle for the right to be called the next Batman.
The candidates are naturally the three ex-Robins; Dick Grayson, Jason Todd and Tim Drake. Well, to be exact, Drake is technically still Robin but he will stop soon enough. He sure seems ready for the big change as he wears a costume Batman used to wear during the '70s and roams the streets. Todd on the other hand prefers some more...originality. So he basically builds an armor of a suit that makes him look like a really lame version of the stereotype devil, equips himself with a couple of handguns and starts killing thugs.
On the other hand, Grayson avoids wearing the costume and keeps his Nightwing identity throughout this story. He mainly deals with Damian Wayne who after the "Batman R.I.P." storyline is left with the Bat-family. He is so much of a pain in the a$$ that at some points you might find yourself feeling sorry for Grayson. He is in really bad shape here. Emotionally, I mean. He takes no part in the fight between Drake and Todd until it's absolutely necessary.
While the three sons of Wayne fight over who will inherit the family business, the revived mob boss known as Black Mask blows up Arkham Asylum and frees its patients. After finding a way to control them, he sets them loose all over the city.
In the off-chance you don't know or can't guess who becomes Batman by the end of this book, I won't spoil it for you here. With its plot twist rendered useless by common sense and the mystery being lame beyond words, few will see anything in this story besides the visually impressive but yet still flawed artwork. Tony Daniel falls below his usual mediocre storytelling abilities here and wastes one hell of a promising project with huge potential. Shame.
July 30, 2016
4 years later and I'm changing my rating from 4 to 2.5 stars and actually adding a review. I have had to flip through this book literally 6 times in those 4 years because I couldn't remember what happens. It's such a forgettable collection. Iv been stuck in this Batman Era for lack of motivation to read what comes after, and each time I make an attempt to move forward.. Hey wait what was this about?
After 'Batman R.i.P.' Gotham is without a Batman and in chaos. Gotham needs a Bat and Nightwing ain't taking the mantle. Tim Drake takes matters into his own hands and is confronted by a lethal, gun carrying Batman. Soon after Nightwing takes on this new 'Punisher' Batman in a battle for the cowl.
Nightwing being reluctant to take up the mantle happened already after Knightfall and before Prodigal, and so has a mass Arkham breakout.
If executed well this coulda been overlooked.
On the other hand this is probably a simpler read to give my nephews then something older.
Throughout the 3 issues we also have Black Mask, Two-Face and more causing chaos, all more like teasers for storylines to come. We also have a more unhinged Jason Todd being even more deadlier as the gun-toting Batman, it's a good concept having all 3 Robins battling it out, but I'm just tired of Jason still not gettin his act together. Then again this might be the start of Jason finally choosing a side.
Overall it was a mess to get thru with the amount of characters and the story straying from what your supposed to focus on.
Added on with the companion volume which had issues coming out at the same time totaling 17 issues in this mini-event. I say skip it.
Although slightly essential for fans of Nightwing and Red Robin.
After 'Batman R.i.P.' Gotham is without a Batman and in chaos. Gotham needs a Bat and Nightwing ain't taking the mantle. Tim Drake takes matters into his own hands and is confronted by a lethal, gun carrying Batman. Soon after Nightwing takes on this new 'Punisher' Batman in a battle for the cowl.
Nightwing being reluctant to take up the mantle happened already after Knightfall and before Prodigal, and so has a mass Arkham breakout.
If executed well this coulda been overlooked.
On the other hand this is probably a simpler read to give my nephews then something older.
Throughout the 3 issues we also have Black Mask, Two-Face and more causing chaos, all more like teasers for storylines to come. We also have a more unhinged Jason Todd being even more deadlier as the gun-toting Batman, it's a good concept having all 3 Robins battling it out, but I'm just tired of Jason still not gettin his act together. Then again this might be the start of Jason finally choosing a side.
Overall it was a mess to get thru with the amount of characters and the story straying from what your supposed to focus on.
Added on with the companion volume which had issues coming out at the same time totaling 17 issues in this mini-event. I say skip it.
Although slightly essential for fans of Nightwing and Red Robin.
October 28, 2015
I only have one bad thing to say about this book...it was simply way to short!
Tony Daniels tells a great story of "the student" taking "the masters" place. If anyone was fit to be Batman after Bruce died, it was always going to be Dick Grayson. And this is where that happens. But whats this?! Former dead/psycho/awesome Robin/Red Hood Jason Todd also wants the cowl? And he wants to be super brutal at it? And Tim Drake is also stepping out wearing the infamous symbol? Good lord what a hoot nanny of an affair!
On top of the struggle between the previous Robin's, we have a new Black Mask in Gotham. And he's here to f$&k some shit up! This story is only teased here though. As its only a 3 issue arc, it focuses mainly on Dick, Jason and Tim (and occasionally Damian). The Black Mask story is continued in Batman: Life and Death, also written by Daniels. I think I'm going to need to pick that up as I'm a big Black Mask fan.
Although you don't actually see Dick don the cape and cowl till the very last page, it's still a great story. Showing his reluctancy to take up Bruce's place at first, to eventually coming to terms with it. Plus it was cool to see Tim in the 80's style Batsuit. And anything with Jason in it is always going to be a hit with me.
If your down on Batman, then this is a great addition to any collection. It's a pivotal part (albeit small) in his mythos. Just wish it was longer!
Tony Daniels tells a great story of "the student" taking "the masters" place. If anyone was fit to be Batman after Bruce died, it was always going to be Dick Grayson. And this is where that happens. But whats this?! Former dead/psycho/awesome Robin/Red Hood Jason Todd also wants the cowl? And he wants to be super brutal at it? And Tim Drake is also stepping out wearing the infamous symbol? Good lord what a hoot nanny of an affair!
On top of the struggle between the previous Robin's, we have a new Black Mask in Gotham. And he's here to f$&k some shit up! This story is only teased here though. As its only a 3 issue arc, it focuses mainly on Dick, Jason and Tim (and occasionally Damian). The Black Mask story is continued in Batman: Life and Death, also written by Daniels. I think I'm going to need to pick that up as I'm a big Black Mask fan.
Although you don't actually see Dick don the cape and cowl till the very last page, it's still a great story. Showing his reluctancy to take up Bruce's place at first, to eventually coming to terms with it. Plus it was cool to see Tim in the 80's style Batsuit. And anything with Jason in it is always going to be a hit with me.
If your down on Batman, then this is a great addition to any collection. It's a pivotal part (albeit small) in his mythos. Just wish it was longer!
September 8, 2024
damian’s such a brat in this (i love it)
December 1, 2010
An important storyline for Batman continuity. It's just a shame they made Jason Todd go majorly psycho as he had started to calm down. It is a bit predictable, but the characterisation generally makes up for it.
January 31, 2019
I like the balance here. Battle for the Coal is short, crazy, and intense. The Gotham Gazette is also short, but feels like a deep breath.
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