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Batman One-Shots
Batman: War on Crime
After Batman meets a young boy whose parents were murdered, he reflects on his own life and examines the nature of crime in Gotham City.
64 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 1999
7 people are currently reading
2760 people want to read
About the author
Paul Dini
721 books708 followersPaul Dini is an American television producer of animated cartoons. He is best known as a producer and writer for several Warner Bros./DC Comics series, including Star Wars: Ewoks, Tiny Toon Adventures, Batman: The Animated Series, Superman: The Animated Series, The New Batman/Superman Adventures, Batman Beyond and Duck Dodgers. He also developed and scripted Krypto the Superdog and contributed scripts to Animaniacs (he created Minerva Mink), Freakazoid, Justice League and Justice League Unlimited. After leaving Warner Bros. In early 2004, Dini went on to write and story edit the popular ABC adventure series Lost.
Paul Dini was born in New York City. He attended the Stevenson School in Pebble Beach, California on an art scholarship. He attended Emerson College in Boston, where he earned a BFA degree in creative writing. (He also took zoology classes at Harvard University.)
During college, he began doing freelance animation scripts for Filmation, and a number of other studios. In 1984, he was hired to work for George Lucas on several of his animation projects.
The episodes of the He-Man and the Masters of the Universe cartoon that were written by Dini have become favorites amongst the show's fans over the internet, although despite this as well as contributing to interviews on the released box sets of the series, Dini has made no secret of his distaste for Filmation and the He-Man concept. He also wrote an episode of the Generation One Transformers cartoon series and contributed to various episodes of the Ewoks animated series, several of which included rare appearances from the Empire.
In 1989, he was hired at Warner Bros. Animation to work on Tiny Toon Adventures. Later, he moved onto Batman: The Animated Series, where he worked as a writer, producer and editor, later working on Batman Beyond. He continued working with WB animation, working on a number of internal projects, including Krypto the Superdog and Duck Dodgers, until 2004.
He has earned five Emmy awards for his animation work. In a related effort, Dini was also the co-author (with Chip Kidd) of Batman Animated, a 1998 non-fiction coffee table book about the animated Batman franchise.
Dini has also written several comics stories for DC Comics, including an acclaimed oversized graphic novel series illustrated by painter Alex Ross. (A hardcover collection of the Dini and Ross stories was published in late summer 2005 under the title The World's Greatest Superheroes.) Other books written by Dini for DC have featured his Batman Animated creation Harley Quinn as well as classic characters Superman, Batman, Captain Marvel and Zatanna.
Best known among Dini's original creations is Jingle Belle, the rebellious teen-age daughter of Santa Claus. Dini also created Sheriff Ida Red, the super-powered cowgirl star of a series of books set in Dini's mythical town of Mutant, Texas. Perhaps his greatest character contribution is the introduction of Harley Quinn (along with designs by Bruce Timm) on Batman: The Animated Series.
In 2001 Dini made a cameo appearance in Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back during the scene in which Jay and Silent Bob wear ridiculous looking costumes for a film being directed by Chris Rock, in which Dini says to them "you guys look pretty bad ass".
In 2006, Dini became the writer for DC Comics' Detective Comics. That same year, he announced that he was writing a hardcover graphic novel starring Zatanna and Black Canary. In 2007, he was announced as the head writer of that company's weekly series, Countdown. Paul Dini is currently co-writing the script for the upcoming Gatchaman movie. Dini is also currently writing a series for Top Cow Productions, based in a character he created, Madame Mirage.
Paul Dini is an active cryptozoologist, hunter and wildlife photographer. On a 1985 trip to Tasmania, he had a possible sighting of a Thylacine. He has also encountered a number of venomous snakes, a Komodo Dragon and a charging Sumatran Rhi
Paul Dini was born in New York City. He attended the Stevenson School in Pebble Beach, California on an art scholarship. He attended Emerson College in Boston, where he earned a BFA degree in creative writing. (He also took zoology classes at Harvard University.)
During college, he began doing freelance animation scripts for Filmation, and a number of other studios. In 1984, he was hired to work for George Lucas on several of his animation projects.
The episodes of the He-Man and the Masters of the Universe cartoon that were written by Dini have become favorites amongst the show's fans over the internet, although despite this as well as contributing to interviews on the released box sets of the series, Dini has made no secret of his distaste for Filmation and the He-Man concept. He also wrote an episode of the Generation One Transformers cartoon series and contributed to various episodes of the Ewoks animated series, several of which included rare appearances from the Empire.
In 1989, he was hired at Warner Bros. Animation to work on Tiny Toon Adventures. Later, he moved onto Batman: The Animated Series, where he worked as a writer, producer and editor, later working on Batman Beyond. He continued working with WB animation, working on a number of internal projects, including Krypto the Superdog and Duck Dodgers, until 2004.
He has earned five Emmy awards for his animation work. In a related effort, Dini was also the co-author (with Chip Kidd) of Batman Animated, a 1998 non-fiction coffee table book about the animated Batman franchise.
Dini has also written several comics stories for DC Comics, including an acclaimed oversized graphic novel series illustrated by painter Alex Ross. (A hardcover collection of the Dini and Ross stories was published in late summer 2005 under the title The World's Greatest Superheroes.) Other books written by Dini for DC have featured his Batman Animated creation Harley Quinn as well as classic characters Superman, Batman, Captain Marvel and Zatanna.
Best known among Dini's original creations is Jingle Belle, the rebellious teen-age daughter of Santa Claus. Dini also created Sheriff Ida Red, the super-powered cowgirl star of a series of books set in Dini's mythical town of Mutant, Texas. Perhaps his greatest character contribution is the introduction of Harley Quinn (along with designs by Bruce Timm) on Batman: The Animated Series.
In 2001 Dini made a cameo appearance in Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back during the scene in which Jay and Silent Bob wear ridiculous looking costumes for a film being directed by Chris Rock, in which Dini says to them "you guys look pretty bad ass".
In 2006, Dini became the writer for DC Comics' Detective Comics. That same year, he announced that he was writing a hardcover graphic novel starring Zatanna and Black Canary. In 2007, he was announced as the head writer of that company's weekly series, Countdown. Paul Dini is currently co-writing the script for the upcoming Gatchaman movie. Dini is also currently writing a series for Top Cow Productions, based in a character he created, Madame Mirage.
Paul Dini is an active cryptozoologist, hunter and wildlife photographer. On a 1985 trip to Tasmania, he had a possible sighting of a Thylacine. He has also encountered a number of venomous snakes, a Komodo Dragon and a charging Sumatran Rhi
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
November 30, 2024
9.0/10
Paul Dini and Alex Ross really understand the character in and out of costume and that’s why they delivere one of the best Graphic Novels about the Caped crusader.
Bruce Wayne doesn’t have one alter ego, but two. One is the Bat of Gotham, the vigilante who goes out at night to face criminals in dark alleys, doing what the other men of law can’t. The other is the millionaire, the playboy who spends his time in bright ballrooms and big mansions socializing with other kind of criminals. The first wears a black bat suit and a belt with gadgets, the second one wears a white fancy suit and a fake smile. The way they act is different but the mission is the same, make Gotham a better place.
The whole story is narrated by Batman, we get to spend some days with him and see things the way he does. There isn’t a single speech bubble, yet there are so many things said.
There aren't any "super" villains, there is no Joker, no Riddler, nor Penguin or Poison Ivy. Instead we get to see small criminals committing robberies and dealing drugs. Somehow this is worse, it feels real. In one of the robberies Batman will find a boy who lost both of his parents, he knows what the kid goes through, he can see himself in that boy.
Dini gives a story without many action scenes but with heart and soul. Of course when we talk about Graphic novels we have to mention the art. Alex Ross, one of the best artist out there (in my opinion the best), beautifully illustrated every page of this book. What I love most about him is how he adds depth into the story, look at this picture
You can see that these are real people with stories behind them. He treats every character like that, an old man walking, a couple dining on a restaurant or a doctor treating his patients.
I’m very glad I read this, it shows you that superhero stories are not only cgi, jokes or epic battles with incredibly powerfull villains. There are not always saving the entire planet, sometimes there are here for you, to give you a hug and say that everything is going to be alright.
P.s. I love too see Batman in his black and grey suit.
Paul Dini and Alex Ross really understand the character in and out of costume and that’s why they delivere one of the best Graphic Novels about the Caped crusader.
Bruce Wayne doesn’t have one alter ego, but two. One is the Bat of Gotham, the vigilante who goes out at night to face criminals in dark alleys, doing what the other men of law can’t. The other is the millionaire, the playboy who spends his time in bright ballrooms and big mansions socializing with other kind of criminals. The first wears a black bat suit and a belt with gadgets, the second one wears a white fancy suit and a fake smile. The way they act is different but the mission is the same, make Gotham a better place.
The whole story is narrated by Batman, we get to spend some days with him and see things the way he does. There isn’t a single speech bubble, yet there are so many things said.
There aren't any "super" villains, there is no Joker, no Riddler, nor Penguin or Poison Ivy. Instead we get to see small criminals committing robberies and dealing drugs. Somehow this is worse, it feels real. In one of the robberies Batman will find a boy who lost both of his parents, he knows what the kid goes through, he can see himself in that boy.
Dini gives a story without many action scenes but with heart and soul. Of course when we talk about Graphic novels we have to mention the art. Alex Ross, one of the best artist out there (in my opinion the best), beautifully illustrated every page of this book. What I love most about him is how he adds depth into the story, look at this picture
You can see that these are real people with stories behind them. He treats every character like that, an old man walking, a couple dining on a restaurant or a doctor treating his patients.
I’m very glad I read this, it shows you that superhero stories are not only cgi, jokes or epic battles with incredibly powerfull villains. There are not always saving the entire planet, sometimes there are here for you, to give you a hug and say that everything is going to be alright.
P.s. I love too see Batman in his black and grey suit.
April 28, 2022
One of the few comics where panels and text bubbles are completely non-existent, it's an art piece that documents one man and his goal. It's not unique in premise, but the execution is certainly one of a kind. Both the written and the visual elements are wonderfully constructed, linking to create a well understood portrayal of the city, the Bat and the billionaire.
February 24, 2021
Well, that was rather nice. Paul Dini tells a good Batman story and Alex Ross' art is beautiful.
It is the story about the recurring cycle that is the crime to violence path. Batman seeks to make a difference in the life of a young man who has a similar background in loss. While nothing major, with no "guest" superheroes, this rather simple tale gives a great insight into Batman. Both as the costumed Hero and as Bruce Wayne, as it is a combined effort to help the downtrodden. Cool Batman story that emphasizes Batman doing research, physical training, and good tactical thinking.
Alex Ross' art is beautiful. Each oversized panel, the entire volume consists of these panels, is a beautiful piece by itself. It is the fusion of the simple yet entertaining story coupled with gorgeous artwork that make for a wonderful comic. This is one such comic. Even non-Batman fans will appreciate the beautiful Alex Ross art.
It is the story about the recurring cycle that is the crime to violence path. Batman seeks to make a difference in the life of a young man who has a similar background in loss. While nothing major, with no "guest" superheroes, this rather simple tale gives a great insight into Batman. Both as the costumed Hero and as Bruce Wayne, as it is a combined effort to help the downtrodden. Cool Batman story that emphasizes Batman doing research, physical training, and good tactical thinking.
Alex Ross' art is beautiful. Each oversized panel, the entire volume consists of these panels, is a beautiful piece by itself. It is the fusion of the simple yet entertaining story coupled with gorgeous artwork that make for a wonderful comic. This is one such comic. Even non-Batman fans will appreciate the beautiful Alex Ross art.
November 29, 2016
Τον Αύγουστο που μας πέρασε διάβασα το "Marvels: Η εποχή των θαυμάτων", και δήλωσα πραγματικά μαγεμένος από το σχέδιο και τον χρωματισμό (και από την ιστορία, φυσικά!). Λοιπόν, σε τούτο το κόμικ, ο σχεδιαστής είναι ο ίδιος τύπος, ο Alex Ross. Ε, ένιωσα την ίδια περίπου μαγεία με τότε. Σίγουρα αυτή την φορά το σενάριο είναι πιο απλό και όχι τόσο μεγαλεπήβολο (λογικό αυτό, μιας και το μέγεθος είναι πολύ μικρότερο και η πλοκή με εντελώς διαφορετικούς στόχους), όμως το σχέδιο είναι και πάλι τρομερό. Τι να σας πω, είναι σαν πολλοί πίνακες ζωγραφικής μαζεμένοι σ'ένα τεύχος. Σαν όμορφες φωτογραφίες, σαν σκηνές από κάποια καλογυρισμένη ταινία. Βλέπεις τα σχέδια και νιώθεις ότι είναι στιγμιότυπα από την πραγματική ζωή. Να πω ότι ο Ross είναι πλέον από τους αγαπημένους μου σχεδιαστές κόμικς και ας είναι αυτό μόλις το δεύτερο έργο του που διαβάζω/βλέπω, ή θα φανώ υπερβολικός; Τέλος πάντων, το κόμικ αυτό αξίζει τα λεφτά του, είτε το αγοράσετε με την κανονική του τιμή, είτε με τις γνωστές γερές εκπτώσεις συγκεκριμένων βιβλιοπωλείων. Η ιστορία είναι απλή αλλά έχει το ενδιαφέρον της και είναι, πλέον, κλασική στο είδος της - ο Μπάτμαν από την οπτική γωνία του... Μπάτμαν-, αλλά οι εικόνες και τα χρώματα είναι όλα τα λεφτά. Και το μέγεθος της ελληνικής έκδοσης αναδεικνύει με τον ιδανικότερο τρόπο το σχέδιο του Alex Ross.
May 19, 2022
War on Crime is a slim read, but it hits on the essentials of the Batman/Bruce Wayne dynamic in a way that many other Batman comics fail to. Essentially, Batman can pound criminals, but only Bruce Wayne can inject funding into a moribund, crime-ridden economic zone, thus revitalizing it (and specifically doing so in a way that maintains industry in the locale and isn't just gentrification).
So, yeah, War on Crime is kind of an economics primer? Batman's narration moans about dead parents for the umpteenth time, but is otherwise compelling. War on Crime is a quick read that would be satisfying even without Alex Ross's dramatic painted artwork - with that artwork, it's nearly sublime. You might even find yourself skipping the words.
So, yeah, War on Crime is kind of an economics primer? Batman's narration moans about dead parents for the umpteenth time, but is otherwise compelling. War on Crime is a quick read that would be satisfying even without Alex Ross's dramatic painted artwork - with that artwork, it's nearly sublime. You might even find yourself skipping the words.
January 20, 2022
" He sacrificado mucho para llegar a ser Batman. Mi riqueza me permite tener privacidad, crucial para la supervivencia de mis dos identidades. Pero ¿Qué clase de hombre habría llegado a ser si las cosas hubieran sido distintas?"
Con este corto fragmento se resume con bastante precisión la pregunta que sirve de base argumental para este peculiar comic. A diferencia de otras maravillosas historias como Batman: El largo Halloween , Batman: Presa , o la mítica Batman: The Killing Joke . Aquí no vemos al enmascarado luchando contra una representación extrema , y en ocasiones con poca cordura, del mal. De hecho, no hay un villano tangible sino que, al mejor estilo Batman: Ego , el "antagonismo" clásico es dejado a un lado y la intriga de la historia recae en un cuestionamiento interno del propio personaje de Bruce Wayne quién debe presenciar en Marcus (niño pobre de Bayside en Gotham) una hipotética historia alterna de lo que hubiera sido su vida si la perdida de sus padres le hubiera ocurrido en una situación de vulnerabilidad económica radicalmente distinta, lejos de los recursos para financiarse un Batmobil, tecnología superior al de las agencias de inteligencia o el viaje iniciático en donde conoció a personajes vitales como Henry Ducard o Ra's al Ghul.
Por mucho que pueda valorarse la voluntad y determinación de Bruce Wayne en tanto pudo resistirse a la tentación de frivolidad cínica y casi orgánica de su propia casta social , inteligentemente presentada en el personaje de Randall Winters, lo cierto es que la existencia final de Batman hubiera sido impensable sin un enorme colchón económico detrás que brindase al menos la posibilidad de focalizar la ira de ese modo y poderlo mantener en el tiempo. Bruce es consciente de eso y reconoce de inmediato que hasta ese momento su labor de redención había sido guiada por los impulsos más "gratificantes" de su dolor, viendo en cada criminal golpeado un consumado Joe Chill del cual desquitarse pero... ¿ Qué espacio había reservado para las victimas en su cruzada? Bruce reconoce por fin que la lucha contra el crimen tiene dos partes y, un poco similar al mensaje de Superman: Paz en la tierra , la más importante de todas y justo la parte que estaba descuidando por sentirse más cómodo como criatura terrorífica que como símbolo de redención. Al final del día Gotham (o el mundo en el caso de Superman) no puede ser redimida a espaldas de sus habitantes y aunque Batman pueda nunca ver materializada su ambiciosa promesa de una ciudad sin crimen, si puede sumar pequeñas victorias morales y , en el caso de Batman, usar sus recursos para transformar las vidas de quienes podrían engrosar sus filas y ser Joe Chills a futuro.
Mención a parte a las extraordinarias ilustraciones de Alex Ross. Una delicia visual.
Con este corto fragmento se resume con bastante precisión la pregunta que sirve de base argumental para este peculiar comic. A diferencia de otras maravillosas historias como Batman: El largo Halloween , Batman: Presa , o la mítica Batman: The Killing Joke . Aquí no vemos al enmascarado luchando contra una representación extrema , y en ocasiones con poca cordura, del mal. De hecho, no hay un villano tangible sino que, al mejor estilo Batman: Ego , el "antagonismo" clásico es dejado a un lado y la intriga de la historia recae en un cuestionamiento interno del propio personaje de Bruce Wayne quién debe presenciar en Marcus (niño pobre de Bayside en Gotham) una hipotética historia alterna de lo que hubiera sido su vida si la perdida de sus padres le hubiera ocurrido en una situación de vulnerabilidad económica radicalmente distinta, lejos de los recursos para financiarse un Batmobil, tecnología superior al de las agencias de inteligencia o el viaje iniciático en donde conoció a personajes vitales como Henry Ducard o Ra's al Ghul.
Por mucho que pueda valorarse la voluntad y determinación de Bruce Wayne en tanto pudo resistirse a la tentación de frivolidad cínica y casi orgánica de su propia casta social , inteligentemente presentada en el personaje de Randall Winters, lo cierto es que la existencia final de Batman hubiera sido impensable sin un enorme colchón económico detrás que brindase al menos la posibilidad de focalizar la ira de ese modo y poderlo mantener en el tiempo. Bruce es consciente de eso y reconoce de inmediato que hasta ese momento su labor de redención había sido guiada por los impulsos más "gratificantes" de su dolor, viendo en cada criminal golpeado un consumado Joe Chill del cual desquitarse pero... ¿ Qué espacio había reservado para las victimas en su cruzada? Bruce reconoce por fin que la lucha contra el crimen tiene dos partes y, un poco similar al mensaje de Superman: Paz en la tierra , la más importante de todas y justo la parte que estaba descuidando por sentirse más cómodo como criatura terrorífica que como símbolo de redención. Al final del día Gotham (o el mundo en el caso de Superman) no puede ser redimida a espaldas de sus habitantes y aunque Batman pueda nunca ver materializada su ambiciosa promesa de una ciudad sin crimen, si puede sumar pequeñas victorias morales y , en el caso de Batman, usar sus recursos para transformar las vidas de quienes podrían engrosar sus filas y ser Joe Chills a futuro.
Mención a parte a las extraordinarias ilustraciones de Alex Ross. Una delicia visual.
November 12, 2017
When I rated this back in 2012 I only gave it 3 stars and I literally don't know why. Reading it again now, in absolute format no less, it's a fantastic short and simple story into the insight of Batman and how he approaches crime fighting. Brilliantly crafted by both Alex Ross and Paul Dini. I don't know what 2012 Anthony was thinking with his 3 star review, but he was wrong
November 4, 2015
4.5 stars.
My god! My GOD! this is truly legen--wait for it--dary, LEGENDARY!! seriously, I am awestruck by this graphic novel.
it's not about any definite mission of batman. it is about his ideals, his moralities. this is a reflection of his never ending battle with crime.it shows he is not just a superhero, but an idea. a hope.
paul dini's narrative was very touching. it had many heart-warming lines. it could capture the thought of the dark knight.
but was actually lifted this book is its art. breathtakingly beautiful! i had no idea someone can draw a comic so beautifuuly. alex ross, sir, you have my profound respect.
hat's off.
My god! My GOD! this is truly legen--wait for it--dary, LEGENDARY!! seriously, I am awestruck by this graphic novel.
it's not about any definite mission of batman. it is about his ideals, his moralities. this is a reflection of his never ending battle with crime.it shows he is not just a superhero, but an idea. a hope.
paul dini's narrative was very touching. it had many heart-warming lines. it could capture the thought of the dark knight.
but was actually lifted this book is its art. breathtakingly beautiful! i had no idea someone can draw a comic so beautifuuly. alex ross, sir, you have my profound respect.
hat's off.
July 31, 2017
Batman: War on Crime has stunningly realistic and awesome artwork, the drawing is soooo good, the storyline is an okay one too, but I think I'm too old to believe in the end.
August 11, 2021
Яка шикарна мальовка і яка банальна історія.. ехх
February 15, 2023
Author and artist didn't miss a shot. Be sure to read this in magazine size format, it deserves it.
August 25, 2011
The illustrations are breathtaking. I love that Alex Ross portrays Batman in the simpler older style suit and cowl (grey and black). His artistic talent with painted comics brings out an incredibly realistic feeling to every page. Some of the scenes look like actual photographs. I also appreciate Ross's ability to create realistic, actual body types. His people are actually shaped like people (an interesting concept which fades in and out in the comics genre). I was really very happy to see decently proportioned women (especially in the swimming pool scene) even though the few opportunities to portray people of all shapes in random crowds, I only spotted one women who I could consider "big(ger)".
The story is touching, for those of us who love our Batman and try to relate to the caped-crusader. He meets a young urban child/tween whose life is left in tatters much in the same way as young Bruce. Batman takes pity on the boy and helps him choose the hard life of virtue over a potential life of crime. Batman kicks butt and takes names (and Bruce deals a little justice in his own social circle) and it ends on a bleak but slightly more hopeful sunset. Perfect for my dark knight.
The story is touching, for those of us who love our Batman and try to relate to the caped-crusader. He meets a young urban child/tween whose life is left in tatters much in the same way as young Bruce. Batman takes pity on the boy and helps him choose the hard life of virtue over a potential life of crime. Batman kicks butt and takes names (and Bruce deals a little justice in his own social circle) and it ends on a bleak but slightly more hopeful sunset. Perfect for my dark knight.
March 1, 2024
Esta historia gana con respecto a las otras de Dini y Ross al tener una trama más centrada en algo concreto, pero aún así sufre de lo mismo: El excesivo estatismo del dibujo y lo sermoneador del guion.
September 9, 2025
its ok Batman, you will have more kids
April 24, 2022
This is my favorite 'flavor' of Batman -- the more down-to-earth version that tackles realistic crime. I would have preferred more of a story, but I appreciate the more subtle approach, the more nuanced 'adult' take on the problem of crime, what causes it and how to prevent it (and the problem of identifying who the real criminals are sometimes). I respect Alex Ross's art, I enjoyed looking at the impressively painted pages. Although it did start to feel a bit much at times, like an overly rich meal that looks good and tastes great but which you can only really enjoy in small portions.
November 9, 2013
MINI REVIEW: glorious artwork by Alex Ross (lifelike and bursting out of the panels) but the story by Ross and Paul Dini was above average at best though it may be more engaging to those new to the Batman Mythology.
ARTWORK: B plus; STORY/PLOTTING: C plus to B minus; CHARACTERS/DIALOGUE: B minus; BATMAN MYTHOLOGY: C to C plus; ACTION SCENES: B minus to B; OVERALL GRADE: B minus; WHEN READ: early November 2013.
ARTWORK: B plus; STORY/PLOTTING: C plus to B minus; CHARACTERS/DIALOGUE: B minus; BATMAN MYTHOLOGY: C to C plus; ACTION SCENES: B minus to B; OVERALL GRADE: B minus; WHEN READ: early November 2013.
December 21, 2016
Ο Dini (προσωπικά, αγαπημένος) σε πιο χαμηλές πτήσεις, λίγο πιο "διεκπεραιωτικό" το σενάριο του εδώ, ο Alex Ross όπως πάντα μαγεύει με τους "πίνακες" του!
Να σημειώσω την προσεγμένη έκδοση στα ελληνικά από την Anubis αν και το λίγο προβληματικό λευκό lettering μέσα στις εικόνες.
Να σημειώσω την προσεγμένη έκδοση στα ελληνικά από την Anubis αν και το λίγο προβληματικό λευκό lettering μέσα στις εικόνες.
January 14, 2022
Nachdem mich „Superman – Friede auf Erden“ inhaltlich als auch optisch mächtig begeisterte, freute ich mich nun darauf ein ebenso faszinierendes Comic-Erlebnis mit Batman zu haben.
Ein Erlebnis war es schließlich auch, denn man erlebte hier einen Batman bzw. Bruce Wayne, der sich einmal tiefer in Seele schauen ließ und dabei z.B. über Dinge wie seine Beweggründe oder Antriebe sprach. Dazu bekam man einen Einblick, wie Bruce mithilfe seiner 2 Facetten denen hilft, die vielleicht ähnliches wie er durchgemacht haben. Im krassen Kontext stand hier natürlich die Gegenseite, welche rigoros alles durch Geld und Macht einnehmen wollte. Auch wenn Batmans Welt darauf abzielt, hätte ich mir hier doch ein wenig mehr Vielfalt gewünscht. Vielleicht eine Person die ähnlich wie Bruce an das Gute im Menschen glaubt und ihm ohne eine Superhelden-Identität unterstützt. Aber so blieb der einsame Rächer, eben weiter einsam.
Ja, die Geschichte haute mich nicht so vom Hocker, wie ich es gerne gehabt hätte, aber die Bilder von Alex Ross taten dies auf jeden Fall wieder. Egal ob Gotham, ihre Bewohner, Batmans Kostüm oder die Narben, die seinen Körper zierten, man wurde hier emotional einfach abgeholt. Dies gelang auch dadurch, dass man stellenweise ganze Doppelseiten nutzte, um Szenarien auch wirklich eindrucksvoll in Szene zu setzen.
Trotz der schönen Bilder sollte man auf keine allzu lange Lesedauer hoffen. Die 76 Seiten lasen sich ratzfatz, da oftmals mehr die Bilder die Geschichten erzählten, als die Texte. Ein Hingucker blieb der Band trotzdem.
Fazit:
Mein zweiter Band aus der Feder von Paul Dini und Alex Ross, war zwar wieder ein wahrer Augenschmaus, konnte mich aber nicht so packen, wie sein Gegenstück mit Superman.
Ein Erlebnis war es schließlich auch, denn man erlebte hier einen Batman bzw. Bruce Wayne, der sich einmal tiefer in Seele schauen ließ und dabei z.B. über Dinge wie seine Beweggründe oder Antriebe sprach. Dazu bekam man einen Einblick, wie Bruce mithilfe seiner 2 Facetten denen hilft, die vielleicht ähnliches wie er durchgemacht haben. Im krassen Kontext stand hier natürlich die Gegenseite, welche rigoros alles durch Geld und Macht einnehmen wollte. Auch wenn Batmans Welt darauf abzielt, hätte ich mir hier doch ein wenig mehr Vielfalt gewünscht. Vielleicht eine Person die ähnlich wie Bruce an das Gute im Menschen glaubt und ihm ohne eine Superhelden-Identität unterstützt. Aber so blieb der einsame Rächer, eben weiter einsam.
Ja, die Geschichte haute mich nicht so vom Hocker, wie ich es gerne gehabt hätte, aber die Bilder von Alex Ross taten dies auf jeden Fall wieder. Egal ob Gotham, ihre Bewohner, Batmans Kostüm oder die Narben, die seinen Körper zierten, man wurde hier emotional einfach abgeholt. Dies gelang auch dadurch, dass man stellenweise ganze Doppelseiten nutzte, um Szenarien auch wirklich eindrucksvoll in Szene zu setzen.
Trotz der schönen Bilder sollte man auf keine allzu lange Lesedauer hoffen. Die 76 Seiten lasen sich ratzfatz, da oftmals mehr die Bilder die Geschichten erzählten, als die Texte. Ein Hingucker blieb der Band trotzdem.
Fazit:
Mein zweiter Band aus der Feder von Paul Dini und Alex Ross, war zwar wieder ein wahrer Augenschmaus, konnte mich aber nicht so packen, wie sein Gegenstück mit Superman.
December 4, 2024
A super short story by Paul Dini and Alex Ross.
Despite being very short, this story is extremely effective, with gorgeus art by Alex Ross.
It shows early days Batman dealing with lowlife criminals and trying his best to help the people that need help before they become corrupted by a life of crime.
It's great stuff and the art is incredible!
I've only seen Alex Ross' art in Kingdom Come and while it was technically brilliant, every page on Kingdom Come feels really busy.
This book, in comparison, is really great and a lot less crowded and cluttered. The composition on all of the art is top notch, Great stuff!
My main problem is the lettering. It's bad. BAD! It's tiny, hidden in corners and often the art hides the actual text, with white text on greyish backgrounds. Really annoying to read. Frustrating! Despite the story being solid it took me out when I needed to squint to actually read the page. That is the one gripe.
Ultimately, still a great story and it would only take ten minutes to read. Give it a go!
Despite being very short, this story is extremely effective, with gorgeus art by Alex Ross.
It shows early days Batman dealing with lowlife criminals and trying his best to help the people that need help before they become corrupted by a life of crime.
It's great stuff and the art is incredible!
I've only seen Alex Ross' art in Kingdom Come and while it was technically brilliant, every page on Kingdom Come feels really busy.
This book, in comparison, is really great and a lot less crowded and cluttered. The composition on all of the art is top notch, Great stuff!
My main problem is the lettering. It's bad. BAD! It's tiny, hidden in corners and often the art hides the actual text, with white text on greyish backgrounds. Really annoying to read. Frustrating! Despite the story being solid it took me out when I needed to squint to actually read the page. That is the one gripe.
Ultimately, still a great story and it would only take ten minutes to read. Give it a go!
October 13, 2023
Ero un poco titubante prima di intraprendere questa lettura. Non certo per i disegni di Alex Ross, quanto per come si potrebbe affrontare il tema della lotta al crimine di Batman.
Devo dire che Paul Dini lo ha affrontato molto bene nel complesso.
Molto importante, dal mio punto di vista, è l'uso dell'identità segreta di Batman, ossia Bruce Wayne, per operare contro alcune delle cause che producono la tendenza al crimine. La mancanza di lavoro in particolare. Per recuperare un'area riapre una cartiera dismessa anche se sa che il margine di guadagno non sarà molto, a differenza del suo "socio" palazzinaro per ricchi che vorrebbe demolire tutto e ricostruire e punta tutto sul guadagno massimo.
L'avidità provoca spesso dinamiche anti sociali, povertà, e quindi (insieme all'ignoranza, tema che Dini però non tocca) necessità di darsi al crimine.
4 stelle e mezza.
Devo dire che Paul Dini lo ha affrontato molto bene nel complesso.
Molto importante, dal mio punto di vista, è l'uso dell'identità segreta di Batman, ossia Bruce Wayne, per operare contro alcune delle cause che producono la tendenza al crimine. La mancanza di lavoro in particolare. Per recuperare un'area riapre una cartiera dismessa anche se sa che il margine di guadagno non sarà molto, a differenza del suo "socio" palazzinaro per ricchi che vorrebbe demolire tutto e ricostruire e punta tutto sul guadagno massimo.
L'avidità provoca spesso dinamiche anti sociali, povertà, e quindi (insieme all'ignoranza, tema che Dini però non tocca) necessità di darsi al crimine.
4 stelle e mezza.
November 25, 2019
This short one-shot encapsulates Batman. His purpose, his impact, and his approach (via both Batman and Bruce Wayne). It's also a great representation about the effect crime has on a community, and that not everyone who has turned to it is evil. Some are just trying to get by.
If someone wanted a brief but effective definition of the character and his world, I might point them towards this title.
If someone wanted a brief but effective definition of the character and his world, I might point them towards this title.
July 31, 2025
What a great plot and even greater artwork. Batman stories are always more grounded and humane than the other heroes' counterparts, but somehow this one is even more. No big villains, no arbitrary wins. Batman has a plan to help with both identities, on one side by clearing up the streets and on the other by investing in the neighborhoods.
And the art, oh goddess the art. Every two page is like a painting. It's like having a gallery in your hands. Amazing details and a look and feel that draws you in. Alex Ross did a spectacular job in this one.
And the art, oh goddess the art. Every two page is like a painting. It's like having a gallery in your hands. Amazing details and a look and feel that draws you in. Alex Ross did a spectacular job in this one.
April 5, 2020
Este cómic me ha gustado de manera muy especial. Este paralelismo entre nuestro héroe y Marcus nos lleva a reflexionar sobre los caminos que elegimos a lo largo de nuestras vidas.
August 7, 2025
la historia es interesante pero al principio se me ha hecho difícil leer 😔 por lo demás me ha gustado
February 23, 2017
Un Batman humano, un Batman que no es meramente un símbolo. Y se nota en su rostro, en su expresión que dista tanto del rostro duro e inhumano de otras interpretaciones.
Este es un Batman que esta intentando hacer un cambio social, salvar un barrio, aquí no hay un supervillano de fondo. Aquí el rol de Bruce Wayne es tremendo, es esta faceta, la de plutócrata, la que puede traer el cambio de verdad.
Y el arte aquí es espectacular, tremendo. Lejos lo mejor que he visto, el puro arte hace que este libro valga la pena.
Lo único que lamento es lo breve que fue. Enormes obras de arte con reducido texto. Es impresionante, pero si cambiaras el formato te queda un historia terriblemente breve.
Este es un Batman que esta intentando hacer un cambio social, salvar un barrio, aquí no hay un supervillano de fondo. Aquí el rol de Bruce Wayne es tremendo, es esta faceta, la de plutócrata, la que puede traer el cambio de verdad.
Y el arte aquí es espectacular, tremendo. Lejos lo mejor que he visto, el puro arte hace que este libro valga la pena.
Lo único que lamento es lo breve que fue. Enormes obras de arte con reducido texto. Es impresionante, pero si cambiaras el formato te queda un historia terriblemente breve.
June 18, 2017
ο διάβασα σε μια καθισιά, τόσο δα είναι άλλωστε. Δεν το λες και κόμικ κόμικ. Περισσότερο μια σειρά από πανέμορφες ζωγραφιές με λεζάντες που έχουν σκοπό μια αμεσότερη προσέγγιση της ζωής του Μπάτμαν και των σκέψεων του. Πολύ βασικά πράγματα δηλαδή, το τι ωθεί τον Μπάτμαν να κάνει ότι κάνει και ποια είναι η αίσθηση ηθικής του. Πράγματα που τα έχουν πει, και ξαναπεί, και ξαναπεί εκατοντάδες φορές με διαφορετικούς τρόπους. :) Έστω και έτσι δεν με χάλασε που το διάβασα, περισσότερο το πήρα για το οφθαλμόλουτρο του Ross.
Η έκδοση είναι ότι πρέπει σε μέγεθος αλλά το εξώφυλλο δεν μου κάθεται καλά. Υπάρχουν πολύ καλύτερα μονοσέλιδα μέσα στο κόμικ που με λίγες τροποποιήσεις έδιναν καλύτερο αέρα από την σφιγμένη φάτσα του κυρίου Γουέιν.
Η έκδοση είναι ότι πρέπει σε μέγεθος αλλά το εξώφυλλο δεν μου κάθεται καλά. Υπάρχουν πολύ καλύτερα μονοσέλιδα μέσα στο κόμικ που με λίγες τροποποιήσεις έδιναν καλύτερο αέρα από την σφιγμένη φάτσα του κυρίου Γουέιν.
June 10, 2012
Paul Dini en Batman, éxito seguro
Este hombre entrega desde que se involucro con la serie de los años 90 algunas de las mejores historias del encapotado.
No necesitas saber nada de Batman más allá de su origen que es ya una leyenda moderna para leer este título, no avanza la historia, es sólo una edición de aniversario para celebrar a sus grandes personajes
Este hombre entrega desde que se involucro con la serie de los años 90 algunas de las mejores historias del encapotado.
No necesitas saber nada de Batman más allá de su origen que es ya una leyenda moderna para leer este título, no avanza la historia, es sólo una edición de aniversario para celebrar a sus grandes personajes
December 5, 2016
Λακωνικο γραψιμο, υπεροχο σκιτσαρισμα, συντομη ιστορια. Με αλλα λογια, ενα εξαιρετικο starting point για οσους δεν εχουν ιδεα απο που να ξεκινησουν.
Στην ουσια, προκειται για εναν μονολογο του Batman καθως προσπαθει με διαφορους τροπους να πετυχει τον τιτλο του κομικ. Η αποδοση των σκεψεων του Bruce ειναι καταπληκτικες.
Στην ουσια, προκειται για εναν μονολογο του Batman καθως προσπαθει με διαφορους τροπους να πετυχει τον τιτλο του κομικ. Η αποδοση των σκεψεων του Bruce ειναι καταπληκτικες.
July 27, 2019
First and foremost, a huge shout out to Alex Ross's art which is as always phenomenal, so life like and atmospheric. The plot is very intriguing. Paul Dini shows us a side of Batman that many contemporary writers have forgotten about. His war on crime is not only to fight the bad guys but also to bring a change and save the people from going down a dark path.
August 28, 2020
I read three Paul Dini / Alex Ross books today and this was the third! They'll be short ones since they're all very light on plot and more an excuse to give you gorgeous Alex Ross art to gawk at as he depicts these characters.
Batman: War on Crime is just a great story. My favorite of the group Paul Dini and Alex Ross did (Though I haven't read Shazam's book yet) and definitely asks the question I like most. While Wonder Woman's plot was focused on her learning to relate to mankind, and Superman's was him attempting to solve a problem too high and mighty for even himself, Batman's book presents the idea that not all problems need to be solved with violence.
While out on patrol one night Batman hears two gunshots and sees a man running out of a convenience store. It takes him mere moments to subdue the man, before he goes to check on the store itself. Inside he finds two corpses and, much to his horror, a young boy who the shooter had apparently spared. Batman does what he can to help the kid, but he knows from experience what he's been through and resolves to check up later.
There are two big conundrums in this story. The first is Batman wanting to make sure that the boy who survived the shooting, Marcus, doesn't fall into crime. The second is Bruce Wayne discovering from another wealthy acquaintance that the neighborhood Marcus lives in is prime real estate for the super rich. The man basically wants to gentrify the neighborhood, force the old residents out, and use it to build premium housing.
Sure, violence could solve these problems. Should Marcus join one of the many active gangs around his neighborhood all Batman would have to do is run up and punch him to solve that problem. And if Bruce doesn't like the idea of gentrifying the neighborhood, he could just as easily punch the guy who presented the offer to him.
Marcus does fall into crime. It's almost an inevitability given his situation. No parents, living in a bad neighborhood. There's nothing he can do to stop it. And there's one fantastic moment in here that I won't spoil where Batman manages to talk Marcus down before he does something he'd regret. It's very nice, and the first nice bit that proves not all confrontations require violence to solve.
The gentrifying neighborhood is easy as well. He works as Batman to lower the crime rate in the area, then invests money into the people who live there himself. He's even told that in reopening old businesses that had shut down and giving these people a new chance at a safer life his profits are going to be razor thin. But not everything is about profits, and Bruce Wayne is every big as capable of improving people's lives as Batman is when saving them. It's just a really nice story overall and definitely my favorite of the bunch (Though again as of this writing I haven't read the Shazam story that may change!)
Definitely recommended.
Batman: War on Crime is just a great story. My favorite of the group Paul Dini and Alex Ross did (Though I haven't read Shazam's book yet) and definitely asks the question I like most. While Wonder Woman's plot was focused on her learning to relate to mankind, and Superman's was him attempting to solve a problem too high and mighty for even himself, Batman's book presents the idea that not all problems need to be solved with violence.
While out on patrol one night Batman hears two gunshots and sees a man running out of a convenience store. It takes him mere moments to subdue the man, before he goes to check on the store itself. Inside he finds two corpses and, much to his horror, a young boy who the shooter had apparently spared. Batman does what he can to help the kid, but he knows from experience what he's been through and resolves to check up later.
There are two big conundrums in this story. The first is Batman wanting to make sure that the boy who survived the shooting, Marcus, doesn't fall into crime. The second is Bruce Wayne discovering from another wealthy acquaintance that the neighborhood Marcus lives in is prime real estate for the super rich. The man basically wants to gentrify the neighborhood, force the old residents out, and use it to build premium housing.
Sure, violence could solve these problems. Should Marcus join one of the many active gangs around his neighborhood all Batman would have to do is run up and punch him to solve that problem. And if Bruce doesn't like the idea of gentrifying the neighborhood, he could just as easily punch the guy who presented the offer to him.
Marcus does fall into crime. It's almost an inevitability given his situation. No parents, living in a bad neighborhood. There's nothing he can do to stop it. And there's one fantastic moment in here that I won't spoil where Batman manages to talk Marcus down before he does something he'd regret. It's very nice, and the first nice bit that proves not all confrontations require violence to solve.
The gentrifying neighborhood is easy as well. He works as Batman to lower the crime rate in the area, then invests money into the people who live there himself. He's even told that in reopening old businesses that had shut down and giving these people a new chance at a safer life his profits are going to be razor thin. But not everything is about profits, and Bruce Wayne is every big as capable of improving people's lives as Batman is when saving them. It's just a really nice story overall and definitely my favorite of the bunch (Though again as of this writing I haven't read the Shazam story that may change!)
Definitely recommended.
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