Writer: Sam Hamm
Art: Joe Quinones and Leonardo Ito
Publisher: DC Comics
Price: $3.99
Release Date: April 12th, 2022
Reviewer: Jamie Robinson
It’s nice to see this comic again after this series has been delayed a few months. Batman ’89 #5 continues the story of turning Billy Dee Williams’ Harvey Dent from the first Michael Keaton Batman movie into Two-Face, and this time, readers can expect to see him fully embrace his criminal persona.
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THE SCOOP
Besides the transformation, fans will finally see a legitimate team-up between Batman and the new Robin, Drake Winston. For those who were disappointed that Pat Hingle’s Commissioner Gordon didn’t get as much screen time in the Burton and Schumacher films, you will enjoy this issue, as he is featured more prominently here. His relationship with his daughter Barbara is explored more as well. And finally, Batman ’89 #5 leaves readers with a harrowing cliffhanger regarding a couple of fan-favorite characters too.
ART
The artwork by Joe Quinones has been stellar as always. Fans of Michelle Pfeiffer’s Catwoman will enjoy the cover art. Although she doesn’t have as much of a presence in Batman ’89 #5, there are still a couple of scenes featuring her. The necklace she wears in one scene could be reminiscent of a similar necklace worn by the Catwoman from the 1960s Batman TV series. Plus, there are also a couple of Easter eggs in Catwoman’s lair which appear to be homages to the 60’s Catwoman actresses Julie Newmar and Eartha Kitt.
There is even a Joker gang member who looks similar to one of the mutants from Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns. Moreover, pay close attention to the scene where Batman swings off the rooftop while rescuing Commissioner Gordon. It’s absolutely amazing as well. Yet even with the plethora of Easter Eggs and rooftop rescues, the panel that stood out the most was the one featuring Two-Face looking into a cracked mirror, being reflective (pun intended) of his damaged psyche.
FINAL THOUGHTS
A lot is packed into Batman ’89 #5 and the action sequences are fast-paced while still presenting a thrilling adventure for fans of the Keaton Batman films. What could the conclusion bring? Will we find out more about the psychiatrist Catwoman mentioned in a previous issue? Will Barbara Gordon become Batgirl? Could we even see a return of Jack Nicholson’s Joker? Whatever happens, it will hopefully be an exciting conclusion!