Writer: Bill Willingham
Artists; Brian Level, Penciller; Jay Leisten, Inker; Lee Loughridge, Colorist
Publisher: DC comics
Price: $3.99
Release date: February 22, 2022
Reviewer: Jamie Robinson
If you’re interested in this comic, series, related trades, or any of the others mentioned, than simply click on the title/link to snag a copy through Amazon.
THOUGHTS:
The conclusion of this strange tale that sees a crossover of Batman with the twisted, fairy tale world of Fables. The final issue is more Fables-centric than it is Batman, but Bat fans will still enjoy seeing Batman interact with the characters. I mainly got interested in this series because I learned of the Bookworm’s involvement, the 60’s TV bat-villain played by Roddy McDowall, but in Batman vs. Bigby! #6, he has changed into another character. Plus, I appreciated the literary references, such as Grendel’s mother from Beowulf.
I also enjoyed the humor in Batman vs. Bigby! #6, such as Alfred’s spontaneous announcement that he’s quitting, and Batman remarking that he “does that from time to time.” While the multiple Robins part is never really explained throughout the story, it seems better left unsaid, given the nature of this narrative, which seems to be focused on the out-of-the-ordinary. If you like magic and weird fiction mixed with references to classic literature, Batman vs. Bigby! #6 is the book for you!
ART
Additionally, I think the art style really captures the “otherworldly” vibe of this series. There are many panels that show characters in action scenes, where they practically leap off the page with the way they’re drawn. It works well with the magical elements of this story.
FINAL THOUGHTS
As someone who likes Batman, fairy tales, literature, and 60’s Batman TV villains, the Batman vs. Bigby! series intrigued me. Personally, though, I was kind of disappointed in the final issue, partially because I expected more of the Bookworm. It would be nice to see more bat-villains that originated in the 60’s TV show re-invented in the mainstream comics in a darker manner. This proves it can be done well. The Fables characters seem to mesh nicely with the world of Batman, and Bookworm served as a good antagonist throughout most of the series, though I honestly think they missed a golden opportunity by not having the Justice League villain, the Queen of Fables, make an appearance.