Throughout the 24 years since the first Batman film in 1989, the Batman film franchise has seen its share of highs and lows. Most recently, Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy has concluded and has left the franchise in completely different territory than in 1997 after the dismal failure that is known as Batman & Robin.

In particular, the previous Batman films prior to the Dark Knight trilogy all have many inconsistencies within the individual plots of each film. In addition, the performances in these four films range quite a bit in terms of their quality and several of the performances do not hold up after several years which affect the films as a whole.

With that in mind, here are the 10 worst casting decisions in the Batman film franchise…

10. Katie Holmes as Rachel Dawes in Batman Begins

If there is one casting mistake in Christopher Nolan’s trio of Batman films, it is the casting of Katie Holmes as Rachel Dawes in Batman Begins. Holmes’ performance is not entirely bad, in fact, in the beginning of the movie, she is good, specifically when her character is telling Bruce Wayne, played by Christian Bale, how mob boss Carmine Falcone, portrayed by Tom Wilkinson, is destroying the city Bruce’s deceased parents were working on changing for the better prior to their deaths.

However, as the film continues, Holmes lacks in execution of her role. Granted, in The Dark Knight, the character is written in a way that allows audiences to emotionally invest more in her and the character is portrayed by a different actress in Maggie Gyllenhaal. While the criticisms of Holmes in this film have been well documented and become excessive, it can’t be denied that Gyllenhaal outperforms Holmes and leaves many fans of Batman movies wishing the former played the character in both Batman Begins and The Dark Knight.

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The James Bond character has seen quite a few actors portray the British secret agent since the first film in 1962. Every one of the actors who has starred as the man known as 007 has given his own interpretation of the character while remaining faithful to what are the natural characteristics of Bond.

Daniel Craig, the actor who has played James Bond in the last three films, has interpreted the character in a unique way. While incorporating the qualities that make Bond who he is in his performances, Craig also delivers a fresh take on the character. In Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace and Skyfall, it is clear that Craig’s Bond and the threats that oppose him are a modern representation of today’s world.

Here are 10 reasons why we can’t get enough of Daniel Craig as James Bond…

10. His Charm

One of the qualities of James Bond throughout the 51 years of the character’s film history has been his natural ability to captivate women and it is no different in Craig’s turn as Bond. Craig interprets that specific trait of the character organically, specifically, in Casino Royale, as the beautiful but strong-willed Vesper Lynd, played by Eva Green, is aware of Bond’s appeal during their introduction to one another in the film.

As the film progresses, Lynd and Bond develop a mutual attraction for one another and it is not often, if at all, that Bond is attracted to a woman and then wants to pursue a relationship with her. Due to his success in a high-stakes poker game to take down La Chiffre, he chooses to resign from MI6. While his return as 007 eventually transpires, it is interesting to watch the development of the relationship between Bond and Lynd and see that it is possible for Bond to perhaps have a life beyond womanising and the duties of being a secret agent.

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This summer will mark the return to film of the greatest superhero, Superman, in the much anticipated movie, Man of Steel. Superman is as close to perfection as a superhero can be given his remarkable abilities. Man of Steel has the potential to not only be the best Superman film but one of the best movies of 2013.

Expectations are high for the film, thanks not least to a smart trailer campaign. Those trailers have been thought-provoking and engaging, rather than explosive and eye-catching, and have sold an agenda that seems intent on asking interesting questions regarding an individual who is sent to Earth as an infant and is forced to adapt to living in a world where there is no one else similar to him.

Man of Steel, like the Dark Knight trilogy, is grounded in realism and rather than the all-guns blazing attitude of The Avengers, it seems as though we will be offered an insight into how Superman became human, before he became superhuman. It’s an intriguing suggestion, to say the least.

Here are 5 reasons Man of Steel will rule this summer.

5. The Visual Aesthetics

Regarding the three trailers that have been released, in particular, the latest trailer that debuted in April, it is a fair assessment to say that Man of Steel looks amazing. The director of the movie, Zack Snyder, has directed films such as 300 and Sucker Punch that are  unique from a visual perspective, though not entirely successful (in terms of the latter.)

While Snyder worked with cinematographer Larry Fong on both 300 and Sucker Punch, the cinematographer for Man of Steel is Amir Mokri whose previous works include Fast & Furious, Transformers: Dark of the Moon and  The Wolverine, which is scheduled to be released in July 2013. That shift in talent shouldn’t change Snyder’s individual convictions though, and we can expect something extremely stylised, even if it resists the temptation to go full comic book.

Although how a film looks does not always guarantee success and considering all the other key elements to what makes a great film such as strong writing and directing in addition to memorable performances, it can’t be denied that Man of Steel looks incredible.

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Prior to the theatrical release of Iron Man 3, it was evident from the film’s plot that Tony Stark would encounter many challenges throughout the movie. The tone in the trailers of the film suggested that Stark would be dealing with issues that affected him personally. While he had his share of particular problems in the previous Iron Man films, Stark was affected in a different manner in Iron Man 3 because he helped save the world from a tremendous threat in The Avengers.

In The Avengers, Stark makes a heroic effort in saving the world from a missile and nearly getting caught inside a wormhole while placing the nuclear weapon inside of it so that it detonates and destroys the Chitauri. The aftermath of the battle sets up the premise of why Stark is struggling in Iron Man 3.

Here are 5 reasons Tony Stark is more human than superhero in Iron Man 3.

5. His Panic Attacks

Tony Stark is one of the last people expected to display issues with stress. In the previous Iron Man films, Stark chooses to turn the attention away from himself in moments that expose what can be perceived as weakness. Only the audience and the people he has a close bond with, his girlfriend Pepper Potts and best friend Col. James Rhodes, witness Stark in times of difficulty. If he can, he prefers to keep Pepper and Rhodes from seeing him troubled.

However, in Iron Man 3, Stark is clearly using his work as a distraction more than usual and is showing signs of being even more of a workaholic than what the audience is accustomed to seeing. It is mentioned early in the film that Stark has had difficulty sleeping which will eventually affect anyone no matter if the person is a superhero.

Viewers witness Stark crack on multiple occasions during the film such as when he has a discussion with Pepper about how his life has changed since the events of what occurred in The Avengers and that he feels he can’t protect her from danger. Due to the traumatic effects of the climatic battle in The Avengers, Stark begins to show symptoms of having a panic attack when there is any mention of what transpired or he has a dream of what occurred. Stark’s struggles with anxiety, while perplexing to see, is a part that makes his character arc the strongest of any of the films he has been in.

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Star Trek Into Darkness is a film that garnered high expectations due to the success of the movie Star Trek that was released in 2009 and reinvigorated the film franchise. The 2009 movie portrayed the characters as much younger than they had been interpreted in the previous films. A group of young characters setting out on adventures that are the result of the missions the members of Starfleet take on is a refreshing interpretation for the film franchise.

From the trailers and what was revealed about the plot of Star Trek Into Darkness prior to the movie’s release, it is evident that the members aboard the USS Enterprise would be faced with escalation in terms of the threat that opposes them. Here are 5 reasons why Star Trek Into Darkness is the best Star Trek movie yet….

WARNING: MAJOR SPOILERS CONTAINED WITHIN

5. Benedict Cumberbatch’s Performance

One of the most intriguing aspects leading up to the release of Star Trek Into Darkness was the anticipation of Benedict Cumberbatch’s performance as the primary villain. In viewing the film, Cumberbatch’s portrayal is synonymous with the perception the audience had of him from watching the trailers. He is physically intimidating and a cold character not only due to his actions but through how he speaks. One look at Cumberbatch in this film is all it takes to realize how much of a threat he is.

Cumberbatch, as Khan, strikes fear into those who oppose him through his actions and dialogue. Kirk, Spock and the rest of the members of the Enterprise witness the destruction Khan is capable of as the film progresses. One of the reasons this film is successful is because of the performances of the actors. Cumberbatch clearly excels at portraying a formidable villain.

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The Dark Knight trilogy has many memorable performances throughout each film. Whether it be actors who reprised their roles such as Christian Bale as Bruce Wayne, Michael Caine as Alfred or Gary Oldman as Commissioner Gordon, to actors who shined in their respective roles in only one of the films, such as Heath Ledger as the Joker or Aaron Eckhart as Harvey Dent… the trilogy is filled with examples of excellent portrayals.

However, there are performances throughout the trilogy that do not receive quite as much positive attention as they should get. Here are 5 performances that are overlooked in The Dark Knight trilogy…

5. Morgan Freeman (Lucius Fox)

Morgan Freeman’s depiction of Lucius Fox in The Dark Knight trilogy is one example of seeing an accomplished actor portray the same character in the trilogy. Fox is one character who had yet to be included in a Batman film before the first film in the trilogy, Batman Begins was released in 2005.

Similar to many of the actors who play their respective parts, Freeman owns the role of Lucius Fox from the first time he appears in Batman Begins. Fox and Bruce Wayne have a relationship that has some similarities to the relationship between Bruce and Alfred. Lucius cares for Bruce and supports him in his decision to become Batman. Bruce trusts Lucius with not only his needs as Batman such as requesting a new Batsuit in The Dark Knight but playing a substantial role in running Wayne Enterprises.

Although the interactions between Lucius and Bruce do not have moments of emotion as witnessed in the relationship between Bruce and Alfred, the tone of several of their interactions resembling business-like discussions is key to their bond and to the films.

Similar to the rest of the supporting performances in the trilogy, Freeman excels in his portrayal as Lucius Fox in each of the three films. Fans of Freeman and the trilogy are privileged to have an actor of Freeman’s caliber play a character more than once as he does in The Dark Knight trilogy.

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Guardians Of The Galaxy will be unlike the typical superhero film because it features elements that make it unique on the surface. The Guardians of the Galaxy feature a team that is led by Peter Quill who is also known as Star-Lord whose mother is human and his father is alien. Drax the Destroyer is an alien who was resurrected after he and his family were killed. Gamora is of the Zen-Whoberi species and its last survivor. To make the team even more intriguing is Rocket Raccoon.

Here are 5 reasons to be excited for Guardians Of The Galaxy:

5. The Casting Of Zoe Saldana

Zoe Saldana will play Gamora in the upcoming film. Saldana portrays a strong female character very well as she does as Uhura in the two Star Trek films that have been released. Gamora possesses characteristics of being a brave heroine and the casting of Saldana into this role is a good choice. Saldana will play a character who is teaming up with other characters who are male which is similar to the surroundings of her character in Star Trek.

Each of the characters that represent the Guardians of the Galaxy have enough qualities that separate them from one another but make them effective as a team and Gamora is no different. In addition to being the only female character, Gamora represents the last living member of the Zen-Whoberi species, which were killed by a religious cult known as the Universal Challenge of Truth.

Saldana will shine as Gamora, a courageous female character who is a member of a team that is protecting the galaxy.

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Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

June has been an eventful month for Superman fans with the release of the film, Man Of Steel and the release of the first issues of the comic book titles Superman Unchained and Batman/Superman. Writer Greg Pak along with artists Jae Lee and Ben Oliver are off to a good start with the Batman/Superman comic book. The issue’s title, Cross World, is interesting due to the panels on the page that display the different upbringings of Bruce Wayne and Clark Kent. The work done by the creative team in the first few pages creates questions of how these two individuals can coexist.

The difference in the upbringings of Clark and Bruce are the highlight of the title page because their experiences have influenced how they view the world. Clark believes there are explanations for the bad choices people make. From Bruce’s perspective, there are not always reasons for those kinds of decisions. From the start of the issue, Pak makes it evident how uncomfortable Clark is in Gotham City. Lee’s art work in the opening panels is excellent in capturing how Clark feels as he is searching for Bruce Wayne. 

Pak excels at expressing the thoughts of Bruce and Clark during the sequence where they first meet each other. Clark is upfront and honest whereas Bruce is mysterious and reserved. Bruce appears to be resigned to his surroundings and his arrogance is evident during his conversation with Clark. Bruce does not appear to care that he referred to Clark as Kemp instead of Kent. From Bruce’s perspective, Clark is another reporter in the media concerned with spreading rumors. In Clark’s opinion, Bruce is an unappreciative individual. Both of their perceptions of each other are the complete opposite of what they actually stand for. From the reader’s point of view, it makes it appealing to ponder how the alliance between Bruce and Clark will form into the partnership that has become established.

During the battle in Metropolis between Batman and Superman, Pak delves into the psyches of the two superheroes again. Batman realizes that he will not be able to match Superman’s strength so he must use his intelligence to gain an advantage. Superman does not expect Batman to remain calm during their encounter. During the clash between the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel, the villain who has manipulated the conflict transports the heroes to Earth 2. On Earth 2, Batman attempts to stop the fighting as he does not understand why Clark is in a physical conflict with him. From his point of view, Bruce and Clark have been allies for sometime as he is able to shield himself from Superman and weaken him with Kryptonite. However, the mysterious villain known as the Trickster continues her deception. She is able to make the surroundings on Earth 2 recognizable to Superman as he believes Batman has made him burn his father’s tree. The issue concludes with Jonathan Kent asking his son what he has done as the Trickster is pleased with what has transpired on Earth 2.

A noticeable difference is the change in the art in the last few pages. Jae Lee draws the majority of the issue while Ben Oliver is the artist for the last few pages that are on Earth 2. Greg Pak succeeds in the first issue of Batman/Superman and leaves readers anticipating issue #2. The artwork, particularly Lee’s, is excellent as his pencils contribute to the success of the first issue starring the two iconic superheroes.

Batman/Superman #1 by Greg Pak, Jae Lee and Ben Oliver is available now

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Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Writer John Layman and artist Jason Fabok have been a great team in making Detective Comics an entertaining comic since they took over creative duties in issue #13 of the title. Batman’s investigative skills are significant to what makes him an effective superhero. Detective Comics has displayed Batman utilizing his analytical talents for several years and hundreds of issues, which make it stand out in particular from the rest of the Batman comic books. The success Layman and Fabok have had has made the title a reliable, enjoyable read every month. Detective Comics has been consistently good since Layman and Fabok took over that it is one of the best Batman comic books, which is what Detective Comics should be considered as given its illustrious history.

In issue #22 of Detective Comics, Gotham City police officers are being killed by an unknown figure that bears resemblance to the Dark Knight. Commissioner Jim Gordon quickly puts a stop to any speculation among the police officers that Batman is the perpetrator. An interesting development occurs between Bruce Wayne and another businessman, E.D. Caldwell. Caldwell offers to buy Wayne Enterprises to which Bruce states that Wayne Enterprises is not for sale and declines his offer. Caldwell’s presence suggests that this is not the last readers have seen of this character.

Batman attempts to find out who is killing police officers in Gotham and encounters an individual who is referred to as Scorn. Scorn manages to escape due to gunfire from a helicopter that targets a police officer and Batman. An intimidating individual berates Scorn for not succeeding in killing more police officers. The figure reveals himself to be the Wrath and he proceeds to fire Scorn and toss him out of the helicopter.

Layman excels at points in the issue where Batman is thinking and the character’s thought process is emphasized as he attempts to catch who has been killing police officers. Layman’s writing of the antagonist, known as the Wrath, portrays a remorseless person who is clearly on a mission to harm Gotham City police officers. Fabok’s artwork compliments the book as usual. His artwork whether it be in panels involving action or simple dialogue between characters such as between Bruce and Caldwell is stunning.

Detective Comics #22 is another piece by Layman and Fabok that readers will enjoy. Detective Comics has been so consistent and reliable since Layman and Fabok took over that it is one of the top two Batman comic books. The issue is an example of what makes Batman an appealing character to read about in comics.

Detective Comics #22 by John Layman and Jason Fabok is available now.

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Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

DC Comics was unexpectedly in need of finding another creative team for Action Comics after writer Andy Diggle announced he would be no longer writing the title before his first issue was even released in comic book stores. Diggle’s abrupt time writing the historic title only resulted in one issue, #19, being written by Diggle. Action Comics #19 was one of the best issues of the title since the beginning of the New 52 and it was unfortunate that Diggle’s time on Action Comics was very brief. While Diggle’s name was listed on issues #20 and #21 of the title, the artist, Tony Daniel, who was originally paired with Diggle to illustrate the title and who has had experienced with writing comics in the past, took over writing duties in issues #20 and #21. Daniel left the title after completing issue #21.

It was recently announced in an interview posted on the USA Today website that Greg Pak, who is currently writing the Batman/Superman title, will take over the writing duties of Action Comics. Artist Aaron Kuder will join Pak in issue #25 of Action Comics, which will be released this November. Until then, the current writer of the title Superman, Scott Lobdell, will be writing Action Comics. Artist Tyler Kirkham is joining Lobdell on another brief arc of Action Comics before the first issue of the title by the creative team of Pak and Kuder is released in comic book stores this fall.

In Action Comics #22, titled Atomic Knights, part one, Dr. Hector Hammond, who is a villain in Green Lantern, has escaped from S.T.A.R. Labs and is orbiting in space. He encounters an alien named Straith, the first knight of the Pax Galactica. In Metropolis, Clark Kent is with Cat Grant, another writer at a party when he notices, with the benefit of his x-ray vision, that an actor named Harlan Quint is powered by infinitium. Clark was already suspicious that he saw a sample of infinitium at the party. He believed the only amount of infinitium that matched the sample he saw was in his possession in his Fortress of Solitude.

From space, Dr. Hammond calls upon Superman to join him in Earth’s orbit. Superman arrives and the villain points out the damage Straith did to Hammond’s weapon, which possessed a photon reactor capable of severely damaging cities on Earth. Dr. Hammond tells Superman where Straith is located and Superman and the alien engage in a physical confrontation. Before the battle reaches its climax, another alien, Lourdes of the Pax Galactica, accompanied by two other allies, commands Straith not kill Superman and that they unite against the force referred to as the Lexus.

Tyler Kirkham’s art stands out in panels involving the aliens of the Pax Galactica and the battle scene between Superman and Straith. Kirkham’s artwork sets up for what will follow next as Superman will join forces with the Pax Galactica against the Lexus.

Action Comics #22 by Scott Lobdell and Tyler Kirkham is available now.

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Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo continue their eleven issue story arc, Zero Year, in Batman #22. In part two of the creative team’s tale of Batman’s origin, Snyder and Capullo continue to distance their take from the dark atmosphere of Frank Miller’s Year One by presenting a different interpretation while remaining faithful to the Batman mythology. Year One focused as much on Commissioner Gordon as Bruce Wayne but if the first two issues of Zero Year are an indication, the primary focus of this story will be Bruce Wayne. Many familiar supporting characters such as Alfred and Commissioner Gordon will be featured but this modern storytelling of Bruce Wayne’s origin will undoubtedly make Batman the main character at the conclusion of this arc.

A young Bruce Wayne continues his battle against the primary threat to Gotham City, the Red Hood Gang. Snyder makes a subtle reference to the Falcone family regarding to the criminal gang and the Penguin makes a brief appearance in this issue. The Red Hood Gang continues to prove why they are a danger to Gotham at this time from capturing one of the most famous Batman villains, the Penguin. The Red Hood Gang continues to get away from Bruce Wayne and it is evident Bruce’s frustration is growing during his heated verbal exchange with Alfred. Bruce continues to experience difficulties in his life as his uncle, Philip Kane, reveals that Bruce is alive at a surprise celebration to which Bruce quickly flees from. Bruce will eventually come to the realization that he can’t hide forever as he prefers to early on in the beginning of this story arc. It is clear Bruce will become aware that there is more of a benefit to him being alive and helping Gotham instead of choosing to remain legally dead.

The most interesting panel in the issue by Capullo is during a conversation between Bruce and Edward Nygma. Nygma tells Bruce of his fascination with Egyptian designs of board games. The panel is in the shape of the Oroboros, which Nygma explains to Bruce is a large creature that creates itself by eating its own parts. The unique panel continues to delve into the complex mind of Edward Nygma, who is famously known as the Riddler. However, Nygma has yet to embrace that persona at this point in the story arc just like Bruce Wayne has yet to become Batman for the first time.

Snyder and Capullo continue to form the beginning of their in-depth eleven issue story arc of the origin of one of the most greatest superheroes. This second nearly yearlong tale by the creative team will continue to present readers with a different but a faithful interpretation of Bruce Wayne and the challenges he will face just as Snyder and Capullo did in the eleven issue Court of Owls story arc.

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Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Beware The Batman marks the return of Batman in an animated television series. The series brings the character back to familiar territory in terms of tone that were present in Batman The Animated Series and Batman Beyond. In the first episode of the new series, Hunted, viewers see a young Bruce Wayne and his inexperience is tested. Another feature of how early the series takes place in Bruce Wayne’s life is that Jim Gordon is not the Commissioner of the Gotham City Police Department yet. Gordon is the Lieutenant of the police department and has not established the alliance he is known to have with Batman. It will be interesting to watch in future episodes how the partnership between Lieutenant Gordon and Batman will begin to form.

The background of another important person to Bruce Wayne, Alfred Pennyworth, is different. Alfred is a retired agent at MI6 and he makes his presence felt right away by unexpectedly testing Bruce through his disguise as an intruder. It is clear the Alfred that fans will see in Beware The Batman is willing to engage in combat if it is necessary, which is a new take on the character. Alfred reminds the young Bruce early on that Bruce Wayne and Batman are the same person despite Bruce not acknowledging that he does not need help as Batman.

One of the other changes in Beware The Batman will be the villains that will be featured. Well-known villains such as the Joker, the Penguin and the Riddler will not appear, at least not initially. In the episode, Professor Pyg and Mister Toad are kidnapping and hunting rich businessmen for what they consider to be crimes against nature. Batman discovers that Bruce Wayne is one of the people that Pyg and Toad are hunting after Alfred is taken by the evil duo. After Batman prevents Pyg and Toad from harming Alfred along with two rich tycoons, Bruce and Alfred have an important conversation. Bruce admits that he needs Alfred’s help as both Bruce Wayne and Batman while Alfred explains that he will not always be able to protect Bruce. Alfred introduces Tatsu Yamashiro, who is known as Katana, to Bruce and tells him she will be his new bodyguard. Considering that Bruce does not trust many people, it will be interesting to watch the interactions that develop between Bruce and Tatsu.

Beware The Batman is the first Batman television series to be CGI animated. The  change compliments the new series well in addition to the voices of Anthony Ruivivar as Bruce Wayne and JB Blanc as Alfred. Ruivivar serves as a modern interpretation as the voice of Bruce Wayne in this series. Brian George does an exceptional job as the voice of Professor Pyg. While remaining faithful to the core of the character, Beware The Batman offers plenty of fresh elements that benefit the new animated series.

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Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

In The Flash #22, Barry Allen is worried due to the deaths of the three people that have occurred. All of the three victims were associated with the speed force along with Iris and Barry. As The Flash, Barry visits Iris at work and tells her that he will protect her from the unknown perpetrator. After giving Iris a Flash suit of her own, they look for evidence as to who may be responsible for the murders. They find a piece of evidence and bring it back to crime lab where Barry’s girlfriend, Patty, examines it. The Flash knows it needs to investigate the situation further and tells Iris to remain with Patty at the lab for her own safety.

Barry further investigates the mystery and discovers that an individual wearing his symbol who is called Reverse-Flash is responsible for the murders. Dr. Darwin Elias, who blames Flash for his misfortunes as a scientist, is confronted by Reverse-Flash but the Flash arrives quickly to prevent Dr. Elias from being harmed. Reverse-Flash quickly gains the advantage in a physical confrontation with the Flash.

Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato continue their run on The Flash with another good issue. The book maintains its excellent artwork in this issue as it has since issue #1 of the title. The Flash #22 is an interesting comic book because the Reverse-Flash character is revealed in addition to the issue’s incredible artwork.

The Flash #22 is available now.

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Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

In the second annual of the Batman comic book title, new writer Marguerite Bennett delivers a solid issue that will leave readers with many emotions regarding the Anchoress. After reading and reflecting on this issue, the Anchoress is simply creepy and a character filled with rage. Bennett characterized the Anchoress perfectly and the art by Wes Craig is a nice complement throughout the issue and specifically regarding his illustrations of the Anchoress.

One of the significant supporting characters in the annual is an orderly named Eric Border who is beginning his employment at Arkham Asylum and he is introduced to Batman himself. After the interesting misdirection of having Batman appear he is being locked  in Arkham it is revealed that Batman is present to test the security at the asylum.

Eric, who maintains a positive perspective throughout the issue, which is a fresh take given how people in Gotham are characterized as being more cynical than being hopeful. Even though Eric is from Metropolis, which is a different environment from Gotham, the character is written well and his attitude stands out because it is different than the somber tone that usually surrounds Gotham City.

Eric does not understand the mystery behind why the Anchoress has been forgotten about at Arkham but she lets him known when the characters meet. The Anchoress imprisoned herself at Arkham many years ago after feeling guilt over the death of her parents and believed Arkham was a sanctuary that would help her. It is revealed that the Anchoress blames Batman for what has happened to Arkham and she holds him accountable for the evil villains that have been placed in Arkham throughout the years and that are present throughout Gotham.

In an emotional sequence, the Anchoress confronts Batman after she is able to escape from her cell. She is able to enter his mind and see the tragedies that have and continue to haunt Batman. From the death of his parents to the physical encounter Batman had with the individual who revealed himself to be Bruce Wayne’s brother during the Court of Owls story arc along with the death of Bruce’s son, Damian, the Anchoress reminds Batman he could not save any of those individuals. The Anchoress is having her revenge on Batman in the process for what she believes the Dark Knight should be held accountable for which is what Gotham and Arkham has become due to his presence. After Eric returns the Anchoress to her cell, he maintains his positive outlook during a conversation with Mahreen, his employer. He reminds her that Arkham can become a sanctuary again.

Marguerite Bennett delivers an excellent issue in her first comic book as a writer. The small tie-in to Zero Year is interesting and it is a very good issue that stands on its own, which is what makes an annual comic book issue exceptional.

Batman Annual #2 by Marguerite Bennett, Scott Snyder and Wes Craig is available now.

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Writer Scott Snyder and artist Greg Capullo continue their yearlong story arc, Zero Year, in Batman #23. Zero Year has the potential to be the best arc by Snyder and Capullo on the Batman title thus far if the remaining issues are as outstanding as the first three have been. Issue #23 marks the beginning of Bruce Wayne determining that he needs to become Batman in order to defeat the Red Hood Gang.

Batman #23 continues with the Red Hood Gang confronting Bruce and leaving him physically wounded. The leader of the Red Hood Gang tells him that the night Bruce’s parents were killed changed his life. Snyder continues to give hints as to who the leader of the Red Hood Gang could be and it will be interesting to see how Snyder has written what will happen to the leader of the Red Hood Gang in future issues of Zero Year.

Another famous villain that is significant to Zero Year is Edward Nygma who is known as the Riddler. Snyder’s choice to include Nygma in Zero Year is a great decision by the writer. Nygma’s role in the story arc up to this point leaves readers anticipating the issue about the Riddler that is written by Snyder and Ray Fawkes that will be released in September as apart of DC’s Villains Month. Snyder portrays Nygma so well as the crafty, arrogant individual that he is known as.

One of the great panels illustrated by Capullo in this issue is when numerous bats surround Bruce that is reminiscent of the scene in Batman Begins when Bruce conquers his fear of bats when he is underground. The cover illustrated by Capullo, inker Danny Miki and colorist FCO Plascencia is tremendous. Batman #23 leaves readers eagerly anticipating the release of Batman #24 in October.

Batman #23 by Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo is available now.

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Superman Unchained #3 continues Scott Snyder and Jim Lee’s story of Superman being challenged like never before.  In issue #3, General Lane explains why he believes Wraith is superior to Superman. Snyder has introduced new characters such as Wraith and the cyber terrorist organization, Ascension, in addition to including supporting characters that have been apart of Superman comics for decades such as Lois Lane and Lex Luthor. Through three issues, Snyder has been successful in adding new characters to the Superman mythology while finding ways to challenge the Man of Steel like he has never been before.

In Utah,Wraith’s background is explored further in this issue by General Lane. The highlights of the issue are the panels where General Lane tells Superman that he is a coward and diminishes the superhero’s existence further by telling the Man of Steel that he seeks the admiration of people. The writing by Snyder in the panels between Superman and General Lane is brilliant because General Lane uses harsh words in order to explain why Wraith is a better protector of the world than the Man of Steel. General Lane believes Wraith is willing to do what is necessary to defeat a threat and is the real Superman. Wraith explains to Superman that despite their differences, he respects Superman. However, when Superman and Wraith join forces to defeat a drone attack caused by Ascension in Toyko, Wraith warns Superman that he will kill him. Snyder sets up the upcoming confrontation between Superman and Wraith perfectly by the end of the issue and leaves readers anticipating the conflict and wondering what will Superman have to do in order to defeat Wraith?

Another character whom Snyder continues to write tremendously in this title is Lois Lane. Due to an attack by Ascension on a private plane Lois is on to Nova Scotia, she become a hero in her own right by taking control of the plane in order to prevent it from crashing. Snyder has focused a significant part of each issue in explaining to readers what makes Lois such a strong character and his characterization of Lois proves that anyone can be a hero. Lois’ reputation of being a heroine has been interpreted greatly by Snyder as the writer presents Lois with circumstances that challenge the character to be heroic. Snyder has shown the importance Lois Lane has to the Superman mythos in the first three issues of Superman Unchained.

Snyder and artist Jim Lee deliver another great issue of Superman Unchained with issue #3. Lee’s artwork continues to be astounding and contributes to Snyder’s writing. Issue #3 of Superman Unchained continues to prove why this is one of the best comic books being published. Not only is the main character the greatest superhero ever created, Superman, but it does not get much better for comic book readers to read a title by the creative team that is as accomplished as Scott Snyder and Jim Lee.

Superman Unchained #3 by Scott Snyder and Jim Lee is available now.

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Captain America is dealing with the fallout from the time he spent in Dimension Z. Steve Rogers is emotionally scarred in his return to Earth given the losses of Ian and of Sharon Carter. Writer Rick Remender includes a flashback from Steve’s early childhood as the writer has done since his first issue of the title. The flashback serves as further evidence to what has inspired Steve to become the hero that he is. Steve’s sick mother tells him to not be affected by his past once he becomes a man. Steve’s mother has served as an important influence for the brave hero he is and Remender has done an excellent job of showing the impact his mother’s advice has had on the man Steve has become.

Jet Black is in territory that Captain America can relate to. She is unfamiliar surroundings and Captain America tells her he will help her adjust to her new life on Earth and a living that is not influenced by her father, Arnim Zola. The villain, Nuke, is on a violent path of destruction in a town located in Eastern Europe, which hints that Captain America will encounter him at some point in future issues of the title. As much as Captain America has had to endure from his time on Dimension Z, he insists on getting back to his familiar lifestyle of defending the world from threats immediately.

Captain America encourages Jet to let go of her past and she reminds him to do the same when he shows her the items that surround what used to be his home. Steve rids himself of his belongings by burning them proving that he still takes his mother’s advice to heart. It will be interesting to see what becomes of the alliance between Captain America and Jet Black in future issues of the title. Carlos Pacheco takes over art duties and does an exceptional job particularly with the cover of the issue.

Captain America #11 by Rick Remender and Carlos Pacheco is available now.

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In this issue, readers discover what makes the Riddler a formidable adversary for Batman and Gotham City. Writer Ray Fawkes along with Scott Snyder present a story in which Edward Nygma is precise and calculating against various individuals who oppose him. From his previous employment at Wayne Enterprises, Nygma details readers of what makes him a threat through his exceptional knowledge of the Wayne Enterprises building. Fawkes writes a character who poses riddles at the beginning of the issue and repeats the same enigmas to his victims before revealing the answers, which result in casualties.

Fawkes writes to the strengths of the character, which place an emphasis on engaging the individuals who eventually become casualties in different battles of wits. Due to Fawkes’ interpretation of the Riddler, readers can predict that the villainous mastermind will gain the upper hand in his encounters with his targets at Wayne Enterprises. However, readers don’t know to what extent the Riddler will go to harm someone. Fawkes’ characterization of the Riddler is of an individual who holds a grudge. On example is Nygma taking his revenge against a former guard at Arkham Asylum in a gruesome fashion. The art by Jeremy Haun details particularly what the Riddler is capable of in the panel involving the physical harm to the Wayne Enterprises security guard who knew Nygma at Arkham Asylum.

From the solicitations of future issues of Scott Snyder’s current story arc, the Riddler will continue to have a significant role in Zero Year. One of the intriguing panels of this issue, is the final page in which the Riddler explains that no one can oppose him like Batman, which is a similarity that the Joker shares as well. The Riddler thrives on outwitting people and loves a challenge and no one can battle him like the Dark Knight. It is definitely interesting to think about the role that the Riddler will continue to have as Zero Year continues. Scott Snyder’s choice to include the Riddler in his current story arc, is refreshing and this issue is a sample of what readers can expect from the character in future issues of the Batman comic book title.

Batman #23.2: The Riddler by Ray Fawkes, Scott Snyder and Jeremy Haun is available now.

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Batman #24 is a comic book issue that features a young Bruce Wayne who is fearless. In part one of Dark City, Batman is making his presence known throughout the city. The discussion by several members of the Red Hood Gang about The Dark Knight is reminiscent of scenes in the 1989 film, Batman and in Batman Begins where criminals are clearly frightened about encountering Batman. It is clear that while the character is still in his beginning stages as Batman in Zero Year, Bruce Wayne is forming what will eventually become his path toward protecting Gotham City. It is an unexpected choice to show a young Bruce Wayne with a buzz cut. The little details such as Bruce Wayne’s new haircut show that Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo are making this yearlong story their own by remaining faithful to the Bruce Wayne character but inserting some unforeseen changes along the way.

Scott Snyder gets to the heart of why Bruce is an inspiration on more than one occasion in this issue. In an effort to unite the city against the Red Hood Gang, Bruce speaks publicly about why he loves Gotham City. He says that Gotham challenges people to become something more than they are and that the city changes them. Bruce continues his uplifting speech by saying that if people can endure the obstacles that Gotham presents and not give up that they will become stronger in the process. Snyder’s writing of Bruce’s speech is an example of why Bruce Wayne is an admirable hero in comics. The interesting twist in this issue is that Snyder chooses to show that Bruce Wayne can be just as effective of a hero through his encouraging words rather than engaging in physical confrontations as Batman.

Another panel that stands out is Bruce’s conversation with the leader of the Red Hood  Gang. Based on previous comic book stories involving the Red Hood such as in The Killing Joke by Alan Moore, the dialogue of the Red Hood Gang leader in Zero Year and what happens to the leader of the Red Hood Gang in this issue, the leader will likely turn out to be the individual who has the reputation of being Batman’s greatest foe. The leader can usually be seen smiling underneath his helmet throughout the course of the first four issues of this story arc. Through dialogue that is similar to the memorable interrogation scene in The Dark Knight involving Batman and the Joker, there is another surprising turn of events. After the leader of the Red Hood gang speaks with Bruce, Bruce responds by saying that the Red Hood Gang leader is simply an evil man who pretends his life has meaning. Bruce uses a similar approach in his conversation with the leader of the Red Hood Gang that the Joker does in the interrogation scene with Batman in The Dark Knight. During that scene, the Joker says that everything Batman stood for and his purpose has no meaning.

Snyder’s brilliant writing portrays a Bruce Wayne who is brave and wise. The leader of the Red Hood Gang said to Bruce in a previous issue of Zero Year that the death of Bruce Wayne’s parents changed his life and proved to him that life is meaningless. During their conversation in Batman #24, Bruce says that what people do before they die is what gives their lives meaning. Snyder does an outstanding job of portraying a heroic Bruce Wayne who shines without dawning the cape and cowl.

Lieutenant James Gordon is introduced and has an encounter with Batman at the end of the issue. It should be interesting to see how there alliance forms in the upcoming issues of Zero Year. At the end of the issue, the Red Hood Gang is defeated but another threat rises in Gotham. Edward Nygma debuts as the Riddler at the end of the issue and is the next foe Bruce Wayne will encounter in Zero Year. Batman #24 is simply one of the best issues by Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo.

Batman #24 by Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo is available now.

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Once again, Scott Snyder continues his story arc in his comic about the Man of Steel that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next issue. In his writing, Snyder has a gift for understanding the characters he writes about. Snyder remains faithful to the characters by incorporating the core of each character into the role each character has in the story he is telling. In three separate locations throughout the world, events transpire that makes Superman Unchained #4 an intriguing read for comic book fans.

In an unknown location in Metropolis, Lex Luthor is holding Jimmy Olsen hostage. Lex’s dialogue throughout the issue is an example of what makes him one of the most iconic and chilling villains in all of comics. Luthor has devised a plan that shows readers why he is such a criminal mastermind. In an unexpected turn of events, Lex reveals to his hostage who is going to take down Superman and it is going to be Jimmy Olsen.

In Tokyo, Superman and Wraith form an unlikely alliance in attempting to defeat drones that are sent by the cyber terrorist group known as Ascension. Superman is wounded by the drones but the team of Wraith and Superman are able to overcome and defeat the drone attack. Wraith warns Superman again that the government will eventually order him to kill Superman.

Snyder continues to emphasize the significance that Lois Lane has to the story he is writing. Snyder characterizes Lois throughout the first four issues of Superman Unchained as a heroine who is an inspiration even though she is not a superhero. After landing the plane that was targeted by Ascension, Lois attempts to do what she can to save the other characters who are injured and refuses to leave the people who need medical assistance. One character reveals to Lois he used to work for Ascension and tells her she needs to take a shard he has that resembles a piece from Superman’s Fortress of Solitude. He reveals that Ascension is not what it appears to be and that she and Superman are in danger. Members of Ascension proceed to take Lois hostage. In the epilogue, it is revealed to Lois that Ascension is associated with her father, General Sam Lane. Between Lex Luthor’s plan, the threat of Ascension, the future confrontation between Superman and Wraith and the motivations of General Lane, Superman, Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen are in their own dilemmas.

Snyder and artist Jim Lee are two of the best in their respective occupations in comic books. The creative team has released one of the best comic books that is currently being released. Comic book fans who are following this title cannot wait for the release of the fifth issue of this title.

Superman Unchained #4 by Scott Snyder and Jim Lee is available now.

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