BATMAN: WAR ON CRIME

Publisher: DC Comics | Writer: Alex Ross and Paul Dini | Artist: Alex Ross

Retro Review

COVER PRICE: $9.95 | CURRENT ESTIMATED VALUE: $40 (DEPENDENT ON CONDITION)

Let’s start by addressing one of the coolest aspects of this spectacular book; the beautiful tribute the “Real Bat-Man” Bill Finger. As a comic book and history fan it was great to see Mr. Bill Finger get a shout out in a DC book that acknowledged his contributions to the character. Without Bill Finger, there is no Batman. Several of the latter entries on this list focused on the darker, grittier aspect of the Dark Knight. Batman: War on Crime focuses on the more human aspects of the character. This 1999 treasury prestige format graphic novel focuses on Batman’s quest to save a young boy from going down the wrong path. Batman is largely aware that he waged a war on crime that is impossible to win but he takes solace in the knowledge that he can win some of the battles. At a time where Batman was largely known for his vehicles and tech, none of that appears in War on Crime. We can debate whether Batman’s cowl looks best when his eyes are covered or when you can see them. In War on Crime, we can see the beautifully rendered eyes and face of Batman by the master Alex Ross. It allows us to see Batman as both a dark and mysterious figure while simultaneously allowing us to see his compassion and soul. Although the book is perfect from start to finish, the standout scene for me is when Batman approaches a child who lost his parents in a shooting, similar to Bruce Wayne, as he pleads with the child to not give in to the darkness. Batman and the child, Marcus, embrace just after pleading with him “not to become what killed our families.” It’s a touching, powerful scene that will be etched in my memory forever.

BY ROB LOCKETT