Graphic Novel review: “Batman: Year One”

Many of you know that this year has been my foray into the world of comic books and graphic novels. I’ve grabbed as many as I could, ones I’ve gotten as recommendations, others I’ve taken upon myself to learn about.

At first it was hard to even determine what was “good”, mostly because you need a frame of reference before you can honestly judge a piece of work.

While that frame of reference is still growing, I have no problem in telling you all how amazing Batman: Year One was to read.

I’m sure this review is nothing new to those of you comic book fans who read it many, many years ago, but for me, it was like a brand new present waiting to be unwrapped.

It felt like the way Batman Begins redefined the franchise with the dark origins story of how the Dark Knight became a vigilante in the form of a giant bat. In fact, Batman: Year One was one of the inspirations for the “reboot” of the Batman movie franchise.

Written by Frank Miller, Year One shows us the early stages of Batman, James Gordon and Selina, who becomes Catwoman. I just loved the way Batman is displayed as a man struggling to find his symbol, and once he does, the mistakes he makes during his early days.

Just as good as the Batman story was Gordon’s arrival in Gotham City and what it took to be a good cop amidst the corruption surrounding him.

I love the way the novel gives us the history of both men, their ascension into the roles we know so very well, and the collision course that they are on with each other. The artwork is also great, it looks a bit retro, old school, which just gave it a more authentic feel. David Mazzucchelli was responsible for the illustrations.

This was a fantastic read and Frank Miller is really one of the great comic book writers out there. I would recommend Year One to read first, and then go ahead and grab his The Dark Knight Returns, to get an even darker version of Batman.

There is so much out there to read when it comes to Batman, but those two graphic novels would be a great way to dive right in and check out what you’ve been missing.

Mike’s Rating: 10 out of 10

(I’m currently reading Kingdom Come, so watch for a review of that soon)