Batman: No Man's Land Volume Four

Published in the UK by Titan Books @ £10.99
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Now this is more like it! What you have here are nine issues collected together in one very tasty volume. There are a lot of heroes and villains in this book, but they all have something specific to do, so it doesn't feel gratuitous at any time. It even has Superman in it, but he leaves quickly and does no lasting harm.

Gotham has been hit by a massive earthquake. The resulting chaos, and a government order, drove the people from the city. Gotham was declared No Man's Land, and fell into anarchy. Basically, if you've seen Escape From New York, you know exactly what to expect. Various villains set up home in the gang-run chaos, and various heroes stayed on to do battle with them.

As Volume Four begins, Bane makes a spectacular return to Gotham, intent on becoming the King of the city. Instead, he finds things a lot more complex than he could have imagined. As heroes and bad guys fight amongst themselves as much as against each other, a shadowy figure seeks his own dominion over the crumbling metropolis…

The art varies from issue to issue, as it has to match the overall style of whatever book the episode comes from. That said, the brooding menace of the chaotic ruined Gotham City is consistent and oppressive. As ever, nothing is simple in Batman's world - rejoice in it's darkness and complexity! There are some wonderful Two Face and Penguin moments, Catwoman makes a brief, sensual sojourn, and Bane oozes menace. The Joker and Harley make a brief, show-stopping appearance, and there is an absolutely cracking instance of the Joker at his absolutely chilling best.

The punch line of the book (no skipping to the end, now, you'll only spoil it for yourself) is a good one, although it does concern me a little that there may be a cross-over too far in the future. I hope not, as this is vintage Batman, and very well worth your money.

Batman swings away with a deserved 8.5/10

Review by Iain Lowson