Batman: The Dark Knight Returns
{5/5} “‘…monster! Like with fangs and wings and it can fly.’ ‘Reality check, Michelle. Talk about composure, total lack of. He’s a man — about twelve feet tall.'” — Michelle & Carrie, the first time they describe Batman
Batman: The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller, published in 1986
Batman hasn’t been seen in 10 years, but Bruce Wayne is still alive. There’s a new gang called the Mutants who are terrorizing Gotham. Harvey Dent is released, supposedly cured. But Bruce is suspicious, and when someone steals two helicopters the thinks Harvey is on one of them.
In addition to Superman and Gordon, President Reagan shows up. Carrie, a fan of Batman who realizes he needs help, is a terrific new character.
Reading this book is different now — you can see that Miller saw how things were going in the world. Also, sadly things that were shocking no longer are.
Interspersed with the story of the characters are news reports and shows where people argue opposing points of view.
What if Batman entered the modern-at-the-time 1980s? It’s about aging, finding a new partner, and taking out bad guys the only way you can. It also shows how different superheroes react to growing distrust of them.
The artwork by Frank Miller, Klaus Janson, and Lynn Varley is superb — vivid and dynamic.
This is the 2nd time I’ve read it. I also reviewed the movie.
I’ve read 2 graphic novels by Miller. I started watching his Sin City but it wasn’t for me.