TDKPH [Review] Batman: Rebirth #1

BATMAN: REBIRTH #1 review by Sebastian Soriano

Once again, I don’t do spoiler reviews so if you haven’t read this one yet, you’re welcome.

To start off, this book showed a version of a certain villain that I haven’t yet seen of him before. (Unless of course, DC retconned this character this way and I just haven’t read it yet) Writers, Scott Snyder and Tom King, seem to have used a series of either time jumps, flashbacks, or some other form of non-linear storytelling techniques to get the story moving. To say the least, Batman Rebirth #1 is intriguing. You’d want to know where this will all end up. I do have to say though, that while reading it, unless you’ve been reading Batman books from the New 52 to run or earlier, you’ll feel like the only way to completely understand this comic, you have to have read some other Batman titles from the New 52 run and judging by the fact that I have read MOST of the Capullo/Syder run, I assume that the information I seek is found in either the Batman and Robin books, Batman Eternal, or Robin War. That is not to say that I didn’t like this book though. They talk a little bit about Bruce's father and how Thomas Wayne’s beliefs have shaped Bruce’s. The plot goes between a little bit of the conflict of the present and a run-through of what Bruce plans with what to do with Duke Thomas. That part. The part about Duke, is to me, very exciting. I don’t want to explain why, but it makes the book worth the read.

Art-wise, Mikel Janin’s art felt very transitional. It still kind of felt like I was looking at Capullo’s art, but slightly more realistic. Don’t get me wrong. It was great art. I just felt like the whole thing still felt like a Snyder/Capullo book at least visually. This whole book actually felt very transitional. As I read it, I felt the Batman reigns being handed by Scott to Tom King, but from what little I’ve read, Batman is in very good an capable hands.

Overall, I can’t say I hate this book even slightly. I just don’t understand it as well as I wish I could have. Still very excited to DC Rebirth though, and still very very excited for Batman #1, so if you can still find this book, pick it up! 

3.5/5

The Comedian Theory: His Second appearance in the DC Universe

DC Universe #1 came out big! It had a lot of twists that made comicbook fans wet themselves. The biggest reveal is probably the presence of The Watchmen in the DC Universe. Although the original series was published by DC Comics, fans accepted the fact that The Justice League and The Watchmen lived in different universes (or multiverses--oh wait, is it microverses now?).

To make things more clear, let me explain the DC Universe #1 narrative (or at least the significant parts in connection with The Watchmen). Without picking up any Watchmen books, it is safe to conclude that the threat to the DC Universe is The Watchmen; or at least the universe where The Watchmen came from.

The biggest question most fans were asking is: The Comedian? No doubt, thats his badge. But isn't he dead? Hmm.. now thats a good entry point of a good effing story! But please read until the end of this article. I promise not to make it long, but I assure you that you'll shit bricks. Just let me connect the dots for you.

Wally West was trapped in the Speed Force after the advent of Flashpoint. Since then he narrates that something was stolen from the DC Universe. He goes on and tries to find that lightning rod to make his come back. His first target was Batman. Let me remind you of this scene...

Lets address the big elephant in the room. See that "TNK" sound at the lower right hand of the photo? What do you think it they deliberately made that sound? If you check the other panels, no sound effect was made by Wally's speed force thunder thing.

Ow wait... Batman, the detective that he is, was also curious as to the sound it made. Go check this out.

When I first read DC Universe Rebirth #1, I thought to myself, "hey, whats that yellow shinny thing? Why did Batman randomly used his pick to take off something on the wall?" The next page was the killer. It showed that we're in Watchmen territory now. But if you go back to the beginning, Wally was right all along. He did say that he saw the new threat from the speed force. Wally also used the speed force to reach out to Batman. In effect, maybe the "Watchmen" were watching and threw The Comedian's badge for the greatest detective to decipher.

But that leads us to the next question: are the Watchmen new to the DC Universe? Hmm... with all the theories circulating around the web stating that The Watchmen are already part of the DC Universe, its hard not to adhere to something as logical as that.

But you know, theories are just theories until we see them on paper.

But then again... let me remind you of these panels from Superman/Batman World's Finest by Dave Gibbons (which predates DC Universe Rebirth #1 by almost a decade). And a little trivia, Dave Gibbons was the illustrator for the original Watchmen. dun dun dunnnn.

Hey, thats a cute lapel pin... ow wait. SHIT!

Are we looking at some weird coincidence here? Or is The Comedian the Joker in the DC Universe? Well... as the old saying goes...

**photos from reddit user JLAsuperdude

Happy Batman Day? errr.. I Think I Got the Date Right

Here in the Philippines, May 1 is Labor day. Well actually, this is a holiday in every country. During Labor day, we are reminded of the hard working people by giving them the recognition that they deserve.

For many Batman fans, May 1 is also a day of celebration and appreciation. This is the day Detective Comics #27 became available in newsstands.

Its a bit different for the past two years. DC Entertainment declared that June 26 is Batman Day. However, as regards to its celebration, DC Entertainment moved it on every third week of September.

Confused as to when Batman Day should be? Yeah, its a bit confusing to be honest. But here are the boys of The Dark Knight Philippines to clarify it for you.

Detective Comics #27 marks the debut of the Dark Knight. The cover date for this book is May 1, 1939. So shouldn't that be the date for Batman Day? Well, actually, DC#27 already became available in-stores as early as April 18, 1939. How is that possible? 

Back in the days, people get their comics from retailers and from newsstands. Based from our research, we found out that retailers receive the comics at an earlier date as opposed to the newstand sellers. The delayed cover date is for the benefit  of the newsstand sellers. So that when they display the comics, it wouldn't look like they're selling old copies of comicbooks.

Technically, Batman Day should be celebrated on April 18--the original date for Batman's debut. But he consensus among fans, the cover date marks the debut of Batman thus May 1 is Batman Day.

But is it the teal Batman Day? No, we don't think so and neither does DC Comics. We share the same opinion that May 1 is not Batman Day. Rather, May 1 is the debut of The Batman. Batman Day should be celebrated on the birth date of Batman. 

Some fans think that Batman was born the moment Bruce donned the cowl for the first time. DC Comics and TDKPH is of the same opinion that Batman was born the moment Bruce's parents died. 

It is a psychological interpretation of Bruce's traumatic experience. The death of the Waynes triggered Bruce's depression. And it is that depression where he found Batman. The birth of Batman should not be confused with the birth of Bruce Wayne. Bruce was never born as Batman. It was circumstances that gave birth to the Caped Crusader.

So the question is: when was the Dark Knight born? For decades, DC Comics didn't give a specific date for the death if the Waynes. It was only the year 1984 when they finally decided to give it a specific date.

It all started with Detective Comics #457 - There is no hope in Crime Alley. In this issue, Batman takes his yearly night off and visits Crime Alley. Alfred, after admitting that he's the closest person to Bruce, is baffled why Batman goes to Crime Alley during the same date yearly.

It is later found out that Batman visits Crime Alley to be reminded of his purpose. Leslie Thompkins would say, "I've been expecting you Batman -- You always come to visit on this day." Then Batman replies, "Call it a memorial... a reminder of who I am!... of my beginning and my probable end!"

 
Detective Comics #457 proved that Batman's birth is the day Bruce's parents died. Not only that, but #457 also indicates that Batman goes to Crime Alley every year to visit the place where his parents died. Ow and before we leave #457 behind, bear in mind this page from the same issue:

For the longest time, people never bothered to know the exact date of Batman's visit to Crime Alley. It was until Batman Special #1 where they finally revealed the date of the Waynes' death. Batman Special #1 is an amazing book. It introduces a new villain to the Batman mythos. His name is Wrath, and he's another story for another day.

At the end of this issue, Batman bumps into Leslie Thompkins in Crime Alley. She asks Batman to tell her the reason of his visits in Crime Alley during the same date. And again, Batman replies, "Call it a memorial... a reminder of my beginning..."

A little rewind. Lets go back to Detective Comics #457. Check out this panel:

 Then lets look at the last page for Batman Special #1

Thompkins is reminded of the day she became Bruce's surrogate mother. Ow, and look at that--June 26th. June 26 is the day Batman was born. It is no wonder that DC Comics is of the opinion that June 26 is the legitimate Batman Day.

Mystery solved. May 1 is not Batman day. Rather, it is the date of Batman's debut. The real Batman Day is on June 26--also the anniversary of The Dark Knight Ph.

So what is May 1 all about? Well even if it is not the real Batman Day, it does not mean that we cant celebrate Batman Day today. In any case, Happy advance Batman Day everyone! Hope you enjoyed this article as much as we enjoyed writing this.

Ow and just a quick trivia. Bruce's parents died at 10:47PM. Batman uses this time as his pass code through the grandfather clock.

A Bat-centric Kind of Week

This week is a big one for Batman fans. We have at least 2 books that are worthy of your time and money. These are: (1) Dark Knight 3: The Master Race #4; and (2) Batman #51. Both books are interesting. And after reading both, all I can say is that this week IS BAT-TASTIC!

Lets start with DK3 #4

TDKPH rating: 8/10 batarangs

After 2 months of waiting, DK3 comes back with a bang! It starts off where #3 ended--Lara's defiance to her father, Superman. I can't reveal too much, but the dialogue at the start is a bit dry. It didn't feel organic but more of Azzarello and Miller trying to force a story out of it.

If you're a Superman fan, I wouldn't blame you for hating on Frank Miller. It seems like Miller has a grudge against the Boyscout. But the think I liked about how Superman was portrayed in this book is that it clearly made Superman relatable. Without making Superman speak, Frank Miller was able to write the strongest lines Superman ever said (or bot have spoken). Bahhh. You'll understand what I'm saying after you read the book.

My favorite part of the book are the exchanges between Bruce and Carrie. Again, I dont want to spoil anything, so read the book asap!

DK3 #4 is your usual Frank Miller book filled with plot holes and whatnots. But Andy Kubert makes up for the weird storytelling. His panel transitions are superb! If there is one redeeming quality Miller has is that he knows how to make a fcking entrance! The mini-comicbook has an ending DC fanboys will appreciate. Lets say that panel alone is almost the same as Wonder Woman's first appearance in the DCEU (when she saved Batman from Doomsday).

Batman #51

TDKPH rating: THE FCKING BEST STORY SNYDER HAS WRITTEN!!

Yup, it broke the batarang meter. Lets just leave it at that. Anyway, I don't have the words to describe it. Thank you Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo. You guys are awesome. 

TDKPH Book of the Week -- Harley Quinn and the Suicide Squad April Fool's Special #1

Harley Quinn and the Suicide Squad April Fool's Special #1

Story by: Rob Williams

Art by: Jim Lee and Sean "Cheeks" Galloway

Spoiler-free review

TDKPH rating: 10/10

I am quite surprised that this book wasn't hyped enough. This is a Harley Quinn book with Jim Lee as a cover and interior artist. Those two names alone should make this book a good pick. Bring in Sean Galloway, Alex Sinclair, and Scott Williams, then you have something that people should line up for.

This book serves as a prequel to the relaunch of Suicide Squad. For quite some time now, Suicide Squad (as a comicbook) falls short in inticing the readers in get the book. This is a much needed revamp to the title.

This book revolves around Harley Quinn and her adventure towards a new calling. Despite the lack of visibility o the Suicide Squad, they play a big role in developing the story.

From the looks of it, this book seems to align DC's comics and WB's movies. The members of the Suicide Squad that appeared in this book are the same members that appeared in the trailers. Deadshot's line at the end is intriguing enough that it made me want to get Suicide Squad #1

It being a Harley Quinn book, expect that it will be funny. What I loved most about this is the meta-messages spilled all over the letter she got from the "evil mastermind".

The art duties also shifted from Jim Lee to Sean Galloway. For the longest time, I hated it when this happens in a single issue. However, in this book, the shift had a purpose. It even gave me a better appreciation of the story. And before I forget, Sean Galloway did an amazong job!

This is definitely a great pull for this week's new comics. It is a light read filled with humor with a fast pace action sequence that is sure to capture the attention of every reader. Run to your nearest local comicbook store before it runs out!

Countdown to BvS: 3 The Trinity

Jim Lee's Trinity

BVS highlights the epic battle between DC’s most popular and polar opposite of its heroes. Superman, a being of extraterrestrial power beyond our imagination, represent all that is good in humanity. Batman, the peak of human strength and ingenuity, casts a dark foreboding shadow for justice. These two iconic characters have been fighting each other in a battlefield of super hero methodology and philosophy, now we have them together on the big screen. But there is another iconic character that serves as a linchpin between Batman and Superman, the Amazonian Princess, Wonder Woman.

Unlike the other two heroes, Wonder Woman failed to capture the imagination of most fans in cinemas. But the BvS movie will have her play a supporting character and by 2017, her own movie. So why is she important?

Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman, combined, is regarded as DC Comics iconic super heroes of The World’s Finest Trinity. Each hero serves as a template for all other heroes. Wonder Woman has always been a role model for all girls reading comic books. Beautiful, strong willed with a heart of gold that is matched only by her prowess in battle. It is the duality of her role as an ambassador of peace and warrior of power which makes her a great match with Superman and Batman.

The Amazonians, centuries before, grew tired of the violence in the world of men, seeks refuge and isolated peace among themselves. They saw that men cannot control their violent nature. When Steve Trevor accidentally came to their island, Wonder Woman was tasked to bring him back and be an ambassador to the outside world bringing Amazonian culture and philosophy with her.

She is a warrior of power. Amazons has been learning combat and military strategy since birth. We add this with superhuman strength and the ability to fly and she can go head to head with Superman or any other opponents.

The Trinity is the ruling decision for the Justice League. When a stand is needed regarding a moral issue, it is the Trinity who decides the best course of action for the League. Crisis occurs when the three are in disagreement or fighting with each other. Kingdom Come, one of my favorite Elseworld story, is a prime example of how the Trinity works. Superman, Wonder Woman and Batman isolated themselves from the rest of the world. In doing so, a new generation of heroes has grown without the moral compass of the three. Superman and Wonder Woman teamed up with other heroes to bring the new heroes to heel, while Batman created his own set of heroes for his own goals. It took the death of Captain Marvel and many heroes to bring the three together.

The Trinity works because each hero brings something to the table. Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman are iconic heroes able to stand on their own but together they serve as an inspiration to all heroes and have led the Justice League from crisis to crisis.

What is your favorite Trinity story?   

Countdown to BvS: 6 iconic covers of Batman and Superman

From the golden age to the modern age of comics, Batman and Superman has shared the limelight on the covers of our favorite titles. To hype it up for all of you, we’re 6 days away from the worldwide theatrical release of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and the boys of The Dark Knight Ph have gathered 6 of the most iconic comic book covers featuring our favorite Boy Scout and Caped Crusader.

Note: We did not include the BvS variants.

6. Dark Knight III: The Master Race #1 (Midtown Comics Variant by Greg Capullo)

Right in the face! This cover is a remake of one of the most legendary fights in comic book history. As you may all know, the basis for this piece came from the fight scene in The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller. The unforgettable dialogue of Batman, while kicking Superman’s butt, is truly one of those moments that would run a tingle down your spine. Greg Capullo did not disappoint with his own version of “the boot to the face.” This was released last November 2015, released exclusively by Midtown Comics. Look ma, Superman bleeds.

5. Batman/Superman #1 by Jae Lee (New 52)

Talk about Dawn of Justice right here, man! This cover has a bit of Gothic into it, perfect for the setting of Gotham City, and the towering Supes on top with the blue sky background complimented the, otherwise, dark and gritty Batman and his posse of robotic heads. The story shows how Batman and Superman first met….again. Jae Lee impressed all of us with his interior art on this issue. You have to get it to see. ;) This was released last June 2013.

4. Batman #612 by Jim Lee

“Deep down, Clark is essentially a good person…and deep down, I’m not.” –Batman

This infamous cover by the one and only Jim Lee, shows a mind controlled Superman tripping on Batman. Haha! Coming from Part 5 of the revolutionary “Hush” storyline, this cover is among the ones that show Batman is still a man, or rather, a speck in Superman’s godliness. God vs Man, Day vs Night, blah blah blah! This was first published on February 2003.

3. Batman #608b and Superman #204 by Jim Lee

This is another one from Jim Lee. One of the best connecting covers there is, sort. These covers are 2 years apart. Batman 608b (For those who asks what the “b” stands for, this is the second cover of this issue. A variant, if you will), is the first part of the Hush storyline; Superman 204 is part one of the “For Tomorrow” storyline. Day vs Night anyone?

Batman 608b was first published on October 2002; Superman 204 was on June 2004.

2. Superman #76 by Curt Swan

From the year 1952 comes the first ever team-up of Batman and Superman. Can you believe it? People from that era are probably going nuts seeing these 2 heroes share a story in a comic book. This was the first of many stories featuring our favorite heroes. Fun Fact: In this story, Batman and Superman uncover each others secret identity, and the rest, as they say, is history. First published on May 1952. (64 years later, they will share the silver screen, oh glory days!)

1.The Dark Knight Returns #4: The Dark Knight Falls by Frank Miller

Of course, our list wouldn’t be complete without this iconic cover from one of the most important Batman story in history, The Dark Knight Returns #4. From the man himself, Frank Miller, we get to see an armored Batman taking on Superman. Need I say more on why this made the top list? The hype is real, ladies and gents! Batman vs Superman is happening!

It’s finally happening. What was once just a comic book cover of Batman and Superman fighting is now a reality for all fanboys out there! On March 26, 2016, see history unfold and bask in the glory of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice!

Hit the comments for your favorite covers featuring Batman and Superman.

Countdown to BvS: 8 Times They Couldn't Get Along

Its a fact that Batffleck and Supervill will slug it out in the movie. But this is not new for the World's Finest! These two love birds have been throwing jabs at each other in the comicbooks ever since time and immemorial. Yes, you also get the occasional haymakers, but at the end of the day neither can pull the trigger and kill the other.

Their team-ups are considered to be extraordinary but deep down, their principles are conflicting. This strife between the Day and Night is the usual cause of their scuffle. Over the years, there are tons of epic fights between the two. Here's another countdown for you, Bat-fanatics! The greatest gladiator match in the history of comicbooks!

8. Superman: Red Son

 

This is an elseworld story where a Russian Batman trapped a Soviet-influenced Superman in a room filled with solar lamps which is identical to the radiation of Krypton's Red Sun. Superman was baffled. He thought Batman grew stronger. He didn't know that the radiation was making him weak. Then Boom-Pow-Biff! He kicked him right in his balls!

7. Justice League: Origins (new 52)

Years from now, people are going to talk about this encounter. Depends on how the movie is going to pull it off (since Snyder is very vocal that he took some fight scenes from this book), this can probably be one of those comicbooks that will appreciate in value. The fight between the two is a little one-sided. Batman tried every trick under his sleeve, but it doesn't seem to affect Superman.

6. Batman: Endgame

This isn't really a Batman vs Superman match up per se but this is a very brutal match between The Justice Buster and the Joker-infected Superman. Snyder and Capullo payed a lot of homages in this fight scene--from Red Son, to Luthor, to The Dark Knight Rises. This is one of those fights that people will remember forever.

5. Batman: Hush

This is probably the most iconic Batman vs Superman battle in the history of comicbooks. Every fan knows this panel. Its one of those "I always have a plan" moments for Batman. Seeing that Superman is under Ivy's spell, Bats lured him in a place where he set up to defeat Superman.

4. Luthor: Man of Steel

One of the reasons why Batman is still alive is because Superman lets him. Com'on lets be true here, guys. Superman can easily break Batman into pieces. It is respect for Batman and his humanity which prevents him from doing so. But just in case you're wondering how Batman will fair in a fight against a no holds barred match against Superman, this is the book for you!

3. Superman: Sacrifice (Countdown to Infinite Crisis)

Ow man, this will be brutal for Batman fans. I can't believe I'm actually putting this here. More so at #3! But yeah, impartiality calls for it. Superman's sanity has been questioned by Lois Lane and the League. In his vision, he sees Darkseid threatening Lois. At this instant, he brutally beat "Darkseid". Unfortunately, Superman's vision of "Darkseid" is actually Batman. To make matters worse, this was one of those rare moments where Batman was caught off guard in his Batcave.

2. The Dark Knight Strikes Again

You think the last one was bad? Don't worry. The Dark Knight got his revenge in TDKSA. Somehow, Batman was able to lure Superman into the Batcave. And in that encounter, Batman released a barrage of tricks against the Man of Steel. Again, as a Batman fan, this is one of those moments where you'll feel bad for the Big Blue. And that line at the end is savage: "I'm done talking, get out of my cave."

1. The Dark Knight Returns

No words are needed here. Let me just quote a couple of lines from the book.

"I want you to remember, Clark... in all the years to come... in your most private moments... I want you to remember... my hand... at your throat... I want you to remember... the one man who beat you."

Countdown to BvS: 9 Licensed Merchandise to Collect

It's quite amusing that its not just the geek community who's excited for Batman v. Superman. For the past few weeks, we've been seeing local corporations jumping into the hype with the release of their BvS licensed products. Every new advertisement surely made us more excited for the movie release. From radio stations to billboards along highways, it is evident that everyone is all in with BvS. It is to no surprise that these local corporations (or locally operated corporations) are giving us the merchandises that the fandom deserves. So without further a do, here are some of things you can buy to help the local economy (well... not really hehe but its still a good way to support these corporations who made us smile with their promotions).

1. Honey Star cereals BvS Family Game

They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. These Honey Star cereals from Nestle will surely instill family values to the kid and at the same time, you enjoy a great cup of cereal in the morning. Start your day right, get your Honey Stars!

  

2. Petron Gadget Collection

Before going to the mall, make sure to gas up at Petron stations. For every P500 worth of gas purchase, you can get any of the gadget collection for P200. You have 4 toys to choose from. The armored Batman is a night lamp, Batffleck is a USB hub, Superman a digital clock, and Wonder Woman a multi-charger. These are probably the most famous local merchandise among fans.

3. KFC Bucket Meal BvS Tumblers

For only P620 you get the Batman-Superman face-off bucket. And if you just add P35, you get the limited edition BvS tumbler. The bucket meal comes with 8 pieces of chicken, 4 rice, 4 drinks, 2 spaghetti, and a big bowl of the good ol' gravy! If you ask me, the food alone is worth that money. The BvS merchandise is the consolation prize (or is it the other way around?).

4. B'lue flavored water

These bottles are awesome to collect. Probably after eating in KFC, you'd like to drink some flavored water, then B'lue is probably for you. Their BvS line comes with 3 flavors: Calamansi, Lychee, and Orange. The flavors are in no way describes the characters but for P25, not only do you feel fully alive, you will also feel like a hero.

5. SM Cinema hexagon toy collection

Remember to buy your movie tickets at SM cinema houses. You can purchase these hexagon toys when you purchase a snack-merchandise combo meal. Heck, you're probably still full from your lunch, but you probably wouldn't mind eating that hotdog for these babies.

6. Filbar's BvS shirts

While you're already at the mall, you probably would want to check these BvS shirts from Filbar's. And yes, these are licensed materials. Also, make sure to ask the sales ladies regarding their other BvS related toys and comics. They have tons of awesome merchandise.

7. SM Teen's shirts

Also drop by SM Department store. They have licensed BvS shirts which were designed by the team of Yanna Tan (the girlfriend of Peejay Catacutan, one of our favorite local artists).

8. Penshoppe shirts

This is probably one of the best collaborations for BvS. Their wide variety of style makes these BvS shirts amazing. From flipflops to Jackets, they have it!

9. Axis watches

These watches are a good alternative to the expensive BvS Police watches. For P4995, you can get any of these awesome timepiece from Axis! This watch is probably for you! Get them and start your own countdown to BvS!