Return of The Dark Knight
1986 was a turning point in the mythos of Batman. The comics superstar of that era, Frank Miller, fresh off his epic run on the cult favourite title "Daredevil" made history with his 4 part mini-series – telling a dark and gritty story of a 50 year-old Batman who comes out of retirement to fight once again to save his beloved city. That story is an undisputed classic, acknowledged as one of the best Batman stories of all time, as well as recognised as one of the best selling comics of all time.
The publication history of this epic is exciting on its own. Miller insisted on a new format for his masterpiece, with a sterner format, better printing and colouring. The issues carried a hefty price tag of $2.95, which was revolutionary at a time when most comics were printed at 60 cents. The high price discouraged stores and they under-ordered the first issue. The first issue sold out quickly, with DC publishing a total of 4 printings soon after, followed by millions of trade paperbacks. Within a few months, the first print of #1 was fetching $50 at the back issue market.
The success of the original story did not pass over to its successor in 2001's "Dark Knight Strikes Again", produced by the same creative team. Although a commercial success, that storyline received significant negative response. Some argued that it was a mistake to touch a classic by DC. Some argued that it was simply a poor story.
The time to create history is back again. DC Comics is taking up the challenge of presenting the Dark Knight in its full glory. "The Dark Knight III: The Master Race" is coming out this week. Frank Miller is back at the helm, scripting with fellow writer Brian Azzarello. Brian is famous for his mature themed comics including 100 Bullets, Lex Luthor: Man of Steel (where Lex becomes the focal point, a man of flesh and blood standing against the invincible alien), the Joker hardcover, a run on Hellblazer series and a critically acclaimed run on Wonder Woman. The artwork is taken up by Andy Kubert and long time Frank Miller collaborator Klaus Janson. Andy, son of comics legend Joe Kubert, has an impressive resume including work on X-Men, Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance, Batman, Flashpoint etc.
The story is set further into the future. The new Robin, Carrie Kelley, is all grown up and pondering her role in the world. Superman is back in action. And Batman is being Batman. Brian Azzarello promises this to be an absolute mind blowing experience. Insiders of DC Comics will agree.
Will Batman soar to the great heights again? We will know soon.
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