Batman (2016)

In 2016, writer Tom King and artists David Finch, Mikel Janín, Clay Mann, and others launched a new Batman series as part of DC Comics’ Rebirth initiative. King’s run, is a deeply introspective and ambitious take on the Dark Knight, exploring his vulnerabilities, relationships, and the psychological burdens of heroism. The story begins with I Am Gotham, where Batman encounters Gotham and Gotham Girl, two superpowered heroes seeking to protect the city in ways Bruce never could. As the series progresses, King weaves an intricate narrative centered around Batman’s struggle with love and destiny, particularly through his romance with Catwoman. Their relationship takes center stage in The War of Jokes and Riddles and culminates in The Wedding, a pivotal arc where Bruce and Selina contemplate marriage. One of the most defining aspects of King’s run is the long game played by Bane, culminating in City of Bane, where the villain dismantles Gotham’s power structure, forcing Batman to confront his deepest failures. Along the way, the series delves into Batman’s psyche, showcasing themes of trauma, resilience, and the cost of being Gotham’s protector. King’s storytelling is poetic and often unconventional, utilizing nonlinear structures, internal monologues, and psychological depth. The artwork shifts with each arc, with Mikel Janín’s clean lines, David Finch’s gritty action, and Clay Mann’s elegant compositions contributing to the book’s evolving tone. Despite its divisive reception, Batman 2016 remains a bold and thought-provoking exploration of the Caped Crusader, redefining Bruce Wayne’s emotional journey in ways rarely seen in mainstream superhero comics.