Batman: Dark Patterns #10 is a fantastic read that begins the series’ fiery conclusion. Writer Dan Watters and artist Hayden Sherman have consistently delivered a top-notch detective Batman story, and this issue is no exception. Watters has put Batman through the wringer throughout this series, pitting him against complex villains like the Wounded Man, Scarface Tower, and the Red Hood Gang. Now, a mysterious arsonist is threatening to burn Gotham to the ground, and it’s up to the World’s Greatest Detective to stop them.
This issue, titled “The Child of Fire,” throws Batman into a dangerous situation. We see him recovering from a gunshot wound, making him vulnerable and more human than ever. The story cleverly shows how Batman’s physical state mirrors the turmoil in Gotham; he’s so connected to the city that he’s literally feeling its pain. The plot moves at a breakneck pace as clues from past crimes lead Commissioner Gordon down a rabbit hole of deep scheming.
Watters also pulls off a brilliant and surprising reveal in this issue. Many readers (myself included) expected the doctor to be the villain, but it turns out to be reporter Nicky Harris, a minor character from earlier in the series. This twist proves that Watters has more than a few tricks up his sleeve, and it sets up a fascinating final showdown. The inclusion of Firefly is also a great touch, and I’m looking forward to seeing that eventual team-up.
While Watters’ writing is excellent, it’s Hayden Sherman’s art that truly makes this series shine. His dynamic, angular, and gritty portrayal of Gotham is incredibly stylish and fresh. The art in this issue is some of the most inventive I’ve seen in the industry, with mind-blowing panels that take creativity to the next level.
Sherman and colorist Triona Farrell start the issue with a recap, using a flame as a visual aid for the panels. This creative choice makes those past issues pop off the page. The two-page spread showing what’s been building in the shadows is especially impactful, and the full-page shot of a burning Batman effigy instantly connects the theme of this final arc: Gotham burning to the ground.
The artistic highlights don’t stop there. The paneling in this issue is pure genius. The first page where we see Bruce in the Batcave is framed in a crescent moon shape, cleverly showing that even though he’s indoors, the story is still taking place at night. The two pages set at the “body farm” are another perfect example of Sherman’s creativity. The bodies themselves serve as the framing for the panels, giving us a window into the characters’ world as they walk over a mountain of corpses. It’s truly amazing stuff that you don’t get tired of seeing.
Farrell’s colors also deserve a shout-out. She absolutely nails the assignment, especially in a dream panel that’s bathed in a beautiful pinkish hue just before Bruce wakes up. The vibrant and colorful open page by Sherman and Farrell, which resembles a large flame with images inside, is a perfect example of their combined brilliance.
Batman: Dark Patterns #10 is another incredible issue from a creative team that seems incapable of making a bad comic. Watters’ gripping writing and Sherman and Farrell’s brilliant art make for an unforgettable read. This is the perfect way to kick off the final arc of this stellar series. I don’t know what to expect next, but I’m excited to find out.
‘Batman: Dark Patterns’ #10 Review: The Great Gotham Fire
Batman: Dark Patterns #10 is another incredible issue from a creative team that seems incapable of making a bad comic. Watters’ gripping writing and Sherman and Farrell’s brilliant art make for an unforgettable read. This is the perfect way to kick off the final arc of this stellar series. I don’t know what to expect next, but I’m excited to find out.
