The latest issue of Tom Taylor and Mikel Janin’s run, Detective Comics #1104, delivers another tense, high-stakes chapter in “The Courage That Kills” saga. As Gotham edges closer to total quarantine, Batman finds himself battling not just a new physical threat, but a psychological erosion that is arguably more dangerous: the loss of fear.
The Race Against Time and Self
The issue opens with Batman grappling with the unsettling side effects of Project Courage. He’s making jumps he’s made hundreds of times, but the small fear that usually keeps him safe is fading, replaced by a dangerous sense of confidence. This theme of courage being a curse is fantastic as it allows Taylor to explore the idea that without fear, Batman loses the caution that defines his survival.
The action kicks off when Batman tracks down Adrian Bates, a killer who recently abducted Scarecrow from Arkham Towers. After a brutal interrogation in which Batman has to remind himself not to injure the goon permanently, he heads upstate to a farm, which is a great, eerie setting for a Scarecrow-centric story.
The climax features a massive ambush by forty Scarecrow-dressed henchmen at the hands of the mysterious new villain, The Lion. The final reveal shows that The Lion is Leo Kingsford. As Crane’s former apprentice, Leo’s goal was to conquer fear, not just analyze it. Now, he’s back with a grudge, blaming Batman for how he turned out.
The Danger of Confidence
The core strength of this issue is in the philosophical conflict. Batman’s conversation with Superman is a standout moment. Bruce is self-aware enough to know he’s becoming a danger, handing Clark a personal “Kryptonite” box containing three plans to take him down if he loses his grip. It’s a classic Tower of Babel-style contingency but weighted with the tragic irony that Batman might be too confident to even realize when he’s crossed the line. The theme of vulnerability as a strength (and confidence as a weakness) is handled with Taylor’s signature emotional depth.
Art, Colors, and Lettering
Mikel Janín’s art and colors are nothing short of spectacular. The transition from the cold, clinical blues of the Batcave to the fiery, oppressive oranges of the burning cornfield creates a palpable sense of escalation. Janin excels at facial expressions; you can see the uncharacteristic smirk on Bruce’s face and the genuine worry in Superman’s and Damian’s eyes.
Wayne Faucher’s inks provide a sharp, clean finish that helps the action pop, especially during the chaotic fight against the faux-Scarecrows. Wes Abbott’s lettering is equally impressive with impactful sound effects during the more visceral fight scenes.
Final Verdict and Criticism
If I have one minor gripe, it’s that the Scarecrow/Lion reveal was way too predictable. Since you could see it coming from a mile away, the final panel lost the punch it was aiming for. Instead of a big shock, the ending felt more like a whimper.
Overall, Detective Comics #1104 builds tension. It effectively raises the stakes for Gotham while stripping Batman of his most vital tool: his survival instinct. The cliffhanger leaves us questioning just how much of The Lion is Batman’s own making.
KPB Comics’ “The Courage That Kills” Saga:
‘Detective Comics’ #1104 Review: Tom Taylor Destroys Batman’s Best Defense
Detective Comics #1104 builds tension. It effectively raises the stakes for Gotham while stripping Batman of his most vital tool: his survival instinct. The cliffhanger leaves us questioning just how much of The Lion is Batman’s own making.
