Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Fico Ossio, and Marcelo Maiolo keep the action (and the intrigue) rolling in Batman and Robin #26. This issue, “The Quiet Man, Part Two,” is a quick but fun continuation of the new arc, proving that this iteration of the Dynamic Duo is one to continue following. The creative team expertly blends a gritty Gotham mystery with some great character moments, making this a truly engaging read.
The plot picks up right after the infamous Iceberg Lounge is set ablaze, with reports of multiple fatalities. Batman and Robin are quickly on the scene, where they confront the distraught Penguin. Penguin is furious that Batman was not there to protect the Iceberg Lounge and denies knowing the killer who shot his men. The killer, nicknamed “The Quiet Man” by Penguin’s crew, is a skilled hitman who speaks in a quiet, polite, whispery voice. What makes him stand out is his strange calling card: he places silver coins on the eyes of the dead. Batman and Robin learn from the remaining members of Penguin’s crew that the killer forced his way in after being turned away, killing everyone he found.
The mystery deepens when Batman analyzes the antique silver dollar, specifically a 1898 U.S. Silver Dollar, sometimes referred to as a “Justice Dollar,” minted in New Orleans. This particular type of coin is associated with a 1898 train robbery in the Blue Ridge Mountains, for which the shipment was never recovered. A single one is valued at almost $25,000, and The Quiet Man laid silver on five men. Needless to say, it’s not about money for this killer.
I am loving this iteration of the Dynamic Duo. We see a lot of Batman and Robin flying into action, with Batman reminding Robin of the importance of vigilance. Robin has a fun moment training some kids at the Asher Estate, teaching them to “widen your stance” and “open up your hips.” Love the bit about “she was acting suspicious” as Damian accidentally takes out the dummy suspect in training. That gave me a good laugh.
The art by Fico Ossio and colors by Marcelo Maiolo are also really good, with a gritty feel that utilizes heavy inks to create a great atmosphere for the action and Gotham setting. Steve Wands’ lettering, featuring unique onomatopoeias like FWIPPP and various gunshot sounds, adds energy to the issue.
Batman and Robin #26 is a quick issue, but it continues to be a fun read for Batman and Robin, and The Quiet Man is becoming a villain I want to see more of. He’s a low-key goon type, but definitely skilled in what he does. I mean, not everybody can take down Robin. With the revelation of the target, the stage is perfectly set for the next chapter.
Review: ‘Batman and Robin’ #26 Sees The Quiet Man Makes Some Noise
Batman and Robin #26 is a quick issue, but it continues to be a fun read for Batman and Robin, and The Quiet Man is becoming a villain I want to see more of. He’s a low-key goon type, but definitely skilled in what he does. I mean, not everybody can take down Robin. With the revelation of the target, the stage is perfectly set for the next chapter.
