Just A Little Bit Of Fear — Reviewing ‘Detective Comics’ #1106

Fear is an overwhelming and harmful force, but it can also be a force that helps and teaches. A healthy dose of fear keeps us safe and makes sure that we don’t overextend ourselves.

Gotham City is a city without fear and Batman must bring that fear back, as Detective Comics #1106 brings the current story arc to a conclusion from Tom Taylor, Mikel Janín, and Wes Abbott.

My mixed feelings about this arc, hell, this run, are not a secret. If you’ve read any of my reviews of previous issues, I’ve been pretty clear.

Overall, the concept is a solid one. Batman taps into fear and superstition as a character concept, so turning that on the flip side is intriguing. I feel like there was a way to do that without shoehorning in a new character who feels underserved and utilized by this point. The Lion is just the latest in a decades-long string of characters created in runs who end up going into character limbo or get used occasionally.

They’ll never be able to blow up like the “classic” heroes, villains, and supporting cast were able to do at one point.

Taylor brings the story to a mostly satisfying closure point. Batman utilizing Scarecrow’s fear gas as a temporary counter is intriguing. Beating an infection that strips away fear with a potion that unlocks pure fear makes a lot of sense. The Lion providing Bruce Wayne with the cure after a short bit of connection feels a bit loose and far too convenient.

I will say choosing to have one of the no-fear montage moments be a clear abuse victim escaping with their child only to be returned to that once Batman “cures” the no-fear is a poor choice. Yes, that is something true to the idea that fear keeps people trapped situations it mentions, but damn. Having a victim willingly going back to their abuser thanks to Batman saving the city really hits in a way I don’t think Taylor was expecting. I’m fine with shades of gray in stories, especially comics, but this wasn’t the way.

Per usual, it’s stunning to look at from start to finish because Janín is a truly spectacular artist. Every bit of imagery has a lived in scope and sense of scale at all times. He finds that perfect space that exists right between authentic and whimsical for the visuals. We can automatically understand each emotional beat because it’s clear in character’s faces and body language.

For a color palette, Janin uses a lot of softer tones and filter stylings to make it all flow. This creates a foundation built on more neutral or familiar color flashes instead of just the overly vibrant superhero fare. The moments which require those bolder colors stand out even more.

Being the final issue of this arc, there is a ton for characters to explain. It would be easy for that much dialogue and captions to become heavy and hectic upon the page. Abbott is a pro, though, and makes it flow smoothly without missing a beat emotionally or visually. He keeps it contained with some flair at times to liven up lettering and give it a more unique character-based feelings. Having the really cool echo effect on some of Batman’s orders near the conclusion gives the words that extra little kick.

Detective Comics #1106 is now available from DC Comics.