Batman: Black & White
Encyclopedia
Batman Black and White refers both to a four-issue comic book
limited series
published in 1996 by DC Comics
, and three collections of 8-page black-and-white
Batman
stories, comprising the limited series and backup features from the Batman: Gotham Knights
comic.
in his introduction to the first collection, in which he writes about a dinner table-discussion with "a few famous comic-book artists," at which they pondered the "desert island" question in terms of a single complete run of comics one would be happy to be stranded with. Ultimately, with "half a minute"'s thought, they "amazingly... all agreed, pound for pound, page for page" that the unequivocal choice was Warren Publishing
's Creepy
, a high point unmatched since "there has never been such a collection of stellar artists assembled under one banner publication" as in Creepy, whose pages were host to (among others) "Toth
, Frazetta
, Williamson
, Torres
, Colan
, Ditko
, Wrightson
, Corben
[, etc.]."
Chiarello notes that "most of those stories" were written by one man: Archie Goodwin
"probably the very best editor ever to work in comics, probably the very best writer ever to work in comics," (and early mentor to Chiarello when the two worked at Marvel) whose Warren work was itself an "homage to the favorite comics of his youth, the E.C. line
."
When Chiarello became a Batman editor "a whole bunch of years" later, he naturally "pitch[ed] the idea of a black and white anthology." Told by many colleagues that it wouldn't sell - both as an anthology and a black-and-white title, neither purportedly widely liked by comics readers - the idea was green lighted, and Mike Carlin and Scott Peterson joined Chiarello to "make sure [he] didn't destroy the integrity of [Batman]."
Chiarello's initial thought - "to hire the very best artists in the business" led to he and Peterson assembling a wish list and contacting artists. The series ultimately became "a creative and financial success," when the first four-issue volume was published between June and September, 1996. (There was also a free Preview issued in 1996.) Each of the four issues featured several self-contained short-stories, all written and drawn by a diverse group of comic artists and writers, most of whom had previously worked on Batman
comics. Each story varied in theme, setting, and tone (depending on the creative team involved), offering multiple interpretations of Batman - and, in some cases, his supporting characters - usually by exploring their inner pathos and relationships.
As the title implies, all the artwork is rendered without color, in black and white. Due to the lack of cohesion between stories, and the artistic licence taken in how the various characters are portrayed, it can reasonably be assumed that most - if not all - of the stories are not meant to tie into the mainstream continuity of the Batman comics, instead functioning as stand-alone one-shots, pseudo-Elseworlds
, parodies and other forms of alternate universe.
#1-16 with five new tales.
Contents
#17-49. (Mostly edited by Mark Chiarello
, Bob Schreck
& Michael Wright)
Contents
and then reprinted as a trade paperback
in 1998. In September 2007, it was reissued in a "new edition", in normal comics TPB
format (ISBN 1-4012-1589-0).
Volume 2 was initially published in September 2002 as a hardcover
book (ISBN 6194123175). It collected black-and-white Batman backup stories from the first sixteen issues of Batman: Gotham Knights
, as well as five never-before-published tales. The five new stories were subsequently included in later issues of Batman: Gotham Knights. Volume 2 was released as an oversized softcover in October 2003 (ISBN 1-56389-917-5).
Volume 3 was published as a comics-sized hardcover in May, 2007 (ISBN 1-4012-1531-9). It collected the black-and-white Batman backup stories from Batman: Gotham Knights #17-49. A softcover edition was released in 2008 (ISBN ISBN 9781401213541).
, Warner Bros Digital Distribution, and DC Comics
produced semi-animated adaptations of several of the "Black and White" short-stories and released them as motion comics. The motion comics were produced and directed by Ian Kirby and feature an original musical score by composer Adam Fulton and voice-actors, such as Michael Richard Dobson as the voice of Batman
, The Joker, Thomas Wayne
and Alfred Pennyworth
, John Fitzgerald as Commissioner Gordon and Two-Face
, Janyse Jaud
as Harley Quinn
, Catwoman
and Martha Wayne
and Joseph May
as Superman
. Currently 10 episodes divided into 2 seasons are available via online streaming off of TheWB's website. The episodes are also available for purchase online via Apple's iTunes Store and other distribution channels, such as Amazon's Video On Demand for $0.99/2-episodes.
Season 1 Episode List (debuted on 12/8/2008):
Season 2 Episode List (debuted 7/23/2009):
Comics ranked Volume 1 of Batman: Black and White #14 on a list of the 25 greatest Batman graphic novels, saying: "Though having just eight pages to tell a story can certainly be confining, it also proves to be liberating. Forced to scrap complex plots but create something indelible, these tales are often parables, send-ups or unforgettable vignettes surrounding the Batman."
. Most of these are based on the Batman designs used by various artists for their contributions to the three volumes of "Black & White" stories. Artists' interpretations of Batman (along with other characters) currently released include:
Comic book
A comic book or comicbook is a magazine made up of comics, narrative artwork in the form of separate panels that represent individual scenes, often accompanied by dialog as well as including...
limited series
Limited series
A limited series is a comic book series with a set number of installments. A limited series differs from an ongoing series in that the number of issues is determined before production and it differs from a one shot in that it is composed of multiple issues....
published in 1996 by DC Comics
DC Comics
DC Comics, Inc. is one of the largest and most successful companies operating in the market for American comic books and related media. It is the publishing unit of DC Entertainment a company of Warner Bros. Entertainment, which itself is owned by Time Warner...
, and three collections of 8-page black-and-white
Black-and-white
Black-and-white, often abbreviated B/W or B&W, is a term referring to a number of monochrome forms in visual arts.Black-and-white as a description is also something of a misnomer, for in addition to black and white, most of these media included varying shades of gray...
Batman
Batman
Batman is a fictional character created by the artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger. A comic book superhero, Batman first appeared in Detective Comics #27 , and since then has appeared primarily in publications by DC Comics...
stories, comprising the limited series and backup features from the Batman: Gotham Knights
Batman: Gotham Knights
Batman: Gotham Knights was a monthly, fictional comic book series published by DC Comics. The original intent of this book was to feature the exploits of Batman and his extended family - Alfred Pennyworth, Batgirl, Nightwing, Robin, Oracle, Catwoman, etc...
comic.
Publication history
The origin of the series is told by editor Mark ChiarelloMark Chiarello
Mark Chiarello is an American painter, art director and comic book editor.-Biography:As a painter, Chiarello has worked on such projects as the Batman story Batman/Houdini: The Devil's Workshop and Clive Barker's Hellraiser...
in his introduction to the first collection, in which he writes about a dinner table-discussion with "a few famous comic-book artists," at which they pondered the "desert island" question in terms of a single complete run of comics one would be happy to be stranded with. Ultimately, with "half a minute"'s thought, they "amazingly... all agreed, pound for pound, page for page" that the unequivocal choice was Warren Publishing
Warren Publishing
Warren Publishing was an American magazine company founded by James Warren, who published his first magazines in 1957 and continued in the business for decades...
's Creepy
Creepy
Creepy was an American horror-comics magazine launched by Warren Publishing in 1964. Like Mad, it was a black-and-white newsstand publication in a magazine format and thus did not require the approval or seal of the Comics Code Authority. The anthology magazine was initially published quarterly but...
, a high point unmatched since "there has never been such a collection of stellar artists assembled under one banner publication" as in Creepy, whose pages were host to (among others) "Toth
Alex Toth
Alexander Toth was an American professional cartoonist active from the 1940s through the 1980s. Toth's work began in the American comic book industry, but is known for his animation designs for Hanna-Barbera throughout the 1960s and 1970s. His work included Super Friends, Space Ghost, The...
, Frazetta
Frank Frazetta
Frank Frazetta was an American fantasy and science fiction artist, noted for work in comic books, paperback book covers, paintings, posters, LP record album covers and other media...
, Williamson
Al Williamson
Alfonso "Al" Williamson was an American cartoonist, comic book artist and illustrator specializing in adventure, Western and science-fiction/fantasy...
, Torres
Angelo Torres
Angelo Torres is an American cartoonist and caricaturist whose work has appeared in many comic books, as well as a long-running regular slot in Mad magazine, typically film or television parodies.-Biography:...
, Colan
Gene Colan
Eugene Jules "Gene" Colan was an American comic book artist best known for his work for Marvel Comics, where his signature titles include the superhero series, Daredevil, the cult-hit satiric series Howard the Duck, and The Tomb of Dracula, considered one of comics' classic horror series...
, Ditko
Steve Ditko
Stephen J. "Steve" Ditko is an American comic book artist and writer best known as the artist co-creator, with Stan Lee, of the Marvel Comics heroes Spider-Man and Doctor Strange....
, Wrightson
Bernie Wrightson
Bernie "Berni" Wrightson is an American artist known for his horror illustrations and comic books.-Biography:...
, Corben
Richard Corben
Richard Corben is an American illustrator and comic book artist best known for his comics featured in Heavy Metal magazine...
[, etc.]."
Chiarello notes that "most of those stories" were written by one man: Archie Goodwin
Archie Goodwin (comics)
Archie Goodwin was an American comic book writer, editor, and artist. He worked on a number of comic strips in addition to comic books, and is best known for his Warren and Marvel Comics work...
"probably the very best editor ever to work in comics, probably the very best writer ever to work in comics," (and early mentor to Chiarello when the two worked at Marvel) whose Warren work was itself an "homage to the favorite comics of his youth, the E.C. line
EC Comics
Entertaining Comics, more commonly known as EC Comics, was an American publisher of comic books specializing in horror fiction, crime fiction, satire, military fiction and science fiction from the 1940s through the mid-1950s, notably the Tales from the Crypt series...
."
When Chiarello became a Batman editor "a whole bunch of years" later, he naturally "pitch[ed] the idea of a black and white anthology." Told by many colleagues that it wouldn't sell - both as an anthology and a black-and-white title, neither purportedly widely liked by comics readers - the idea was green lighted, and Mike Carlin and Scott Peterson joined Chiarello to "make sure [he] didn't destroy the integrity of [Batman]."
Chiarello's initial thought - "to hire the very best artists in the business" led to he and Peterson assembling a wish list and contacting artists. The series ultimately became "a creative and financial success," when the first four-issue volume was published between June and September, 1996. (There was also a free Preview issued in 1996.) Each of the four issues featured several self-contained short-stories, all written and drawn by a diverse group of comic artists and writers, most of whom had previously worked on Batman
Batman
Batman is a fictional character created by the artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger. A comic book superhero, Batman first appeared in Detective Comics #27 , and since then has appeared primarily in publications by DC Comics...
comics. Each story varied in theme, setting, and tone (depending on the creative team involved), offering multiple interpretations of Batman - and, in some cases, his supporting characters - usually by exploring their inner pathos and relationships.
As the title implies, all the artwork is rendered without color, in black and white. Due to the lack of cohesion between stories, and the artistic licence taken in how the various characters are portrayed, it can reasonably be assumed that most - if not all - of the stories are not meant to tie into the mainstream continuity of the Batman comics, instead functioning as stand-alone one-shots, pseudo-Elseworlds
Elseworlds
Elseworlds is the publication imprint for a group of comic books produced by DC Comics that take place outside the company's canon. According to its tagline: "In Elseworlds, heroes are taken from their usual settings and put into strange times and places — some that have existed, and others...
, parodies and other forms of alternate universe.
Issue #1 - June 1996
- "Perpetual Mourning" - By Ted McKeeverTed McKeever-Career:McKeever first professional work appeared in 1987, when he published the first five parts of his unfinished series Transit , establishing his trademark style. This was followed in 1987-1988 by his 12-part series Eddy Current. This "12-hour book" centers on an escapee from an asylum...
(This story was nominated for an Eisner AwardEisner AwardThe Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards, commonly shortened to the Eisner Awards, and sometimes referred to as the Oscar Awards of the Comics Industry, are prizes given for creative achievement in American comic books. The Eisner Awards were first conferred in 1988, created in response to the...
)- Batman conducts an autopsyAutopsyAn autopsy—also known as a post-mortem examination, necropsy , autopsia cadaverum, or obduction—is a highly specialized surgical procedure that consists of a thorough examination of a corpse to determine the cause and manner of death and to evaluate any disease or injury that may be present...
on a murder victim to help find her killer.
- Batman conducts an autopsy
- "Two of a Kind" - By Bruce TimmBruce TimmBruce Walter Timm is an American character designer, animator and producer. He is also a writer and artist working in comics, and is known for his contributions building the modern DC Comics animated franchise, the DC animated universe.-Animation:Timm's early career in animation was varied; he...
- Two-FaceTwo-FaceTwo-Face is a fictional comic book supervillain who appears in comic books published by DC Comics. and is an enemy of Batman. The character first appeared in Detective Comics #66 , and was created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger....
has his face reconstructed and is seemingly rehabilitated, but is tempted back to the dark side by a femme fataleFemme fataleA femme fatale is a mysterious and seductive woman whose charms ensnare her lovers in bonds of irresistible desire, often leading them into compromising, dangerous, and deadly situations. She is an archetype of literature and art...
.
- Two-Face
- "The Hunt" - By Joe KubertJoe KubertJoe Kubert is an American comic book artist who went on to found The Kubert School. He is best known for his work on the DC Comics characters Sgt. Rock and Hawkman...
- A surreal take on Batman.
- "Petty Crimes" - By Howard ChaykinHoward ChaykinHoward Victor Chaykin is an American comic book writer and artist famous for his innovative storytelling and sometimes controversial material...
- Batman hunts a murderous vigilante who is lethally punishing people for their lack of manners and civil respect.
- "The Devil's Trumpet" - Written by Archie GoodwinArchie Goodwin (comics)Archie Goodwin was an American comic book writer, editor, and artist. He worked on a number of comic strips in addition to comic books, and is best known for his Warren and Marvel Comics work...
, art by José Antonio MuñozJosé Antonio MuñozJosé Antonio Muñoz or simply Muñoz is an Argentine artist. He is most notable for his influential black-and-white artwork...
- A jazz musician's search for a legendary trumpetTrumpetThe trumpet is the musical instrument with the highest register in the brass family. Trumpets are among the oldest musical instruments, dating back to at least 1500 BCE. They are played by blowing air through closed lips, producing a "buzzing" sound which starts a standing wave vibration in the air...
leads him into the path of the Batman.
- A jazz musician's search for a legendary trumpet
Issue #2 - July 1996
- "Legend" - By Walter Simonson
- The legend of Batman as interpreted by a mother to her son in a futuristic Gotham.
- "Monster Maker" - Written by Jan StrnadJan StrnadJan Steven Strnad is an American writer of comic books and science fiction. He is most known for his work in the Star Wars Expanded Universe, the majority of which has been published by Dark Horse Comics....
, art by Richard CorbenRichard CorbenRichard Corben is an American illustrator and comic book artist best known for his comics featured in Heavy Metal magazine...
- Batman has a violent run-in with several eleven year old black children, who he deems "monsters", before launching into an extended criticism of urban society.
- "Dead Boys Eyes" - By Kent Williams
- Batman reaches out to the soul of Gotham during a near-death experience.
- "The Devil's Children" - Written by Chuck DixonChuck DixonCharles "Chuck" Dixon is an American comic book writer, best known for long runs on Batman titles in the 1990s.-Biography:Dixon grew up in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, area, reading comics of all genres...
, art by Jorge ZaffinoJorge Zaffino-Biography:Zaffino spent a lifetime working as an artist in and out of comics. At the age of 16, he began working as an unpaid apprentice at the comics studios of Ricardo and Enrique Villagran in Buenos Aires, where his father had requested that they take him on...
- Batman investigates a series of mysterious gangland murders.
- "A Black & White World" - Written by Neil GaimanNeil GaimanNeil Richard Gaiman born 10 November 1960)is an English author of short fiction, novels, comic books, graphic novels, audio theatre and films. His notable works include the comic book series The Sandman and novels Stardust, American Gods, Coraline, and The Graveyard Book...
, art by Simon BisleySimon BisleySimon Bisley is a British comics artist best known for his 1990s work on ABC Warriors, Lobo and Sláine. His style, reliant on paints, acrylics, inks and multiple-mediums, is strongly influenced by Frank Frazetta, Bill Sienkiewicz, Gustav Klimt, Salvador Dalí, Egon Schiele, and Richard Corben...
- A behind the scenes look at Batman and the JokerJoker (comics)The Joker is a fictional character, a comic book supervillain published by DC Comics. He is the archenemy of Batman, having been directly responsible for numerous tragedies in Batman's life, including the paralysis of Barbara Gordon and the death of Jason Todd, the second Robin...
during the 'production' of a comic book.
- A behind the scenes look at Batman and the Joker
Issue #3 - August 1996
- "Good Evening, Midnight" - By Klaus JansonKlaus JansonKlaus Janson is a German-born American comic book artist, working regularly for Marvel Comics and DC Comics and sporadically for independent companies...
- AlfredAlfred PennyworthAlfred Pennyworth is a fictional character that appears throughout the DC Comics franchise. The character first appears in Batman #16 , and was created by writer Bob Kane and artist Jerry Robinson. Alfred serves as Batman’s tireless butler, assistant, confidant, and surrogate father figure...
reads a note Thomas WayneThomas WayneThomas Wayne is a fictional character in the Batman series of comic books. Dr. Thomas Wayne was the father of Bruce Wayne, and husband of Martha Wayne, as well as a gifted surgeon and philanthropist...
had written long ago for his son.
- Alfred
- "In Dreams" - Written by Andrew Helfer, art by Tanino LiberatoreTanino LiberatoreGaetano Liberatore , better known as Tanino Liberatore, is an Italian comics author and illustrator. His best known fictional character is RanXerox.- Life and work :...
- A woman seeks help for her recurring nightmares involving Batman.
- "Heist" - By Matt WagnerMatt WagnerMatt Wagner is an American comic book writer and artist, best known as the creator of the series Mage and Grendel.-Career:...
- A gang of thieves are hunted by the Batman during a botched home robbery.
- "Bent Twigs" - By Bill SienkiewiczBill SienkiewiczBoleslav Felix Robert "Bill" Sienkiewicz [pronounced sin-KEV-itch] is an Eisner Award-winning American artist and writer best known for his comic book work, primarily for Marvel Comics' The New Mutants and Elektra: Assassin...
- Batman tries to mend the relationship between a single dad and his son.
- "A Slaying Song Tonight" - Written by Dennis O'NeilDennis O'NeilDennis J. "Denny" O'Neil is an American comic book writer and editor, principally for Marvel Comics and DC Comics in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, and Group Editor for the Batman family of books until his retirement....
, art by Teddy KristiansenTeddy KristiansenTeddy Kristiansen is a Danish comic book artist. The artistic style he uses for comic books is unique and seems to touch upon the German expressionist painters of the late 19th century. Teddy Kristiansen is a natural at illustrating mystery, horror, and dark, suspense-filled comics. Among his...
- Batman must protect a family from an unknown assassin during the holidays.
Issue #4 - September 1996
- "An Innocent Guy" - By Brian BollandBrian BollandBrian Bolland is a British comics artist, known for his meticulous, detailed linework and eye-catching compositions. Best known in the UK as one of the definitive Judge Dredd artists for British comics anthology 2000 AD, he spearheaded the 'British Invasion' of the American comics industry, and in...
- An average Gotham citizen outlines his plan to commit the perfect crime: killing Batman. (This story would later be packaged with the 2008 re-release of Batman: The Killing JokeBatman: The Killing JokeBatman: The Killing Joke is an influential one-shot superhero graphic novel written by Alan Moore and drawn by Brian Bolland. First published by DC Comics in 1988, it has remained in print since then, and has also been reprinted as part of the trade paperback DC Universe: The Stories of Alan...
, with full coloring).
- An average Gotham citizen outlines his plan to commit the perfect crime: killing Batman. (This story would later be packaged with the 2008 re-release of Batman: The Killing Joke
- "Monsters in the Closet" - Written by Jan StrnadJan StrnadJan Steven Strnad is an American writer of comic books and science fiction. He is most known for his work in the Star Wars Expanded Universe, the majority of which has been published by Dark Horse Comics....
, art by Kevin NowlanKevin NowlanKevin Nowlan is an American comic-book artist who works as penciler, inker, colorist and letterer.He has been called "one of the few artists who can be called 'artists's artist'", a master of the various disciplines of comic production, from "design to draftsmanship to dramatics".-Biography:Kevin...
- Batman uncovers a mad scientistMad scientistA mad scientist is a stock character of popular fiction, specifically science fiction. The mad scientist may be villainous or antagonistic, benign or neutral, and whether insane, eccentric, or simply bumbling, mad scientists often work with fictional technology in order to forward their schemes, if...
in Gotham and his abominable creations.
- Batman uncovers a mad scientist
- "Heroes" - Written by Archie GoodwinArchie Goodwin (comics)Archie Goodwin was an American comic book writer, editor, and artist. He worked on a number of comic strips in addition to comic books, and is best known for his Warren and Marvel Comics work...
, art by Gary GianniGary GianniGary Gianni is an American comics artist best known for the syndicated newspaper comic Prince Valiant.-Biography:Gianni graduated from the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts in 1976...
(This story won an Eisner AwardEisner AwardThe Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards, commonly shortened to the Eisner Awards, and sometimes referred to as the Oscar Awards of the Comics Industry, are prizes given for creative achievement in American comic books. The Eisner Awards were first conferred in 1988, created in response to the...
)- A boy in World War IIWorld War IIWorld War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...
-era Gotham has a run-in with the Batman and learns something about his own father in the process.
- A boy in World War II
- "Leavetaking" - Written by Dennis O'NeilDennis O'NeilDennis J. "Denny" O'Neil is an American comic book writer and editor, principally for Marvel Comics and DC Comics in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, and Group Editor for the Batman family of books until his retirement....
, art by Brian StelfreezeBrian StelfreezeBrian Stelfreeze is an American comic book artist. Stelfreeze, an accomplished painter, penciller, inker and colorist, has worked for nearly every major American comic book publisher and is one of the original members of Atlanta's Gaijin Studios, a prominent breeding ground for some of comics' most...
- During a near-death experience, Batman relives the night his family was murdered.
- "The Third Mask" - By Katsuhiro OtomoKatsuhiro Otomois a Japanese comic book creator, screenwriter and film director. He is best known as the creator of the manga Akira and its animated film adaptation. Otomo has also directed several live-action films, such as the 2006 feature film adaptation of the manga Mushishi.-Biography:Katsuhiro Otomo was...
- Batman hunts a killer with multiple personalities and finds himself questioning his own identity.
Pin-ups
The first volume also included single-page pin-up renditions of the Caped Crusader by:- Michael Allred
- MoebiusJean GiraudJean Henri Gaston Giraud is a French comics artist. Giraud has earned worldwide fame, not only under his own name but also under the pseudonym Moebius, and to a lesser extent Gir, the latter appearing mostly in the form of a boxed signature at the bottom of the artist's paintings, for instance the...
- Michael WM Kaluta
- Tony SalmonsTony SalmonsTony Salmons is an American alternative comic book artist, film storyboard artist and character designer.-Biography:Born in Rolla, Missouri, Salmons grew up in Casa Grande, Arizona, with stops in New York City and San Francisco...
- P. Craig RussellP. Craig RussellPhilip Craig Russell , also known as P. Craig Russell, is an American comic book writer, artist, and illustrator. His work has won multiple Harvey and Eisner Awards...
- Marc SilvestriMarc SilvestriMarc Silvestri is an American comic book artist, creator and publisher. He currently acts as the CEO for Top Cow Productions.-Early life:Marc Silvestri was born in Palm Beach, Florida.-Career:...
and Batt - Alex RossAlex RossNelson Alexander "Alex" Ross is an American comic book painter, illustrator, and plotter. He is praised for his realistic, human depictions of classic comic book characters. Since the 1990s he has done work for Marvel Comics and DC Comics Nelson Alexander "Alex" Ross (born January 22, 1970) is an...
- Neal AdamsNeal AdamsNeal Adams is an American comic book and commercial artist known for helping to create some of the definitive modern imagery of the DC Comics characters Superman, Batman, and Green Arrow; as the co-founder of the graphic design studio Continuity Associates; and as a creators-rights advocate who...
Volume 2
Collects backup stories from Batman: Gotham KnightsBatman: Gotham Knights
Batman: Gotham Knights was a monthly, fictional comic book series published by DC Comics. The original intent of this book was to feature the exploits of Batman and his extended family - Alfred Pennyworth, Batgirl, Nightwing, Robin, Oracle, Catwoman, etc...
#1-16 with five new tales.
Contents
- "Case Study" - Written by Paul DiniPaul DiniPaul Dini is an American writer and producer who works in the television and comic book industries. He is best known as a producer and writer for several Warner Bros./DC Comics animated series, including Star Wars: Ewoks, Tiny Toon Adventures, Batman: The Animated Series, Superman: The Animated...
, art by Alex RossAlex RossNelson Alexander "Alex" Ross is an American comic book painter, illustrator, and plotter. He is praised for his realistic, human depictions of classic comic book characters. Since the 1990s he has done work for Marvel Comics and DC Comics Nelson Alexander "Alex" Ross (born January 22, 1970) is an...
(New material)- When the JokerJoker (comics)The Joker is a fictional character, a comic book supervillain published by DC Comics. He is the archenemy of Batman, having been directly responsible for numerous tragedies in Batman's life, including the paralysis of Barbara Gordon and the death of Jason Todd, the second Robin...
is once again captured and sent to Arkham AsylumArkham AsylumThe Elizabeth Arkham Asylum for the Criminally Insane, commonly referred to simply as Arkham Asylum, is a fictional psychiatric hospital in the DC Comics Universe, usually appearing in stories featuring Batman...
, a doctor laments that all of his work has not pierced the Clown Prince of Crime's insanity. Another doctor offers up a report written years ago, which suggests that the reason the Joker cannot be cured is because he is not insane. The report outlines the Joker's history before his accident, and suggests that his "revenge" against Gotham for ruining him is to commit perfectly sane crimes under the guise of madness. The doctors are convinced, but Harleen QuinzelHarley QuinnHarley Quinn was first introduced as a villain on September 11, 1992, in the animated series Batman: The Animated Series, later adapted into DC Comics' Batman comic books. As suggested by her name , she is clad in the manner of a traditional harlequin jester...
is then escorted past, commenting that she was the one who wrote the report prior to her personal sessions with the Joker. The doctors wearily put the report away, realizing that though it is plausible, its origin renders it worthless - it is just another one of the Joker's sadistic pranks, left where it would someday be found, examined, and ultimately dismissed; a spot of hope crushed just as it shines brightest.
- When the Joker
- "Batsman: Swarming Scourge of the Underworld" - Written by Ty TempletonTy TempletonTy Templeton is a popular Canadian comic book artist and writer who has drawn a number of popular mainstream titles, TV-associated titles and his own series.-Biography:Templeton was born on May 9, 1962...
, art by Marie SeverinMarie SeverinMarie Severin is an American comic book artist and colorist best known for her work for Marvel Comics and the 1950s' EC Comics....
(New material)- A parody.
- "A Matter of Trust" - Written by Chris ClaremontChris ClaremontChris Claremont is an award-winning American comic book writer and novelist, known for his 17-year stint on Uncanny X-Men, far longer than any other writer, during which he is credited with developing strong female characters, and with introducing complex literary themes into superhero...
, art by Steve RudeSteve Rude-Career:In 1981, Rude became widely known in the comics world when he and writer Mike Baron created Nexus, an independent science fiction comic book with a large supporting cast. For the series, Rude designed a dozen or so distinctive alien races, including the Thunes, the Amphibs, the Quattros,...
& Mark BuckinghamMark BuckinghamMark Buckingham is a British comic book artist. He is better known for his work on Marvelman and Fables.-Biography:Born as Mark John Buckingham May 23, 1966 in Clevedon, United Kingdom...
(New material) - "Night After Night" - Written by Kelley PuckettKelley PuckettKelley Puckett is a comic book writer. He is the creator of the character Cassandra Cain, the Batgirl who succeeded Barbara Gordon and who was succeeded herself by Stephanie Brown, as well as the second Green Arrow, Connor Hawke.-References:...
, art by Tim SaleTim Sale (artist)Tim Sale is an American Eisner Award-winning comic book artist. He is primarily known for his collaborations with writer Jeph Loeb.-Early life:...
(New material)- Bruce recalls the murder of his parents every night, and uses it as his drive for Batman to stop the Joker.
- "Fortunes" - Written by Steven T. SeagleSteven T. SeagleSteven T. Seagle is an American writer who works in the comic book, television, film, live theater, video game, and animation, industries....
, art by Daniel Torres (New material) - "To Become the Bat" - Written by Warren EllisWarren EllisWarren Girard Ellis is an English author of comics, novels, and television, who is well-known for sociocultural commentary, both through his online presence and through his writing, which covers transhumanist themes...
, art by Jim LeeJim LeeJim Lee is a Korean-American comic book artist, writer, editor and publisher. He first broke into the industry in 1987 as an artist for Marvel Comics, illustrating titles such as Alpha Flight and Punisher War Journal, before gaining a great deal of popularity on The Uncanny X-Men...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #1)- A great many experiences prepared Batman for his role as Gotham's protector: he has learned what sort of wounds different bullets make, he knows the distinctive aroma of every brand of aftershave, and he has discovered how every gadget he came in contact with in his youth works. All of it is essential to some cases, such as tracking down a pregnant prostitute's murderer - a political candidate.
- Untitled - By John Byrne (Originally published in Gotham Knights #2)
- Batman and RobinRobin (comics)Robin is the name of several fictional characters appearing in comic books published by DC Comics, originally created by Bob Kane, Bill Finger and Jerry Robinson, as a junior counterpart to DC Comics superhero Batman...
capture Thick and Thin Lyman and their gang, but neither they nor the police can get them to reveal any further information about a major shipment of drugs due in the city. The Lyman's suddenly get bailed surprisingly easily, but find their every move dogged by either Batman or Robin, night and day. When they finally find themselves alone, Thick and Thin get to a meeting place as quickly as possible. However, once there, Thick reveals himself as Batman, but refuses to tell Thin when the switch took place
- Batman and Robin
- "Broken Nose" - By Paul PopePaul PopePaul Pope is an American alternative comic book artist. Influenced by Ray Bradbury and Edgar Rice Burroughs, Pope's stories evoke poignant, under-explored aspects of youth culture...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #3)- Alfred treats Bruce Wayne for the first broken nose he has sustained in his career as a crimefighter. It was given him by Mabuse, a 'geek in a trashcan', a suit of armour he made himself. Batman tracks Mabuse down to the scene of his next crime and fights a more creditable fight against him, finally doling out a broken nose once Mabuse has surrendered.
- "Greetings from Gotham City" - Written by John ArcudiJohn ArcudiJohn Arcudi is an American comic book writer, best known for his work on The Mask and B.P.R.D., and his series Major Bummer.-Career:Arcudi worked for Malibu Comics upon its founding in 1986, working on its Eternity line...
, art by Tony SalmonsTony SalmonsTony Salmons is an American alternative comic book artist, film storyboard artist and character designer.-Biography:Born in Rolla, Missouri, Salmons grew up in Casa Grande, Arizona, with stops in New York City and San Francisco...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #4)- Ivan writes a postcard to his mother from Gotham City, detailing the amazing exploits of the Batman in breaking up a gang of bank robbers. What he doesn't tell her is that he is one of the robbers and is writing from behind bars.
- "Hide and Seek" - Written by Paul LevitzPaul LevitzPaul Levitz is an American comic book writer, editor and executive. The president of DC Comics from 2002–2009, he has worked for the company for over 35 years in a wide variety of roles...
, art by Paul Rivoche (Originally published in Gotham Knights #5)- At the scene of a train wreck which may well be the result of malice rather than an accident, Batman seizes on the smallest of clues to follow someone's trail through the train system and up into the light. Here he finds a small boy and reassures him that he is now safe, telling him that he knows what it's like to be young and lost.
- "The Riddle" - Written by Walter Simonson, art by John Paul LeonJohn Paul LeonJohn Paul Leon is an American comic book artist, known for his work on the Milestone Comics series Static, and the Marvel Comics limited series Earth X.-Career:...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #6)- A wealthy Gothamite with a huge collection of Lewis CarrollLewis CarrollCharles Lutwidge Dodgson , better known by the pseudonym Lewis Carroll , was an English author, mathematician, logician, Anglican deacon and photographer. His most famous writings are Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and its sequel Through the Looking-Glass, as well as the poems "The Hunting of the...
memorabilia has died. It is rumoured that in his possession he has Carroll's answer to the riddle "Why is a raven like a writing desk?"; This proves an irresistible target for The Riddler. He breaks into the house and negotiates his way through a maze of Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking-GlassThrough the Looking-GlassThrough the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There is a work of literature by Lewis Carroll . It is the sequel to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland...
-related animatronicsAnimatronicsAnimatronics is the use of mechatronics to create machines which seem animate rather than robotic. Animatronic creations include animals , plants and even mythical creatures...
, until he finds himself at the Mad Hatter's Tea Party, where the answer is in the teapot. However, Batman is waiting for him and captures him. And, as a final blow, tells Nigma that this is not the correct answer to the riddle, but rather one that Batman planted there, making the Dark Knight the only livng person who knows the solution.
- A wealthy Gothamite with a huge collection of Lewis Carroll
- "A Game of Bat and Rat" - Written by John ArcudiJohn ArcudiJohn Arcudi is an American comic book writer, best known for his work on The Mask and B.P.R.D., and his series Major Bummer.-Career:Arcudi worked for Malibu Comics upon its founding in 1986, working on its Eternity line...
, art by John BuscemaJohn BuscemaJohn Buscema, born Giovanni Natale Buscema , was an American comic-book artist and one of the mainstays of Marvel Comics during its 1960s and 1970s ascendancy into an industry leader and its subsequent expansion to a major pop culture conglomerate...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #7)- A bunch of low-lives think they witness the death of the Batman, but a derelict claims that he saw Batman climb out of Gotham River and make his way to a warehouse, badly injured. Thet decide to make his death a reality, and find themselves under attack from an uninjured Batman. When their leader confronts the derelict, claiming that he deliberately set them up, the derelict admits that this is true - he is Batman in disguise, after all.
- Untitled - Written by Brian AzzarelloBrian AzzarelloBrian Azzarello is an American comic book writer. He came to prominence with the hardboiled crime series 100 Bullets, published by DC Comics' mature-audience imprint Vertigo.-Career:...
, art by Eduardo RissoEduardo RissoEduardo Risso is an Argentine comic book artist. In the United States he is probably best known for his work with writer Brian Azzarello on the Vertigo title 100 Bullets, while in Argentina and Europe he is noted for his collaborations with Ricardo Barreiro and Carlos Trillo...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #8)- Batman confronts the serial killerSerial killerA serial killer, as typically defined, is an individual who has murdered three or more people over a period of more than a month, with down time between the murders, and whose motivation for killing is usually based on psychological gratification...
Mr. ZsaszZsaszMr. Zsasz is a fictional villain who appears in books published by DC Comics, usually as an enemy of Batman. He is a serial killer who usually kills with a knife and carves a tally mark somewhere on himself for every victim.-Fictional character biography:...
at the scene of his latest massacre, and the two exchange their views on power before Batman trusses Zsasz up and leaves him for the police.
- Batman confronts the serial killer
- "Blackout" - Written by Howard ChaykinHoward ChaykinHoward Victor Chaykin is an American comic book writer and artist famous for his innovative storytelling and sometimes controversial material...
, art by Jordi BernetJordi BernetJordi Bernet Cussó is a Spanish comics artist, best known for the gangster comics series Torpedo and Jonah Hex.-Career:He was born in Barcelona, the son of a Spanish comic book artist, Miguel Bernet....
("An ElseworldsElseworldsElseworlds is the publication imprint for a group of comic books produced by DC Comics that take place outside the company's canon. According to its tagline: "In Elseworlds, heroes are taken from their usual settings and put into strange times and places — some that have existed, and others...
tale, occurring in 1943") (Originally published in Gotham Knights #9)- Batman encounters CatwomanCatwomanCatwoman is a fictional character associated with DC Comics' Batman franchise. Historically a supervillain, the character was created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, partially inspired by Kane's cousin, Ruth Steel...
stealing from Albion Price, who, she claims, is a Nazi spy. Incredulous, Batman stakes Price out and discovers that she was telling the truth. They take him down together, but Batman still doesn't allow her to get away with the Nazi's stash of diamondDiamondIn mineralogy, diamond is an allotrope of carbon, where the carbon atoms are arranged in a variation of the face-centered cubic crystal structure called a diamond lattice. Diamond is less stable than graphite, but the conversion rate from diamond to graphite is negligible at ambient conditions...
s
- Batman encounters Catwoman
- "Guardian" - Written by Alan BrennertAlan BrennertAlan Brennert is a United States television producer and screenwriter.Brennert has lived in Southern California since 1973 and completed graduate work in screenwriting at the University of California Los Angeles....
, art by José Luis García-LópezJosé Luis García-LópezJosé Luis García-López is a Spanish comic book artist who works in the United States of America, mostly for DC Comics. He has most recently penciled an arc in Batman Confidential, the Metal Men storyline in the 2009 Wednesday Comics weekly anthology, and, in 2011, one of the stories in The Spirit...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #10)- While pursuing some arsonArsonArson is the crime of intentionally or maliciously setting fire to structures or wildland areas. It may be distinguished from other causes such as spontaneous combustion and natural wildfires...
ists, Batman encounters Green LanternGreen LanternThe Green Lantern is the shared primary alias of several fictional characters, superheroes appearing in comic books published by DC Comics. The first Green Lantern was created by writer Bill Finger and artist Martin Nodell in All-American Comics #16 .Each Green Lantern possesses a power ring and...
, who protected Gotham City during the 1940s and 50's. He expresses concern at Batman's violent methods, warning him that he could go the way of The ReaperReaper (comics)Reaper, in comics, may refer to:*Marvel Comics:** Reaper , Pantu Hurageb a character who has appeared in X-Force** Reaper , a fictional Nazi spy* Reaper , a number of DC Comics characters...
, but recognises the good he's doing. Batman is angry with Green Lantern for having turned his back on Gotham, but Lantern explains it is because he is afraid of the seemingly limitless potential of his power ring. The two of them come to a semi-understanding, and Lantern leaves Gotham in Batman's care.
- While pursuing some arson
- "Snow Job" - Written by Bob Kanigher, art by Kyle BakerKyle BakerKyle John Baker is an American cartoonist, comic book writer-artist, and animator known for his graphic novels and for a 2000s revival of the series Plastic Man....
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #11)- Batman dreams of going skiing with his son and rescuing a rich girl from her evil twin sister and assorted hired assassins.
- "The Black and White BanditBlack and White BanditThe Black and White Bandit is a villain in Batman: Black & White and was created by Dave Gibbons. He is something of a parody of the "schtick" villains that would appear in the 1950s and 1960s in Batman...
" - By Dave GibbonsDave GibbonsDave Gibbons is an English comic book artist, writer and sometime letterer. He is best known for his collaborations with writer Alan Moore, which include the miniseries Watchmen and the Superman story "For the Man Who Has Everything"...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #12)- A painter who has lost his sense of colour due to toxic paint fumes exacts his revenge in a series of black-and-white themed crimes. However, he is soon fooled by Batman and the police who set up the possibility of stealing the Milan Shroud. Despite disguising himself as a nun, he is apprehended and taken away in a panda car, a concept which reduces him to helpless laughter.
- "Funny Money" - Written by Harlan EllisonHarlan EllisonHarlan Jay Ellison is an American writer. His principal genre is speculative fiction.His published works include over 1,700 short stories, novellas, screenplays, teleplays, essays, a wide range of criticism covering literature, film, television, and print media...
, art by Gene HaGene HaGene Ha is an American comics artist and writer best known for his work on books such as Top 10 and Top 10: The Forty-Niners, with Alan Moore and Zander Cannon, for America's Best Comics, the Batman graphic novel Fortunate Son, with Gerard Jones, and The Adventures of Cyclops and Phoenix, among...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #13)- Commissioner GordonJames Gordon (comics)James Worthington Gordon, Sr. is a fictional character, an ally of Batman that appears in comic books published by DC Comics. The character first appeared in Detective Comics #27 , and was created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane...
asks Batman to have a few words in his office. Here he meets US treasury agents who inform him that not only has a consignment of "the paper from Dalton" (used to manufacture US currency) been stolen, but a master engraver from Switzerland has just been arrested at Gotham airport. Batman pays the engraver, Kaes Poppinger, a visit in his cell, and persuades him to assist the police. Some time later, Batman, disguised as engraver's assistant Dirks Baekert, accompanies Poppinger and the plates necessary to create money to the arranged meeting point, and from here watches the progress of the plates until they have been used to print the money. He, the police and the treasury crash the scene, but the counterfeiters are confident that as the money they have printed is indistinguishable from the real thing, there is no actual evidence that a crime has been committed. Batman then places one of the bills under a microscope, revealing that Poppinger secretly engraved an error in the plates, a miniature Batman and the words, "YOU*ARE*SO*BUSTED*".
- Commissioner Gordon
- "The Bet" - Written by Paul DiniPaul DiniPaul Dini is an American writer and producer who works in the television and comic book industries. He is best known as a producer and writer for several Warner Bros./DC Comics animated series, including Star Wars: Ewoks, Tiny Toon Adventures, Batman: The Animated Series, Superman: The Animated...
, art by Ronnie Del CarmenRonnie del CarmenRonnie del Carmen is an animation storyboard, story artist and designer. He was recently Story Supervisor on Pixar's tenth full-length computer-animated film titled Up and director of its accompanying short film on DVD, Dug's Special Mission.-Filmography:*The Untitled Pixar Movie That Takes You...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #14)- Incarcerated in adjoining cells at Arkham AsylumArkham AsylumThe Elizabeth Arkham Asylum for the Criminally Insane, commonly referred to simply as Arkham Asylum, is a fictional psychiatric hospital in the DC Comics Universe, usually appearing in stories featuring Batman...
, Poison Ivy and Harley QuinnHarley QuinnHarley Quinn was first introduced as a villain on September 11, 1992, in the animated series Batman: The Animated Series, later adapted into DC Comics' Batman comic books. As suggested by her name , she is clad in the manner of a traditional harlequin jester...
bet over which can get a kiss from every man in the asylum. As her pheromonePheromoneA pheromone is a secreted or excreted chemical factor that triggers a social response in members of the same species. Pheromones are chemicals capable of acting outside the body of the secreting individual to impact the behavior of the receiving individual...
s spread through the building, it looks like Ivy will win the bet. However, when the Joker finally appears on the scene, he murmurs about how much he loves Harley; Ivy has lost the bet as Joker thought he was kissing someone else. Later, Harley pays off The VentriloquistVentriloquist (comics)The Ventriloquist is a fictional character, a supervillain and enemy of Batman in the . The Ventriloquist first appeared in Detective Comics #583 and was created by Alan Grant, John Wagner and Norm Breyfogle...
, the real power behind Joker's sweet nothings.
- Incarcerated in adjoining cells at Arkham Asylum
- "Stormy Weather" - Written by Tom PeyerTom PeyerTom Peyer is an American comic book creator and editor.He is probably best known for his 1999 revisioning of Golden Age super-hero Hourman, as well as his work on the Legion of Super-Heroes in the 1990s. An editor at DC Comics/Vertigo from 1987 to 1993, he served as assistant editor on Neil...
, art by Gene ColanGene ColanEugene Jules "Gene" Colan was an American comic book artist best known for his work for Marvel Comics, where his signature titles include the superhero series, Daredevil, the cult-hit satiric series Howard the Duck, and The Tomb of Dracula, considered one of comics' classic horror series...
& Tom PalmerTom Palmer (comics)-Biography:Although Palmer has done a small amount of pencilling work , the vast majority of his artistic output since the 1960s has been as a comic book inker...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #15)- Batman and Prave (a child kidnapper) battle atop the Gotham rooftops. After falling, Prave finds himself relentlessly pursued by supernaturalSupernaturalThe supernatural or is that which is not subject to the laws of nature, or more figuratively, that which is said to exist above and beyond nature...
ly invulnerable Batmen everywhere he goes. Elsewhere, Batman and a policeman contemplate Prave's dead body and wonder whether he got what he deserved.
- Batman and Prave (a child kidnapper) battle atop the Gotham rooftops. After falling, Prave finds himself relentlessly pursued by supernatural
- "The Bat no More...?" - Written by Alan Grant, art by Enrique BrecciaEnrique BrecciaEnrique Breccia is an Argentine comic book artist.-Biography:Enrique Breccia, the son of one of the greatest Latino-American artists of all time, Alberto Breccia, drew his first work in 1968, when together with his father he illustrated La Vida del Che, a biography of the famous revolutionary Che...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #16)- A derelict tells a tale of the Batman in a Gotham City bar. He saw the vigilante confront The ScarecrowScarecrow (comics)The Scarecrow is a fictional character, a supervillain, that appears in comic books published by DC Comics. The character first appeared in World's Finest Comics #3 and was created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane...
and then become increasingly paranoid at the sight of any of his equipment, somehow having developed a fear of bats. Scarecrow then talks to this man, wanting to know all the details, but is himself sprayed with a gas that gives him a fear of his own books - it is Batman. The two of them then face each other, to see who will give in first in revealing their own anti-toxin - will Batman cave in to a fear of the dark, or Scarecrow to a fear of words?
- A derelict tells a tale of the Batman in a Gotham City bar. He saw the vigilante confront The Scarecrow
Volume 3
Collects backup stories from Batman: Gotham KnightsBatman: Gotham Knights
Batman: Gotham Knights was a monthly, fictional comic book series published by DC Comics. The original intent of this book was to feature the exploits of Batman and his extended family - Alfred Pennyworth, Batgirl, Nightwing, Robin, Oracle, Catwoman, etc...
#17-49. (Mostly edited by Mark Chiarello
Mark Chiarello
Mark Chiarello is an American painter, art director and comic book editor.-Biography:As a painter, Chiarello has worked on such projects as the Batman story Batman/Houdini: The Devil's Workshop and Clive Barker's Hellraiser...
, Bob Schreck
Bob Schreck
-Career:One of Shreck's earliest jobs in comics was art director at Comico. For much of the 1990s Schreck was an editor at Dark Horse Comics, and went on to found Oni Press in 1997. Then he went over to work as an editor at DC Comics, where he worked on the Batman comics and the All Star titles,...
& Michael Wright)
Contents
- "A Moment in the Light" - Written by Joe KellyJoe Kelly (comics)Joseph "Joe" Kelly is an American comic book writer, penciler and editor who has written such titles as Deadpool, Uncanny X-Men, Action Comics, and JLA...
, art by Aaron Wiesenfeld (Originally published in Gotham Knights #17)- Bruce Wayne practices meditationMeditationMeditation is any form of a family of practices in which practitioners train their minds or self-induce a mode of consciousness to realize some benefit....
and concentration techniques in order to better be able to focus on the tasks at hand.
- Bruce Wayne practices meditation
- "Fat City" - Plot & script by Mick McMahonMike McMahon (comics)Michael McMahon is a British comics artist best known for his work on 2000 AD characters such as Judge Dredd, Sláine and ABC Warriors, and the mini-series The Last American....
and Dave GibbonsDave GibbonsDave Gibbons is an English comic book artist, writer and sometime letterer. He is best known for his collaborations with writer Alan Moore, which include the miniseries Watchmen and the Superman story "For the Man Who Has Everything"...
, art by Mick McMahonMike McMahon (comics)Michael McMahon is a British comics artist best known for his work on 2000 AD characters such as Judge Dredd, Sláine and ABC Warriors, and the mini-series The Last American....
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #18)- A monster made of grease is brought to life in a freak accident in Gotham's sewers, and begins to kill people by sucking all of the fat from their bodies. Gotham's citizens begin a fitness craze in an attempt to protect themselves, but the beast is not thwarted, and even the mayor is murdered. Eventually, Batman calls upon an odd ally to help him defeat the monster-Chloe Willow, the "fattest woman in Gotham City", whose noble self-sacrifice proves that heroes come in all shapes and sizes.
- "The Call" - Written by Mark SchultzMark Schultz (comics)Mark Schultz is an American writer and illustrator of books and comics. His most widely-recognized work is his self-created and owned comic book series, Xenozoic Tales, about a post-apocalyptic world where dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures coexist with humans...
, art by Claudio CastelliniClaudio CastelliniClaudio Castellini is an Italian comic book artist. According to his website, Castellini has a "love for technical details, influenced by artists like Neal Adams and John Buscema".-Biography:...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #19)- Even when nothing is left to chance, accidents can happen. When the situation is desperate, Batman knows he can rely on someone even better equipped to deal with impossible situations than he is. Highlighting the differences between - and need for both - Batman and SupermanSupermanSuperman is a fictional comic book superhero appearing in publications by DC Comics, widely considered to be an American cultural icon. Created by American writer Jerry Siegel and Canadian-born American artist Joe Shuster in 1932 while both were living in Cleveland, Ohio, and sold to Detective...
in the DC UniverseDC UniverseThe DC Universe is the shared universe where most of the comic stories published by DC Comics take place. The fictional characters Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman are well-known superheroes from this universe. Note that in context, "DC Universe" is usually used to refer to the main DC continuity...
, while maintaining an implausibly high success rate, Bruce ultimately acknowledges that even one mistake is one too many.
- Even when nothing is left to chance, accidents can happen. When the situation is desperate, Batman knows he can rely on someone even better equipped to deal with impossible situations than he is. Highlighting the differences between - and need for both - Batman and Superman
- "The Lesson" - Plot & script by Julius SchwartzJulius SchwartzJulius "Julie" Schwartz was a comic book and pulp magazine editor, and a science fiction agent and prominent fan. He was born in the Bronx, New York...
and Dan RasplerDan RasplerDan Raspler is an editor and writer of comic books for DC Comics. In the late 1990s, he created the series Young Heroes in Love.-Awards:...
, art by Christian Alamy (Originally published in Gotham Knights #20)- Cleverly juxtaposing the stories of Dick GraysonDick GraysonDick Grayson is a fictional superhero that appears in comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger and illustrator Jerry Robinson, he first appeared in Detective Comics #38 in April 1940....
and young Bruce Wayne, the youthful central figure is reassured by the theory of the Batman and led to conquer his fears, mask his pain and project a face for the rest of the world to see for the first - but never the last - time.
- Cleverly juxtaposing the stories of Dick Grayson
- "Day & Night in Black & White" - Written by Mike Carlin, art by Dan DeCarloDan DeCarloDaniel S. DeCarlo was an American cartoonist best known as the artist who developed the look of Archie Comics in the late 1950s and early 1960s, modernizing the characters to their contemporary appearance and establishing the publisher's house style...
& Terry AustinTerry Austin (comics)Terry Austin is an American comic book artist, working primarily as an inker. He is best known for his work embellishing John Byrne's pencils on The Uncanny X-Men from 1977–1981.-Early life and career:...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #21)- Day contrasts starkly with night in Gotham City as Barbara GordonBarbara GordonBarbara Gordon is a fictional character appearing in comic books published by DC Comics and in related media, created by Gardner Fox and Carmine Infantino...
and Pamela Isley's daytime routine is mirrored in twisted fashion by their respective nighttime pursuits as BatgirlBatgirlBatgirl is the name of several fictional characters appearing in comic books published by DC Comics, frequently depicted as female counterparts to the superhero Batman...
defeating Poison Ivy. NOTE: Listed on the contents page of B&W: Volume 2 as "Day and Nite in Black & White".
- Day contrasts starkly with night in Gotham City as Barbara Gordon
- The Bottom Line" - Written by Michael Golden, art by Jason PearsonJason PearsonJason Pearson is an American comic book writer/artist, known for his work on books such as Legion of Super-Heroes, The Dragon: Blood & Guts, Global Frequency, and his own creator-owned series, Body Bags....
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #22)- In almost-silence, Batman attempts to take a bag from a number of the JokerJoker (comics)The Joker is a fictional character, a comic book supervillain published by DC Comics. He is the archenemy of Batman, having been directly responsible for numerous tragedies in Batman's life, including the paralysis of Barbara Gordon and the death of Jason Todd, the second Robin...
's clown-faced henchmen, succeeding against impossible-odds to save as many lives as possible from the Joker's insane vendetta against the Dark Knight.
- In almost-silence, Batman attempts to take a bag from a number of the Joker
- "Here Be Monsters" - Written by Paul GristPaul GristPaul Grist is a British comic book creator, noted for his hard-boiled police series Kane and his unorthodox superhero series Jack Staff.-Biography:...
, art by Darwyn CookeDarwyn CookeDarwyn Cooke is an Eisner Award-winning comic book writer, artist, cartoonist and animator, best known for his work on the comic books Catwoman, DC: The New Frontier, The Spirit and Richard Stark's Parker: The Hunter.-Career:...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #23)- Madame X, attempting to poison Gotham's water supply doses Batman with the toxin, causing him to hallucinate and doubt that he isn't just as monstrous as the villains he pursues. In overcoming the accusation that he himself created the menaces which plague his city, Batman refuses to be corrupted by the villainy which surrounds him.
- "Urban Legend" - Written by Todd DezagoTodd DeZagoTodd Dezago is an American comic book writer. He is best known for his collaborations with penciller Mike Wieringo on The Sensational Spider-Man and their creator-owned fantasy series Tellos, which premiered in 1999, as well as for co-creating Young Justice with artist Todd Nauck in the 1998...
, art by Mike WieringoMike WieringoMichael Lance "Mike" Wieringo , who sometimes signed his work under the name Ringo, was an American comic book artist best known for his work on DC Comics' The Flash and Marvel Comics' Fantastic Four....
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #24)- A reporter attempts to purchase definite photographic proof of the rumoured vigilante and shed some light on the creature of the night. The Batman explains that the mystery is far more powerful than the truth, and convinces the reporter that he is merely an urban legendUrban legendAn urban legend, urban myth, urban tale, or contemporary legend, is a form of modern folklore consisting of stories that may or may not have been believed by their tellers to be true...
- and functions better for being in that mysterious grey area. For the opposite suggestion on Batman's status as an urban legend, read Brian Azzarello's "Cornered". For a less scrupulous journalist's attempts to photograph the Batman, see John Ostrander's "Snap".
- A reporter attempts to purchase definite photographic proof of the rumoured vigilante and shed some light on the creature of the night. The Batman explains that the mystery is far more powerful than the truth, and convinces the reporter that he is merely an urban legend
- "Last Call at McSurley's" - Written by Mike W. BarrMike W. BarrMike W. Barr is an American writer of comic books, and mystery, and science fiction novels.-Biography:Barr's debut as a comics professional came in DC Comics' Detective Comics #444 , for which he wrote an 8-page back-up mystery feature starring the Elongated Man...
, art by Alan DavisAlan DavisAlan Davis is an English writer and artist of comic books, known for his work on titles such as Captain Britain, The Uncanny X-Men, ClanDestine, Excalibur, JLA: The Nail and JLA: Another Nail.-UK work:...
& Mark FarmerMark FarmerMark Farmer is a British comic book artist. He is best known as an inker, often working with Alan Davis.-Biography:Farmer got his start in the UK comics industry before becoming part of the British Invasion, the wave of UK creators that were an integral part of the DC Comics "new look" of the...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #25)- Matches Malone's local bar is threatened with closure, even as Bruce's multiple guises and roles within McSurley's establishment allow him to solve a crime a night thanks to eavesdropping on the low-lifes who frequent it. Bruce Wayne's wealth is put to good use to maintain a "safe" haven for criminals to discuss their crimes.
- "Bruce Wayne is Batman!" - Written by Cyrus Voris, art by Chris BachaloChris BachaloChris Bachalo is an American comic book illustrator known for his quirky, cartoon-like style. He became well known for stints on DC Comics’ Shade, the Changing Man and Neil Gaiman's two Death series...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #26)- An Arkham Asylum inmate conjures a demonDemoncall - 1347 531 7769 for more infoIn Ancient Near Eastern religions as well as in the Abrahamic traditions, including ancient and medieval Christian demonology, a demon is considered an "unclean spirit" which may cause demonic possession, to be addressed with an act of exorcism...
and discovers that Batman is Bruce Wayne. Two cleaners discuss her story, and conclude that this "fact" is not worthy of further thought, coming from such a deranged and damaged mind. The more compassionate of the cleaners does a disappearing act, secure in the knowledge that his secret remains safe.
- An Arkham Asylum inmate conjures a demon
- "Never Say Die" - Written by Dwayne McDuffieDwayne McDuffieDwayne Glenn McDuffie was an American writer of comic books and television, known for creating the animated television series Static Shock, writing and producing the animated series Justice League Unlimited, and co-founding the pioneering minority-owned-and-operated comic-book company Milestone...
, art by Denys CowanDenys CowanDenys B. Cowan is an American comic book artist and television producer. He gained prominence as the primary artist on The Question, an acclaimed comic book series published by DC Comics for 36 issues from 1987 on, written by Dennis O'Neil.-Career:Denys Cowan is a 1979 graduate of the High School...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #27)- A small-time crook in the employ of The PenguinPenguin (comics)Oswald Chesterfield Cobblepot III is a DC Comics supervillain and one of Batman's oldest, most persistent enemies. The Penguin was introduced by artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger, making his debut in Detective Comics #58 .The Penguin is a short, rotund man known for his love of birds and his...
is determined to prove his worth by standing up to the Batman or die trying. While "just a man," Batman proves he can thwart all manner of plans - even last ditch, desperate attempts at criminal glory.
- A small-time crook in the employ of The Penguin
- "Thin Edge of a Dime" - Written by Don McGregorDon McGregorDonald Francis McGregor is an American comic book writer best known for his work for Marvel Comics, and the author of one of the first graphic novels.-Early life and career:...
, art by Dick GiordanoDick GiordanoRichard Joseph "Dick" Giordano was an American comic book artist and editor best known for introducing Charlton Comics' "Action Heroes" stable of superheroes, and serving as executive editor of then–industry leader DC Comics...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #28)- The Batman's work is never done, and trying to talk a non-descript Gothamite out of his suicidalSuicideSuicide is the act of intentionally causing one's own death. Suicide is often committed out of despair or attributed to some underlying mental disorder, such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, alcoholism, or drug abuse...
tendencies is every bit as important as his regular duties.
- The Batman's work is never done, and trying to talk a non-descript Gothamite out of his suicidal
- "No Escape" - Written by Paul KupperbergPaul KupperbergPaul Kupperberg is a former editor for DC Comics, and a prolific writer of comic books and newspaper strips.-Biography:Kupperberg entered the comics field from comics fandom, as had his brother, writer/artist Alan Kupperberg...
, art by John WatkissJohn WatkissJohn Watkiss is an artist who has worked in both comics and film. Born in England in 1961.After growing up in the Midlands in England, John Watkiss graduated from The Faculty of Arts and Architecture, Brighton University with a bachelor of Fine Arts degree...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #29)- In the past, a young Bruce Wayne learns escapologyEscapologyFor the Jessica Mauboy song, see Inescapable.Escapology is the practice of escaping from restraints or other traps. Escapologists escape from handcuffs, straitjackets, cages, coffins, steel boxes, barrels, bags, burning buildings, fish-tanks and other perils, often in combination.-History:The art...
from the master - Max Dodge - while in the present the Riddler offers a washed-up Dodge one last shot at glory: producing an un-escapable deathtrap for the Batman. Faced with the threat of death if Batman escapes, Dodge has to decide whether some things are more important than life, and make good one last escape.
- In the past, a young Bruce Wayne learns escapology
- "Punchline" - Written by Doug Alexander, art by Rob Haynes (Originally published in Gotham Knights #30)
- Told silently, Harley QuinnHarley QuinnHarley Quinn was first introduced as a villain on September 11, 1992, in the animated series Batman: The Animated Series, later adapted into DC Comics' Batman comic books. As suggested by her name , she is clad in the manner of a traditional harlequin jester...
attempts to trick another criminal out of their ill-gotten gains by inspiring the fear of Batman in them. Her attempts to mimic the Caped Crusader, however, cannot match up to the man himself.
- Told silently, Harley Quinn
- "Hands" - Written by Scott PetersonScott Peterson (comics)Scott James Peterson is an editor at WildStorm Productions, an imprint of DC Comics, and a writer of comic books and children's books.-Career:Peterson joined the staff of DC Comics as the assistant of Dennis O'Neil in 1991...
, art by Danijel ZezeljDanijel ZezeljDanijel Zezelj is a Croatian comic book artist, painter and illustrator and author of a number of graphic novels.-Biography:Zezelj studied classical painting, sculpting and printing at the Academy of Fine Arts in Zagreb, Croatia....
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #31)- Highlights two under-explored sides of Batman, those of forensic investigator and granter of absolutionAbsolutionAbsolution is a traditional theological term for the forgiveness experienced in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. This concept is found in the Roman Catholic Church, as well as the Eastern Orthodox churches, the Anglican churches, and most Lutheran churches....
. Batman discovers an old death, and has to decide the path of least heartache when conveying the results of his investigation into the death of a young child to her surviving family.
- Highlights two under-explored sides of Batman, those of forensic investigator and granter of absolution
- "Toyride" - Written by Mark AskwithMark AskwithMark Askwith is a Canadian producer, writer, interviewer , and a familiar name in the fields of science fiction and comics.-Early life:...
, art by Michael William KalutaMichael William KalutaMichael William Kaluta, sometimes credited as Mike Kaluta or Michael Wm. Kaluta , is an American comic book artist and writer.-Early life:Born in Guatemala to U.S...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #32)- Three young girls become involved in a young criminal genius' plot to destroy Batman with a giant mechanised dinosaurDinosaurDinosaurs are a diverse group of animals of the clade and superorder Dinosauria. They were the dominant terrestrial vertebrates for over 160 million years, from the late Triassic period until the end of the Cretaceous , when the Cretaceous–Paleogene extinction event led to the extinction of...
. The framing device is a "Thank You" letter written to Bruce Wayne, whose philanthropic donation of a local park allows the children space to play after danger has passed.
- Three young girls become involved in a young criminal genius' plot to destroy Batman with a giant mechanised dinosaur
- "The Monument" - Written by Darwyn CookeDarwyn CookeDarwyn Cooke is an Eisner Award-winning comic book writer, artist, cartoonist and animator, best known for his work on the comic books Catwoman, DC: The New Frontier, The Spirit and Richard Stark's Parker: The Hunter.-Career:...
, art by Bill WrayBill WrayWilliam York Wray is an American cartoonist and landscape painter, notable for his Urban Landscape series of paintings, his many pages for Mad and his contributions to The Ren & Stimpy Show...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #33)- A wealthy philanthropist erects a tribute statue of Gotham's Guardian in Robinson ParkJerry RobinsonJerry Robinson is an American comic book artist best known for his work on DC Comics' Batman line of comics during the 1940s.He was inducted into the Comic Book Hall of Fame in 2004.-Career:...
. Mixed reactions see the silent statue act as a shrine, a deterrent a homeless shelter and a graffitiGraffitiGraffiti is the name for images or lettering scratched, scrawled, painted or marked in any manner on property....
-covered wall. Acting as a focal point for the pro-/anti-Batman camps, Professor Hugo StrangeHugo StrangeProfessor Hugo Strange is a fictional comic book supervillain appearing in books published by DC Comics, as an adversary of Batman. He first appeared in Detective Comics #36 , and is one of Batman's first recurring villains, preceding the Joker and Catwoman by several months...
decides to destroy in a symbolic gesture that emphasises his belief that Batman represents the worst of humanity. While Batman must apprehend Strange, he has more mixed feelings about saving the statue, declaring his aversion to a fan-club.
- A wealthy philanthropist erects a tribute statue of Gotham's Guardian in Robinson Park
- "The Delusions of Alfred Pennyworth" - Written by Danielle Dwyer, art by Scott MorseScott MorseScott Morse is an American animator, filmmaker, and comic book artist/writer.Much of Morse's published work consists of stand-alone graphic novels, although he is perhaps best known for his epic series Soulwind, a story serialised in a sequence of graphic novels, which was nominated for both the...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #34)- Alfred becomes convinced that the benevolent ghost of an old friendJason ToddJason Peter Todd is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by DC Comics. Jason first appeared in Batman #357 and became the second Robin, sidekick to the superhero Batman, when the previous Robin went on to star in The New Teen Titans under the moniker of Nightwing.Though...
is haunting Wayne ManorWayne ManorIn DC Comics, Wayne Manor is a fictional setting, the personal residence of Bruce Wayne, who is also Batman. The residence is typically depicted as a huge stately mansion on grounds outside Gotham City, maintained by the Wayne family's servant, Alfred Pennyworth...
, but decides not to tell Bruce Wayne, thinking that his master has enough delusions of his own. But Batman knows all.
- Alfred becomes convinced that the benevolent ghost of an old friend
- "Cornered" - Written by Brian AzzarelloBrian AzzarelloBrian Azzarello is an American comic book writer. He came to prominence with the hardboiled crime series 100 Bullets, published by DC Comics' mature-audience imprint Vertigo.-Career:...
, art by Jim MahfoodJim MahfoodJim Mahfood , a.k.a. Food One, is an American comic book creator.Apart from his creator-owned comic book series Grrl Scouts and his comic strip Stupid Comics he also did work for Marvel Comics on various Spider-Man titles, including Ultimate Marvel Team-Up and Spectacular...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #35)- A world-weary Gothamite living in a crime-riddled area of the city witnesses Batman's just-too-late attempts to stop street hoods engaging in a gunfight, and questions the Batman's methods. Would not a real threat be more likely to inspire the younger generation to be law-abiding than an urban legend? For the opposite suggestion, read Todd Dezago's "Urban Legend".
- "Fear is the Key" - Written by Mike Carey, art by Steve Mannion & Hilary BartaHilary BartaHilary Barta is an American comic book writer and artist.-Biography:Barta was born on June 17, 1957. His first comics work came in June 1982, when he helped legendary Marvel inkers Al Milgrom, Joe Sinnott and Sal Trapani provide inks for the pencils of Don Perlin on The Defenders #108...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #37)- An medieval sorcerer conjures a Bat-demon, but is revealed to be the ScarecrowScarecrow (comics)The Scarecrow is a fictional character, a supervillain, that appears in comic books published by DC Comics. The character first appeared in World's Finest Comics #3 and was created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane...
, who has inadvertently absorded a high dosage of an experimental hallucinogen and his own fear toxin. Triumphing over impossible odds, the Batman returns Scarecrow to Arkham Asylum, where he ponders the incredible resilience of Batman, who must similarly have been hallucinating wildly, and yet managed to maintain a grip on reality.
- An medieval sorcerer conjures a Bat-demon, but is revealed to be the Scarecrow
- 'Untitled' - Written by Ann NocentiAnn NocentiAnn "Annie" Nocenti is an American journalist, writer, editor, and filmmaker best known for her work on comic books and magazines. As an editor for Marvel Comics, she edited New Mutants and The Uncanny X-Men...
, art by John Bolton (Originally published in Gotham Knights #38)- The seedy underbelly of the Gotham underworld includes a large number of criminals who need the vicarious thrill of seeing Batman - and CatwomanCatwomanCatwoman is a fictional character associated with DC Comics' Batman franchise. Historically a supervillain, the character was created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, partially inspired by Kane's cousin, Ruth Steel...
- trussed, tortureTortureTorture is the act of inflicting severe pain as a means of punishment, revenge, forcing information or a confession, or simply as an act of cruelty. Throughout history, torture has often been used as a method of political re-education, interrogation, punishment, and coercion...
d and killed. One man runs a small 'business' to provide just such a thrill.
- The seedy underbelly of the Gotham underworld includes a large number of criminals who need the vicarious thrill of seeing Batman - and Catwoman
- "Sunrise" - Written by Alex GarlandAlex GarlandAlexander Medawar "Alex" Garland is a British novelist and screenwriter.-Early life:Garland was born in London, England, the son of psychoanalyst Caroline and political cartoonist Nicholas Garland. His maternal grandparents were zoologist Peter Medawar and author Jean Medawar...
, art by Sean PhillipsSean PhillipsSean Phillips is a British comic book artist.He is best known in the American comic book industry for his work on DC Comics' Sleeper, WildC.A.T.s, Batman and Hellblazer.-Career:...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #39)- An elderly Gothamite encounters a recovering Batman, and muses on the importance of memories, momentos and the privileges and responsibilities of old age.
- "Neighbourhood" - Written by Robert RodiRobert RodiRobert Rodi is an American novelist, playwright, comic book writer, essayist, and performance artist.-Biography:...
, art by Jon Proctor (Originally published in Gotham Knights #40)- Petty criminal Rico Tagliani lives in perpetual fear of the Batman for decades, getting increasingly more paranoid as time passes. Ultimately his paranoiaic delusions lead him to larger crimes, even as it is revealed that there is always truth behind fears of the Dark Night Detective. See also Ed Brubaker's "I'll Be Watching," for a similar story with different actions and results.
- "I'll Be Watching" - Written by Ed BrubakerEd BrubakerEd Brubaker is an Eisner Award-winning comic book writer and cartoonist. Brubaker first early comics work was primarily in the crime fiction genre with works such as Lowlife, The Fall, Sandman Presents: Dead Boy Detectives and Scene of the Crime...
, art by Ryan SookRyan SookRyan Sook is an American comic book artist from San Jose, California.-Career:Sook's first professional work was in Challengers of the Unknown #15 published in 1998...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #41)- The janitor at Sprang HallDick SprangRichard W. "Dick" Sprang was an American comic book artist and penciller, best known for his work on the superhero Batman during the period fans and historians call Golden Age of Comic Books. Sprang was responsible for the 1948 redesign of the Batmobile and the original design of the Riddler, who...
, Gotham's juvenile correctional facility, recalls the event that set him on his path to redemption and sees the guiding presence of Batman as a perpetual and comforting reminder of his new life. Meanwhile, Batman's inspirational second-chance offer is shown to be neither unique nor forgotten.
- The janitor at Sprang Hall
- "Gargoyles of Gotham" - By Dean MotterDean MotterDean Motter is an illustrator, designer and writer who worked for many years in Toronto, Canada, New York City, and Atlanta. Motter is best known as the creator and designer of Mister X, one of the most influential "new-wave" comics of the 1980s....
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #42)- An art exhibition featuring photographs of some of Gotham's gargoyleGargoyleIn architecture, a gargoyle is a carved stone grotesque, usually made of granite, with a spout designed to convey water from a roof and away from the side of a building thereby preventing rainwater from running down masonry walls and eroding the mortar between...
s allows art patron Bruce Wayne to recall his own memories of such omnipresent parts of the city's landscape, including their structural integrity and the secrets some of them hide, including one nick-named "ClarkClark KentClark Kent is a fictional character created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. Appearing regularly in stories published by DC Comics, he debuted in Action Comics #1 and serves as the civilian and secret identity of the superhero Superman....
," who secretly guards the garb of one Bruce Wayne when his alter-ego is on patrol.
- An art exhibition featuring photographs of some of Gotham's gargoyle
- "Snap" - Written by John OstranderJohn OstranderJohn Ostrander is an American writer of comic books. He is best known for his work on Suicide Squad, Grimjack and Star Wars: Legacy, series he helped create.-Career:...
, art by Philip BondPhilip BondPhilip J. Bond is a British comic book artist, who first came to prominence in the late 1980s on Deadline magazine, and later through a number of collaborations with British writers for the DC Comics imprint Vertigo....
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #43)- A down-on-his-luck photojournalist attempts to get photographic proof of Batman's existence. Attempts to bribeBriberyBribery, a form of corruption, is an act implying money or gift giving that alters the behavior of the recipient. Bribery constitutes a crime and is defined by Black's Law Dictionary as the offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting of any item of value to influence the actions of an official or...
Commissioner GordonJames Gordon (comics)James Worthington Gordon, Sr. is a fictional character, an ally of Batman that appears in comic books published by DC Comics. The character first appeared in Detective Comics #27 , and was created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane...
fail, and a staged crime scene makes the photographer into a criminal himself. Both Gordon - and Batman himself - reiterate the importance of the unreality of the urban legend. For a more understanding photographers take on the rights and wrongs of photographing the Batman, see Todd Dezago's "Urban Legend". For the opposite suggestion on Batman's status as an urban legend, read Brian Azzarello's "Cornered".
- A down-on-his-luck photojournalist attempts to get photographic proof of Batman's existence. Attempts to bribe
- "The Best of Gotham" - By Jill ThompsonJill ThompsonJill Thompson is an American comic book writer and illustrator. Probably better known for her work on Neil Gaiman's The Sandman characters and her own Scary Godmother series, she has also worked on The Invisibles, Swamp Thing, and Wonder Woman.-Career:Jill Thompson illustrated The Sandman story...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #44)- A newspaper-style text and 'photos' guide to some of Gotham's "must see" highlights, including mentions of the philanthropy of Gotham's most famous son, as well as the inspirational activities of the city's protector, which can be seen in the theaters, stand-up clubs, clothes shops, night clubs and a tailored museum: "Hideout" showcasing some of the items confiscated from Batman's rogues gallery, and funded by the Martha Wayne Outreach program.
- "Sidekick" - Written by Kimo Temperance, art by Nathan FoxNathan FoxNathan Fox is a professional English footballer who plays as a winger.-Career:Fox signed a scholarship contract with Notts County on 13 May 2009, along with 14 other players. He made his Football League debut on 1 December for Notts County in the 4–0 home win over Darlington, replacing Matt Ritchie...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #45)- Batman has to carry out his patrol while babysitting a child who has been abandoned on the BatmobileBatmobileThe Batmobile is the automobile of DC Comics superhero Batman. The car has evolved along with the character from comic books to television and films. Kept in the Batcave, which it accesses through a hidden entrance, the Batmobile is a gadget-laden vehicle used by Batman in his crime-fighting...
by someone eager for fame.
- Batman has to carry out his patrol while babysitting a child who has been abandoned on the Batmobile
- "Urban Renewal" - Written by Will PfeiferWill Pfeifer-Personal life:Will Pfeifer was born in 1967 in the town of Niles, Ohio. He attended Kent State University and graduated in 1989. He has resided in Rockford, Illinois since 1990, with his wife, Amy....
, art by Brent AndersonBrent AndersonBrent Anderson is an American comic book artist known for his work on X-Men: God Loves, Man Kills and the comic book series Astro City.- Early life :...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #46)- Writer/photographer Daniel McKinley notes the changing face of Gotham - and the world - from the kitschKitschKitsch is a form of art that is considered an inferior, tasteless copy of an extant style of art or a worthless imitation of art of recognized value. The concept is associated with the deliberate use of elements that may be thought of as cultural icons while making cheap mass-produced objects that...
architecture of "buildings shaped like cash registers" to the faceless conformity of the modern era. Turned down by publisher after publisher, he has almost resigned himself to writing a book about "gargoyle-covered skyscrapers," when his proposal is accepted by Signal Publishing, a division of Wayne EnterprisesWayne EnterprisesWayne Enterprises is a company in the DC Universe, owned by Bruce Wayne and run by his business manager, Lucius Fox. It was founded by merchant ancestors of the Wayne family in the 17th century as a merchant house, although the company changed when the heir of Judge Solomon Wayne, Alan, utilized...
. Bruce Wayne, like McKinley, has a keen sense of nostalgia. See also Dean Motter's "Gargoyles of Gotham" for more on those iconic structures.
- Writer/photographer Daniel McKinley notes the changing face of Gotham - and the world - from the kitsch
- "Riddle Me This" - Written by Judd WinickJudd WinickJudd Winick is an American comic book, comic strip and television writer/artist and former reality television personality...
, art by Whilce PortacioWhilce PortacioWilliam "Whilce" Portacio is a Filipino-American comic book writer and artist. Noted for his work on such titles as The Punisher, X-Factor, and the Uncanny X-Men. Portacio was also one of the seven co-founders of Image Comics, though he did not become a partner in the company.-Early life:Portacio...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #47)- The Riddler, in a series of highlights from across his career runs through a series of riddles before settling on one which describes his nemesis, as well as indulging in a spot of soul-searching, concluding that he wants to be caught.
- "The Mob is Dead, Long Live the Mob" - By Eric Cherry (Originally published in Gotham Knights #48)
- A former snitch tries to set himself up as a new mob boss, using Batman as a cover by feeding him information about minor drug deals while the major ones are carried out with impunity. The new "Boss" is ultimately brought low by another snitch who fears that Batman is now in the employ of the gangs.
- "Fear is the Key" - Written by Geoff JohnsGeoff JohnsGeoff Johns is an American comic book writer, best known for his work for DC Comics, where he has been Chief Creative Officer since February 2010, in particular for characters such as Green Lantern, The Flash and Superman...
, art by Tommy CastilloTommy CastilloTommy Castillo is an American writer and illustrator of comic books.-Bibliography:Comics work includes:*Dragons, Myths & Mayhem 2001 ISBN 0865620431 *Grimm Fairy Tales Beauty & the Beast 2008 Published by Zenescope...
& Rodney Ramos (Originally published in Gotham Knights #49)- Scarecrow runs through a litany of phobiaPhobiaA phobia is a type of anxiety disorder, usually defined as a persistent fear of an object or situation in which the sufferer commits to great lengths in avoiding, typically disproportional to the actual danger posed, often being recognized as irrational...
s, and regrets that his own addiction to fear has been compromised by an increasing immunity to his toxins. There is always something to fear, however, and for the Scarecrow, Batman is both the ultimate fear and the ultimate thrill.
- Scarecrow runs through a litany of phobia
- "The Gasworks" - Written by Mike MignolaMike MignolaMichael Joseph "Mike" Mignola is an American comic book artist and writer who created the comic book series Hellboy for Dark Horse Comics. He has worked for animation projects such as Atlantis: The Lost Empire and the adaptation of his one shot comic book, The Amazing Screw-On Head.-Career:Mignola...
, art by Troy NixeyTroy NixeyTroy Nixey is a Canadian comic book artist and film director.-Comic books:Nixey has written and illustrated for comic books such as Neil Gaiman's Only the End of the World Again, Harley Quinn, and The Matrix Comics.-Film:After submitting his 2007 short Latchkey's Lament to filmmaker Guillermo del...
(Originally published in Gotham Knights #36)- Two villains attempt to use a powerful hallucinogenic compound to incapacitate Batman and kill him. In an ironic twist of events, they manage to disable him enough that he cannot subsequently come to their rescue.
- NOTE: "The Gasworks" is the only "Black & White" story to include color - red permeates the story, the color of both the hallucinogen and the blood. This is likely the reason this story was moved to the end of the volume.
- DC Direct Gallery - Showcasing the first dozen DC DirectDC DirectDC Direct is the collectibles division of DC Comics, the Time Warner subsidiary that publishes comic books and licenses characters such as Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, Flash, Batman, Batgirl and Hawkgirl. DC Direct produces statues, props, replicas and prints for the direct market, a...
-produced statues in the "Batman: Black and White" series.- Eduardo RissoEduardo RissoEduardo Risso is an Argentine comic book artist. In the United States he is probably best known for his work with writer Brian Azzarello on the Vertigo title 100 Bullets, while in Argentina and Europe he is noted for his collaborations with Ricardo Barreiro and Carlos Trillo...
's statue. (Sculpted by Tony Cipriano.) /Simon BisleySimon BisleySimon Bisley is a British comics artist best known for his 1990s work on ABC Warriors, Lobo and Sláine. His style, reliant on paints, acrylics, inks and multiple-mediums, is strongly influenced by Frank Frazetta, Bill Sienkiewicz, Gustav Klimt, Salvador Dalí, Egon Schiele, and Richard Corben...
's statue. (Sculpted by William Paquet.) - Sketches by Alex RossAlex RossNelson Alexander "Alex" Ross is an American comic book painter, illustrator, and plotter. He is praised for his realistic, human depictions of classic comic book characters. Since the 1990s he has done work for Marvel Comics and DC Comics Nelson Alexander "Alex" Ross (born January 22, 1970) is an...
.
- Eduardo Risso
-
- Sketches by Paul PopePaul PopePaul Pope is an American alternative comic book artist. Influenced by Ray Bradbury and Edgar Rice Burroughs, Pope's stories evoke poignant, under-explored aspects of youth culture...
. (Designs for his Batman: Year 100 Batman.) - Brian BollandBrian BollandBrian Bolland is a British comics artist, known for his meticulous, detailed linework and eye-catching compositions. Best known in the UK as one of the definitive Judge Dredd artists for British comics anthology 2000 AD, he spearheaded the 'British Invasion' of the American comics industry, and in...
's statue. (Sculpted by Jack Mathews. (sic)) - Small rough sketches and statue by Tim SaleTim Sale (artist)Tim Sale is an American Eisner Award-winning comic book artist. He is primarily known for his collaborations with writer Jeph Loeb.-Early life:...
. (Statue sculpted by Jonathan Matthews.) - Steve RudeSteve Rude-Career:In 1981, Rude became widely known in the comics world when he and writer Mike Baron created Nexus, an independent science fiction comic book with a large supporting cast. For the series, Rude designed a dozen or so distinctive alien races, including the Thunes, the Amphibs, the Quattros,...
's statue. (Sculpted by Jonathan Matthews.) - Sketches by Steve RudeSteve Rude-Career:In 1981, Rude became widely known in the comics world when he and writer Mike Baron created Nexus, an independent science fiction comic book with a large supporting cast. For the series, Rude designed a dozen or so distinctive alien races, including the Thunes, the Amphibs, the Quattros,...
. - Rough sketches by Jim LeeJim LeeJim Lee is a Korean-American comic book artist, writer, editor and publisher. He first broke into the industry in 1987 as an artist for Marvel Comics, illustrating titles such as Alpha Flight and Punisher War Journal, before gaining a great deal of popularity on The Uncanny X-Men...
. - Sketch and statue by Jim LeeJim LeeJim Lee is a Korean-American comic book artist, writer, editor and publisher. He first broke into the industry in 1987 as an artist for Marvel Comics, illustrating titles such as Alpha Flight and Punisher War Journal, before gaining a great deal of popularity on The Uncanny X-Men...
. (Statue sculpted by Erick Sosa.) - Individual cowl and close-up sketches by Kelley JonesKelley JonesKelley Jones is an American comic book artist best known for his runs on Batman with writer Doug Moench and on Sandman with writer Neil Gaiman.-Biography:...
. - Kelley JonesKelley JonesKelley Jones is an American comic book artist best known for his runs on Batman with writer Doug Moench and on Sandman with writer Neil Gaiman.-Biography:...
' statue. (Sculpted by Ray Villafane.) - Matt WagnerMatt WagnerMatt Wagner is an American comic book writer and artist, best known as the creator of the series Mage and Grendel.-Career:...
's statue and sketches. (Statue sculpted by Paul Harding.)
- Sketches by Paul Pope
Collected editions
Volume 1 was subsequently collected as an oversized hardcoverHardcover
A hardcover, hardback or hardbound is a book bound with rigid protective covers...
and then reprinted as a trade paperback
Trade paperback (comics)
In comics, a trade paperback is a collection of stories originally published in comic books, reprinted in book format, usually capturing one story arc from a single title or a series of stories with a connected story arc or common theme from one or more titles...
in 1998. In September 2007, it was reissued in a "new edition", in normal comics TPB
Trade paperback (comics)
In comics, a trade paperback is a collection of stories originally published in comic books, reprinted in book format, usually capturing one story arc from a single title or a series of stories with a connected story arc or common theme from one or more titles...
format (ISBN 1-4012-1589-0).
Volume 2 was initially published in September 2002 as a hardcover
Hardcover
A hardcover, hardback or hardbound is a book bound with rigid protective covers...
book (ISBN 6194123175). It collected black-and-white Batman backup stories from the first sixteen issues of Batman: Gotham Knights
Batman: Gotham Knights
Batman: Gotham Knights was a monthly, fictional comic book series published by DC Comics. The original intent of this book was to feature the exploits of Batman and his extended family - Alfred Pennyworth, Batgirl, Nightwing, Robin, Oracle, Catwoman, etc...
, as well as five never-before-published tales. The five new stories were subsequently included in later issues of Batman: Gotham Knights. Volume 2 was released as an oversized softcover in October 2003 (ISBN 1-56389-917-5).
Volume 3 was published as a comics-sized hardcover in May, 2007 (ISBN 1-4012-1531-9). It collected the black-and-white Batman backup stories from Batman: Gotham Knights #17-49. A softcover edition was released in 2008 (ISBN ISBN 9781401213541).
Motion Comics
Warner PremiereWarner Premiere
Warner Premiere is the direct-to-video label of Warner Home Video, itself the home video unit of Warner Bros.In 2006, Warner Home Video announced they would enter the market of releasing original direct-to-video films, a market that has proven lucrative for studios over the past few years...
, Warner Bros Digital Distribution, and DC Comics
DC Comics
DC Comics, Inc. is one of the largest and most successful companies operating in the market for American comic books and related media. It is the publishing unit of DC Entertainment a company of Warner Bros. Entertainment, which itself is owned by Time Warner...
produced semi-animated adaptations of several of the "Black and White" short-stories and released them as motion comics. The motion comics were produced and directed by Ian Kirby and feature an original musical score by composer Adam Fulton and voice-actors, such as Michael Richard Dobson as the voice of Batman
Batman
Batman is a fictional character created by the artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger. A comic book superhero, Batman first appeared in Detective Comics #27 , and since then has appeared primarily in publications by DC Comics...
, The Joker, Thomas Wayne
Thomas Wayne
Thomas Wayne is a fictional character in the Batman series of comic books. Dr. Thomas Wayne was the father of Bruce Wayne, and husband of Martha Wayne, as well as a gifted surgeon and philanthropist...
and Alfred Pennyworth
Alfred Pennyworth
Alfred Pennyworth is a fictional character that appears throughout the DC Comics franchise. The character first appears in Batman #16 , and was created by writer Bob Kane and artist Jerry Robinson. Alfred serves as Batman’s tireless butler, assistant, confidant, and surrogate father figure...
, John Fitzgerald as Commissioner Gordon and Two-Face
Two-Face
Two-Face is a fictional comic book supervillain who appears in comic books published by DC Comics. and is an enemy of Batman. The character first appeared in Detective Comics #66 , and was created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger....
, Janyse Jaud
Janyse Jaud
Janyse Aldis Jaud is a Canadian actress, dancer and singer/songwriter. She is of Icelandic-French descent....
as Harley Quinn
Harley Quinn
Harley Quinn was first introduced as a villain on September 11, 1992, in the animated series Batman: The Animated Series, later adapted into DC Comics' Batman comic books. As suggested by her name , she is clad in the manner of a traditional harlequin jester...
, Catwoman
Catwoman
Catwoman is a fictional character associated with DC Comics' Batman franchise. Historically a supervillain, the character was created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane, partially inspired by Kane's cousin, Ruth Steel...
and Martha Wayne
Martha Wayne
Martha Wayne is a fictional character of the Batman series of comic books, published by DC Comics. She is Dr. Thomas Wayne's wife and mother of Bruce Wayne. When she and her husband are murdered during a holdup, young Bruce swears to avenge their deaths by fighting crime...
and Joseph May
Joseph May
Joseph May is a British-born actor who has appeared in television and film on both sides of the Atlantic...
as Superman
Superman
Superman is a fictional comic book superhero appearing in publications by DC Comics, widely considered to be an American cultural icon. Created by American writer Jerry Siegel and Canadian-born American artist Joe Shuster in 1932 while both were living in Cleveland, Ohio, and sold to Detective...
. Currently 10 episodes divided into 2 seasons are available via online streaming off of TheWB's website. The episodes are also available for purchase online via Apple's iTunes Store and other distribution channels, such as Amazon's Video On Demand for $0.99/2-episodes.
Season 1 Episode List (debuted on 12/8/2008):
- 1 - Here Be Monsters
- 2 - Broken Nose
- 3 - Two of a Kind
- 4 - Case Study
- 5 - Black and White Bandit
- 6 - Punchline
- 7 - Good Evening Midnight
- 8 - Hide and Seek
- 9 - Night After Night
- 10 - Perpetual Mourning
Season 2 Episode List (debuted 7/23/2009):
- 1 - I'll Be Watching
- 2 - The Call
- 3 - Monsters in the Closet
- 4 - A Game of Bat and Rat
- 5 - Hands
- 6 - Sunrise
- 7 - In Dreams
- 8 - Heroes
- 9 - Legend
- 10 - Blackout
Critical reaction
IGNIGN
IGN is an entertainment website that focuses on video games, films, music and other media. IGN's main website comprises several specialty sites or "channels", each occupying a subdomain and covering a specific area of entertainment...
Comics ranked Volume 1 of Batman: Black and White #14 on a list of the 25 greatest Batman graphic novels, saying: "Though having just eight pages to tell a story can certainly be confining, it also proves to be liberating. Forced to scrap complex plots but create something indelible, these tales are often parables, send-ups or unforgettable vignettes surrounding the Batman."
Statues
Several Batman: Black and White statues have been released by DC DirectDC Direct
DC Direct is the collectibles division of DC Comics, the Time Warner subsidiary that publishes comic books and licenses characters such as Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, Flash, Batman, Batgirl and Hawkgirl. DC Direct produces statues, props, replicas and prints for the direct market, a...
. Most of these are based on the Batman designs used by various artists for their contributions to the three volumes of "Black & White" stories. Artists' interpretations of Batman (along with other characters) currently released include:
- Brian BollandBrian BollandBrian Bolland is a British comics artist, known for his meticulous, detailed linework and eye-catching compositions. Best known in the UK as one of the definitive Judge Dredd artists for British comics anthology 2000 AD, he spearheaded the 'British Invasion' of the American comics industry, and in...
- Penguin - Eduardo RissoEduardo RissoEduardo Risso is an Argentine comic book artist. In the United States he is probably best known for his work with writer Brian Azzarello on the Vertigo title 100 Bullets, while in Argentina and Europe he is noted for his collaborations with Ricardo Barreiro and Carlos Trillo...
- Mike MignolaMike MignolaMichael Joseph "Mike" Mignola is an American comic book artist and writer who created the comic book series Hellboy for Dark Horse Comics. He has worked for animation projects such as Atlantis: The Lost Empire and the adaptation of his one shot comic book, The Amazing Screw-On Head.-Career:Mignola...
- Simon BisleySimon BisleySimon Bisley is a British comics artist best known for his 1990s work on ABC Warriors, Lobo and Sláine. His style, reliant on paints, acrylics, inks and multiple-mediums, is strongly influenced by Frank Frazetta, Bill Sienkiewicz, Gustav Klimt, Salvador Dalí, Egon Schiele, and Richard Corben...
- Kelley JonesKelley JonesKelley Jones is an American comic book artist best known for his runs on Batman with writer Doug Moench and on Sandman with writer Neil Gaiman.-Biography:...
- Alex RossAlex RossNelson Alexander "Alex" Ross is an American comic book painter, illustrator, and plotter. He is praised for his realistic, human depictions of classic comic book characters. Since the 1990s he has done work for Marvel Comics and DC Comics Nelson Alexander "Alex" Ross (born January 22, 1970) is an...
- Steve RudeSteve Rude-Career:In 1981, Rude became widely known in the comics world when he and writer Mike Baron created Nexus, an independent science fiction comic book with a large supporting cast. For the series, Rude designed a dozen or so distinctive alien races, including the Thunes, the Amphibs, the Quattros,...
- Jim LeeJim LeeJim Lee is a Korean-American comic book artist, writer, editor and publisher. He first broke into the industry in 1987 as an artist for Marvel Comics, illustrating titles such as Alpha Flight and Punisher War Journal, before gaining a great deal of popularity on The Uncanny X-Men...
- Joker - Matt WagnerMatt WagnerMatt Wagner is an American comic book writer and artist, best known as the creator of the series Mage and Grendel.-Career:...
- Joe KubertJoe KubertJoe Kubert is an American comic book artist who went on to found The Kubert School. He is best known for his work on the DC Comics characters Sgt. Rock and Hawkman...
- Andy KubertAndy KubertAndrew "Andy" Kubert is an American comic book artist, son of Joe Kubert, and brother of Adam Kubert, both of whom are also artists...
- Kelley JonesKelley JonesKelley Jones is an American comic book artist best known for his runs on Batman with writer Doug Moench and on Sandman with writer Neil Gaiman.-Biography:...
- Paul PopePaul PopePaul Pope is an American alternative comic book artist. Influenced by Ray Bradbury and Edgar Rice Burroughs, Pope's stories evoke poignant, under-explored aspects of youth culture...
- Tim SaleTim Sale (artist)Tim Sale is an American Eisner Award-winning comic book artist. He is primarily known for his collaborations with writer Jeph Loeb.-Early life:...
- Bob KaneBob KaneBob Kane was an American comic book artist and writer, credited as the creator of the DC Comics superhero Batman...
- Frank MillerFrank Miller (comics)Frank Miller is an American comic book artist, writer and film director best known for his dark, film noir-style comic book stories and graphic novels Ronin, Daredevil: Born Again, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Sin City and 300...
- Neal AdamsNeal AdamsNeal Adams is an American comic book and commercial artist known for helping to create some of the definitive modern imagery of the DC Comics characters Superman, Batman, and Green Arrow; as the co-founder of the graphic design studio Continuity Associates; and as a creators-rights advocate who...
- Man Bat - George PérezGeorge PérezGeorge Pérez is a Puerto Rican-American writer and illustrator of comic books, known for his work on various titles, including Avengers, Teen Titans and Wonder Woman.-Biography:...
- Jim AparoJim AparoJames N. "Jim" Aparo was an American comic book artist best known for his 1960s and 1970s DC Comics work, including on the characters Batman, Aquaman and the Spectre....
- Ethan Van SciverEthan Van SciverEthan Daniel Van Sciver is an American comic book artist, best known for illustrating a number of titles including Green Lantern, Superman/Batman, New X-Men, and The Flash: Rebirth...
- Bruce TimmBruce TimmBruce Walter Timm is an American character designer, animator and producer. He is also a writer and artist working in comics, and is known for his contributions building the modern DC Comics animated franchise, the DC animated universe.-Animation:Timm's early career in animation was varied; he...
- David MazzucchelliDavid MazzucchelliDavid Mazzucchelli is an American comic book artist and writer. His latest work is the award-winning graphic novel, Asterios Polyp.-Career:...
- Ed McGuiness
- Lee BermejoLee BermejoLee Bermejo is an American comic book artist whose published work includes interior illustrations and cover art. His career began in 1997 as an intern at Wildstorm...
- Joker - Marshall RogersMarshall RogersMarshall Rogers was an American comic-book artist best known for his work at Marvel and DC Comics in the 1970s, particularly as one of the illustrators of Batman and Silver Surfer...
- Frank QuitelyFrank QuitelyVincent Deighan, better known by the pen name Frank Quitely, is a Scottish comic book artist. He is best known for his frequent collaborations with Grant Morrison on titles such as New X-Men, We3, All-Star Superman, and Batman and Robin, as well as his work with Mark Millar on The...
- Tony DanielTony DanielAntonio Salvador Daniel AKA Tony S. Daniel is an American comic book writer and artist, known for his work on various books for DC Comics, including Teen Titans, Flash: The Fastest Man Alive and Batman.-Career:...
- Dustin NguyenDustin NguyenDustin Nguyen is a Vietnamese-American actor, director, writer and martial artist. He is best known for his roles as Harry Truman Ioki on 21 Jump Street and as Johnny Loh on V.I.P.-Early life:...
- David FinchDavid FinchDavid Finch may refer to:*David Finch , comic book artist*David Finch , film director...
- Cliff ChiangCliff ChiangCliff Chiang is an American comic book artist. Formerly an assistant editor at DC Comics, he is now an illustrator, best known for his work on Human Target, Beware the Creeper and Crisis Aftermath: The Spectre. A recent project has been the Dr...
- Gotham Knights
- Gotham Knights 2
- Arkham Asylum
Awards
- 1997:
- Won "Best Short Story" Eisner Award, for "Heroes"
- Won "Best Anthology" Eisner Award
- Nominated for "Best Limited Series" Eisner Award
- Nominated for "Best Short Story" Eisner Award, for "Perpetual Mourning"
- Scott Peterson/Mark Chiarello nominated for "Best Editor" Eisner Award
- 2003: Won "Best Graphic Album--Reprint" Eisner Award, for Batman: Black and White Volume 2