I think what makes this first three issues special and fresh is that Matt Fraction is not trying to deconstruct Batman or break him down. Sure, it's a simple story where Batman and Tim Drake are framed for a crime to commit. But his humor and Jorge Jiminez art as well as Toreu Morey's coloring just makes Gotham seem more bright and colorful. Instead of being dark and purple, Gotham City is bright blue and green, and I actually feel Gotham City as alive.
Again, usually Batman is a dark brooding serious hero, but him disappearing behind Harvey and Commissioner Gordon's back, him getting kicked in the balls by Damiain Wayne doesn't make me roll my eyes. Matt Fraction's writing is executed well here, and it's nice to feel Matt Fraction's earnest and hopeful Batman. While it's nice seeing Batman be at his lowest point and rise, I want to preface that we had that Tom King, James Tynion IV, and Chip Zdarsky. Almost 3 runs back to back (Joshua Williamson's Batman was still solid, but it was a placeholder) had the same concept, so it just feels way better seeing a different story (unless Matt Fraction drops the ball in the future).
Also, I love how Jorge Jiminez has slowly been evolving as the definitive Batman artist of 2020s. His work on Matt Fraction, Chip Zdarsky and James Tynion IV feel and look so different from each other, you can tell which artist is who. more
By: Matt Fraction, Jorge Jimenez
Released: Nov 5, 2025
Vandal Savage makes his move against Batman and Robin, Bruce Wayne tries to make amends, and the Riddler makes his play for arguably the most important item in all of Gotham. Fraction and Jiménez take things to a whole new level as their thrilling new run on Batman continues!