Batman and Robin #2

The second issue continues to focus on the relationship between Bruce Wayne and Damian, but (like most of the New 52 titles) it is a step up from the first issue. We see Batman's concern over his son's past and the violence within him but also a proud moment where he sees Damian able to control his fury in taking down some gun-toting thugs on the streets of Gotham.

The issue also continues to give us a little more insight into the deadly vigilante known as NoBody who appears to be someone from Bruce Wayne's past. I do have some concerns with the first villain out of the gate being someone who knows Bruce Wayne is Batman, but that's second to my concern over the casual mention of Ducard.

For those who don't remember, Ducard was the character played Liam Neeson in Batman Begins (before he was shown to be Ra's al Ghul in one of the most disappointing reveals ever). Although I understand the reasoning for bringing in a character fans of the movie will recognize, I'm very concerned how much this might effect Bruce Wayne's early history in this new DCU.

In the comics we know Wayne traveled the world and trained at the hands of various masters of martial arts, detection, and even illusion and sleight of hand. The character of Ducard did exist in the comics (in the late 1980s) as a very minor character before his appearance in Christopher Nolan's film, but you get the feeling it's Nolan's version mentioned here. The idea that Batman's more worldly training may be scrapped for CliffsNotes version for a more Batman Begins-friendly audience fills me with more than a little dread.

One a postive note the issue also includes an appearnce by Ace the Bat-Hound (sadly, out of costume). I'm all for finding ways to layer in various aspects of Batman's history into this New 52 version. Now let's see that giant penny, and Bat-Mite, and oh so much more! Worth a look.

[DC, $2.99]