Writer: Gerry Duggan
Artist: Shawn Crystal
Rating: 6 of 8
Arkham Manor #1
They say home is where the heart is - but what if madness lies at it's center? That's definitely the case here, as Wayne Manor becomes the new Arkham Asylum. It's definitely a compelling idea, though I'm not sure how well it'd work for a few reasons. Would Batman be able to avoid being seen leaving the cave, given it's not so far from his home?
Though the issue does explain what he does to ensure no one's able to get in, it still seems like a big risk to take. At the same time, I think it's admirable he'd give up his home for so many of those in need, even when so many of them are the criminals he faces on a regular basis. He brings up an interesting reasoning for letting them use his home, believing his father would've done the same.
Though the issue does explain what he does to ensure no one's able to get in, it still seems like a big risk to take. At the same time, I think it's admirable he'd give up his home for so many of those in need, even when so many of them are the criminals he faces on a regular basis. He brings up an interesting reasoning for letting them use his home, believing his father would've done the same.
What I find odd about this is that he hasn't done something like this sooner and that it seems to have taken until a catastrophe to cause him to take action. I never really understand why he doesn't do more to help the mentally ill and reform criminals, which could help decrease the amount of people re-offending, as many Arkham inmates do. Though I understand doing so could take away some of Batman's most popular enemies, so I can see why it's not often done.
I also find it odd that he violently takes out his frustrations about having his home used as the new Asylum when he's not really forced to. Later on, Bruce needs to investigate a grisly incident in Arkham Manor and as he walks, we see moments from his past, as he trained his mind and body. I thought this was pretty cool, especially each moment being shown through the open doors.
Overall, it's a good issue, despite it's flaws. It's mostly well written and clips along at a decent pace, with some very good moments. I appreciated Duggan showing a range of negative reactions to Gotham prioritizing a new Asylum, which were either due to safety concerns, or the city prioritizing the asylum over other things. I wouldn't heartily recommend it, but if you like the sound of any of this, especially the premise, it could be worth a spin.
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