Robin #1 Review

Writer: Joshua Williamson

Artist: Gleb Melkinov

Rating: 6 of 8

Robin #1

Life comes with a lot of expectations. Sometimes, we expect a lot more from ourselves than even our parents. It can be hard to live up to them, but try we must, no matter how hard we fall. 

The height of expectation is something Damian Wayne knows well. His mother expected the best, for him to surpass even his father. He expected him to follow orders and his code. His team expected honesty. In the end, he failed all three. Now, he looks to forge a path away from them all, no matter where that leads. Ultimately, it leads him to an island, a mystery - and a great deal of battle.

Action and mystery aren't anything he's unfamiliar with, but whether or not he can survive them alone remains to be seen. In order to unlock this mystery, though, Damian's got to prove himself in battle. Depending on what the League of Lazarus really is, this makes sense, though since Damian's already proven himself many times, I don't see why he needs to do so again.

It's here that he faces King Snake, Bane's father, and though you might expect the match to be emotionally taut, it makes sense that it isn't, as it isn't Bane himself. Despite his death, Alfred Pennyworth still appears to give him advice, even if only in his mind. It's here that we see his uncertainty over his current path, despite his usual aura of self-confidence and bravado. It's also telling that he sees Alfred instead of anyone else. That alone tells us a lot more than words.

So far, Williamson's packed in a slew of colourful characters; some new, some old. Despite the number, it never becomes overwhelming, with Williamson mainly focusing on Robin and a few others. Though there's not a lot of it, Melkinov keeps the action fast and frenetic, lending it a fitting energy. The issue ends on a heart-stopping cliffhanger, one I'm very intrigued to see resolved. Despite any flaws, this is definitely a good read.