Batman and Two Face #25 Review

Written by: Peter J. Tomasi
Art by: Patrick Gleason
Cover Price: $2.99
Release Date: November 20, 2013

Batman and Who?

Last issue we were treated to the New 52 origin of Two Face.  I think I stand with many fans in saying it was forced and unnecessary to revamp Harvey Dent's history.  What made it worse is that it only seemed to serve as the introduction of Erin Mckillen, the Gotham Mob Boss with a past with Bruce Wayne and Batman.  Though this issue continues to be called Batman and Two Face, what is inside tells a different story.

Peter J. Tomasi continues the Big Burn arc with a sprinkle of Two Face and alot of Erin Mckillen.  Seriously, if she is the future of Batman villains, count me out.  She is as bland a bat villain as there has been in a while. Tomasi tries to make her interesting by having her best Batman twice in two issues, but both seemed forced. At least in last issue she fought him hand-to-hand, in this one she just shoots him.  We also get hints of a past with Bruce Wayne, but again it doesn't feel legit.

Two Face is in the issue and he steals the show in the first few pages.  Then he disappears until a very confusing flashback.  It is just thrown at you with no warning and takes a few seconds to realize you are seeing the past.  The flashback itself tells nothing new and is just gratuitous violence continued from last issue.

The story as a whole is going nowhere slow.  I like Tomasi and he hasn't steered me wrong yet, but I hope things get going soon.  If Mckillen is an important figure, please make me care more about her.  Also, where is Carrie Kelley?  I know solicits are usually false, but I expected her to at least make an appearance (though it seems to be her on the cover's coin).  There is an interesting cameo, however, that will make some fans smile their geeky smiles.

Patrick Gleason's art is not as good as usual, either.  The faces look odd throughout the book and some of the action is downright confusing.  I am a Gleason fan so it pains me to say this issue may be his weakest yet.

Bits and Pieces:

Batman and Two Face #25 is a bit of a bait and switch.  There is not enough Harvey Dent and too much Erin Mckillen.  The story treads water and doesn't advance the book at all and the art is subpar and confusing.  Two issues into this arc and there is no reason for me to recommend it...yet.

5.0/10