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Batman and the Outsiders #3
Written by Chuck Dixon; Art by Julian Lopez
Review by Rodney Sweigart
Having not picked up the first two issues, I was surprised at how easily I could like the Outsiders again. I dropped the last series after August’s “Five of a Kind” was underway. I liked the Outsiders as is, and not as another Bat-book. After reading this issue, though, I found it to be very much about the team and not Batman himself.
The Premise. Batman & the Outsiders are in the laboratory of Francine Langstrom (Man Bat’s wife) after sedating a rogue OMAC. Hawkgirl, Geo-Force and Black Lightning arrive to take possession, stating that Batman’s team is ill-equipped to handle the OMAC. When the OMAC revives itself and runs rampid, the Justice League kick into gear and fail to stop it. After the Outsiders stop the OMAC, Geo-Force chastises Hawkgirl for her methods, where it is revealed that Black Canary has “assigned” Geo-Force to the Outsiders team. The last few pages reveal that Batman gave the Justice League a dummy OMAC, and keeping the original for further observations (in Batman’s true MO). Meanwhile, away from the battle, we see Grace and Thunder enjoy each other while welcoming Cassandra/Batgirl into their home.
The art and panel progression is great. Very smooth and subtle. The characterization of Brion, Grace and Thunder was portrayed in an excellent manner. There is a nice balance of action and humor.
I like seeing Batman in a team setting, whether it be the Outsiders or the JLA. His interactions with teammates add to his human side. My biggest peeve with the Dark Knight is the 24/7 brooding. If this series can continue to keep Bruce/Batman as a peer, then I will probably pick it up. But if this is just a comic run of Batman’s minions following orders, then I will pass.
SPOILER… It is a safe bet that Green Arrow/Ollie Queen will be joining next month. The relationship between Bruce and Ollie should be interesting to see. His presence may be that peer piece that I was referring to. Both are headstrong, resourceful and non-metahumans that rely on gadgets & technology to fight crime.
Yes, I will be going back to get the first two issues, but I will still skip the Five of a Kind arc. With the addition of Green Arrow and Geo-Force, the team is rounding out as a good mix of characters. One of the things that I love about team titles is the interaction of different personalities.
I do recommend this title if you are looking for a substitute to the Justice League. It may not have the big seven, but it’s something I am going to add to my monthly pull.
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