Batman: The Killing Joke - Alan Moore > Reviews (7)

Writer - Alan Moore (Watchmen, Swamp Thing, League of Extrordinary Gentlemen)

Artist - Brian Bolland

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Plot

The plot to this short one off graphic novel is simple. The Joker has escaped from Arkham Asylum, intent of causing pain and suffering on one man. Only this time it isn't the man you would think it is.

Written by the legendary Alan Moore, it bears all the hallmarks of some of his longer works. Small twists in the understood history, small chinks in the armour of a hero, even managing to show sympathy for the psychotics of the Joker

Without revealing too much of the intense storyline, and getting too caught up in the ideas thrown into this very clever story arc, all I can really say is that this plot brings together some of the older pieces of DC's Batman mythology (the crippling of Barbara Gordon, the creation of the Joker) and tangles it all together into one big question...

What does it take to reduce a sane man to insanity?

artwork

The artwork throughout this is incredible (as anyone who has seen Brian Bolland's work in the past can testify). The graphic work is clear and minutely detailed allowing for real expression (even in the cowled face of Batman).
The colouring (by John Higgins) compliments the drawing and adds some ominous depth to the surroundings and lighting.

conclusion

This short graphic novel is brilliant. It doesn't require the reader to be a comic officianado, or even a well read fan of Batman, allowing for the casual reader to join in on the intense ride.

My only quibble is that it is so short (the storyline doesn't suffer or this though) and at 46 pages it is little more than two DC monthly's in one book.

However at the time I purchased this it was priced as low as £2.25.

If you wish to read this neat little work I suggest you try ebay or other specilist comic websites, as I have lately heard that this title has been discontinued.

Bear in mind the small number of ages before paying an extortionate price, but do keep your eyes open for a copy.