The "Batman: Curse of the White Knight" is a comic book series written and illustrated by Sean Murphy. It is a sequel to Murphy's previous work, "Batman: White Knight," and continues the dark and gritty storyline set in a noir-inspired Gotham City. In this series, Batman faces a new threat in the form of Jack Napier, who was once The Joker but now seeks redemption for his past actions. Napier uncovers an ancient plot involving the Wayne family and their ties to the city's history. As he tries to expose the corruption within Gotham, Batman is forced to question his own vigilante methods and confront his family legacy. One of the standout elements of "Curse of the White Knight" is its stunning artwork.
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When Sean Murphy revealed his project for the line, he also laid out rules for the writers and illustrators he recruited to work with him on the next books. If Bruce genuinely believed that he could do more good by hanging up the cowl and coming clean, and if his allies had already willingly exposed themselves as they did back in the original White Knight , then I could totally see him doing it.
One of the standout elements of "Curse of the White Knight" is its stunning artwork. Sean Murphy's detailed illustrations bring Gotham City to life, with its towering buildings and ominous atmosphere. The gritty and dark aesthetic perfectly complements the story's tone, creating an engaging and immersive reading experience.
Batman: Curse of the White Knight #8 review
In my review of last month’s penultimate issue of Curse of the White Knight (or maybe it was #6), I suggested that some fans would likely have a problem with Bruce revealing himself to the world. I said that, given the Elseworlds context, I was okay with it. So what do I mean by “I’m okay with it?”
What I mean is this: not only am I okay with Murphy’s decision to reveal Bruce’s identity because of its lack of impact on central continuity; but also, I’m okay within the story. I think it’s an interesting direction—one that I hadn’t yet read in my time with comics. I also think that, while it would disrupt things in a “normal” Batman comic, I would still be interested to see how such a thing would play out, and—most importantly—I think that Bruce doing this is consistent with who he is. If Bruce genuinely believed that he could do more good by hanging up the cowl and coming clean, and if his allies had already willingly exposed themselves (as they did back in the original White Knight), then I could totally see him doing it.
Credit: Sean Murphy, Matt Hollingsworth, and Deron Bennett
This final issue of Curse pushes the envelope a bit more, however. We see Batman holding what looks like an M-16 machine gun (gun enthusiasts: apologies if I got that wrong—it’s my closest reference point). We see him firing said machine gun at Azrael. And, most critically, we see him slash the Avenging Angel’s throat with a sword. Yes, he moves in to save him afterwards (somehow already aware that his blood would be a match, and thus be useful in a transfusion, but I’ll let it slide…maybe he’s O-). But he went into this encounter intent on killing Jean-Paul—he made that clear to Dick before driving off on his own.
Does Murphy have the right to make Batman do this? Sure he does. And I’m even the lesser version of “okay” with him doing so, in that the breach (as I see it, at least) is contained in the Murphyverse. But as a reader, I found these moments unsatisfying. Part of what makes Batman appeal to me, personally, is his ability to bend impossibly far without breaking. And breaches like this always surface other questions: why kill Azrael, but not the Joker—especially when, until Napier told him otherwise, Bruce thought he had killed Jason Todd? Yes, that question has been beaten to death with a crowbar (and blown up in an Ethiopian warehouse), but it’s completely appropriate in this circumstance.
Putting myself aside
I can’t ignore that Murphy’s Batman intentionally crosses lines that I think Batman never should, but I also can’t ignore that, as a finale for this eight-issue tale, this book is a fairly effective one. Murphy’s artwork is as delicious as usual, and while there are a few visual yada-yada-yadas (when the plane goes BOOM above, for one), the storytelling is still pretty darned strong.
The narrative arc of the issue is well-done, too. We have everything on the line, Bruce sort-of says goodbye, then drives off on his own to face his foe. Dick refuses to be kept out of the fight and intervenes at a critical moment. Inspired by memories of Alfred, Freeze, and Gordon, it seems that Bruce turns back from his initial plan to kill Azrael, but then in a shocking moment, loses his cool and slashes his throat anyway. I don’t like Batman doing that, but I can’t deny that it’s an effective moment in the narrative.
Then, of course, we have Bruce delivering on his promise to turn himself in, a sweet moment with Harley, and a city without Batman wondering how it will move forward. And that’s to say nothing of the visitor on the last few pages. Murphy’s ability to construct a narrative is undeniably strong, and his ability to close has improved markedly since the first White Knight. Even though I don’t like some of his choices, I can’t help but appreciate the job he’s done.
Recommended if…
- You read the first seven. Duh.
Overall
Batman: Curse of the White Knight concludes by taking Batman places I would rather he not go; however, I can’t help but be impressed by the strength of narrative and sustained visual storytelling that Murphy brought to this book. I will be buying the next series whenever it, Lord-willing, comes out, and that tells me all I need to know.
SCORE: 8.5/10
DISCLAIMER: Batman News received an advance copy of this book for the purpose of review.
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The series also delves into the complex relationship between Batman and The Joker/Kingston Napier. The blurred lines between hero and villain are explored as the characters navigate their twisted past and present. This exploration of duality adds depth to the narrative and showcases the psychological challenges both characters face. Additionally, "Curse of the White Knight" introduces new characters to the Batman universe while also giving familiar faces unique and intriguing roles. The storyline weaves in historical elements, tying the present with the past, and revealing long-held family secrets. This adds an extra layer of dimension to the already complex narrative. Overall, "Batman: Curse of the White Knight" is a captivating series that pushes the boundaries of the Batman mythos. With its compelling story, stunning artwork, and exploration of complex themes, it is a must-read for fans of dark and gritty superhero tales. Whether you're a longtime Batman fan or a newcomer to the character, this series offers a fresh and unique take on the iconic Dark Knight..
Reviews for "The Curse Revealed: Unraveling the Secrets of the White Knight"
1. John - 2/5:
I was really looking forward to "Batman: Curse of the White Knight" but unfortunately, it left me disappointed. The artwork was great, no doubt about that, but the story felt convoluted and overcomplicated. I found it hard to follow the narrative and couldn't really connect with the characters. Additionally, the pacing felt off, with some parts dragging on unnecessarily while others were rushed. Overall, I feel like this sequel didn't live up to the quality of the original "White Knight" series.
2. Emily - 1/5:
I have to say, "Batman: Curse of the White Knight" was a huge letdown for me. The storyline was all over the place, jumping between different timelines and characters without much coherence. It felt like the writer was just trying to throw in as many Batman villains as possible, without giving them proper development or purpose. The artwork was decent, but it couldn't save this mess of a comic. I would recommend skipping this one and sticking to the original "White Knight" series if you're a fan of Batman.
3. Andrew - 2/5:
I had high hopes for "Batman: Curse of the White Knight," especially after enjoying the first series. However, this sequel failed to capture my interest. The plot felt like a rehash of familiar Batman tropes, and the twists and turns were predictable. The artwork, while visually appealing, couldn't make up for the lackluster story and character development. Overall, I found this comic to be an underwhelming addition to the Batman universe.