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By Dan Curtis Johnson, J.H. Williams III & Seth Fisher (DC Comics)
ISBN 1-84576-481-1
This brief adventure of Batman’s early career (originally presented in Legends of the Dark Knight issues #192-196) tells of his first encounter with Mr. Freeze, as well as examining the gradual movement towards the current methodology and support network that the Dark Knight utilises.
As Victor Fries nears the completion of his work on extreme sub-zero temperatures he makes two shocking discoveries. His beloved wife Maria is hospitalised and dying whilst his research has been subverted by the US military. Batman, meanwhile is nearing a physical and emotional collapse. He finally comes to see his obsession and realises he can’t do it all alone. Yet the authorities have limits he won’t allow himself to be hampered by.
For both men the solution is drastic and in their own hands, and both will suffer consequences tragic and life changing because of their decisions. For Batman it’s the formation of a private unit of specialists to research and supply support for his war on crime. For Fries it’s the forcible reclamation of his wife and work.
The two stories dovetail as Fries suffers an accident that transforms him into a monstrous being unable to live at room temperature. He embarks on a vendetta of insanity and icy vengeance, bringing him into conflict with the Caped Crusader and his tragically under-prepared team.
This reworking of the origin of Mr. Freeze is compelling and imaginative in the modern manner and the art is beautiful if sometimes over-rendered – almost to the point of being passionless. In fact, despite my admiration for Seth Fisher’s ability I do wonder at his selection for such an emotive and gritty tale. His seeming inability to draw anything grimy or unpretty actually detracts from the narrative, I fear.
Since I obviously can’t decide, perhaps you should make your own minds up. It’s still got to be better than a night in front of the TV, right?
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