I have to be honest before I write this review. Working with Jeph I've had a peek -- a big one -- at what's coming up ahead, what "Hush" is all about, and what Jeph and Jim Lee's take on the Bat World and Villains is looking like. And it looks awesome. The passion Jeph and Jim are pouring into this book is nothing short of inspiring. And you're all in for one helluva ride.
What's this book about?
As a child, Bruce Wayne's parents were murdered in front of him by a faceless killer, one never caught. Vowing to do everything he could to destroy crime, Bruce trained his body and mind to perfection and used the Wayne Family fortune to finance his quest to clean-up Gotham City as the Batman.
What is "Hush" about? Well, I'm not saying too much, but it will involve a new villain and looks to be in line with the mystery-centered plot a la Long Halloween and Dark Victory. Of course, this is the present day... which means we'll be getting looks at Huntress, Nightwing and I'd suspect most of the other Bat crew.
The opening chapter of "Hush" is just that, the opening. Mysteries and clues fill the book as we see an altered Killer Croc kidnapping a boy that might remind Bruce of the frightened little child he was. As things unfold, two of the hottest females adversaries in Batman's life join the fray, for reasons unclear.
Jim Lee has never looked this good. I've always been a big admirer of his work, but he really captured the weight of Batman (Batman himself feels like a strange cross between Frank Miller and Neal Adams, a mixture of two incredible worlds), the grace of Catwoman and -- most importantly in my eyes -- the look of Gotham City. Every panel is crammed with detailed background, iron spires stretching towards the skies, smoke-filled streets, dirt. Lots of dirt. It's also very nice to see Scott Williams on Jim again.
I also have to give a nod to Alex Sinclair. The colors are extremely vibrant, Croc especially drew my eye. The texture on him is subtle, but very effective.
There are some striking scenes in the month ahead where they go an entirely different way, but Jeph would kick my ass if I talked about the future any further.
The best thing about this issue? We've got 11 more to look forward to. Congrats to all involved.
P.S. - Don't ask me who or what "Hush" is in the coming months. That secret, I am not privy to.
P.S.S. - I urge you again, if you enjoyed this issue and Catwoman, check out the monthly Catwoman book.
