I don't know what it is... for every strength the creators bring to this popular run on Batman, there seems to be a balance of elements that just don't sit right with me. Fortunately, my oft-voiced criticism that the plot is moving at a sluggish pace doesn't apply this time around. Loeb finally moves things along with a significant revelation about the mysterious antagonist and an unexpected development in the title character's personal life.
Thomas Elliot is dead, the apparently victim of the bullet fired from the Joker's gun. But the Batman knows different. Something is amiss in the already unusual Gotham City underworld. Someone is manipulating the Batman's deadliest foes to his own ends, and now, his manipulations have resulted in the death of Bruce Wayne's dearest childhood friend. Nightwing, the Batman's one-time sidekick and trusted friend, arrives for a heart-to-heart with his mentor, but they're interrupted by another familiar Bat-villain's appearance in the city.
I remain fascinated by the unconventional approach that Lee takes with the flashback sequences throughout this story arc, and Alex Sinclair brings variety to them in this issue with different color schemes. Unfortunately, the colors work against most of the artwork. The scenes in the Batcave and the heroes' pursuit of some thieves are a bit washed out by the greens and blues that loom over the artwork. I did like the visual parallels between the two big revelations at the end of the issue, though.
Loeb not only propels the "Hush" storyline forward, but he's really exploring the title character and bringing change into his life. And it doesn't look like we're talking about temporary changes that can be undone to make way for the return to the status quo. Loeb developed a strong reputation in comics in part from retelling the Batman legend, but now, he's adding to it.
While I love that rocking-the-boat quality to the plot, the overall effect of this script just doesn't quite work for me, and I know why: I don't feel an emotional involvement in Tommy Elliot's death. Loeb's been working hard to sell us on the bond that he and Bruce share, but I just didn't feel. And even after this issue, I still don't.
