Batman: Hush, Vol. 1

This is the introduction to a great Batman story. If you've read Loeb's previous work then you'd know he's worked on stories involving Batman's early career. After reading Dark Victory this feels more or less like an indirect sequel to that story. This is definitely the same Batman, but he's far more experienced now, and much more sure of himself (until he falls in love...or does he?) Anyway. Pick up part one, and part two. You won't regret it!

I actually purched this while in Prague, Czech Republic. No I can't read Czech, but I like to pic up comics in other languages. Some like postcards, I like comics. Well after just going through the artwork, I was determined to get the English version and read what was going on. The storyline is excellent, the art is well done and it includes a great cast of characters. If you're a Batman fan, the HUSH series is a MUST!

I have been a big fan of the superhero genre for years, but oddly enough I have not been a fan of comic books. Until now.

In recent years I have been enthralled with both DC and Marvel characters that I have been introduced to via blockbuster films. Indeed, the summer of 2008 will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the best (if not the best) superhero film runs ever. If you weren't blown away by the killer line up of Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, and The Dark Knight then you obviously have no pulse. Somewhere amidst this trifecta of movie bliss, my curiosity about comics began to grow.

Batman has always been a character that I have loved in films and TV shows and Batman Begins and The Dark Knight have successfully solidified my status as a Batman fan. Batman: Hush was highly recommended to me as a great starting point into Batman comics and while my expectations were high, I was still blown away by what I discovered.

Batman: Hush is absolutely everything I could have hoped for in my first real foray into comic books. Jeph Loeb presents us with a story that is gripping at every turn and chocked full of surprises. Batman has long been a fan favorite because he isn't a traditional superhero. Having no super powers or abilities, Batman has always fed on the darkness of his childhood to instill fear into the criminals who prey on the innocent. Using his own darkness Batman longs to bring light to the world making him one of the most complex and endearing characters in literature today. Loeb gives us all of these qualities in perfect doses throughout.

This first volume gives us some memorable interaction between Batman and several famous characters that will leave readers giddy with excitement. The scenes between Batman and Catwoman are especially telling, but nothing compared to the "showdown" between The Caped Crusader and The Man of Steel. I never thought I would actually hold my breath while reading a comic book.

Batman: Hush actually works as a fantastic mystery story full of twists and turns. Each piece of the puzzle gives us more questions ensuring that we will hold on tight for the ride. Batman's often underused detective skills are on full display here, giving us yet another fresh look at this phenomenal character.

Jim Lee's art throughout is breathtaking to say the least. Epic full page spreads and flowing panels effortlessly carry along Loeb's incredible storytelling. The aforementioned battle between DC's heavyweights is drawn to such perfection that you actually forget you are reading a comic book. Lee also gives us some beautiful flashback panels that really sell this fitting storytelling device.

Batman: Hush is a must read for all fans of Batman or for anyone wanting a truly exhilarating comic book experience. Even if you aren't familiar with Batman and his truly impressive Rogues Gallery, you will still enjoy the engaging story and relentless pacing of this classic first volume.

I wasn't a fan of comic books! What was I thinking???

Batman started out as a dark brooding vigilante who had no problem pounding the pavement to get what he wants. Loeb and Lee seem to capture that flavor in a somewhat convoluted and complex storyline involving yet a new villain who somehow manages to coordinate the lunatics of Gotham (Crock, Poison Ivy, Riddler, Joker, etc., etc.) In addition we have Catwoman and the strange relationship with Batman taking a new twist.
The story is quite complex. Batman and Catwoman team up to figure out the connection between a parade of villains and situations that seem a bit unrelated but enough subtle clues to tie in the connections. Lee's art works extremely well presenting us with broad splash panels and detailed characterizations. I was impressed but there is an argument to be said for lack of innovation. This was a monthly when first published and innovation can break deadlines -- I got that.
My only pet peeve is the complexity of the story. Way too many villains and too many plot twists that make the story impossible in many ways to accept but I was so caught up in the brooding Batman coming to terms with his life that I was able to ignore the ridiculous plot threads that were explained in the end, still feel very contrived. It's still a terrific read that I found fun. More streamlined plots would have made the story richer especially with more time spent with Bruce's boyhood friend.

As a old fan of the Batman series of comics, I was a little suspicious of "Hush" when I first saw it in a books store.

Let me say that my fears were unfounded.

I found myself, almost an hour later, still in the book store, closing the cover and searching for volume 2. The romance and action are all perfectly balanced, not to mention the masterful art of Jim Lee only adds to this masterpiece.

Even if you don't know everything about the history of Batman and Robin, all pertinent information is explained and elaborated on.

Even if you don't like Batman, this is the comic series for you.