BOOK REVIEW
The title says it all, “Batman: The Definitive History of the Dark Knight in Comics, Film, and Beyond” … talking about hitting the nail on the head, this is the most comprehensive book based on Batman ever! The 400-page hardback by Insight Editions is encyclopedic covering every aspect about the Dark Knight in chronological order. It starts off with the Golden Age and the very first comic book issue in which Batman appeared (Detective Comics #27). In fact, they even include a reprint of issue. From there you are led on a journey of early comic book covers and artwork that laid the foundation for the most awesome superhero ever.
It’s fantastic that both Bill Finger and Bob Kane receive their credit here for co-creating Batman. Until recently, Finger’s contributions were unjustly ignored. After dipping into images and information of early comic books, the first two incarnations of live-action Batmen are covered starting with the serials from 1943 and 1949. Fan favorites like the 1966 Batman TV Series gets first-rate coverage, with magnificent photos, insider details, as well as the toys and collectibles that the show helped generate.
I specifically love the attention shown to all the cartoons, from the Super Friends to Beware the Batman, they’re all covered, with a major section devoted to the legendary Batman: The Animated Series ... and why not, for many including myself, it’s the definitive version of the Cape Crusader.
As you leaf through the pages, some of the real treats are attachments you’ll find throughout the book. Besides the reprint of Detective Comics, you’ll also get reprints from a number of storyboards, Frank Miller ‘s original “Year One” script and many other extras. On the back cover you’ll find an envelope with Bob Kane’s original story treatment from 1986, which would eventually become Tim Burton’s 1989 Batman film starring Michael Keaton and Jack Nicholson.
Speaking of movies, each one is superbly covered. You’ll get a magnificent look at both the Burton and Schumacher films with behind scene photographs, marketing material, storyboards and concept artwork for each film. The book moves through each film delightfully. Being a huge fan of Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight Trilogy, I spent ample time browsing through the examination of those three films. It sure is enjoyable taking a look back at cinematic history.
Video games are not overlooked either. The section on the Arkham series has information about the games that I’ve never seen or read anywhere else. It really gives you a much greater appreciation for those world-famous games.
It’s impossible to recapitulate “Batman: The Definitive History of the Dark Knight in Comics, Film, and Beyond” in a short review, but rest assured that no stone is left unturned about the world most popular superhero. This isn’t a book you look at for hours, days or months … this is one you’ll enjoy for your many years to come. This is truly a must-have for fans of Batman and comic book fans alike.
You can preorder your copy now at Amazon.
Coming October 29, 2019















