Review – Batman: Detective Comics #1097 – Harvey's Case
Batman: Detective Comics #1097 cover, via DC Comics.
Ray: Last issue saw the end of the first arc, as Asema was exposed and the corporation offering mysterious youth treatments saw itself demolished – along with Bruce's hope for an extended lifespan. But the threat is far from over, as Elixir was just a shadow corporation for the REAL Elixir – a secret cult of agents who have half of Gotham in hock to them. As the issue opens, they're cleaning up their old messes, so Batman seeks out an ally of his own – Harvey Bullock, who has been fired from the GCPD by Vandal Savage and is currently working as a PI. It turns out that Bullock has had dealings with Elixir before, encountering them when he was a rookie cop and nearly getting himself killed for asking too many questions. His partner, who knew the score, bailed him out – but Bullock has been seeking revenge for the murder he couldn't solve since his earliest days on the force. The cleanup crew. Via DC Comics.
Bullock has always been one of Gotham's more interesting police officers, because he's a great view into the world of Gotham's more corrupt law enforcement systems. Bullock has always toed that line, not being afraid to engage in some vices while enforcing the law, but having some firm scruples. That can't be said for his former partner, who knew the ins and outs of getting along in Gotham. Now an old man, that partner is barely willing to share his secrets as Elixir starts making moves in the city again. There are some interesting parallels between Elixir and groups like the Court of Owls and the Orghams, but these villains seem to have a greater reach and a more efficient approach – and they waste no time targeting Bullock for looking too closely. As the issue draws to a close, Batman is on the trail of his friend – but winds up finding someone else entirely. Great stuff, building on the themes of the first arc and taking them global.
To find reviews of all the DC issues, visit DC This Week.
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