Best Batman Graphic Novels

Widely regarded as a groundbreaking work in the Batman canon, The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller is often cited as a favorite among fans. It transformed the character and comics industry with its mature themes and social commentary [1:1][1:7]. This graphic novel appeals to both superhero enthusiasts and those who typically avoid the genre due to its depth and complexity [1:11].

Year One

Another essential read by Frank Miller, Batman: Year One provides a gritty origin story for Batman, focusing on his early days fighting crime in Gotham City. It's praised for its realistic portrayal of the character and its influence on subsequent adaptations [1:3][2:1][5:4].

The Long Halloween

The Long Halloween by Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale is celebrated for its intricate plot and noir-style storytelling. It's a must-read for fans of detective stories and has been influential in shaping modern interpretations of Batman [1:10][2:5][4:2].

Hush

Written by Jeph Loeb, Batman: Hush is another popular choice, known for its compelling narrative and artwork. It features a wide array of characters from the Batman universe, making it an engaging read for both new and seasoned fans [2:4][3:7][4:1].

Arkham Asylum

Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth by Grant Morrison and Dave McKean offers a psychological exploration of Batman's rogues' gallery and the titular asylum. Its unique art style and dark themes make it a standout piece [1:3][3:2][4:5].

The Killing Joke

Alan Moore's The Killing Joke is a seminal work that delves into the Joker's origins and his relationship with Batman. It's known for its intense storyline and has left a lasting impact on the Batman mythos [2:1][3:2][4:1].

These graphic novels are highly recommended for anyone looking to dive into the world of Batman, offering a mix of action, drama, and psychological depth. Each brings something unique to the table, whether it's redefining the character or exploring complex themes.

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POST SUMMARY • [1]

Summarize

What is your favourite Batman graphic novel or series?

Posted by Appropriate_Emu_6930 · in r/graphicnovels · 1 year ago

102 upvotes on reddit

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ORIGINAL POST

There are so many great ones. What is your pick?

12 replies

omgItsGhostDog · 1 year ago

Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader? by Neil Gaiman

32 upvotes on reddit

Mexipinay1138 · 1 year ago

Batman: Year One by Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli

The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller

And even though most people seem to hate it, The Dark Knight Strikes Again by Frank Miller. I think I love it because it goes so off the rails.

Arkham Asylum by Grant Morrison and Dave McKean

Batman: Year Two by Mike W. Barr, mainly because it has some of Todd McFarlane's earliest work and I dig the way her draws capes.

42 upvotes on reddit

trabiesso73 · 1 year ago

i'm with you on Dark Knight Strikes Again. I loved it, and have re-read it more than a few times every few years. it goes off the rails, that's for sure, in the most cool way.

i actually have a still from it posted on my desk. it's batman, with his feet up on the desk, saying "striking terror... best part of the job."

1 upvotes on reddit

ZombieSolitaire · 1 year ago

Agree with year two, McFarlane had some amazing artwork in that… Always loved the reaper, and we must remember we would’ve had no Mask of the Phantasm had it not been for that character

1 upvotes on reddit

fejobelo · 1 year ago

I'm with you with The Dark Knight Strikes Again, I understand the negativity around it, especially because of the art, but I find the plot exceedingly creative. The way he uses The Atom or The Flash, the Joker twist, the role of Green Lantern. I feel the GN is filled with great moments that are underappreciated.

My personal favorite is The Atom in the wild fighting with the monster, such an amazing idea and so well executed in terms of writing.

14 upvotes on reddit

Dark_Crowe · 1 year ago

I feel like Strikes Back makes clear the tone Miller actually had for DKR. DKR is incredibly funny in the darkest way possible. It seems to be taking a lot of standard criticisms of Batman (Bruce is rich why doesn’t he work philanthropy, the calls of fascism, and his love of endangering children) and just dialing them up to 11. It’s a thoroughly entertaining and subversive work whose intent I believe is largely misunderstood, probably even by me. I can’t take a lick of it seriously and I love it for that.

2 upvotes on reddit

captain2toes · 1 year ago

Batman Year One or Detective Comics By Mike W. Barr & Alan Davis

45 upvotes on reddit

ianux22 · 1 year ago

I’ve read a lot of batman omnis and absolute. In the end, the job of loeb and sale is the best one together with year one

20 upvotes on reddit

fejobelo · 1 year ago

The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller and it's not even close. Changed the character and comics forever.

56 upvotes on reddit

TheMadFlyentist · 1 year ago

DKR was the first true graphic novel that I read, and was the only superhero book that I enjoyed (other than Sandman if that counts).

It's funny that some people who really like Batman and superheroes in general tend to not like DKR, whereas DKR appeals to people who hate Batman/superhero graphic novels. I think it's because there is a LOT more going on than just a superhero story in DKR - it's a whole social commentary.

I've seen a lot of critical comments about DKR saying things like "So much wasted time with the all the talking heads, etc" when in fact that is the best part of the book. That is what elevates it beyond every other dog shit superhero story ever. The debates and issues brought up in that book are just as poignant today as ever. It feels like it could have been written yesterday.

If you are looking for a brain dead superhero joyride where the good guy just fights the bad guys and you don't have to think, then DKR is not for you. Pretty much every other Batman story fits that bill. But if you want a genuine cerebral graphic novel experience using Batman as the framework, then DKR is the play.

Edit: Added the word "some" to make the thesis statement less black-and-white, as there are obvious exceptions.

9 upvotes on reddit

pendragoncomic · 1 year ago

The Long Halloween and Watchmen are the only two graphic novels I’ve read 3+ times. I will defend TLH as the best until my dying breath

1 upvotes on reddit

fejobelo · 1 year ago

I hear you. And I see where you are coming from. In reality, Batman as we know it today wouldn’t exist without DKR. The Nolan trilogy or The Batman are heavily influenced by it. The Bob Kane Batman was dark and gritty and then the infamous Comic Book Authority make it into a caricature of himself with the Fox show being the pinnacle of silliness, fun and all as it was. Miller, and Moore with a few others paved the way for American comics to elevate in terms of themes, writing, and philosophy.

I read the Brothers Karamazov recently, super boring, it took a lot of effort from me to finish it, but I could recognize why it is considered a masterpiece, and how it has influenced so many stories through the years. I imagine you feel the same.

1 upvotes on reddit

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r/batman • [2]

Summarize

What are some essential Batman graphic novels?

Posted by [deleted] · in r/batman · 5 years ago

I recently got interested in the batman graphic novels and I picked up the killing joke the other day. What are some recommendations for other books?

7 upvotes on reddit

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scumfuckinbabylon · 5 years ago

Year one

Dark Knight returns

Knightfall

2 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 5 years ago

Death in the family

3 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 5 years ago

Is that the Jason Todd one? Only heard of it but sounds really good

1 upvotes on reddit

Mattyice2021 · 5 years ago

Batman Hush

3 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 5 years ago

Thanks

1 upvotes on reddit

the_longest_shadow · 5 years ago

The Long Halloween and Dark Victory.

4 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 5 years ago

Arkham Asylum Long Halloween Dark Victory Hush Year One The Dark Knight Returns The Dark Knight Strikes Again The Killing Joke

5 upvotes on reddit

castielvt · 5 years ago

>Dark Knight Returns

Oh yes

>Dark Knight Strikes Again

Oh no

4 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 5 years ago

Agreed. But still fairly essential reading.

1 upvotes on reddit

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r/batman • [3]

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Best Batman comicbook of all time?

Posted by Antollin · in r/batman · 5 years ago

Hey you guys ! What's your favorite Batman comics of all time?

My favorites are : Death of the family,Earth one and the Man who laughs.

I m searching for a good read, though you would help :)

4 upvotes on reddit

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CircuitBreakerD · 5 years ago

Arkham Asylum, Killing Joke, RIP, and Black Mirror are my favorites.

3 upvotes on reddit

Antollin · OP · 5 years ago

I love Black mirror!~ the psychology for that is like the best !

2 upvotes on reddit

CircuitBreakerD · 5 years ago

Snyder/James Jr. played me like a fiddle in that diner scene.

2 upvotes on reddit

gitfiddleboy · 5 years ago

White Knight and Dark Knight Returns

4 upvotes on reddit

Antollin · OP · 5 years ago

dark knight returns is a classic and totally love it, I left white knight in the middle ,maybe I should give it again a try

1 upvotes on reddit

Tog5 · 5 years ago

Has to be either knightfall or hush

5 upvotes on reddit

Antollin · OP · 5 years ago

I haven't read knightfall yet , I wiil check it out. Thanks :D

2 upvotes on reddit

gitfiddleboy · 5 years ago

Knightfall is damn sweet also for sure

2 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 5 years ago

For me it’s definitely Long Halloween

4 upvotes on reddit

Antollin · OP · 5 years ago

haha I am going to read ir now xD

1 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 5 years ago

War Games is a pretty awesome collected arc. I have it in 3 volumes. That's my pick outside the ones people normally say (Long Halloween, Killing Joke, TDKR, Hush). I just got No Man's Land, but I haven't read it yet. Year One and White Knight are both pretty good, too.

3 upvotes on reddit

Antollin · OP · 5 years ago

No man's land has a very nice artitic style too. I will check War games thanks :D

2 upvotes on reddit

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r/batman • [4]

Summarize

What’s your top picks?

Posted by shrek-is-king124 · in r/batman · 7 months ago

I only recently got into Batman graphic novels and was wondering what your top picks were I’m more looking to get into some dark and grime novels. Or just any of your picks in general?

1 upvotes on reddit

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KAY-toe · 7 months ago

For ‘dark and grime’ you could go with Year One, The Dark Knight Returns, The Long Halloween

1 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 7 months ago

Killing Joke

1 upvotes on reddit

PenOwn1660 · 7 months ago

Hush has been my favorite Batman story. There a DC Compact format very affordable.

I’m reading Morrison’s Batman Omni V1 now. I love the book.

Given your description there a plenty of Batman choices.

You may enjoy Death of the Family. The Killing Joke.

When you pick something if you liked it. Find something else they wrote. Research it a little. Search Reddit history. When everything is new don’t look at it as underwhelming. You have a buffet of great stories. Doesn’t matter if someone else hated it. It might hit for you. Marvels Amazing Fantasy ‘21 and Avengers vs X-men for me.they were fun entertaining stories because I’m not all caught up in “well that’s out of character” I haven’t read any other X-Men. So sure when my shelves get full I’ll look back a little differently. But it doesn’t take from me being able to enjoy the story at the time. Where as if you ask recommendations on certain stories and it’s mostly negative. Sometimes you just gotta pick some stuff up that catches you and give it a go.

Batman Three Jokes has been the least favorite book I’ve read. Some people Like it. I wouldn’t tell someone else not to read it.

Second would be Batman Year One (😱😱 i know lol I don’t hate it). I respect it but I don’t need to read it again. I would still recommend the book for obvious reasons.

1 upvotes on reddit

shrek-is-king124 · OP · 7 months ago

Yeah I get you sometimes you gotta find your likings some books are put down by the community for things like story or writing but I’ll have to have a look for something that catches MY eye Thanks a lot!

1 upvotes on reddit

dkphxcyke · 7 months ago

Arkham asylum: serious house on serious earth

Just picked it up yesterday, gives me the creeps

1 upvotes on reddit

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r/comicbooks • [5]

Summarize

Best Batman comic books to start reading?

Posted by flamingoinrainboots · in r/comicbooks · 2 years ago

My brother is new to comic books and absolutely loves Batman. He asked me for a Batman comic for his birthday and I don’t know where to start. I love comic books but have stayed mostly on the Marvel side of things and haven’t read any on the Batman comics. I would love to hear y’alls recommendations and why you recommend them. Thank you in advance!

13 upvotes on reddit

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omgItsGhostDog · 2 years ago

The Current Chip Zdarsky Batman series and Detective Comics run by Ram V if you want to keep up with a date.

Outside of them tho, there was the Batman: Universe graphic novel by Brian Michael Bendisvwhich a fan standalone story with a lighthearted vibe to it.

Batman and Robin by Jeff Lemire follow an early Dick Grayson in training as he builds his bond with Bruce.

The New 52 was a big reboot for DC with a lot of relaunches for characters. Batman’s relaunch by Scott Snyder wasn't as reboot-heavy but was still a good jumping-on point.

And there's Batman Year One by Frank Miller, the definitive origin for Batman. You don't need to read anything before it, it's a really good and simple story following Bruce and Jim Gordon's first year in Gotham.

9 upvotes on reddit

flamingoinrainboots · OP · 2 years ago

Thank you this helps a lot!

1 upvotes on reddit

JesseTheGhost · 2 years ago

Batman Year One

The Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale run

Paul Dini's run

All fairly good entry points imo

8 upvotes on reddit

tetsuo52 · 2 years ago

Year One by Frank Miller

10 upvotes on reddit

weateallthepies · 2 years ago

Year One is always a good bet.

This popped up on my YouTube feed this morning though, which looks like exactly what you need https://youtu.be/Dc7mW9fJZ0g

17 upvotes on reddit

flamingoinrainboots · OP · 2 years ago

Thanks! I will look into it!

2 upvotes on reddit

kdolan22 · 2 years ago

Depends on his age of course, as some of these are darker/more mature but here's some of my favorites...

The Dark Knight Returns, Year One, The Killing Joke, Court of Owls, The Black Mirror, Hush, Batman 89'

13 upvotes on reddit

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r/DCcomics • [6]

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what is the best Batman comic?

Posted by rhys0035 · in r/DCcomics · 3 years ago

Additional text.

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TheMattInTheBox · 3 years ago

Dark Knight Returns is the popular answer. It's great but I personally don't think it's a great representation of the modern day Batman.

I'd personally recommend Batman Year One, or Batman Universe for something self contained. Batman RIP imo is the Batman at his peak but it's also confusing lol

6 upvotes on reddit

rhys0035 · OP · 3 years ago

Thanks for the advice. I read year one and enjoyed it. Now I need more😂. I need to check out the others. Is there anywhere I can read online?

1 upvotes on reddit

DementiaPrime · 3 years ago

DC Universe Infinite.

1 upvotes on reddit

JosephMeach · 3 years ago

Go to the Wikipedia article for Batman: The Animated Series, then look at the issues it was based on

1 upvotes on reddit

QwahaXahn · 3 years ago

I dig the No Man’s Land saga, but that’s got some backstory you need beforehand.

5 upvotes on reddit

rhys0035 · OP · 3 years ago

Thanks

2 upvotes on reddit

Zealousideal125 · 3 years ago

Dark victory

1 upvotes on reddit

Lower_Public_2466 · 3 years ago

I'd recommend all of Grant Morrison's run on Batman especially his Batman and Robin one.It's not really Bruce, it's about Dick Grayson (The first robin) becoming batman and mentoring Bruce's Blood son Damian but still batman none the less.

1 upvotes on reddit

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r/comicbooks • [7]

Summarize

My favorite Batman comics in order.

Posted by SpecialistEffect8832 · in r/comicbooks · 4 years ago

What are your thoughts on my list? What’s your list?

Batman: Ego
Batman: Gothic
Long Halloween
Killing Joke
Court of Owls
Year One
Dark Victory
Death in the family
Dark Knight Returns
Batman: Prey

3 upvotes on reddit

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readsdc · 4 years ago

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns
Batman: Year One
Batman: Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth
Batman: The Long Halloween
Batman: Hush
JLA: Tower of Babel
Batman: R.I.P.
Batman & Son
Batman: Court of Owls
Batman vs. Dracula: Red Rain

4 upvotes on reddit

GreenCree · 4 years ago

The Cult is one of my favorites, I think you would enjoy it.

4 upvotes on reddit

readsdc · 4 years ago

The Cult is easily one of the most overlooked Batman stories. It's my favorite Jason Todd story.

2 upvotes on reddit

GreenCree · 4 years ago

I wish it was more widely available. It is hard to recommend a book that is out of print.

3 upvotes on reddit

thenotsofunnyside · 4 years ago

Don't see Ego and Gothic mentioned much! Both would be on my list too.

RIP
Year One
The Dark Knight Returns
Gothic
Ego

3 upvotes on reddit

TheOrangeWampa · 4 years ago

Hush
Year one
Earth one
Long halloween
Killing joke

3 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 4 years ago

1.Batman And Robin:Born To Kill:Great cartoony yet moody artwork. Emotional and layered characterization. I'm not a parent, but I find the idea of helping a child in spite of flaws that you yourself possess which in some cases are the same flaws as your child to be interesting and probably true to life for many people. I go to stories primarily to feel emotions and this story succeeds with flying colours on that front.

2.Zero Year:An incredibly bright and fun over the top action adventure story that also has great characterization. A Batman comic with a bright colour palette was such a great change that fit the tone perfectly. Batman goes from taking his anger out on the world to being a true symbol of hope and the dynamic between him and Alfred is very poignant. I also really love the Riddler, he's so gloriously punchable, which is great because the end goal is to see him get punched. This is basically everything I love about superhero comics. Oh, and it has sleeveless Batman beating up lions in a post-apocalyptic wasteland.

3.Batman And Robin:Death Of The Family:this short but sweet trade includes an excellent fun wholesome annual, a pretty good tie-in with amazing art, and an excellent dream issue that does a great job metaphorically showing the character's internal conflicts.

4.The Killing Joke:I think this comic has been subject to undeserved hype backlash. The fridging of Barbara was bad, but it doesn't erase how amazing literally everything else in this comic is. I'm amazed at the amount of memorable lines and moments that are crammed into a relatively short space. Alan Moore has a talent for succinctly summarizing themes and character beats in memorable lines of dialogue. Despite the horrible things to happen in the story it's ultimately weirdly optimistic. The Joker's view of humanity is ultimately proven wrong by Gordon remaining sane. In spite of The Joker calling Batman insane, Moore's depiction of Batman in both Killing Joke and his Swamp Thing appearance is surprisingly down to earth and empathetic. Batman in this story is very introspective and willing to empathize even with his greatest enemy. Alan Moore saying this story has nothing to say about the real world is so baffling considering it's all about debating a philosophical question of how people react to trauma that clearly applies to the real world. Also, the art is great but I can't really summarize what's great about it.

5.Death And The Maidens:This is a great character piece that does a great job questioning the very foundations of Batman by questioning his relationship to the death of his parents in very interesting ways. I think the message that it's okay to move on is a great one. I don't really care for the art style though.

6.Court Of Owls:I think this comic has a really great message. Don't assume you know everything about the world around you. Try to imagine the world as complexly as possible and not resort to sweeping generalizations like "Gotham is Batman" or "Gotham is The Court Of Owls." Be open minded and willing to admit you might be wrong.

This book also has some great Batman as a strategist moments, like Batman figuring out how to blow up the well in the Court's maze, or using a magnet to take down whisper gang, even little things like trying to attack in ways that look like lucky blows while fighting the talon as Bruce Wayne.

3 upvotes on reddit

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r/batman • [8]

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Ranking every batman graphic novel I’ve read

Posted by Duckduck-Bro · in r/batman · 2 years ago

Nobody asked for this but I figured it would be an interesting conversation piece. More importantly I’m bored and passionate lol. For some reason it feels important to mention that there is absolutely zero nostalgia influencing my choices, I’m 19 and have read all of these in the last year.

Probably going to be some rankings you guys hate but what’s the fun without them!

The long Halloween: Basic ass pick I know but to me this is the quintessential mystery driven batman story. Art is amazing too and full of personality. Not a lot to complain about.
The Killing Joke: Another basic pick but it would feel wrong to not put this one up in at least the top three. I watched the cartoon before reading the comic, thank god that vomit inducing batgirl and Batman romance was not part of the story. Why tf did they feel the need to add it? Anyways the ending is so heartwarming and is the main reason I place it so high.
Dark Victory: A perfect sequel. Ending is actually more satisfying than the long Halloween’s imo.
The dark knight returns: A super interesting concept done well, this story takes so many risks and it always pays off. Part of me kinda wishes it ended with the funeral but I understand why they went the route they did. That’s nitpicking though.
Year one: This was the first one I got. The dinner scene is amazing, so badass. Can see the new Batman movie was influenced by this story a bit. Roped me into buying more. Not a lot else to say about this one.
The Black Mirror: I absolutely loved this one, I love dick Greyson as Batman and I cannot get enough of the horror element this brought to the table. Loved both story’s but the one with Gordon’s son and how the two merged at the end blew me away. Dicks interactions with Gordon and even the joker were perfect. Perfect artwork. Honestly maybe a little underrated.
The red hood: I’ve seen a good amount of criticism for this one most of which is fair, but for me this is batman confronting his biggest failure. The part where Jason tells batman he would have killed joker is heartbreaking.
Earth One: An awesome alternative take on Batman’s origin and first few years. I almost prefer this version of the Wayne’s murder. Really explains why Bruce may blame himself and helps you understand how he copes with a crusade on Gotham’s crime.
court of owls: Haven’t read city of owls but I’m very excited to, the maze section of this book was amazing. You could really see how it tore Bruce apart. Love the concept and the execution.
Hush: Lots of twists in this one, really enjoyed the Superman and Batman fight section. Didn’t blow me away but I enjoyed this one quite a bit. The Batman and cat woman romance was actually kinda tastefully done and I enjoyed Bruce revealing his identity to Selina.
A death in the family: Don’t get me wrong I understand the importance and how big it was at the time, but I honestly feel like it hasn’t aged all that well. Some of the plot points were actually hilarious, Joker becoming an Iranian ambassador made me laugh. Still don’t get me wrong I enjoyed this one a lot and Jason’s mom’s betrayal shocked me and broke my heart.
The man who laughs: Nothing wrong with it, a perfectly good batman and joker confrontation. Pretty short and sweet, I just think I’ve read better.
The Joker War Saga: An enjoyable read, very action packed. Story wise it was kinda lackluster and nothing really grabbed my attention. Good art, kinda found myself just skimming through looking at the cool combat.

I’d love for you all to tell my why I’m wrong in the comments

8 upvotes on reddit

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MagisterPraeceptorum · 2 years ago

Good rankings! You’ve definitely been making your way through the greatest hits. It’s great to get the perspective younger and newer to Batman comics.

2 upvotes on reddit

STUMPCRUSHER10538 · 1 year ago

read batman the cult

1 upvotes on reddit

Careless-Link-3391 · 2 years ago

I did think it was funny that joker became an ambassador.

3 upvotes on reddit

Duedsml23 · 2 years ago

Well done and you've picked off a lot of the best stories. Look for these https://www.ign.com/articles/best-batman-graphic-novels-comics also try the Batman Black and White books. Absolution Death of the Family, Zero Year, Batman in the Fifties [weird a d silly] Batman by Neal Adams. And there are so many more.

3 upvotes on reddit

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r/DCcomics • [9]

Summarize

Do you have a Batman reading order you swear by?

Posted by Skulking_Garrett · in r/DCcomics · 5 months ago

I'm SO interested in reading the best of the Dark Knight.

There are so many comics! Is there a rundown of the most critical? Thanks!

1 upvotes on reddit

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FahkeyBlue · 5 months ago

Year One

Long Halloween

Hush

Dark Knight Returns

After that read whatever you want really, but I'd recommend Scott Snyder's New 52 run.

1 upvotes on reddit

Vanilla_thundr · 5 months ago

My favorite order: Find a story that looks cool, read it.

7 upvotes on reddit

Beardgon · 5 months ago

Here’s my reading order I’ve enjoyed putting together.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/14B0VCtN9MWjwrCSYMVuM-bQr6W6WR5-oBSS7oBvH7UY/edit

1 upvotes on reddit

Skulking_Garrett · OP · 5 months ago

Thanks a ton!

1 upvotes on reddit

DementiaPrime · 5 months ago

My favorite story or one that looks most interesting then the next one I'm interested in and so forth.

2 upvotes on reddit

Unable_Flamingo_9774 · 5 months ago

Batman year one,

Batman the long Halloween,

Batman and Robin year one,

Batman the killing joke,

A death in the family(only until the Jason bit then bail),

Under the red hood,

Tower of Babel,

Court of owls(Read The Judas Contract if you want to know about Dick Grayson),

A lovely place of dying,

Knight fall,

I've not listed most of these in order but these ones are important in terms of order

Infinite crisis

Battle for the cowel

Grant Morrisons Batman and Robin

Whatever happened to the caped crusader

Batman Black mirror

3 upvotes on reddit

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r/comicbooks • [10]

Summarize

If I were to read one Batman collection, what should it be?

Posted by inbetweensound · in r/comicbooks · 3 months ago

I’m (37m) new to comics but have always enjoyed movies and shows about Batman (esp the dark night trilogy). Just in case it’s helpful I always loved the V for Vendetta and Watchmen movies. I’m curious what the top Batman comic is that I should consider jumping into if I’m new to this medium? I know there must be high-rated classics to start with. Given my age I’m looking for some more mature themes to dig into. I enjoy action but put even more value on solid character development. Adjacent themes I enjoy are political intrigue, redemption, nature and spirituality. Appreciate any insight on Batman and any related comics you think I might enjoy.

5 upvotes on reddit

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Pinoywonder · 3 months ago

The Long Halloween inspired a lot of Batman movies.

I would say that Year One is a popular origin story, I recommend the following Year One. The Man Who Laughs modern retelling of the Joker encounter. The Long Halloween. Dark victory is a sequel to the above.

Hush is also a popular story if you know his rogue gallery

8 upvotes on reddit

JohnCuster · 3 months ago

Batman: Year One is a natural fit for you. I also recommend Scott Snyder’s Batman run. Start with the Court of Owls trade paperback. Plus, Batman: The Black Mirror from the same writer.

You should also read Daredevil. Start with Brian Michael Bendis’ run.

2 upvotes on reddit

markojovanov · 3 months ago

I dont understand what people love about the Court of Owls… there was nothing that Batman actually did beyond failing failing failing and than saying “I can do it I am Batman” and than just miraculusly did it…

2 upvotes on reddit

JohnCuster · 3 months ago

I love Grant Morrison’s Batman run, and much of Tom King’s. But for a new but mature comic reader, Scott Snyder’s Batman is probably the most accessible, in my opinion.

1 upvotes on reddit

PoorlyDrawnFacsimile · 3 months ago

I agree 100% this might seem like a bit of a hot take, but, Scott Snyder isn’t as great a writer as everyone claims.

3 upvotes on reddit

GabrielRearte · 3 months ago

Year One. The real deal. Solid plot and superb artwork. Guaranteed re-reading.

3 upvotes on reddit

Olobnion · 3 months ago

I'd recommend Miller's Batman: Year One and The Dark Knight Returns (but not its sequels).

7 upvotes on reddit

blargcastro · 3 months ago

Yes, start with these so then you can be subtly disappointed by how much more juvenile the rest of the comics are.

5 upvotes on reddit

JohnCuster · 3 months ago

Gotham Central would be a great follow up to Year One.

2 upvotes on reddit

DJ_HouseShoes · 3 months ago

Not Hush. Never Hush.

2 upvotes on reddit

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best Batman graphic novels

Here are some of the best Batman graphic novels to consider:

"Batman: The Dark Knight Returns" by Frank Miller
- A seminal work that redefined Batman for a new generation. It features an older Bruce Wayne coming out of retirement to fight crime in Gotham City.
"Batman: Year One" by Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli
- This graphic novel tells the origin story of Batman, focusing on his first year as a crimefighter and his relationship with Jim Gordon.
"Batman: The Killing Joke" by Alan Moore and Brian Bolland
- A psychological exploration of the Joker and Batman's relationship, this graphic novel is known for its dark themes and iconic artwork.
"Batman: Hush" by Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee
- A modern classic that features a mysterious new villain, Hush, and brings together many of Batman's allies and foes in a gripping storyline.
"Batman: The Long Halloween" by Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale
- A noir-style mystery that takes place during Batman's early days of crime-fighting, focusing on a killer who strikes on holidays.
"Batman: Arkham Asylum" by Grant Morrison and Dave McKean
- A unique and surreal take on Batman's rogues' gallery, set in the infamous Arkham Asylum, with stunning artwork.

Recommendation: If you're new to Batman graphic novels, start with "Batman: Year One" for a solid foundation of the character's origins. For a deeper dive into the psychological aspects of Batman and his adversaries, "The Killing Joke" is a must-read. Each of these graphic novels offers a different perspective on the Dark Knight, making them essential reads for any fan.

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