Batman: The Long Halloween – The Last Halloween #1

by Jeph Loeb

Batman: The Long Halloween – The Last Halloween #1

Illustrated by: Eduardo Risso

Cover art by: Tim Sale

Written by: Jeph Loeb

Release date: September 24th, 2024

DC Comics

*Minor Spoilers Ahead

Gotham City learns to fear Halloween once more as a terrible event threatens to destroy Jim Gordon’s life and puts Batman and Robin’s teamwork to the test more than ever before. In a city of liars, masked vigilantes, and criminals… can anyone be trusted?

“Batman: The Long Halloween – The Last Halloween #1” brings Gotham back to its darkest holiday, and fans of the original storylines will find some familiar territory here. Written by Jeph Loeb with art by Eduardo Risso, the issue feels like a true tribute to Tim Sale’s iconic style while allowing Risso’s own flair to come through. Dave Stewart’s colors add depth, and the lettering by Richard Starkings flows seamlessly with the mood. The cover art, done by Tim Sale and colored by Mark Chiarello, sets the tone before you even open the book.

I went in a bit cautious, worried that it might tread too closely to the classic “The Long Halloween” and “Dark Victory” stories, but this first issue feels like it’s carving out its own space. The art struck a great balance, honoring Sale’s legacy while feeling distinct. It didn’t feel like a copy, which I appreciated.

Story-wise, while it didn’t immediately hook me all the way in, what stood out was the relationship between Batman and Robin. The dynamic felt fresh and enjoyable, especially since we didn’t see much of their teamwork in “Dark Victory.” It was a real treat to witness Dick Grayson in those early Robin days, full of enthusiasm and joy, reminding us why he loved being the Boy Wonder.

I’m looking forward to seeing where the series takes these characters in the next issue. There’s definitely potential here, and the promise of more Halloween horrors to come keeps me intrigued.

“Batman: The Long Halloween – The Last Halloween #1” is available on our new comic book wall and can be placed on your weekly pull list.