DCU Comic Book Reviews

ROBIN #160

Freedom Of The Press

May 2007

Written by Adam Beechen

Pencils by Freddie E. Williams II

Inks by Freddie E. Williams II

Cover by Patrick Gleason & Wayne Faucher

Synopsis

Michael Lasky (aka Dodge) has mysteriously disappeared from Gotham General Hospital.  When he Robin hears the news, he decides he better investigate.  First, he gets a call from Officer Harper.  A newspaper reporter is on the run after reporting on a story concerning street gangs who purchased illegal drugs to give them powers.  Robin tracks down the reporter, but the gang members have as well.  Robin is able to escape, but not before getting beaten, but also getting DNA samples.  Later, Robin takes the reporter to Kill ‘Nilla’s place for safe keeping, while Robin attempts to find the dealer for the gang.  At the batcave, Robin analyzes the DNA and deduces the chemical component of the drug comes from Strader Pharmaceuticals.  Robin visits a Strader executive, who denies they are dealing with the chemical component.  Robin knows he’s lying.  Elsewhere, Robin is watching a drug deal when he is suddenly attacked by members of the gang.  In the battle, Robin and the gang members fall of the building to the ground below. 

Review by Binkley (e-mail)

I really liked this issue.  After the disastrous start with the Batgirl storyline, Beechen’s work has steadily improved, a sign that as long as he avoids editorial mandates (such as the crossover with Klarion) to the plots, he can craft some solid stories.  I think this issue showcases a lot of what Beechen has attempted into one particular issue, from the brewing romance with Zoanne to Robin’s detective skills to learn more about the drug itself and following those leads to his fighting ability (even though he loses the fights, he does fairly well even though he is outnumbered by gang members with ‘roid rage) and even to building to a larger storyline concerning Dodge.  Beechen juggles all of these elements well and while the ending is not that big of a cliffhanger, it will be interesting to see how Robin gets out the mess he’s fallen into (Ha! I slay me). 

I highly doubt the off-hand remark about Zoanne’s dad working at Strader is a literal off-hand comment.  There is no reason to mention it unless it becomes important in some, especially since the senior vice president seems to be involved in some manner.  My biggest concern is if Zoanne’s dad was involved in the illegal drugs in some manner.  I hope that’s not true.  I like Zoanne and I like her role in the book.  I would hate to see that change; Beechen would be better off keeping her out of this storyline.  The only way it would work is if the fallout of whatever happens makes Zoanne hate Robin but love Tim.  The contrast might be interesting.