The Culture

This book collects issues 1 to 5 of the mini-series of the same name. It was written and drawn by Sam Kieth – creator of the Maxx and Zero Girl. I love Keith’s style of drawing and probably first came across him on the Epicurus the Sage books and most lately on the Arkham Asylum: Madness graphic novel from last year. While I like his drawing I am not such a big fan of his writing.

A recently paroled Joker is photographed tangling with Batman. One of the photos causes a press sensation when it looks like Batman is threatening Joker with a gun. Inspired by this Joker courts the media and tries to orchestrate a media campaign to turn public opinion against Batman. He is aided in these endeavours by a love struck assistant DA and an old childhood friend of Bruce Wayne’s who is being blackmailed by the Joker.

I think that Kieth asks for too much suspension of disbelief in this story. First we are expected to believe that the Joker has managed to gain parole from prison – it is not clear where this story sits in the continuity of Batman but it feels like Joker has committed several previous crimes. Also an assistant DA falls in love with him and assists him in the smearing of Batman’s reputation. And finally that that the public would be so ready to turn against Batman – taking the Joker’s word and evidence over Batman’s reputation and past actions. Having said that there are a number of nice scenes between Batman and Joker as the Batman tries to find evidence of Joker’s nefarious activities.

The art on the other hand is downright sensational at times. There are some fantastic depictions of the Joker where the art reveals his inner psychosis. However Batman is sometimes not so well drawn – looking out of proportion at times. Overall the book’s strengths outweigh its deficiencies and well worth a look.