DC; $2.99

The last issue of Batman was intense. Joker is more than his usual level of unhinged, wanting to serve as best man in the wedding of Batman and Catwoman. It centered around Batman and Joker in a decimated church communicating the language of their very special relationship.

Batman #49 turns the mic over to Catwoman for some quality time with Joker. They end up having a weird conversation about their past and other associates, but most of their time is dedicated to talking about the Batman.

This issue by Tom King plays on that bizarre dynamic and camaraderie depicted in stories about heroes and villains. Whether they have been in battle side by side or facing one another they have some kind of connection that binds them.

Simultaneously, the issue comes off like an ex-boyfriend seeking closure or hint of an opportunity with the one who’s marrying someone else. Not that Joker has romantic feelings for either of them, but he certainly feels some ownership and doesn’t want his relationship to change. This issue and arc have been some of the best in the current volume of Batman. King is knocking it out of the park.

-Amanda Sheriff