Story by Ty Templeton
Penciled by Brandon Kruse
Inked by Terry Beatty
Colored by Linda Medley
So, what’s the story?
The story opens as Batman and Robin break up an illegal arms trade. They leave the crooks tied up with a note for the cops and head off to find the rest of the guns. Back at GCPD headquarters, a betting pool starts regarding how many criminals the Dynamic Duo will collar that night. Harvey Bullock gets in on the action late, and is forced to bet on the unlikely number of 20. Elsewhere, Batman and Robin stake out another gun deal, and quickly break it up. One of the goons sings about where the remaining guns can be found. The GCPD betting pool climbs. On their way across town, Batman and Robin stop an electronics store break-in, leaving their usual note for the cops and raising the betting pool again. Once again interrupted on their way to find the final guns, they stop a drunk driver and leave him with a note for the police. At GCPD headquarters, Bullock gets a tip about the same guns the Caped Crusaders are pursuing, and heads to the location. He arrives just before Batman and Robin, and stays to witness their takedown. He’s thrilled to find the number of goons they stop matches his number in the betting pool. But then he realizes they didn’t leave their usual note for the cops, as he was already there, and the other cops won’t belive him. So he chases after them.
This is a fair example of a “night in the life” story. As is typical, we see Batman and Robin take down a number of non-costumed criminals. The hook this time is the cops’ betting pool. It’s an interesting framing device. I find it a little odd, though, that betting was used so prominently by the “good guys” in a kid’s comic book. Different times, I guess.
How’s the Art?
Kruse and Beatty seem a bit rushed this time though. The art tends to steer away from the Timm style towards generic “cartoon,” as evidenced by some off proportions and unusually thick inks. Not their best.
Any continuity issues?
No. This could take place at anytime during Dick Grayson’s tenure as Robin.
Anything of interest to customizers or cosplayers?
Just a decent Bullock.
Is this issue worth my precious time?
Not particularly.
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