Batman Allies Secret Files and Origins

    (DC, 2005)
™ and ©2005 DC Comics, Inc.

This edition of Secret Files and Origins focuses on Batman’s partners in crime-fighting, even though he pretty much works alone these days. Readers who have been away from the Batcave since before the events of the mega-crossover series “War Games” will find the volume useful in getting the latest scoops on Robin, Nightwing, Catwoman, Onyx, Batgirl, and, of course, The Dark Knight himself. Unfortunately, there are no updates for Alfred, Barbara Gordon, or Jim Gordon.

Lapsed Bat-fans will gain particularly useful insight into Cassandra “Batgirl” Cain via a short story called “Taking Sides.” There’s also a quirky tale called “Street Crime” that cleverly uses just four pages to emphasize the unusual nature of Gotham City. Headlining the issue is “A Friend in Need,” which finds a particularly sinister (in appearance and deed) Batman hooking up with a rare Gotham creature: a trusted member of the police force.

The art, which boasts the type of variety needed for this type of comic book, is solid throughout. Pete Woods’ Catwoman is especially nice.

— Brett Weiss
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Batman Allies Secret Files and Origins #1

August, 2005
Cover Price: $4.99
10 copies available from $0.75 		Russell Lissau, Will Pfeifer, Andersen GabrychBrad Walker, Ron Randall, Tom Derenick, Sean Murphy, Alejandro “Al” Barrionuevo, Phil Hester, Pete Woods