Batman #161 Hush 2 Review

It’s finally here, new comic book day, and this week is an exciting one with the continuation of Hush 2 in Batman #161. This series has really lived up to the Hush legacy so far with last issue being one of the most exciting issues so far. With the way everything was left last time, all is on the line and Batman needs to act quickly if he is going to stop Hush for good. This issue had could go in any direction and I was worried for the series, but enough said, I think it’s time for our Batman #161 Hush 2 review.

In Nerdy Nook fashion, this review will be spoiler free. However, we recommend you read the previous issue if you have not already before continuing.

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The Review

Image by DC Comics

Last issue really stepped things up a notch with potentially one of the most epic battles between Knightwing and Red Hood, then ending with Hush holding Robin at knife stating ‘three Robins will die tonight’. In Batman #161 Hush 2, we pick up right where we left off, right in the centre of the action.

Now, I would be lying if I said I was not nervous about this issue. Quite often in comic books, a cliff-hanger is resolved so quickly in a way that almost feels meaningless (especially on a read through), that was not the case for Batman #161. It was kind of resolved fairly quickly, but not really because things just progressed. This issue flows so well with the previous one, I cannot wait to read through it all again in a graphic novel format.

One thing that did stand out to me is how Hush 2 is respecting iconic storylines. Without saying too much but as we know Batgirl is in Hush 2, well in Batman #161 we learn that The Killing Joke is cannon in this storyline, and Barbara has had he spine restored. You might think this undoes the effects of The Killing Joke, well in this case it gives her character more depth and more reason to be resentful of Batman for saving Joker. Perhaps this is Hush’s plan, to turn all of Batman’s allies against him? Though we are unsure yet, this story is more complex and incredible then I ever could have imagined, I would even go as far as to say it is turning into some of Jeph Loeb’s best work!

Image by DC Comics

Batman #161 Hush 2 felt once again felt true detective comic, though there was not much detecting, everything just felt… well, like a Batman comic. I get the same feeling seeing this story unfold as I did when I was a kid reading a comic book for the first time. How can something so new feel so nostalgic? The only thing I can think of that’s doing it is the fact that this comic does respect so much about what many consider the iconic Batman storylines, what I consider to be iconic Batman storylines – especially the constant through backs to the Under The Red Hood comic, aka the best comic ever written.

Despite all my praise, this comic is not quite perfect for me. Yes the storyline progresses, yes there is so outstanding action, but at the same time not a lot really happens. Its not exactly a filler issue, but it definitely feels shorter than usual. It was just enough for to get into, then it just finished, which was a little disappointing. Let me just reaffirm this point, this is absolutely nothing against the plot of Batman #161, it was exceptional, I was just expecting a little more. We are essentially halfway through the series, why slow down now?

As always, the artwork is outstanding! Jim Lee has such a beautiful style, which is incredibly complemented by Scott William and Alex Sinclair. I personally read the noir version of Hush, and every time I get the urge to revisit that novel, I pick up the noir version over once again. There is just something about Jim Lee’s style that excels in pen & Ink, I sincerely hope that we get a noir version of Hush 2 as a graphic novel when the series concludes.

Image by DC Comics

Hush 2 continues to demonstrate relentless action and progresses at a smooth pace in Batman #161. Though this issue itself feels shorter than previous ones, it expands on important character traits and builds on a complex narrative. Hush 2 continues to impress readers, this is undoubtedly an icon in the making

What are your thoughts on Batman #161 Hush 2? Where do you think the story is heading from here? Whatever your thoughts and feelings, share them with us in the comment section of this article.

See also: Previous issue

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