Batwing is one of those titles that I'm kind of conflicted about: while I enjoy Marcus To's artwork a whole bunch, I've never been particularly enthused about Judd Winick's writing. He tends to write "teen" books fairly well, but things that involve serious subject matter usually come off a bit ham-handed.

But suppose I was pleased to read that the book didn't suffer from any his usual pitfalls of melodrama and poor pacing; in fact, I actually kind of liked it. Batwing comes off as a competent hero, and his supporting cast (at least, his immediate supporting cast) are more than just cardboard standees in the issue's narrative.

Sadly, that doesn't seem to extend to guest stars.

Marcus To's Nightwing is great, as usual, and he was one of the artists I had hoped would handle Grayson in the New 52. He gets a little creative with some poses, but man-cheesecake aside I think he does the character justice.

However, Dick's presence in the book just seems a bit... wasted? He's helping Batwing as a member of Batman Inc., but doesn't do much besides tie up thugs while 'Wing half-fights a dragon. The fight just evaporates with a flip of the page, and Nightwing doesn't do too much for the rest of the issue. This even extends to Batman's appearance, as well; he receives some data, accosts a bad guy, then it's back to Batwing.

I wouldn't find it suspect if there was actually some semblance of personal interaction between these characters. Their involvement seem almost prefunctory, despite the whole purpose of Batman Inc. being to support and co-ordinate similar heroes.

I guess I'm saying I want some indication that these guys are actual real people when they're in the same room with each other, instead of getting the job done and going their separate ways.

Batwing #11
DC Comics
$2.99

The Verdict: Three batarangs out of five for some likeable moments among a little bit of dullness when it comes to the teamup. To's art shines.