Batgirl: Endgame #1

by F.D. White on March 19, 2015

Written by: Cameron Stewart & Brendan Fletcher
Art by: Bengal


In the wake of the current Batgirl variant controversy, DC has perfectly timed the release of Batgirl: Endgame #1. This issue is from a set of tie-ins to the massive Batman storyline where he confronts The Joker for potentially the last time. Smartly, these tie-ins are completely separate issues from their books current runs and do not interrupt the flow of the stories those creators are trying to tell. With this recent controversy in mind, I was interested to see just how Barbara reacts to dealing with The Joker in such an epic scale. Surprisingly, Batgirl doesn't encounter or even think about The Joker once in this issue, and it works to its advantage.

Batgirl: Endgame #1 is an entirely wordless issue. This is something isn't commonly done in the Big Two. For me personally, this is a huge plus for the issue. Part of the reason I haven't been very interested in the new Batgirl run is that the dialogue seems like it's written for a much younger audience (and I'm only 23). By allowing the artist, Bengal, to tell the story through art alone works wonders. Due to the actual story being fairly simple, there isn't any room for miscommunication. The Burnside Bridge is under attack and Batgirl has to save the day. It's as simple as that. In classic super hero style, Batgirl is simultaneously able to save the bridge AND rescue a little girl trapped by herself and in imminent danger.

The only major problem is that the issue flies by due to having no dialogue. You can read the issue in about 5 minutes, but you'll want to revisit and admire the art.

It's quick, and fun, but Batgirl: Endgame is also smart for avoiding direct confrontation with The Joker, and instead focusing on the ripple effects he is causing throughout the city.

Our Score:

9/10

A Look Inside