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Batman Post-Crisis #186
Batman: Long Shadows
With Bruce Wayne gone in the wake of BATMAN: R.I.P., Dick Grayson -- formerly known as Robin and Nightwing -- becomes the new Batman. And it's not long before the city's criminals put him to the test! With The Penguin intent on becoming Gotham's new crime kingpin and Two-Face waging a war of his own, how can any hero, let alone one who's just stepped into his role, stop them -- especially since he also has to round up a posse of escaped criminals who've broken out of Arkham Asylum!
Collecting: Batman #687-691.
Collecting: Batman #687-691.
128 pages, Paperback
First published May 10, 2011
8 people are currently reading
819 people want to read
About the author
Judd Winick
787 books392 followersJudd Winick is an American cartoonist, comic book writer, screenwriter, and former reality television personality known for his diverse contributions to storytelling across multiple media. He first entered the public eye in 1994 as a cast member on The Real World: San Francisco, where he formed a close friendship with AIDS educator Pedro Zamora, an experience that deeply influenced his later work. Winick memorialized their bond in Pedro and Me, a critically acclaimed autobiographical graphic novel that earned several literary awards and became a staple in school curricula.
Winick's career in comics took off with The Adventures of Barry Ween, Boy Genius and continued with major runs at DC Comics, including Green Lantern, Green Arrow, and Batman. His stories often explored socially relevant themes, such as HIV, homophobia, and identity. He was recognized for introducing gay characters and tackling difficult subjects with empathy and clarity. His work on Batman notably included resurrecting the character Jason Todd as the Red Hood, a storyline later adapted into the animated film Batman: Under the Red Hood, for which Winick wrote the screenplay.
Beyond comics, he created The Life and Times of Juniper Lee for Cartoon Network and served as head writer for Hulu's The Awesomes. In 2015, he launched the Hilo series, an all-ages sci-fi adventure inspired by his own children. The bestselling series has been widely praised and is expected to reach its eleventh volume in 2025.
Winick lives in San Francisco with his wife, Pam Ling, also a Real World alum, and their two children. He continues to create heartfelt and imaginative stories for audiences of all ages.
Winick's career in comics took off with The Adventures of Barry Ween, Boy Genius and continued with major runs at DC Comics, including Green Lantern, Green Arrow, and Batman. His stories often explored socially relevant themes, such as HIV, homophobia, and identity. He was recognized for introducing gay characters and tackling difficult subjects with empathy and clarity. His work on Batman notably included resurrecting the character Jason Todd as the Red Hood, a storyline later adapted into the animated film Batman: Under the Red Hood, for which Winick wrote the screenplay.
Beyond comics, he created The Life and Times of Juniper Lee for Cartoon Network and served as head writer for Hulu's The Awesomes. In 2015, he launched the Hilo series, an all-ages sci-fi adventure inspired by his own children. The bestselling series has been widely praised and is expected to reach its eleventh volume in 2025.
Winick lives in San Francisco with his wife, Pam Ling, also a Real World alum, and their two children. He continues to create heartfelt and imaginative stories for audiences of all ages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
October 10, 2025
(B+) 78% | Good
Notes: Manifests, in dialogue and allegory, an almost theological dispute about the nature, person and constancy of Batman.
Notes: Manifests, in dialogue and allegory, an almost theological dispute about the nature, person and constancy of Batman.
February 19, 2017
The downside to Grant Morrison’s awesome Batman run was the numerous unnecessary spin-off books made purely to capitalise on his success. Battle for the Cowl, Bruce Wayne: The Road Home, Life After Death, Eye of the Beholder - just terrible, useless comics. Long Shadows is part of that garbage heap of crap.
Long Shadows is an epilogue to Battle for the Cowl, a pointless epilogue to an even more pointless book - we already knew Dick Grayson was gonna be Batman because Morrison showed us in his run! We didn’t need Battle for the Cowl and we sure as hell didn’t need Long Shadows.
What happens in this book? Nothing. Dick has doubts about being the new Batman and Penguin and Two-Face correctly suspect the real Batman has disappeared. That’s it! Nothing we didn’t see in Morrison’s run or any of the other spin-off comics.
Batman: Long Shadows is awful, unentertaining, worthless and instantly forgettable - don’t bother.
Long Shadows is an epilogue to Battle for the Cowl, a pointless epilogue to an even more pointless book - we already knew Dick Grayson was gonna be Batman because Morrison showed us in his run! We didn’t need Battle for the Cowl and we sure as hell didn’t need Long Shadows.
What happens in this book? Nothing. Dick has doubts about being the new Batman and Penguin and Two-Face correctly suspect the real Batman has disappeared. That’s it! Nothing we didn’t see in Morrison’s run or any of the other spin-off comics.
Batman: Long Shadows is awful, unentertaining, worthless and instantly forgettable - don’t bother.
July 30, 2022
Reread: 30/07/2022
This was an interesting one seeing Dick go against some classic enemies like Dr Phosophorus, Clayface and some mercenary called Blanco and dealing with Two-face on the side and whatever plans Penguin and ultimately Black mask has, its fun and wild and kinda interesting and shows that Dick being Batman will not be easy and the contingencies they have to put in place and that ending was just superb omg!
Its one of those comics that you appreciate in the wider context of the story and I like it in that regards and showing how Dick is different from Bruce but how he needs to be a bit like him if he is to be Batman and showing the rogues gallery and the threat it represents, its pretty well written and the art is fabulous and makes for a terrific read! I loved this one!
__________________________________________________________________
This was actually pretty good!
It tells the story of Dick as he is trying to become Batman after Bruce's death and his methods and approach is different and we see him face off against Scarecrow and targeting Penguin but its the background stuff like who this new Black Mask is and how is his influence spreading and also the big battle with Clayface and Blanco and later Two-face as he breaks into the cave and how he learns what it means to be Batman.
Its a great volume and just continues to show that being Batman is not as easy as it seems and I love the way Dick approaches it, smiling and all and then him learning you need to be violent with some criminals and maybe coming closer to Bruce. I love his evolution as a character and its really well written and explores different facets and I love the use of Two-face to contrast his nature plus Alfred! The art is really well done here and its cheery and all, so a must read!
This was an interesting one seeing Dick go against some classic enemies like Dr Phosophorus, Clayface and some mercenary called Blanco and dealing with Two-face on the side and whatever plans Penguin and ultimately Black mask has, its fun and wild and kinda interesting and shows that Dick being Batman will not be easy and the contingencies they have to put in place and that ending was just superb omg!
Its one of those comics that you appreciate in the wider context of the story and I like it in that regards and showing how Dick is different from Bruce but how he needs to be a bit like him if he is to be Batman and showing the rogues gallery and the threat it represents, its pretty well written and the art is fabulous and makes for a terrific read! I loved this one!
__________________________________________________________________
This was actually pretty good!
It tells the story of Dick as he is trying to become Batman after Bruce's death and his methods and approach is different and we see him face off against Scarecrow and targeting Penguin but its the background stuff like who this new Black Mask is and how is his influence spreading and also the big battle with Clayface and Blanco and later Two-face as he breaks into the cave and how he learns what it means to be Batman.
Its a great volume and just continues to show that being Batman is not as easy as it seems and I love the way Dick approaches it, smiling and all and then him learning you need to be violent with some criminals and maybe coming closer to Bruce. I love his evolution as a character and its really well written and explores different facets and I love the use of Two-face to contrast his nature plus Alfred! The art is really well done here and its cheery and all, so a must read!
May 20, 2011
I'm trying to play catch-up with what's going on in the Batman universe, so I'm sort of reading things out of order. I haven't managed to get my hands on Batman: Battle for the Cowl, yet, but I enjoyed Long Shadows anyway.
This book is about Dick (and Alfred) trying to come to terms with Batman's death. To keep Batman's legacy alive, Dick takes over as Batman, and Damien (Bruce Wayne's biological son) becomes the new Robin. I think Winick does a great job showing the conflict Grayson feels trying to remain true to himself, while also honoring the Dark Knight.
This book is about Dick (and Alfred) trying to come to terms with Batman's death. To keep Batman's legacy alive, Dick takes over as Batman, and Damien (Bruce Wayne's biological son) becomes the new Robin. I think Winick does a great job showing the conflict Grayson feels trying to remain true to himself, while also honoring the Dark Knight.
June 17, 2025
2025 Review - I liked it a bit more than I did back then but it's still not as good as I hoped. I think it's mostly cause Two Face is just not a very compelling villain in this run. He comes off kind of lame if I'm being honest. But atleast one good thing is Dick as Batman is great, and love his relationship with Alfred here. I'll bump it up to a 3.
2017 Review: Started off better than where we ended up. Dick is now the new Batman. I for one loved this era. Black Mirror was wonderful and Batman & Robin was really solid. So I was pretty excited to try and read more during that era. Judd Winick is someone I've never read before (yes I know, I have to read Red Hood!) so I went in with zero expectations. Came out a bit sad.
Dick is still learning to be Batman. Alfred is learning to be around the new Batman. Everything is messy but they're trying to make it work. This Batman smiles when he fights, he flips around and is more acrobatic, and the villains notice!
What I liked: The start of it. Like Alfred and Grayson just talking was some good stuff. Them trying to figure this out together I liked a lot. Also the first fight was really fun and showed how different Dick is to Bruce (and better in some ways) and I also enjoyed most of the art.
What I didn't like: Some shots were pretty ugly though. Like odd angles for fighting. I also thought some of the dialog was iffy. Two Face also came across as kind of dumb as fuck and him being the main villain (until the mysterious main villain shows up) didn't do it for me.
I'd rate it around a 2.5 but going with a 2 on this scale because I was left unimpressed. Which is sad, because I love this era for Batman, but this book came up a little short.
2017 Review: Started off better than where we ended up. Dick is now the new Batman. I for one loved this era. Black Mirror was wonderful and Batman & Robin was really solid. So I was pretty excited to try and read more during that era. Judd Winick is someone I've never read before (yes I know, I have to read Red Hood!) so I went in with zero expectations. Came out a bit sad.
Dick is still learning to be Batman. Alfred is learning to be around the new Batman. Everything is messy but they're trying to make it work. This Batman smiles when he fights, he flips around and is more acrobatic, and the villains notice!
What I liked: The start of it. Like Alfred and Grayson just talking was some good stuff. Them trying to figure this out together I liked a lot. Also the first fight was really fun and showed how different Dick is to Bruce (and better in some ways) and I also enjoyed most of the art.
What I didn't like: Some shots were pretty ugly though. Like odd angles for fighting. I also thought some of the dialog was iffy. Two Face also came across as kind of dumb as fuck and him being the main villain (until the mysterious main villain shows up) didn't do it for me.
I'd rate it around a 2.5 but going with a 2 on this scale because I was left unimpressed. Which is sad, because I love this era for Batman, but this book came up a little short.
November 6, 2015
4.5 stars
Introduction:
Now to be honest, I have never read DC Comics’ major event “Final Crisis,” so I am not familiar with Batman (or Bruce Wayne in this case) being dead during this event and this comic book “Batman: Long Shadows” takes place after the events of “Final Crisis.” However, despite not reading “Final Crisis,” I still thoroughly enjoyed this graphic novel (although being a huge Dick Grayson fan also helps)!
What is this story about?
After the events of “Final Crisis,” Batman (Bruce Wayne) is pronounced dead, but in order to prevent the world from knowing that the real Batman is dead, Bruce Wayne’s protégé Dick Grayson decides to take up the mantle himself. Unfortunately, Batman’s old nemesis Two-Face notices that Batman is not himself and he sets out to murder the new Batman!
What I loved about this story:
Judd Winick’s writing: Wow! Can I say that I was truly impressed with Judd Winick’s writing of this short story that takes place after “Final Crisis?” Now as it is known by now, I am a huge Dick Grayson fan and the fact that I am reading another “Batman” comic that stars Dick Grayson taking the mantle from Bruce Wayne (the first comic I read that had Dick Grayson as Batman was “Batman: The Black Mirror”) is just so exciting to me! I loved the way that Judd Winick wrote this story as we actually get to see how Batman’s immediate family (his butler Alfred, Damian Wayne and Dick Grayson) react to Bruce Wayne’s death and how they are trying to cope with the legacy that he left behind as Batman. It was pretty interesting to see how Dick Grayson tries to upheld Bruce Wayne’s legacy as Batman while doing things his own way and I loved how the other characters often commented on how Dick Grayson was a lot more friendlier as Batman than Bruce Wayne was and it was a nice change for the characters, especially for Alfred. I really enjoyed the relationship that Dick shares with Damian Wayne and Alfred as he treats Alfred like a father figure and he tries to get through the hard headed Damian Wayne. Judd Winick’s portrayal of Dick Grayson was fantastic as Dick continues to crack jokes throughout the story while showing great concern and compassion for his mentor Bruce Wayne and that just made me love Dick Grayson even more!
Mark Bagley’s artwork: Mark Bagley’s artwork is truly fantastic, especially during the battle sequences! I loved the way that Mark Bagley made all the explosions look extremely realistic and effective as I really felt the chaotic mood of the battle scenes that Dick Grayson gets involved in. I also loved the way that Mark Bagley drew the expressions on the characters’ faces as they look expressive and I actually felt the same emotions that the characters felt through certain situations, like the sadness that Batman’s immediate family felt when Bruce Wayne died.
What made me feel uncomfortable about this story
The reason why I took off half a point from the rating was because the beginning tended to drag on for a while before the story got exciting and I will admit I was a bit bored with the beginning until I got into the actual story as it went on. Also, for anyone who does not like gory violence and language, this comic does have a fair share of violence and language.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, “Batman: Long Shadows” is an excellent graphic novel for fans who want to see Dick Grayson take up the Batman cowl and own it like no one else!
I would like to thank my Goodreads friend Mike for recommending this title to me!
Review is also on: Rabbit Ears Book Blog
August 28, 2015
I really like Dick Grayson as Batman. Don't get me wrong, there is only one Batman for me and that's Bruce Wayne! But I think it's very interesting seeing the first Robin, one of the few people who has such a close bond with Batman and Bruce Wayne, taking on the cape and cowl.
I loved the little flashback to the times where Bruce was Batman and Dick Grayson was starting out as Robin. It was a great way to start the book. After that we get an epilogue to Battle for the Cowl which gets very personal and emotional for some of the charachters (i.e. Alfred and Dick).
Damian has a fantastic "scene" in the first part of the story, where he is being a chip of the old block. Even the bad guy mistakes him for Batman. I liked how they showed the struggle of Dick Grayson trying to decide to become the Batman. It's obvious he doesn't want to replace his mentor or try to fill his shoes. He takes on the cape and cowl and makes it his own. I think that's why I don't have any trouble with seeing Nightwing becoming the Batman. He doesn't become a cheap knock off. He honors his mentors legacy and makes sure that everyone knows that the Batman lives, always.
There are 3 big villains in this book. Two-Face and the Penguin are two of them, the other one pulling the strings behind the curtains I won't spoil. But if you've read the stories that came before this, you'll most likely have a very good idea. It was great to see that Two-Face saw "through" the cape and cowl and knew that this wasn't the Batman he always has known.
Overall it's just a great book, with some notable moments. If you're reading Morrison's run on Batman like I am, don't ignore this book simply because it isn't written by Grant Morrison. It adds to his run and is a great read.
I loved the little flashback to the times where Bruce was Batman and Dick Grayson was starting out as Robin. It was a great way to start the book. After that we get an epilogue to Battle for the Cowl which gets very personal and emotional for some of the charachters (i.e. Alfred and Dick).
Damian has a fantastic "scene" in the first part of the story, where he is being a chip of the old block. Even the bad guy mistakes him for Batman. I liked how they showed the struggle of Dick Grayson trying to decide to become the Batman. It's obvious he doesn't want to replace his mentor or try to fill his shoes. He takes on the cape and cowl and makes it his own. I think that's why I don't have any trouble with seeing Nightwing becoming the Batman. He doesn't become a cheap knock off. He honors his mentors legacy and makes sure that everyone knows that the Batman lives, always.
There are 3 big villains in this book. Two-Face and the Penguin are two of them, the other one pulling the strings behind the curtains I won't spoil. But if you've read the stories that came before this, you'll most likely have a very good idea. It was great to see that Two-Face saw "through" the cape and cowl and knew that this wasn't the Batman he always has known.
Overall it's just a great book, with some notable moments. If you're reading Morrison's run on Batman like I am, don't ignore this book simply because it isn't written by Grant Morrison. It adds to his run and is a great read.
November 7, 2013
Ah, Judd Winick. The man who some say destroyed Catwoman. The man’s gained a lot of attention during his career, both favorable and unfavorable. I’ve read very little of his work, but what I’ve read I loved and of those titles, Batman: Long Shadows is my favorite. Yes, I love this work.
In any event, the man who brought Jason Todd back to life in Batman: Under The Hood is back, and this time he’s dealing with the aftermath of Batman: Battle For The Cowl, which gave us a new Batman: Dick Grayson.
With Bruce Wayne gone & Tim Drake searching the globe for Batman, Dick and Bruce’s son Damian are the new Batman and Robin. As the new Dark Knight settles into his new role, he finds himself caught in the middle of a war between The Penguin and Two-Face. To send a message to the criminal element in Gotham, Dick makes an effort to be seen on camera more. Unfortunately, this results in Two-Face realizing that this isn’t the Batman he’s been up against for so long. Meanwhile, the mysterious new Black Mask continues to haunt Gotham…
The best part about this book is the emotional weight attached to it. In Batman & Robin: Batman Reborn , Grant Morrison focused more on the dynamic between the new Dynamic Duo, and the enemies they faced. Batman: Long Shadows puts Damian in a strictly supporting role, and puts the spotlight solely on Dick Grayson, and what it means for him to put on the cape and cowl. Winick’s strength here is he presents a rich, complex Dick Grayson – a Grayson who is a fascinating case study and full of intrigue. Interestingly enough, this story fills in some of the gaps between Batman: Battle For The Cowl and In Batman & Robin: Batman Reborn , such as what happened to the Batcave, how they ended up in the new Bat-Bunker, Dick training with Damian, etc.
Another strength here is Judd Winick writes Alfred better than most writers. He gives him a nice Dr. Watson type quality that really suits the character. He also gives Alfred a great line near the beginning of the book. When Superman & Wonder Woman come to the Batcave Superman asks him if he’s all right.
“Am I ‘all right?’” Alfred replies. “No sir, I am not. My son has died.”
On the very last page, Winick pulls a surprise cliffhanger on us. The sad thing is, in successive issues of Batman, this incident has yet to even be touched on, much less resolved. So we may be waiting awhile before we get any sort of follow up on this book’s ending.
Batman: Long Shadows is a strong emotional ride for Dick Grayson and Alfred. In essence it’s about continuing on in the face of tragedy, which these characters are certainly no strangers to.
July 22, 2011
The character of Dick Grayson is almost as old as that of Bruce Wayne’s Batman with about eleven months separating their first appearances in 1939 and 1940 respectively. So, it is now about 60 years later and Mr Grayson steps into the much loved boots of the Caped Crusader. I like Dick Grayson. I guess that casual readers of DC comics would disagree. I know that Robin isn’t the most popular of characters, as far as many people are concerned. Fortunately, it's been a while since Dick last bore that name. I like Nightwing, especially the arc that kicked off with Nightwing Vol. 1: A Knight in Bludhaven. It’s good stuff. The Batman influences are there, and yet it’s different. Bruce and Dick, point and counterpoint. I also liked the interplay and relationship between Dick Grayson and Superman. This is something that is not often focused on, but it is pretty important. Consider, for example, that the name Nightwing is actually taken from Superman’s history (it is a name that is used more than once by characters in the Superman mythos, including the Man of Steel himself, and Dick takes it up as a tribute).
Anyway, I’m veering heavily off-topic, but it is perhaps relevant to my review. These are certainly things that shaped my expectations going into this. Dick, as Batman, is very different to Bruce Wayne, and great care has been taken to explore these differences, as well as the interplay between Dick and Damian (in the role of Robin). Damian, frankly, isn’t a very likeable person, but he is the younger Wayne and that is something that Dick respects. Also, the way Alfred stands behind Dick ("Master Richard") is heart-warming. It is weird how invested and involved we, as readers, can become in these ‘comic’ characters. From that point of view I really enjoyed this graphic novel. The art is excellent. I would have given it 5 stars, but some of the plot sequences ended a bit too abruptly for my taste. If you are one of those people not reading this just because “it’s not Bruce Wayne”, shame on you. We might as well enjoy this novelty while it lasts.
Anyway, I’m veering heavily off-topic, but it is perhaps relevant to my review. These are certainly things that shaped my expectations going into this. Dick, as Batman, is very different to Bruce Wayne, and great care has been taken to explore these differences, as well as the interplay between Dick and Damian (in the role of Robin). Damian, frankly, isn’t a very likeable person, but he is the younger Wayne and that is something that Dick respects. Also, the way Alfred stands behind Dick ("Master Richard") is heart-warming. It is weird how invested and involved we, as readers, can become in these ‘comic’ characters. From that point of view I really enjoyed this graphic novel. The art is excellent. I would have given it 5 stars, but some of the plot sequences ended a bit too abruptly for my taste. If you are one of those people not reading this just because “it’s not Bruce Wayne”, shame on you. We might as well enjoy this novelty while it lasts.
October 24, 2021
Overall the book was probably a 3⭐️ but Dick Grayson as Batman is everything
October 19, 2015
This is billed as an epilogue to Battle for the Cowl and is exactly that. You see Dick Grayson (and Alfred) struggling with the absence of Bruce and the transition for Dick being Batman. There are some nice character moments for the two of them and a decent confrontation with Two-Face. The story really highlights some of the differences in styles between Bruce and Dick. Sadly there is some uninspiring art by Bagley.
August 19, 2014
MINI-REVIEW: Dick Grayson has the cowl of Batman and now has to deal with the standard villains, the fallout from the death of his mentor and a miniscule number who believe Batman has been replaced. Almost a B plus star graphic novel but not quite.
Kudos to the Two Face tale.
Crisp artwork by Ed Benes and Mark Bagley with inkers Rob Hunter and Jack Purcell.
OVERALL GRADE: B to B plus.
Kudos to the Two Face tale.
Crisp artwork by Ed Benes and Mark Bagley with inkers Rob Hunter and Jack Purcell.
OVERALL GRADE: B to B plus.
January 2, 2018
Dick Grayson graduates from being Nightwing to assume the cape and cowl of his mentor Batman. I really dug this - Grayson has fun in his initial heroic outings as the new 'Dark Knight,' and so does (if you're in the right frame of mind) the reader. However, it's not all smiles as Grayson and Alfred have a few well-written somber scenes discussing their loss, and they are some of the highlights in the story. This was an entertaining start to my '18 Reading Challenge.
August 27, 2010
A solid story easing Dick Grayson into the role of Batman. Nothing spectacular, but what it does, it does well.
July 21, 2016
Review to follow.
February 26, 2021
Batman: Long Shadows is a collection of five issues from the original run of Batman series. It was written by Judd Winick and penciled by Ed Benes and Mark Bagley. Batman: Long Shadows collect five issues (Batman #687–691) from the 1940 series run and collects two stories: "A Battle Within" and "Long Shadows".
"A Battle Within" is a one-issue storyline (Batman #687) is a transitional issue, where it connects the supposed death of Bruce Wayne and the new Batman in Dick Grayson. It is retrospective and has Dick Grayson as Batman take on Doctor Phosphorus and Scarecrow and comes to the conclusion that whoever wears the cape and cowl that Batman is eternal – he must always exist.
"Long Shadows" is a four-issue storyline (Batman #688–691) has Dick Grayson as Batman taking on the long shadows that Bruce Wayne as Batman casted when he supposedly died. Dick Grayson has to content with the Penguin wanting to be the new crime kingpin with Two-Face waging a personal war and an escaped group of Arkham Asylum inmates.
Judd Wick penned the entire trade paperback. For the most part, it was written rather well. Winick examines how Dick Grayson would be a different Batman than Bruce Wayne. Fortunately, he dispenses with much of the "am I worthy of the cowl" angst right at the beginning, and quickly moves to how Dick makes the Batman persona his own. Winick also puts strong focus here on the relationship between Dick Grayson and Alfred Pennyworth.
Mark Bagley (Batman #688–691) and Ed Benes (Batman #687) penciled the trade paperback. For the most part, their penciling style is rather unique, but the flow wasn't too badly interrupted as they each penciled one story each.
All in all, Batman: Long Shadows is an interesting thought-experiment on how Dick Grayson as Batman would do in the cape and cowl and the growing pains he has to go through to be Batman.
"A Battle Within" is a one-issue storyline (Batman #687) is a transitional issue, where it connects the supposed death of Bruce Wayne and the new Batman in Dick Grayson. It is retrospective and has Dick Grayson as Batman take on Doctor Phosphorus and Scarecrow and comes to the conclusion that whoever wears the cape and cowl that Batman is eternal – he must always exist.
"Long Shadows" is a four-issue storyline (Batman #688–691) has Dick Grayson as Batman taking on the long shadows that Bruce Wayne as Batman casted when he supposedly died. Dick Grayson has to content with the Penguin wanting to be the new crime kingpin with Two-Face waging a personal war and an escaped group of Arkham Asylum inmates.
Judd Wick penned the entire trade paperback. For the most part, it was written rather well. Winick examines how Dick Grayson would be a different Batman than Bruce Wayne. Fortunately, he dispenses with much of the "am I worthy of the cowl" angst right at the beginning, and quickly moves to how Dick makes the Batman persona his own. Winick also puts strong focus here on the relationship between Dick Grayson and Alfred Pennyworth.
Mark Bagley (Batman #688–691) and Ed Benes (Batman #687) penciled the trade paperback. For the most part, their penciling style is rather unique, but the flow wasn't too badly interrupted as they each penciled one story each.
All in all, Batman: Long Shadows is an interesting thought-experiment on how Dick Grayson as Batman would do in the cape and cowl and the growing pains he has to go through to be Batman.
September 2, 2018
With Bruce "dead," Dick Grayson takes over as Batman and is immediately challenged, as his freewheeling, free-talking, press-friendly style catches the attention of both friend and foe, who seem vaguely aware that there's a different person in the cape and cowl. (If I was being snarky, I would point out that Mark Bagley's line art, which draws Bats more like Spidey, would be a dead giveaway if we weren't meant to assume the body shape *isn't* different.)
Judd Winick does a good job of setting up Dick's dilemma--he's got to be Bruce-like enough to pass as Batman, but if he loses himself to Bruce's style of darkness, there may be no going back. I like the idea that he has to change things, while still keeping to the same core that makes Batman work in Gotham. The idea that Harvey Dent would catch on to the duality of the character is a good one, even if it's meant to go away here. I don't like the idea of better Bat villains bowing the knee to Black Mask, but eh, that's not too bad to deal with.
Bagley's art is very slick, as usual, but I don't think Batman is a good fit for him. He'd kill it doing actual Nightwing, though. But as I mentioned above, his version of the character is so obviously different from how we've seen Bruce that the idea he's supposed to be same character is almost laughable. Still, he does a great job setting up panels and I dig his work. I'm just having a little trouble pretending it's not meant to be intentional within the world.
Overall, a good start to this. I'd never read any of it, so it's fresh to me, and I hope the library has more.
Judd Winick does a good job of setting up Dick's dilemma--he's got to be Bruce-like enough to pass as Batman, but if he loses himself to Bruce's style of darkness, there may be no going back. I like the idea that he has to change things, while still keeping to the same core that makes Batman work in Gotham. The idea that Harvey Dent would catch on to the duality of the character is a good one, even if it's meant to go away here. I don't like the idea of better Bat villains bowing the knee to Black Mask, but eh, that's not too bad to deal with.
Bagley's art is very slick, as usual, but I don't think Batman is a good fit for him. He'd kill it doing actual Nightwing, though. But as I mentioned above, his version of the character is so obviously different from how we've seen Bruce that the idea he's supposed to be same character is almost laughable. Still, he does a great job setting up panels and I dig his work. I'm just having a little trouble pretending it's not meant to be intentional within the world.
Overall, a good start to this. I'd never read any of it, so it's fresh to me, and I hope the library has more.
May 9, 2025
my only complaint is that i absolutely hate the batmobile design in this arc, but the story is fantastic. i love dick grayson as batman.
April 9, 2012
I don't have a lot to add since this is my second time reviewing the book but again, I couldn't resist owning this as Judd Winick writes about Dick Grayson's first days as Batman.
It still made me cry.
A fantastic addition in the Batman Reborn storyline!!!
****************************************
This was incredibly awesome!
This is the third volume of Judd Winick that I have read, the previous two being the volumes one and two of "Under the Hood". While I thought the first volume was competent, the second volume blew me away. After "Long Shadows", I have to say that Judd Winick had a new fan in me. Looking forward to reading this Jason Todd prequel "Lost Days".
Anyway, back to Long Shadows...
Continuity wise, it follows the events of Batman Battle for the Cowl in which Dick Grayson assumes the mantle of Batman and Damian Wayne becomes the new Robin. This volume is all about how Batman both in life and in death casts a long shadow. There is a lot of grief that is still being worked through and one particular row of panels had me a little teary. Judd Winick excels at finding the voice for the Robins. His Jason Todd stuff was gold and the narrative voice of Dick continues that trend.
Although Damian is present, this is largely focused on Dick and Alfred coming to terms with the death of Batman. I suspect Damian left out to be more of a focus in the Batman and Robin series. The story is very well constructed and believable. There is even an unexpected cliffhanger at the end.
The artwork is well done, nothing exceptional, but complimentary to the story. I am looking forward to the next volume "Life After Death" where Brubaker's Catwoman makes an appearance.
This current run of Batman starting with Grant Morrison's Batman and Son is absolutely exceptional! I don't know what will become of me once I am completely caught up:-/
It still made me cry.
A fantastic addition in the Batman Reborn storyline!!!
****************************************
This was incredibly awesome!
This is the third volume of Judd Winick that I have read, the previous two being the volumes one and two of "Under the Hood". While I thought the first volume was competent, the second volume blew me away. After "Long Shadows", I have to say that Judd Winick had a new fan in me. Looking forward to reading this Jason Todd prequel "Lost Days".
Anyway, back to Long Shadows...
Continuity wise, it follows the events of Batman Battle for the Cowl in which Dick Grayson assumes the mantle of Batman and Damian Wayne becomes the new Robin. This volume is all about how Batman both in life and in death casts a long shadow. There is a lot of grief that is still being worked through and one particular row of panels had me a little teary. Judd Winick excels at finding the voice for the Robins. His Jason Todd stuff was gold and the narrative voice of Dick continues that trend.
Although Damian is present, this is largely focused on Dick and Alfred coming to terms with the death of Batman. I suspect Damian left out to be more of a focus in the Batman and Robin series. The story is very well constructed and believable. There is even an unexpected cliffhanger at the end.
The artwork is well done, nothing exceptional, but complimentary to the story. I am looking forward to the next volume "Life After Death" where Brubaker's Catwoman makes an appearance.
This current run of Batman starting with Grant Morrison's Batman and Son is absolutely exceptional! I don't know what will become of me once I am completely caught up:-/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2016
OMG - this is one of the BEST graphic novels I have ever read, and the best modern graphic novel I've read. One of the things I didn't like about Grant Morrison's Final Crisis was it's lack of emotional resonance. I mean No one even notices not even his best friend, Clark Kent (Superman)? Ah, no.
But Long Shadows makes up for that. It investigates the lost of Bruce Wayne on those who knew and cared for him best. This book had me in tears more than once. And I've also read it at least three times since buying it, and I rarely read graphic novels more than once.
The book begins with Superman and Wonder Woman bringing Batman's empty and torn cape and cowl to Wayne Manor. They tell Alfred, Dick (Richard Grayson) and Tim (Drake) that Bruce has died. The rest of the story is a realistic portrayal of loss. From Alfred stating, "my son is dead, I am not all right," to Dick saying, "I knew he wouldn't live forever, but I wasn't ready for him to die this soon." This is a grim, sad story, realistically told.
I loved the interactions of Bruce's family as they dealt with his loss.
Truly, a ground-breaking work. Perfect. And highly, highly recommended.
But Long Shadows makes up for that. It investigates the lost of Bruce Wayne on those who knew and cared for him best. This book had me in tears more than once. And I've also read it at least three times since buying it, and I rarely read graphic novels more than once.
The book begins with Superman and Wonder Woman bringing Batman's empty and torn cape and cowl to Wayne Manor. They tell Alfred, Dick (Richard Grayson) and Tim (Drake) that Bruce has died. The rest of the story is a realistic portrayal of loss. From Alfred stating, "my son is dead, I am not all right," to Dick saying, "I knew he wouldn't live forever, but I wasn't ready for him to die this soon." This is a grim, sad story, realistically told.
I loved the interactions of Bruce's family as they dealt with his loss.
Truly, a ground-breaking work. Perfect. And highly, highly recommended.
March 11, 2012
Following the events of Batman:RIP Gotham City is left without Bruce Wayne, but the Batman must live on. Long Shadows collects Batman 687-691 and chronicles Dick Grayson's struggle to cope with the loss of his surrogate father, and the difficulties of taking his place.
The great part about this collection is that Winick clearly captures the most important part of Dick's take on Batman: he isn't Bruce. We see him come to grips with the task he must undertake but he realizes that being the best Batman he can be means being himself as well. This leads to the climactic point of Long Shadows when one of Batman's classic villains doubts the authenticity of the caped crusader's new "attitude."
Whether as Robin, Nightwing or Batman, Dick Grayson has always been a favorite character of mine and Long Shadows works both as a tale of him dealing with his new life and as a Batman story in the vein of his predecessor.
The great part about this collection is that Winick clearly captures the most important part of Dick's take on Batman: he isn't Bruce. We see him come to grips with the task he must undertake but he realizes that being the best Batman he can be means being himself as well. This leads to the climactic point of Long Shadows when one of Batman's classic villains doubts the authenticity of the caped crusader's new "attitude."
Whether as Robin, Nightwing or Batman, Dick Grayson has always been a favorite character of mine and Long Shadows works both as a tale of him dealing with his new life and as a Batman story in the vein of his predecessor.
April 20, 2015
Okay, so before I say anything else, I'm going to admit to being extremely biased here. My general love for Dick Grayson and the short period in which he was Batman are probably clouding my judgement a bit here, but I honestly can't help it! I loved this comic because it focused on Dick adjusting the to the role of Batman, while also adjusting the role to fit him. The story is about Dick, Alfred, Damian (to an extent) and Gotham in general adjusting to the changes that losing Bruce Wayne has thrust upon them. In a way, the story is about Dick accepting the fact that he has agreed to take up the mantle, and persuading himself that he is worthy of wearing it. The whole story is very genuinely heartfelt, especially so during the conversations between Dick and Alfred. Even if I am a bit biased and may have rated it too high (at the least I would give it 4 stars), it is genuinely worth the read.
May 26, 2017
You need to see beyond the story, this isn'r just another tale about Batman. This is Dick Grayson as Batman. In Battle for the Cowl we only saw how he got finally decided to take the cowl, in this is story we see his version of Batman, a more open to public figure with a touch of, I don't know, hope? kindness? But still that doesn't change the fact that at the end Batman is there to fight against villains.
July 18, 2012
Loved it. This is Dick's first outing as Batman, and it's interesting to note the differences between him and Bruce, and in their fighting style, and so the costume needs to be subtly changed to accomodate that. I like the relationship between Dick and Alfred portrayed in this too - all of them trying to come to terms with the 'changing of the guard' in their own ways.
May 20, 2025
I don't care what anyone says, this would have been the perfect ending for Bruce Wayne as Batman and the perfect beginning for Richard Grayson as such. If DC had the balls to move on from the idea of Bruce = Batman and there is no such thing as legacy in comics books this would have worked out just great. Dick being different in so many ways, finding out his own path, realizing, later on, what really means to be Batman the sacrifices he has to make. He goes through all that as character but not as Batman and exploring this ideas back then would have been healthy for the whole industry but I guess it's easier saying that now, 15 years later, than back then. But oh well, I guess we have to live with the fact that nobody really dies in comics books (I'm looking at you Alfred, I love you but stay dead)
January 6, 2018
A strong “growing pains” story as Dick Grayson inherits the mantle of the bat. Finding he must become a different kind of bat, he’s caught in a gang war between Two-Face, Penguin, and a mysterious third party. Meanwhile, Two-Face starts to notice something is different about his hated adversary...
As ever, Judd Winick turns out an aces script, touching and thrilling in one slim hardcover. He writes one of the better Alfreds in recent memory. Benes and Bagley share art duties, sturdy and reliable. Ultimately it’s a four star review because it’s not as good as Grant Morrison’s take on the same era of Bat-canon, and its last page cliffhanger is, as far as I can tell, never picked up again. Worth the read, particularly for Bat-completists!
As ever, Judd Winick turns out an aces script, touching and thrilling in one slim hardcover. He writes one of the better Alfreds in recent memory. Benes and Bagley share art duties, sturdy and reliable. Ultimately it’s a four star review because it’s not as good as Grant Morrison’s take on the same era of Bat-canon, and its last page cliffhanger is, as far as I can tell, never picked up again. Worth the read, particularly for Bat-completists!
March 16, 2021
Huum.. Eu não gostei.
Nesta história não é o Bruce Wayne, é o Dick Grayson como Batman após os eventos de Crise Final. Mas não foi por isso que não gostei. A trama do Dick Grayson descobrindo como agir como Batman é muito bom, mas há outras histórias paralelas a esta que conta isso também. Então isso é mais do mesmo.
Mas há outra trama acontecendo, que é a guerra de gangues de Gotham, ela tinha iniciado pouco antes dos eventos de Crise Final. E essa guerra de gangues não foi interessante pra mim.
Sem contar que Judd Winick traz de volta algo relacionado aos Graysons Voadores, que Bruce estaria escondendo em um pen drive. Porém, isso nunca mais foi mencionado novamente em nenhum quadrinho após esta história.
E é isso apenas!! Bem superficial.
Nesta história não é o Bruce Wayne, é o Dick Grayson como Batman após os eventos de Crise Final. Mas não foi por isso que não gostei. A trama do Dick Grayson descobrindo como agir como Batman é muito bom, mas há outras histórias paralelas a esta que conta isso também. Então isso é mais do mesmo.
Mas há outra trama acontecendo, que é a guerra de gangues de Gotham, ela tinha iniciado pouco antes dos eventos de Crise Final. E essa guerra de gangues não foi interessante pra mim.
Sem contar que Judd Winick traz de volta algo relacionado aos Graysons Voadores, que Bruce estaria escondendo em um pen drive. Porém, isso nunca mais foi mencionado novamente em nenhum quadrinho após esta história.
E é isso apenas!! Bem superficial.
Read
May 30, 2021Following the events of Battle for the Cowl, Dick dresses as Batman and goes out into Gotham, clashing with Penguin, Two-Face, and others. The scenes of Dick coming into the role, and especially his conversations with Alfred, are good stuff. He’s such a likable guy that I can’t help but root for him. As for the Penguin and Two-Face plots... eh, kinda generic. Penguin wants to fill a power vacuum in Gotham while Two-Face becomes paranoid about his new, more lighthearted Batman. Black Mask lurks in the shadows. I couldn’t care less about what happens here.
So, this is not essential, but the stuff with Dick and Alfred is at least worth reading. Nice art by Mark Bagley.
So, this is not essential, but the stuff with Dick and Alfred is at least worth reading. Nice art by Mark Bagley.
December 18, 2018
Batman is gone and one of his contingency plans is for Nightwing to pick up his cowl because Gotham needs a Batman. Nicely written, especially if you like the batfamily there are some real talks between Dick and Alfred and their lives with and without Bruce. I find it really suitable that Two-face is the feature baddie in volume. Seems to parallel the double-life that Dick is currently dealing with by wearing batman's mask and taking on his legacy even though Nightwing has always wanted his own identity.
Nice illustrations and just an interesting read ~Ashley
Nice illustrations and just an interesting read ~Ashley
July 24, 2024
Judd Winick has yet to disappoint.
Continuing the journey of the newly appointed Batman, Dick Grayson comes to the realization that he has a lot to learn.
Among the things I appreciate about this line is the difference between Bruce and Dick as Batman; he’s a more jovial Batman, that seems to enjoy being in the line of fire much more. Less dark but equally skilled, yet less wise.
Among this good things, there’s also Winick’s use of the rogues. They feel as they really pose a threat to Batman.
Really recommend this one for following Batman’s continuity.
Continuing the journey of the newly appointed Batman, Dick Grayson comes to the realization that he has a lot to learn.
Among the things I appreciate about this line is the difference between Bruce and Dick as Batman; he’s a more jovial Batman, that seems to enjoy being in the line of fire much more. Less dark but equally skilled, yet less wise.
Among this good things, there’s also Winick’s use of the rogues. They feel as they really pose a threat to Batman.
Really recommend this one for following Batman’s continuity.
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