The Most NOTORIOUS Batman Story EVER | All-Star Batman & Robin

Summary

In this video, Thomas and Merlin delve into Frank Miller's *All-Star Batman and Robin*, a comic that has become notorious for its chaotic and controversial portrayal of Batman. They discuss how the comic takes a dark and twisted approach to familiar characters, especially Batman's cold treatment of Dick Grayson, as well as cringe-worthy moments like Batman’s infamous line 'I’m the goddamn Batman.' Despite the star power of Miller and Jim Lee, the comic fails to live up to expectations, leaving readers baffled and disappointed by its unsettling depictions and unfinished storyline. The duo humorously critiques the book while warning fans to avoid it.

Takeaways

• 😀 Frank Miller is both a famous and infamous Batman writer, known for revolutionizing the character while also creating controversial stories.
• 😀 *All-Star Batman and Robin* is considered one of the worst Batman stories ever written due to its bizarre and problematic narrative choices.
• 😀 In this comic, Batman kidnaps Dick Grayson after the tragic death of his parents, bypassing the usual adoption storyline.
• 😀 A key moment in the comic features Batman delivering the infamous line: 'I’m the goddamn Batman,' which is criticized for being overly harsh and out of character.
• 😀 The comic portrays Batman as cold and unempathetic, neglecting Dick Grayson’s trauma and treating him more like an unwilling soldier than a sidekick.
• 😀 Batman's actions, such as leaving Dick Grayson alone in a cave while he has sexual encounters, further emphasize his lack of care for the child.
• 😀 The comic includes bizarre and uncomfortable moments, such as Black Canary and Batman's quick and awkward sexual encounter, which is reduced to just a few panels.
• 😀 Miller's treatment of Wonder Woman is controversial, with her being portrayed as overly aggressive and sexualized, which led to a distorted view of her character.
• 😀 A strange subplot involving Jimmy Olsen and Vicky Vale introduces uncomfortable sexual implications, contributing to the overall unsettling tone of the comic.
• 😀 *All-Star Batman and Robin* never fully finishes, with two issues missing, leading to a poor reception and a drop-off in readership.
• 😀 The comic serves as a cautionary tale of when a writer’s unchecked creativity leads to a product that alienates fans and undermines established character traits.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video focuses on critically analyzing Frank Miller's *All-Star Batman and Robin*, specifically its controversial and problematic elements.

Why do the Comic Lads describe *All-Star Batman and Robin* as one of the worst Batman stories ever written?

The Comic Lads criticize the comic for its bizarre, over-the-top portrayal of Batman, including inappropriate character behaviors, uncomfortable dialogue, and illogical story choices.

What is the issue with how Batman interacts with Dick Grayson in the comic?

Instead of offering Dick comfort or a supportive environment after his parents are killed, Batman kidnaps him and forces him into the role of Robin without any empathy, which the Lads find troubling.

What is the infamous line spoken by Batman in the comic?

The infamous line is when Batman says, 'What are you, DSE? Are you... or something? Who the hell do you think I am? I'm the goddamn Batman,' which the Lads believe is an unrealistic and overly dramatic portrayal of Batman.

How do the Comic Lads feel about Batman’s behavior towards Dick Grayson?

They find Batman’s treatment of Dick Grayson disturbing, as he leaves Dick alone in a cold, dark cave with no guidance or care, demonstrating a lack of responsibility or compassion.

What does Batman’s interaction with Black Canary in the comic reveal?

The interaction between Batman and Black Canary is strange and brief, ending in a sexual encounter that feels forced and inappropriate, further showcasing Batman's twisted and unlikable portrayal.

What issues do the Comic Lads have with Frank Miller's depiction of Wonder Woman?

The Lads criticize Frank Miller’s version of Wonder Woman, claiming she is poorly written and out of character, with one specific instance involving a bizarre and hostile interaction with Superman.

What is the significance of the problematic portrayal of Superman in the comic?

Superman is shown acting out of character, becoming violent towards Wonder Woman and then suddenly engaging in an awkward, forced romantic interaction with her, which the Lads argue undermines the integrity of the character.

How does the pacing and writing of the comic contribute to its failure?

The pacing is erratic, with long gaps between issues, leading to inconsistencies in the story. Frank Miller’s disorganized writing style and lack of cohesion also contribute to the comic’s failure.

Why do the Comic Lads suggest readers avoid *All-Star Batman and Robin*?

They advise readers to avoid the comic due to its problematic themes, the unlikable portrayal of key characters, and the lack of a satisfying or coherent narrative.