DC Comics finally reveals the story of the Joker in a trilogy that promises to change everything
DC has boldly decided to remove the mist of mystery surrounding the Joker and presented the perfect origin together in the Year of the Joker. This vision is scheduled to be revealed in the pages of Batman next year and has created a storm of expectations and speculation among fans. Are we ready to know the truth behind the smiling villain?
The origin of the clown crime boss
The path to this revelation begins after Mindbomb ends in Batman #141. Here, the Dark Knight makes a shocking discovery about his enemy. The story runs from Batman #142 to #144 by an all-star creative team including Chip Zadarski, Giuseppe Camuncoli, Stefano Nesi, Andrea Sorrentino, Alejandro Sanchez and Dave Stewart.
This new comic begins with a tragic event: the death of the leader of the Red Hood gang in a terrible chemical accident. Covered in urban legend, this event raises questions about the terrifying person who came from that event. From the very first pages, we’re promised that our preconceived notions of the Joker will be challenged and perhaps even shattered.
Andrea Sorrentino and Dave Stewart, who were charged with creating the series, were tasked with portraying not only the current events, but also their impact on Batman’s future. Each issue contributes to a mystery that spans decades, covering the past, present and future into a complex and fascinating narrative.
An unexpected twist in Batman
In the second act of Batman #143, we meet a mysterious figure from the Bat-story, whose arrival greatly dismays the Joker. This issue promises to solve not only the villain but also the mysteries of the Red Hood Gang. What hidden truths are there to be revealed?
The outcome in Batman #144 takes us to the point of no return. The Red Hood gang creates chaos, and surprisingly, only the Joker can stop them. Meanwhile, Batman must deal with a devastating virus as the Joker’s shadow looms over everything.
The crossness of the Joker
Known as Batman’s archenemy, the Joker has evolved since his first appearance in DC in 1940. Originally conceived as a homicidal psychopath, this character has undergone many changes over the years, becoming complex and multi-faceted. His enigmatic nature and tendency to mischief make him one of the most interesting and popular villains in comic book history. DC’s decision to explore his origins in this new comic not only offers a new perspective on this iconic character, but also raises questions about how this revelation will affect our understanding of him.
It is inevitable that the Joker will be compared to other comic book villains. While figures such as Lex Luthor or the Penguin have clear and defined motivations, the Joker is characterized by his unpredictable nature and lack of fixed purpose beyond pure anarchy and ideological conflict with Batman.
This characteristic has made him an object of fascination and study among enthusiasts and academics alike. This new Joker title presents itself as an opportunity to add layers of depth to an already complex character, challenging our perceptions and offering a new dimension to his memory. This approach to storytelling marks a milestone in DC history and the genre, potentially redefining what it means to be a villain in the superhero world.
What comes after The Year of the Joker?
The Dark Dungeon series takes over with Batman #145 – #148, following a shocking finale to The Year of the Joker. In this saga, Batman faces a terrifying character from his past and a new threat in the form of Amanda Waller and the US Army.
DC’s decision to explore the Joker’s origins further poses a serious problem. In recent years, much has been revealed about this enigmatic villain, but is this awareness improving or damaging the sense of mystery? 2024 promises to be a pivotal year for followers of The Dark Knight, but the question remains: Are we ready to face the Joker’s real truth?