BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT RETURNS #4
(Near Mint)
1ST PRINT/BATMAN VS SUPERMAN
"Batman: The Dark Knight Returns #4," released in 1986, concludes the groundbreaking four-issue miniseries written and illustrated by Frank Miller, with Klaus Janson handling inking and Lynn Varley on colors. This series has been pivotal in redefining Batman's character and the broader comic book medium, offering a darker, more complex portrayal of the hero and his universe.
The fourth issue, titled "The Dark Knight Falls," brings to a climax the intense narrative that Miller has crafted. Set in a dystopian future where a 55-year-old Bruce Wayne comes out of retirement, this series tackles themes of corruption, media influence, and societal decay.
In this final installment, Batman faces off against the government-sanctioned Superman in a dramatic showdown that questions the very nature of power and heroism in the modern world. The government, feeling threatened by Batman’s return and his disregard for the status quo, sends Superman to stop him. This battle is not just physical but deeply ideological, highlighting the differing paths these two legendary heroes have taken in their approach to justice.
Miller’s portrayal of the fight is epic and tragic, showcasing Batman’s strategic mind and physical preparation to confront a being as powerful as Superman. This issue also explores the consequences of Batman’s vigilantism on Gotham City and his allies, particularly the new Robin, Carrie Kelley.
The artwork in "The Dark Knight Returns #4" is iconic, characterized by its gritty aesthetic, dynamic panel layouts, and dramatic use of shadows and light. Miller’s style, complemented by Janson’s inking and Varley’s coloring, creates a moody, intense atmosphere that perfectly encapsulates the story’s tone.
"Batman: The Dark Knight Returns #4" is celebrated not only as a pivotal comic in Batman’s history but also as a seminal work that has influenced the portrayal of superheroes in comics and films for decades. It’s a critical piece for understanding the evolution of the comic book medium and the character of Batman as a complex figure wrestling with moral ambiguities in a flawed society.
