Why Tom King's Batman Run Falls Short of Expectations

Tom King's run on Batman, which spanned from 2016 to 2020, received mixed reactions from fans and critics. Some were drawn to his innovative approach and character work, while others found his storylines to be uneven and unappealing. This article delves into the specific criticisms that arose during his run, examining issues ranging from pacing and characterization to controversial story arcs and overall tone.

Pacing and Structure

One of the primary concerns among readers was the pacing and structure of King's narrative. Some felt that the pacing was uneven, with some story arcs dragging on longer than necessary. The non-linear storytelling and focus on character development over action were highlighted as aspects that did not resonate with all readers. This focus often meant that essential plot points were overshadowed, leading to a less engaging reading experience.

Characterization

King's portrayal of characters, particularly Batman, was met with criticism. Critics noted that certain characters were depicted inconsistently with their established personas. Batman, in particular, was portrayed as emotionally vulnerable and overly reliant on others, which detracted from his typically stoic nature. Similarly, the depiction of Poison Ivy and Thomas Wayne was deemed out of character, with actions or motives that did not align with their established backstories.

Focus on Relationships

Another issue was the significant emphasis placed on Batman's relationships, particularly with Catwoman. While some readers appreciated the depth added to these relationships, others felt that the focus overshadowed the action and detective elements that are core to the Batman mythos. Specific storylines, such as "The Wedding," which featured Batman proposing to Catwoman, drew polarized reactions from readers.

Controversial Story Arcs

Specific plot points, such as the inclusion of characters like Deathstroke and Deadshot, were criticized for their implausibility. Storylines such as the "City of Bane" event received mixed reviews, with some finding it compelling and others frustrated by the outcome. The inclusion of complex and controversial themes like trauma and mental health also drew varied responses, with some praising King's refreshing approach and others finding the content too bleak or introspective.

Summary and Personal Opinion

The overall divisive nature of King's run on Batman reflects varying expectations and preferences within the Batman fanbase. Many readers praised his innovative approach and character work, while others were disappointed by the departure from traditional superhero storytelling. A reader's personal opinion can greatly influence their stance on the series. For instance, one person who started reading King's Batman run expressed a strong negative sentiment, offering a detailed critique of several aspects, including:

Plot Induced Stupidity: Unreasonable plot points, such as Deathstroke struggling against Deadshot and Batman easily defeating both, were deemed unrealistic. The Characters: Characters were criticized for their inconsistent and out-of-character actions, such as Poison Ivy controlling the world and Thomas Wayne tormenting his own son. Dialogue: The dialogue was described as overly cheesy and overwhelming, not fitting the typical Batman narrative style. The Story/Events: Story events were considered boring and unengaging, with forced subplots that did not contribute to the overall narrative.

In conclusion, while Tom King brought fresh insights and novel approaches to Batman, his run on the character also faced significant criticism. Whether these critiques hold water or if there is value in King's unique take on the character is ultimately a matter of personal preference and interpretation. Despite the challenges, King's work continues to spark discussion and debate within the Batman fan community.