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Even two issues before its conclusion Batman #161’s fourth chapter of “Hush 2” has proven a number of things: First, with the right story, creators can go home again. Writer Jeph Loeb, pencil artist Jim Lee, inker Scott Williams, colorist Alex Sinclair, and letterer Richard Starkings have emersed readers in a story that feels like an organic follow-on to the original “Hush,” one that could have come just months later, not 22 years. 

Second, they reminded us that a solid creative team and an equally compelling story don’t require the perpetual, self-defeating cycle of new #1 issues. Yes, there’s a new Batman #1 coming, but this story, which began with Batman #158, can serve as a beacon for this (just as “Hush” began in the original series Batman #608). 

This issue itself is tremendously entertaining.  

Early on, it fires things up with a clever call-back to Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli’s Batman: Year One third chapter in the original series Batman #406. Then it throws a spotlight on Batgirl in light of Batman’s unexpected, uneasy alliance with The Joker. It’s complex, well thought out, and beautifully illustrated.  

With the action and the more subtle flashbacks, Lee, Williams and Sinclair are at their best as they showcase both the bombastic conflict and its more nuanced background. The flashback panels continue to be some of the most powerful illustrations in this story. 

It’s been announced that the final two chapters will be delayed. If they’re this good, they’ll be worth the wait. 

– J.C. Vaughn 

Editor’s note: Like the others in this story arc, this issue is available in DC’s “Giant-Size” 11” x 17” Super Treasury format.