Two Batmanologists debate whether Ram V's two-year Detective Comics run is truly the best modern Batman story.
Alan Suárez and Leo Rubio, co-hosts of 'We Are the Night' on La Batea, dedicate this episode to analyzing Ram V's extensive run on Detective Comics. They begin by explaining their podcast's focus on Batman and different creative eras. The episode centers on Ram V's run from issues #1062 to #1089, published from 2022 to 2024. The hosts note its unusual length and lack of crossover events. They discuss Ram V's background, born in India in 1986, and his rapid ascent in comics starting in 2016. The story involves the Orgham family, descendants of the Arkhams, who use a supernatural machine to reshape Gotham's soul. Alan admits initial skepticism but was hooked by issue #1064. Leo highlights the run's operatic structure with acts and an intermezzo. They praise the rotating artists and essential backup stories. A major theme is Batman's relationship with Gotham, questioning if he's a symptom or cure for the city's ills. The hosts analyze social commentary about elites like the Orghams gentrifying the city at the expense of the poor. They discuss elements like the Azmer gas that turns people into monsters and Batman's exposure to it. The conversation covers the use of classic villains like Mr. Freeze and Two-Face. They compare the run to Nolan's Batman films and note its gothic horror atmosphere. The hosts conclude it's a standout modern Batman story that benefits from complete reading and rewards analysis of its themes.
