The Masked Manhunter takes on al Qaeda
I hope this'll prove to be a positive step forward in the war on terror in the comics world. IGN's comics section reports that Frank Miller is going to write a story in which Batman boldly faces off against the al Qaeda:
During his WonderCon panel, Frank Miller discussed his next graphic novel. Once again, Miller returns to the world of the Batman, this time with Holy Terror, Batman!. Though the title plays with Robin's classic catchphrase, the book deals with a serious subject. Gotham has been attacked by Al Qaeda and Batman sets out to defend the city he loves. The book, which Miller has inked through 120 pages, is expected to run roughly 200 pages total. Miller proudly announced the title of his next Batman book, which he will write, draw and ink. Holy Terror, Batman! is no joke. And Miller doesn't hold back on the true purpose of the book, calling it "a piece of prop[a]ganda," where 'Batman kicks al Qaeda's ass." The reason for this work, Miller said, was "an explosion from my gut reaction of what's happening now." He can't stand entertainers who lack the moxy of their '40s counterparts who stood up to Hitler. Holy Terror is "a reminder to people who seem to have forgotten who we're up against." It's been a long time since heroes were used in comics as pure propaganda. As Miller reminded, "Superman punched out Hitler. So did Captain America. That's one of the things they're there for." "These are our folk heroes," Miller said. "It just seems silly to chase around the Riddler when you've got Al Qaeda out there."True. I should hope that Miller and DC themselves are going to back this project all the way without fear, and deal with it meat-and-potatoes style too, because if the war against terrorism is to be won, it's got to be dealt with in depth. I've had some misgivings on a few items Miller's done in the past, such as the abortive Dark Knight Strikes Again from 2002, but this could be a real redeemer if you ask me. I look forward to it indeed. Bravo!
Labels: Batman, dc comics, good writers, islam and jihad, politics, terrorism
