Someone is killing off Batman and Ghost-Maker’s mentors one by one, and all the clues point toward Ghost-Maker. Batman Incorporated has taken point in the murder investigations and now reconciles with the fact that their prime suspect is their leader. But the real enemy is a figure from Ghost-Maker’s past. Written by Ed Brisson with illustrations from John Timms, colors from Rex Lokus, and letters from Clayton Cowles, Batman Incorporated #3 reveals the backstory of one of Ghost-Maker’s earliest sidekicks, paralleling the tragic fate of one of Batman’s Robins.
Batman Incorporated #3 opens on Ghost-Maker, as he rushes to his nearest associate in Shanghai to treat Skyspider’s wounds. The story then cuts away to Phantom-One, who has abducted Ghost-Maker’s newest sidekick, Clownhunter, to make him see the truth. Phantom-One squares the blame for his misfortunes solely on Ghost-Maker. His former mentor killed his criminal parents and hid him away from the outside world. Now, he’s returned for revenge.
Phantom-One’s sob story bifurcates Batman Incorporated #3 into two narratives — the main storyline that chronicles the aftermath of the murders and the villain’s painful past. The change in scenery and the introduction of three new characters bring energy to the otherwise stagnant plot. Meanwhile, the flashback scenes give a deep dive into the mind of Ghost-Maker. Brisson draws some fascinating parallels between Ghost-Maker’s relationship with Phantom-One and Batman’s relationship with Robin to help the audience empathize with Phantom-One and critique Batman’s dysfunctional parenting style.
John Timms’ stylized pencils work in tandem with writing. Timms’ range is on full display here as he captures the excitement of the globe-trotting heroes and the loneliness of a sad, young teen perfectly. With the background so rich in details and filled with architectural designs, the bold contours help to highlight the characters and their distinctive suits. Colorist Rex Lokus gives Timms’ inks a run for their money, whipping a striking combination of shades that accentuates the pencil work while infusing dynamism into every page. From intense explosions to neon-filled streets, Lokus’ colors bring life to each scene.
The central narrative of Batman Incorporated #3 mirrors the legacy of Jason Todd. The book also examines Ghost-Maker’s hypocritical need to keep his own mentors alive when they themselves are mass murderers. With the white-clad vigilante’s demeanor and kill-on-sight policy, training a young hothead was a recipe for disaster that finally comes back to bite him. Despite the reveal in the whodunit, Batman Incorporated #3 still has mysteries hiding in the shadows.