The story behind the creation of Batman: The Long Halloween: The Last Halloween is as fascinating as the comic itself. Like the story of Batman, it is a story about building something positive out of a tragic death. Specifically, the death of The Long Halloween artist Tim Sale. However, even as it pays tribute to Sale’s influence on the Dark Knight, it also continues the original series and the theme of how no one can do everything by themselves.
Originally, writer Jeph Loeb and artist Tim Sale had planned to reunite for another outing in the world of Batman. The prologue to this tale, The Last Halloween, was originally published in 2021 as Batman: The Long Halloween Special #1. The plans for the sequel were shelved, however, with Sale’s untimely passing in 2022.
It might have ended there, but Loeb felt inspired to see this untold tale completed after discovering several unpublished Batman covers Sale had produced. Loeb decided to finish the story, turning it into a tribute to his long-time collaborator, as well as the capstone of The Long Halloween saga. To that end, every issue of the series would have a different artist. They would not copy Sale’s style, but use his designs and aesthetic as a rough guide for their own take on Gotham City.
Last Halloween a perfect continuation of Batman: The Long Halloween
The Last Halloween #1 picks up one year after the The Long Halloween Special #1. It is Halloween Night in Gotham when Jim Gordon’s son is abducted. This is only the first of many crimes committed that night. An attack on Catwoman mimics the infamous serial killer Holiday, whose crimes kicked off the year-long spree known as the Long Halloween. There is also an attack on Harvey Dent and his wife, Gilda, who have been in hiding for one year.
Loeb is widely regarded as one of the best Batman writers ever and The Last Halloween #1 shows why that is so. The action is satisfying, but Loeb makes the story accessible even to those who might not have read the original series. Perhaps with Sale in mind, the recurring theme of this issue is partnerships and how nobody stands alone. This theme is informed by both the romance of Two-Face and the growing pains of Batman and Robin.
Eduardo Risso proves as capable a collaborator to Loeb as Sale. His Noir style is distinctly different, yet similar enough to feel true to the original Long Halloween comics. The action is perfectly blocked and tensely laid out. The letters by original letterer Richard Starkings also aid in creating a sense of visual continuity.
Batman: The Long Halloween: The Last Halloween #1 succeeds on every level. It is a worthy tribute to the legacy of Tim Sale. It is also a good start to what promises to be an excellent continuation of one of the greatest tales ever to feature the Dark Knight.
Grade: 5/5
Batman: The Long Halloween: The Last Halloween #1 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
