Batman: Year One

While this general story remains unchanged, Frank Miller manages to redefine the birth of Batman, creating something that seems familiar but much darker and grittier than before. The thing that primarily sets Year One's story line aside from others is that it focuses as much on James Gordon as it does Bruce Wayne, interweaving their two different approaches to fighting the crime in the city. It also shows them both in new ways, not as the perfect cop and vigilante hero, but as two slightly flawed human beings striving for the same goal. It shows Bruce Wayne's struggle to convince James that he isn't the bad guy and James Gordon realisation that in order for him to achieve his own goal he will need the help of Batman.

The story written by Frank Miller offers something familiar but with new dimensions, making it seem better than before. The artwork is slightly more controversial, some readers are fans of the dated look to the story given that it was written in the 80's while others believe that the artwork in some places does not match the storyline. I for one think it is a small fault on an otherwise perfect book. Any fan of comics will agree hands down that this book is the ultimate in detailing the origins of Batman and building the foundations upon which all future stories can be told.

A must have for every fan of Batman especially those looking to start a collection of comic books.

Is not it amazing when you pick up a comic book and read it for the first time?

We all remember our first comic book and how one often turns into another, then another and finally an almost insatiable addiction. Comic books have for many years driven the imaginations of young and old alike which had many of use running around pretending we are Batman, Superman, and Supergirl or with friends as the team of X-Men.

Whether you picked up a 'Walt Disney' production or a 'Japanese Manga Graphic Novel', be it 'Detective Comics' or 'Marvel' what you will have almost certainly done is tried to draw the characters. Admit it you have!

There are some great artists in those off the shelf books and many of us wish to emulate our artist heroes not just the comic books stars; and there are many ways in which you can do that without the need to be clad in yellow spandex holding the latest laser gadgets.

Immersing yourself into the world of comics when you draw is an experience that is fun, so much so you may find yourself accidently muttering the words 'Kapow' or 'Smash' out loud, a common side effect that is not dangerous so don't worry to much if this happens.

One such method is to actually copy the characters and buildings within the comic. Remember that it is not only the characters that build the books, but the actual surroundings and vehicles also. Being able to draw everything is an advantage and can really bring your work to life.

The method of copying from the comic book is probably the simplest way you can practice and master the art of comic book art. All you need is a set of good quality pencils with a few different graphite (lead) types such as soft and hard, and rather than going out and buying the colored inks just yet you should use normal coloring pencils or paints.