Fallen Grayson part three brings us back where we began in more ways than one. In a literal sense, Dick Grayson sets out to fulfill the climb shown in #114's flash forward. However, Nightwing also retraces his steps to remember the first time he had to rise from a terrible fall. So, let's talk about it!
Falling For It
The first half of Nightwing #116 serves as a recap of sorts from the perspective of the media. Understandably, most of the journalists are out for blood. Considering the limitations of their point of view, it's hard to argue Grayson's innocence without outing his secret identity. Yet, this is something Barbara and the rest of the superhero community are willing to do to exonerate one of their own. Similarly, in an act of media solidarity, the journalists dogpile on what little they do know. In particular, they surmise that the Haven community is front for illegal activities. Most of this theory is based on the timeline of Blockbuster's demise and the rise of Grayson's influence. Chiefly, the source of Alfred Pennyworth funds, inducting his sister as the mayor, and the murder of the man who exposed it all.
Furthermore, Heartless goes a step further and straight up tells the world that he is Dick Grayson in a public address! Ultimately, Grayson evades police custody and chooses to leave the city. Subjectively speaking, fleeing the country is a horrible way to deal with this situation and often a clear sign of guilt. Oddly, Maggie Sawyer and the rest of the Blüdhaven P.D were willing to give Grayson the benefit of the doubt during the investigation. In lieu of the truth, the authorities pursue Grayson around the world as a wanted criminal. Creatively, Bruno Redondo frames these arguments in a repetitive grid format. Each panel allows each journalist to reframe the events of Nightwing to fit their narrative. It almost makes me wonder why Grayson never hired a publicist!
Beardman Begins
Ignoring common sense, Grayson embarks on a journey abroad. Instead of trying to defend himself, Nightwing attempts to solve his random fear of heights. Incidentally, Batman's blood analysis reveals that his fear was a product of a fear toxin in his system too long. Even though the toxin is no longer driving the fear, Nightwing has developed mental blocks prolonging his condition, not unlike the toxins Batman gave Jason in Gotham War. Regardless, Grayson dedicates himself to a slow climb up Nanda Parbat to find Boston Brand. To be honest, his admittedly fun Euro trip of penance parallels Batman's fall and subsequent vacations in Knight Quest and Tom King's City of Bane.
Despite being on the gorgeous cover, Tom Taylor treats Deadman's introduction as a warm reveal. Following his demise in Knight Terrors, Boston Brand has returned to the mortal plane. Albeit, he remains confined in the opulent temples of Nanda Parbat. Nonetheless, the former trapeze artist is willing to train Grayson to overcome his sudden fear. In a light retcon, Boston Brand has already trained Dick before as a child as apart of his secret rehab after his big fall. The warm dramatic tone of the flashback is consistent with the rest of the run. In present day, Deadman provides quite a bit of satisfying levity and friendly understanding.
Oh, Knight-Wing Fall?
On a positive note, there are some interesting new ideas. One such idea is using the pseudonym Robert "Robbie" Malone in respects to Bruce Wayne's assumed identity Matches Malone. Secondly, it looks like Bitewing is having the time of its life. I imagine it is hard to have a brooding journey in beautiful exotic locations with a carefree dog at your side. At this point of the monomyth, the hero must confront his fears, but it feels too little too late. Still, if this journey was so important, it would have made more sense to do it before the murder charge. Lastly, when the Crew of The Crossed Keys smuggles Grayson, Bea Bennett looks like a pale redhead for some reason. Though, it may be fine because of how far she is in the distant background.
Show Spoiler
Lastly, fans will be mixed on Bruce's reluctant decision to don the Nightwing cowl while Grayson is away. Although Nightwing has stood in for Batman numerous times, the opposite may be a hard sell both on and off the page. First of all, while any white male with a decent build could pass under the cowl, most characters are familiar with Nightwing's look by now. Apart from Detective Sapienza during the Nightwings Arc, people can tell when someone else was donning the costume. The butt alone is a giveaway at this point! Jokes aside, this is a warm gesture given their relationship, but it is extremely silly for all the same reasons. For now, I'll just hope it is half as funny as "The Quest" episode of Teen Titans (2003) when it plays out.
Recommended If...
- You've already started Fallen Grayson and it's too late to stop.
- You're a fan of the one and only Boston Brand!
- Knightfall is your favorite Batman story.
Overall
Overall, this is a good issue to read, but a pain to think about at length. In spite of the circumstances, I don't think Grayson's choice makes sense. His choice to let Heartless bully him feels like an option he didn't have to choose. Admittedly, Tom Taylor effectively frames him in the media, but neglects to give the hero good options to defend himself. Especially when the villain steals his identity and threatens child murder in his name. Although at this point, propaganda is the biggest supervillain in DC Comics right now (see Beast World, Tom King's Wonder Woman, and Absolute Power!) It is a shame because I think each part of this hero's journey, smear campaign, and subsequent climb works in isolation. Despite not buying his rock bottom, I'm already enjoying the climb back.
Score: 7.5/10
DISCLAIMER: DC Comics provided Batman News with a copy of this comic for the purposes of this review.
