Too often, Batman is just all fists and no brains, a characterization that runs contrary to the true nature of the character. This Batman is always observing, always two steps ahead of his opponents, always in the last rounds of a chess match that his foes don’t even know they’re playing. Magpie seemed to be a better fighter than Batman; she gained the physical edge over the Dark Knight a few times during this episode, but it was Batman’s cunning and patience that defeated her as much, if not more so, than his physical strength. Barbara Gordon is such a welcome addition to the show, and she adds many new layers to Lieutenant Gordon. Most fans know the direction Barbara’s story will take, and as she starts on her path to earning the mantle of the Bat, it will be interesting to see what her transformation will do to the relationship with her father. The show’s most interesting addition is that of Tatsu Yamashiro. If she is Katana has not been revealed yet, but as she gets used to her new role as Bruce Wayne’s bodyguard, the show reveals her past with Alfred, and how much the Wayne butler trusts her. The dynamic found with a Robin or one of the more familiar Bat allies is missed, but the strength of this show is the fact that fans are on unfamiliar ground with new characters. Bruce seems intrigued by Ms. Yamashiro, and begins a series of tests to see if she is worthy. Worthy of what? Well, that’s the key to get viewers to tune in next week, and on the strength of this episode, I certainly will. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for all news updates related to the world of geek. And Google+, if that’s your thing!
