Batman ’89: Echoes #2 introduces a fresh and innovative take on the Robin character, blending the classic dynamic of the dynamic duo with a twist that feels lifted straight from real life. This new chapter draws inspiration from Michael Keaton’s legendary portrayal of Batman, reigniting the excitement for a new wave of followers through DC Comics’ latest narratives, which are a continuation of Tim Burton’s original vision. The clever and realistic reasoning behind Robin’s role in Batman ’89 highlights a novel and exciting direction for the cherished inhabitants of Gotham City.
Michael Keaton’s Batman breathes new life into the Robin concept in his latest comic book appearance, presenting it in the most intelligent way yet. Despite the thrill of Keaton’s return as Batman in last year’s The Flash, DC has been actively publishing comics that explore this beloved version of the Caped Crusader in brand new adventures. Now, Batman ’89: Echoes #2 sees him putting his unique, cool twist on Robin.
Batman ’89: Echoes #2, penned by Sam Hamm and illustrated by Joe Quinones, delves into Batman’s venture into Arkham Asylum. He seeks clues about the enigmatic Firefly, a new menace in Gotham City. Disguised as a patient, Batman aims to uncover the mystery behind Firefly. Meanwhile, Tim Drake, the latest “Robin,” connects with Alfred to update him on Batman’s situation within Arkham.
Tim informs Alfred that Bruce requires his fingerprint kit – not for dusting, but to fabricate his own prints for his stay at Arkham.
Michael Keaton’s portrayal of Batman has become iconic, defining the character for many fans, standing shoulder to shoulder with Christopher Reeve’s Superman and Lynda Carter’s Wonder Woman. Over the years, DC has celebrated some of the finest live-action representations of their heroes through comics like Superman ’78 and Wonder Woman ’77. Following the series dedicated to Adam West’s Batman ’66, DC launched Batman ’89, offering all-new stories that pick up right where the first movie ended.
Sam Hamm, the writer behind Batman ’89, also contributed to Tim Burton’s classic film and created one of Bruce Wayne’s most memorable mentors: Henri Ducard.
Batman ’89 has introduced updated versions of classic Bat-Family characters, fitting seamlessly into the aesthetic Tim Burton established. The series has seen Billy Dee Williams’ Harvey Dent become Two-Face, realizing an original vision of Burton’s. It also brought new interpretations of Barbara Gordon and Robin to life. Choosing Tim Drake as their Robin, and in another nod to Burton’s vision, Hamm and Quinones have reimagined him as Black, offering fresh perspectives on Harley Quinn, Scarecrow, and Firefly.
These reimagined versions of beloved Gotham City icons are a major draw of Batman ’89, with the new Robin embodying this innovative vision. The characters in the Batman ’89 universe are driven by more tangible, “real-world” motivations. This time, Batman and Robin are not just fighting side by side in costume; they are strategically divided, with Michael Keaton’s Batman inside Arkham and Robin outside, gathering intel and serving as Alfred’s point of contact—a clever reinterpretation of Robin’s role.
Batman ’89: Echoes #2 is available now from DC Comics, offering fans a chance to dive back into the unique world Tim Burton and Michael Keaton first introduced, now expanded with new adventures and characters that both honor and build upon the original vision.