Detective 536 – Julia and Deadshot, down in the sewers
As with last issue, Moench and Colan conclude another 2-parter in Detective 536 (March 1984), this one with Deadshot as the villain.
The story also serves as part of the build-up of the new villain, Dr. Fang.
Alfred’s daughter Julia is at the centre of this story, and her relationships with Alfred and Jacques Reamrque, the man who raised her, and who is now in danger. Deadshot was caught last issue, but breaks free and makes another attempt on Remarque in this story.
Julia heads down into the sewers in search of Jacques, but simply becomes a hostage for Deadshot. Colan is the perfect artist for creepy sewers.
Batman comes to the rescue, of course, jamming Deadshot’s gun with a really impressive throw.
I should maybe mention that Green Arrow’s back-ups have continued through these past issues. For three of them he dealt with survivalists on a rampage, and for the last few issues was dealing with punk bikers, as well as the return of Ozone and the end of the Z.Z.Z. story. Rick shows up for the climax of that plot.
It’s all very mediocre though, and the villains look like they are dressed for a night of clubbing. A low point for the character.