“Batman” has been pretty flat since half-way through Grant Morrison’s run. The more recent storylines have lacked the quality you should expect from what should be the main Batman title. So not only was I thrilled, but surprised to see how much I loved issue #710.

After many issues that seemed to go nowhere, Tony Daniel brings a Two-Face story that has a lot of promise. Some people don’t care for Two-Face. Personally I love him and this first issue paints him perfectly. Daniel seems to be focusing more on Gotham’s organized criminal underbelly and I think it’s a breath of fresh air. The ending certainly sets up the story arc and I’m anxious to see what’s next.

Then there’s Steve Scott’s pencils which I’ll describe in one word…AWESOME. The opening page immediately grabbed me. I found myself re-examing numerous panels and pages just to admire the sharp, polished look. His characters look fantastic with the slight exception of Gordon who looks a bit off. But that’s a mild gripe. I loved the art in this issue.

“Batman” has been treading water and has been a hard read lately. But not this issue. I loved it and I’m excited about the next one. It’s gruesome and violent but it fits the characters and the tone. Maybe this is the storyline that gets this book back on track. So far, so good!