Product Description

Batman was created 60 years ago, since when he has become an icon of popular culture. This complete history traces his evolution through comic books, graphic novels, movies, television, toys and associated merchandise. It also includes interviews with various of his writers and artists.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #995642 in Books
• Published on: 1999-10-29
• Original language: English
• Binding: Hardcover
• 208 pages

Amazon.co.uk Review
It's possible that the public perception of Batman has been tainted by the blockbuster films by Joel Schumacher, accused of betraying the character's rich, long history. So, it is immensely gratifying to see a detailed chronicle of this popular culture giant who has successfully infiltrated and conquered a variety of media beyond his beginnings as a dark counterpart to Superman way back in 1939.

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of Batman is that, for such a dark and angst-ridden character, his continuing ability at re-invention for new generations while never sacrificing the core appeal remains a significant strength. Comics historian Daniels has provided an excellent commentary of Batman from his genesis via various inspirations (DaVinci, Film Noir) to his current status as popular culture icon. Crucially, the author never forgets that, despite his multi-media presence, it emanated from the comic books. Filled with fascinating trivia, Daniels makes sure to highlight some of the lesser-known aspects of the Batman-Mythos, particularly Bill Finger, responsible for many of Batman's long-standing elements. Had it not been for Finger, Batman's costume might have ended up bright red!

In the visuals department, Daniels' text is spectacularly complemented. Chip Kidd once again weaves his design magic to produce pages that are brimming with atmosphere and photographer Geoff Spear makes various Bat-memorabilia leap off the page. Don't believe the films, Batman is as strong as ever--and this is the proof. --Danny Graydon

From the Publisher
The essential book for all Bat-fans
Batman: The Complete History is the ultimate biography of the Caped Crusader, an essential buy for anyone who ever used their coat as the Bat-cape, and ran around the playground yelling "dinner, dinner, dinner...". Featuring stunning artwork by legends including Frank Miller and Alex Ross, and many never-seen-before photos, this is the definitive work on Gotham's finest.

Customer Reviews

The must have for all true Bat-fans
This has to be the ultimate Batman source book. With the origins from Bob Canes' first comic creation through the camped up sixties and seventies with Adam West and Burt Ward, to the masterpieces of todays twenty first century writers/artists Frank Miller and Bruce Timm. Complete with a history of all the Caped Crusaders most adored villains and associates this piece holds pride of place on any book shelf. It also contains the most extensive photo collection of Batman action figures ever seen. A book worth its' weight in gold to all who love Batman.

....To the Batcave.....Bat-fans.
Ok, Bat-Fan so you've collected the comic books for years and you've wasted many an hour theorising on the motivations behind The Bat. So here's the opportunity to treat yourself and compare notes with Les Daniels, who has the inside stories on where all the essential Bat-legend creators were really coming from. It's worth it for the illustrations alone, but be warned, unless your collection is huge, you'll discover some other back issue you've got to have!

Fine
I very much enjoyed this book. However, that being said, there is a great deal of filling and very little meat. Certainly, there are interesting comments from Frank Miller and Michael Keaton, in my opinion two of the most significant contributors to '80's Batman (and yes Alan Moore) but ultimately, this is a coffee table book, large and with plenty of visual stimulus (not unlike the IKEA catalogue). Good history, excellent art, above average book. In fairness, it's an excellent buy at the current price and I'd defo snap it up for a tenner.