Batman: Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader? (2009)

"Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader?" is a 2009 Batman story published in two parts, in the "final" issues of the series and , released February and April respectively. Written by Neil Gaiman, pencilled by Andy Kubert, and inked by Scott Williams, the story is purported to be the "last" Batman story in the wake of severe psychological trauma that Batman endures within the "Batman R.I.P." story, and his ultimate fate in "Final Crisis". The story's title is a reference to the backup stories published in from the early 1970s to the mid-1980s (which revisited various long-unused Golden Age and Silver Age characters; these stories were all titled "Whatever Happened to (x)?"). The Batman presented in the story is not necessarily the one from current DC Universe continuity but rather an indeterminate amalgamation that pays homage to the entirety of the character's 70-year history. Neil Gaiman, who jumped at the chance to script this story, and artist Andy Kubert who, through his marvelous evocative artwork that pays tribute to the greatest artists to ever work on the Dark Knight, have lovingly crafted a subtle, theoretical look at post-Batman Gotham that, albeit reminiscent of certain previous DC publications, is nonetheless superlative for its wonderfully entertaining and totally engrossing homage to The Caped Crusader's life and times. Amazing and incredible, and imho stands alongside Alan Moore's "last" Superman story "Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?".

“Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader?” part 1 of 2! Best-selling author Neil Gaiman (THE SANDMAN) and superstar artist Andy Kubert (BATMAN, Marvel 1602) join forces for a special 2-part BATMAN event! “Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader” is a captivating and mysterious tale the likes of which Batman and friends have never experienced before. Delving into the realms of life, death and the afterlife, Gaiman leaves no stone unturned as he explores every facet and era of Bruce Wayne’s life. -- "Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader?" part 2 of 2! This second part of Neil Gaiman and Andy Kubert's special collaboration is sure to be a BATMAN story for the ages. This extraordinary tale, told as only Gaiman and Kubert can, explores the intricate relationships between Bruce Wayne and his friends and adversaries and builds toward an exciting and unexpected climax. It's a classic in the making! --

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