Warning! Spoilers for Task Force Z #4
In a recent comic, Batman for his crimefighting habits, citing a common fan criticism. For the first time, the Dark Knight has responded to allegations about how he targets the mentally ill citizens of Gotham City.
Throughout the past several years, fans have made a meme out of Batman’s war on crime. Although he might be many readers’ favorite superhero, some have pointed out how Bruce Wayne is a billionaire who intentionally fights the poor and mentally ill. As the physically superior Batman, the poor faith reading makes it easy for him to come across like a bully. Although it’s frequently brought up as a joke, some writers have played around with the idea, incorporating it into comics. Recently, the fan critique showed up again in Task Force Z #4, written by Matthew Rosenberg with art by Kieran McKeown and Eddy Barrows.
As Batman and Red Hood relive the glory days and fight criminals in a dark alley together, Jason takes the opportunity to casually confront the Dark Knight. While they throw punches, Red Hood reflects on the situation, saying, "I want something more than fighting punk purse snatchers in alleys. What year is this? Seriously, beating up drug addicts and mentally ill people all night... who are we helping?” Batman immediately responds, "Ask the woman these men were assaulting... You don't get a choice in who needs your help.” The criticism embodies many fans’ critique of Batman, and his response quickly shuts it down.
The line of reasoning is in-character for Batman, as it practically considers the moment at hand. He doesn’t have the luxury of thoughtful response when lives are on the line. His primary goal is to live up to the vow he once made as a child to ensure no one else would lose their parents. Ironically, the criticism might be just as valid for Red Hood, who doesn’t seem to mind beating up the thugs alongside Batman. Jason’s argument distracts from a time when he critiqued Batman for not killing criminals.
Previously, the same point concerning Batman’s targeted war on crime came up in Garth Ennis’ Batman: Reptilian, as the Dark Knight was taking blame for beating up disadvantaged people. In response, Bruce referenced his initiative through the Wayne Foundation to aid those in Gotham who are in need of from a young age. His answer was similarly practical, but approached the topic through the lens of his billionaire status. With both stories in mind, it comes across like Batman views the criminals he fights as having failed their first chance at seeking assistance. Eventually, comics will find a more layered, nuanced approach to handling the topic from both sides of Batman’s life.
