The all-new Batman series from Matt Fraction and Jorge Jiménez continues its winning streak into its fourth instalment, which is arguably the best issue yet.
2025 has been a standout year for Batman comics. If you’ve been reading any of our posts these last few months, you’ll be very aware of how much we’re adoring Absolute Batman by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta. And at the same time, Fraction and Jiménez’s run has gotten off to stellar beginnings. The latest issue introduces readers to The Minotaur, a completely new criminal player on the streets of Gotham. After a few issues of setup and establishing the foundations of the new series, Fraction uses issue #4 to take things to new heights, tacking a bold new arc.
The issue itself contains less of Batman and focuses heavily on The Minotaur, exploring how he uses his immense power and influence to control all the mob money in Gotham, as well as getting a slice of legitimate cash circulating in the city. He’s quite literally the ‘bank’ of the criminal underworld, with even the Penguin serving under his iron fist. But he’s not just the guy managing the flow of money; he’s happy to do the dirty work when necessary. As Batman continues to investigate the shady goings-on in Gotham, he chases Anarky in a side plot that leads him in the direction of The Minotaur. It’s a fun side-plot, offering up the best piece of action in the book.
Fraction builds the tension steadily, leaving readers on an epic cliffhanger. We’re not sharing spoilers, but he appears to be one of the most ruthless villains the Bat will face. He doesn’t pull his punches, that’s for sure.
Outside of The Minotaur, the issue continues to explore the exploits of Doctor Annika Zeller, whose goal brainwashing criminals feels like it could come back to bite her in upcoming issues. This is certainly a plot arc to keep an eye on moving forward.
Overall, Batman #4 is my favourite of the series so far, just edging the Robin-centric issue #2. It’s brave, energetic, and ushers in an exciting new villain. It keeps you guessing which direction it will take. Fraction’s tight writing has us desperate to see what comes next, while Jiménez’s excellent artwork continues to be a highlight.
