It’s been a long ride for Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo — tackling the updated origin of one of comics’ most revered creations is no small task, yet not once during their epic, sprawling tale have they looked close to quailing under the pressure. It’s a good thing too, as issue #32 only adds fuel to the fire of expectation, offering a thrilling and satisfying lead in to the book’s highly anticipated finale.

Issue #32 offers some of the best pacing of the arc thus far, pieces and players moving in organic and engaging fashion. At this point, we’ve bought into Zero Year Batman — we understand him now, we see why he matters, and finally we see the effect he has on others. Not only is this Batman capable, but he’s inspiring, Snyder offering glimpses of the man who will one day be a legend. Bruce’s heartfelt message to Alfred is also worth mentioning, serving as yet another reminder that beneath the famed Bat ears and barrel chest lies an ordinary man with extraordinary talents. If you can make it through that sequence without feeling a stir in your heart strings, then you may want to get those tuned because you’re probably dead inside.

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