The Best Retro-Batman Story Never Told (Yet)
One of the most prolific artists in comic books currently is Francesco Francavilla. Along with his stellar work on Afterlife with Archie, his pulp hero adventure tale The Black Beetle, and countless comic book covers the award-winning illustrator finds time to produce some incredible conceptual pieces and fan art. The tireless Francavilla loves to create visually arresting minimalist works of art for pay obviously but also when the mood strikes him. If you follow his tumblr page, and you should, you'll see that he enjoys making illustrations for some of his favorite television shows (Sleepy Hollow, Justified, Lost, Breaking Bad) and movies (Highlander, Clash of the Titans, Dr. No) just for fun. One project in particular is notable for its beautiful rendering in a setting that would totally fit if it ever came into fruition - Batman 1972.
If you ever wondered what Batman would be like as a chain-smoking vigilante in the flavor of movies like Mean Streets, Dirty Harry, and Death Wish of the 1970's then this is the Batman for you. The Batmobile as suped-up muscle car, the glorious afro of a foxy black Catwoman, the floppy hair and horseshoe mustache of Jim Gordon, and The Warriors approach to Joker just ooze with '70s flair and place you smack dab in the middle of a Gotham-ized French Connection. Francavilla's signature pulp style gives the nearly 75 year old character the appropriate swagger and color to bring the time period to life. Whether it was a passion project or a failed pitch to DC Comics fans would love to see this become an actual comic book. Get your petitions ready!
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