Just two years after completing The Dark Knight III: The Master Race, Frank Miller is revisiting the gritty, real-world take on the Batman mythos that he first explored in 1986. Via The Hollywood Reporter, Miller is writing yet another installment in his acclaimed The Dark Knight Returns series. This newest offering, titled Dark Knight Returns: The Golden Child, will hit comic shops by the end of the year.
The Golden Child is a 48-page one-shot that continues the story of Carrie Kelley. Carrie made her debut appearance in the original Dark Knight Returns story as the new Robin. However, she adopted the new mantle of Batwoman at the end of The Master Race. This time around, Carrie must combat a new threat to Gotham City. Fortunately, she won’t be alone. Readers will see her team up with Superman and Wonder Woman’s daughter, Lara Kent. They will also be joined by Lara’s brother, Jonathan, who is growing up to be a powerful being in his own right.
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Although Miller is providing the book’s main cover, he won’t be assuming artistic duties as with previous installments. Instead, he’s turning that responsibility over to Rafael Grampá, best known for creating Dark Horse’s Mesmo Delivery series. The Golden Child marks Grampá’s first comic book project in six years.
“The Dark Knight Returns story began with its heroes getting older,” Miller said in a statement. “Now we’re seeing the next generation of heroes in action, and Rafael was the obvious choice for me to usher in these heroes that are vigorous, untested and loaded with promise. I think that Jonathan Kent in particular will surprise everybody with his unforeseen abilities and impossible mind.”
DC will release Dark Knight Returns: The Golden Child on December 11. You can check out the cover for the one-shot below, then tell us what you think in the comment section!
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