RATING: 3.5 out of 5 points:
This rating is on the story written by Paul Dini, not on the co-feature in the back of the issues.
These first three issues of the Streets of Gotham series, is a mosaic of backgrounds for several different stories lines that Dini develops later. While it would make my life easier if he didn't shuffle these stories like a stack of cards, it does give you the feel that the characters lives are not singular, but weaved together upon one another, even if they don't knowingly acknowledge it.
FULL REVIEW: ******SPOILERS of the Story included:
I had to go back and reread these issues to actually understand what Dini was trying to do with these issues. They contain background information that set up different stories that he will touch on in the future, but I also can see the interplay between the villains on the 'Gotham streets' and how their actions affect each other.
The storyline that got my attention the most, was the one with Thomas Elliot, Hush. It travels through all three of these issues and is the reason why I grouped these issues together. All story lines, even those in other series, that use the Wayne name, is affected by this plot, because it where Hush starts impersonating Bruce Wayne on a full time basis, with Wayne family approval, with limits of course.
In these issues we do see ABUSE for the first time, but it is not explained who, or what he is until issue 10. Also these three issues has Zsasz, and how he becomes "Mr Zsasz", but nothing of what he plans to do with his new persona. Although... ,this information is nice to know, and helps with characterization, you don't necessary need to read these issue to enjoy the other stories when they finally unfold.
Issue #1: IGNITION!
Issue #2: CITY ON FIRE
Issue #3 HUSH MONEYWriter Paul Dini
Penciled & Cover: Dustin Nguyen
Inker/colors/letters: Derick Fridolfs/John Kalisz/Steve Wands
Publisher: DC Comics
