A review by caitcoy
Batman: Arkham Asylum - A Serious House on Serious Earth by Grant Morrison

5.0

This is probably one of the most confusing and out there Batman graphic novels that I've read but I really like how creepy and off-the-wall it is. There's a reason it's considered one of the Batman must-read comics. The story goes back and forth between Amadeus Arkham establishing Arkham Asylum (where most of Gotham's more interesting villians will be incarcerated) and Batman being forced to enter the Asylum years later after Joker has taken control. The madness inherent in Amadeus' family was fascinating to see unravel and I loved getting the history behind the classic Gotham institution. The Joker in this story is disturbingly sexual and it was almost uncomfortable to see his interactions yet absolutely fascinating. Batman must run a gauntlet through classic Batman villains to get control of Arkham once again and as is common for Grant Morrison, the symbolism and small details mean that it's one that really needs to be read more than once. This was the second time I've read this and I still don't think I fully understand it all. Dave McKean is as brilliant in his artwork as always so if you like creepy, subtle explorations of madness and the darker sides of humanity, it's a good one!