For comic book readers who love seeing the process of how their favorite books came together, IDW's Artist's Edition line is a real treasure trove. Each of these books reproduces the artist's original, uncolored artwork in minute detail, blemishes and all. It's the next best thing to owning that original artwork. Now the Artist's Edition line is finally getting around to tackling one of the most iconic and influential DC stories of all time, Batman: Year One.
IGN can exclusively debut a new preview of the Batman: Year One Artist's Edition hardcover, featuring the stunning artwork of David Mazzucchelli. Get a closer look in the slideshow gallery below:
Batman: Year One is written by Frank Miller. The Artist's Edition hardcover includes the entirety of the original storyline, as seen in Batman #404-407. Also included are Mazzucchelli's original layouts and a new introduction penned by Mazzucchelli himself. The book features design work by artist Chip Kidd.
Here's IDW's official description for the Batman: Year One Artist's Edition:
In 1986, Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli produced this groundbreaking reinterpretation of the origin of Batman: who he is and how he came to be. Sometimes careless and naive, this Dark Knight is far from the flawless vigilante he is today. In his first year on the job, Batman feels his way around a Gotham City far darker than the one he left. His solemn vow to extinguish the town’s criminal element is only half the battle. Along with Lieutenant James Gordon, the Dark Knight must also fight a police force more corrupt than the scum in the streets. Batman: Year One stands next to Batman: The Dark Knight Returns on the mantle of greatest Batman graphic novels of all time.
This edition includes the complete graphic novel and a new introduction by David Mazzucchelli. All of Mazzucchelli’s layouts are presented, giving true insight into a master storyteller's process from initial spark to completed page. This is an art book featuring rare and beautiful imagery, a collection for connoisseurs of the form. Chip Kidd, the legendary designer, will be guiding the look of the project.
Batman: Year One Artist's Edition is priced at $150 and is slated for release on August 13, 2024. You can preorder a copy below:
You can find out where Year One places on our list of the 27 greatest Batman graphic novels.
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