Artist Mike Perkins returns to Word Balloon to talk about The Bat-Man: Second Knight, now available in graphic novel format. Mike breaks down the visual approach behind this 2nd series set in 1939, collaborating with writer Dan Jurgens, and the challenge of capturing a dark pulp-era Gotham through his detailed painted style. We also discuss Mike’s artistic process, from layouts and reference work to balancing mood, storytelling, and page design.

Plus, Mike gives a preview of his upcoming new Vertigo project with Ram V. 

The conversation also dives into Mike’s lifelong love of Marvel UK, and 2000 AD, growing up on British comics, and what it meant to finally draw Judge Dredd in collaboration with legendary creator John Wagner.