Detective Comics # 447 1975 VG

Detective Comics #447 (May 1975) is a classic Bronze Age issue from DC Comics that plays a pivotal role in the "Bat-Murderer" storyline. It is highly regarded for its action-packed cover featuring Batman and the Creeper fending off wild lions.

Core Plot & Synopsis

The lead story, titled "Enter: The Creeper!", finds Batman a fugitive in the public eye. He has been framed for the alleged murders of Ra's al Ghul and Talia al Ghul. Outspoken television journalist Jack Ryder publicly denounces Batman for these crimes. Hoping to uncover the truth and clear his name, Batman investigates the cemetery where the al Ghuls were supposedly laid to rest, only to find Ra's al Ghul's coffin completely empty.

Determined to bring the "fugitive" to justice, Ryder transforms into his chaotic superhero alter-ego, the Creeper, and tracks Batman to the Gotham City Zoo. A fierce battle erupts between the two heroes. Amidst the chaos, a mysterious saboteur opens the enclosures and unleashes a pack of lions upon them.

Batman and the Creeper temporarily put their differences aside to subdue the beasts. When they corner and interrogate the saboteur, an assassin's arrow strikes the man dead before he can reveal his employer. Witnessing this blatant setup, the Creeper finally realizes that Batman has been framed. Realizing they are dealing with a larger conspiracy, the two team up to unmask the true culprit.

Backup Story

The issue also features a 6-page Robin solo backup story titled "The Puzzle of the Pyramids". Written by Bob Rozakis, it follows Dick Grayson at Hudson University as he investigates a student thief during a campus pyramid-building competition. Notably, the story features a brief cameo appearance by Clark Kent, who is on campus broadcasting the event.

Key Comic Information

• Release Date: April 30, 1975 (Cover date: May 1975)
• Story Arc: Part of the "Bat-Murderer" saga.
• Creative Team: Main story written by Len Wein, penciled by Ernie Chan, and inked by Dick Giordano.