With the new Batman film coming out this week, it is no surprise that DC has released a number of comics featuring The Joker. One of the odder titles is The Joker's Asylum which is an anthology series which features the Joker in the old Crypt Keeper host role. The issues feature a full length self contained tale featuring villains from the Batman universe. Issue 1 featured the Joker and it was "ok". The second issue, however, features an incredibly creepy tale of the Penguin. And, oh boy, this is not the Burgess Meredith Penguin of "same bat time" fame.

This Penguin is garishly evil and creepy. And we get to see what he makes him so creepy....his bizarre past (non) relationships with women are a major reason why he is such a psycho. Now, The Penguin has a new girlfriend and she brings the potential for the happiness he long wishes for.

But, of course, you know how that goes....

The "failed past relationships with women/love that was never realized/why can't I have steady relationships with women" are common themes in comic books. (after all, most comic readers are nerds, freaks and geeks and they are notorious for just those same types of relationships in High School) The theme, unfortunately, has been used to the point of it being a cliche. However, it is a popular theme and when done well it can deliver amazing results. The sheer creepiness of this particular look at The Penguin truly does succeed in this regard. This is an offbeat story and it is well worth checking out.