I'm a firm believer in that there are no bad ideas, just bad execution.. except when there are REALLY bad ideas. I really believe Black Mask isn't a bad idea, he's just executed pretty badly.. I want the character to succeed and become a true great bat-rogue. Get the recognition he deserves.
I agree. Batman Arkham Origins could have been much better if Black Mask actually was the #1 villain, rather than a decoy. That is only about 1/3 of the reasons why I liked the other 2 PS3/X360 games more.
Black Mask has been shit on throughout the entire Arkham Series. He doesn’t appear in the first game In city, he’s curbstomped by guards In Origin’s, he’s just replaced with Joker In Knight, he’s killed by the Red Hood Poor guy.
Gotham Rogues he can and that would create the perfect black mask, I do find it odd no writer has tried to combine the two, also when I got this notification I was watching your videos
I think one reason Black Mask tortures people is to get them to show their true selves. "Take their masks off" so to speak. It's like when Ledger's Joker says "In their last moments people show you who they really are" in The Dark Knight.
Yeah that’s why I like him in between torture and mask obsessed. If the torturing has something to do with that obsession I mentioned, I’m okay with it.
Black Mask is one of my favorite Batman villains. He feels like someone you would find on The Dark Web. Since he loves to torture people, he feels like someone you'd find in The Black Room, which is a video section of The Dark Web where you watch people being tortured. Even though I have NEVER AND NEVER HAVE been on The Dark Web. Overall, Great villain.
The reason I voted for Black Mask in the previous video was out of shear curiosity, not because I had any attachment to the character so consider that satisfied. I largely agree on the character and his wasted potential. Usually, in most modern Black Mask stories, You could swap him out with the Penguin and it would make no discernible difference. I figured you'd put War Paint somewhere on this list. In my personal opinion, the best story featuring skull-face Black Mask is the Catwoman story "Relentless". Who would you say it was most challenging to find good stories for? Mad Hatter? Mr Freeze or this guy?
I'd say this guy haha.. at least with Hatter I had the impostor to fall on.. although I suppose there's an "impostor Mask" too, with Jeremiah Arkham. Never liked him becoming Black Mask 2 though..
Anybody thinks that Black Mask has the potential to become the Kingpin to Batman's Daredevil? I mean both Bruce and Roman knew each other since childhood, which might make for a more personal rivalry. Black Mask might also work better as a toned down, calculating and complex villain to give him a unique edge as, come on, most of the rogues already are over the top and sometimes outright psychotic acting, but that's only my opinion. Great vid and glad you're back
That would be interesting to me, as I usually only see Penguin as a recurring character that owns illegal businesses. It would be interesting to see various gang leaders fight to be the wealthiest one.
I think that mask could be both a sadistic and powerful gangster and an insane mask obsessed cultist. The torture thing could still work really well as long as it's not his only 'thing'. Anyway, I'll check these stories out.
When I was younger I loved the skull face Black Mask, now I prefer the mask theme version with the Brown suit and hat, I love that design. I wish I could write for DC to try to make a good black mask story haha! Good video once again Ol Rogues
Good list Gotham. Such an underrated villain. Who deserves so much more. Masks are a fascinating theme to write about. Like Black Mask could have so much to discuss with Wayne and his Batman persona.
Both Roman and Bruce have the traits in common that they feel the need to redeem themselves but took opposite paths. Bruce puts on a mask and goes to be a vigilante to save the people of Gotham, whereas Roman puts on a mask and aspires to build an empire of crime
So good to see a new video review from you! Maybe time is on Black Mask's side. After all Scarecrow didn't appear for over twenty years until he was resurrected. I hope a great Black Mask story is in the cards. Looking forward to your Man Bat video! Wishing you all the best!
Just found your channel, and I understand your rant in the begining my second favourite Batman villain is Black Mask so thank you so much for making this video :)
Hey Rogues! Not sure if you've heard, but there's gonna be a new major Scarecrow story coming out later this year! A six part story called Kings of Fear! Here's hoping that it'll finally be that definitive comic story Crane desperately needs!
Yeah I did hear that, and it seems awesome! Kelley Jones is drawing it! I'll definately give it a review once I've read it. See, this is what excites me, and not another Joker tale or mini. I hadn't heard about Riddler though. I wonder if it'll use the same depiction from War of Js and Rs, or if this is a new take on Eddie. Haven't read much with Bendis, but I've been hearing lots of bad stuff about him lately..
Hi! I had an interesting video suggestion I haven't seen anyone else come up with. What if you review the Killer Moth episode from Teen Titans? He stands out on the show as the only Bat-Rouge they used, and they used a much more threatening version than the bumbling idiot we typically see on the small screen (plus there are plenty of new elements, like his costume and daughter!) I know Batman isn't in the show, but Robin is! Either way, keep up the great work at your own pace! :)
I found your channel a few days ago, I absolutely love it and had to instantly subscribe. I especially loved your Riddler and Ra's al Ghul videos, they're two of my favourite villains but as you say in their vids, it is hard to find good stories with them that reflects their true character, especially Riddler. This was such an awesome video as well, Black Mask is one of my top villains, even though I personally prefer the skull version of him, this vid was still great and informative. Black Mask would be the perfect villain for a solo Batman film if the DCEU ever sorts out just what it's doing, think we were all a bit miffed with how he was hyped for Arkham Origins and was entirely mistreated so a proper mainstream portrayal would be nice. Would love it if one day you do a video on Killer Moth , he's a character I just think is ridiculously brilliant. Keep up the great work!
Thanks, and glad to have you onboard! And yeah, Mask really needs to be in a movie - if not in a Batman movie, than at leats in a Catwoman movie, considering their rivalry in the comics. As for a Moth video, a lot of people want that, so I'll probably do it some day.
I love the whole black mask seeing torture as art and and being brutal and having a very charismatic personality yet having a very scary side I like that take the most
(rubs hands together) All-righty, so...I'm going to come right out and say it, I am not that familiar with ol' Masky. Interestingly enough, ALL of the stories I've read that feature him in a major way are on this list...and it makes four out of five, no less. The only one I'm NOT familiar with is Dark Trinity. (Frankly, after hearing your description/analysis of it, and seeing the images from it...I MUST read that one VERY soon.) I've read "Under the Hood," of course, though not for his sake; his first appearance, believe it or not, was the very first story with him I read - a friend of mine, who is a comic collector, shared it with me back in High School. I later got to read your number one pick via the same friend, only a year or two ago, in fact. As for "War Games"...I haven't read the entire arc, but I've read bits and pieces of it. There are a couple of stories that involve him, so to speak, that I've read, but not really in a major way...at least, not to my recollection. Most of what I know of Black Mask comes from other media...and given how poorly (and how rarely) he tends to be treated in other media, perhaps it's no surprise, therefore, that he's not exactly one of my favorite Batman Villains. On a list of my Top 24 Batman Villains, I placed him quite close to the bottom. I like the guy, but I'm not his biggest fan. It seems to me though, more and more recently, that people are starting to wake up to Black Mask; I know one or two people who even consider him one of their top ten or fifteen favorite Batman Rogues of all time. I think this may be due to the Arkham games (flimsy as his portrayal there may be) and the movie adaptation of Under the Hood, "Under the Red Hood," more than anything else. Of course, "The Batman," of all shows, might be part of it, too...others may disagree, but that I consider that to be the best Black Mask out there. He's never been more intimidating, in my opinion. Speaking of favorite stories - random side note - I have finally chosen my picks and ranking for My Favorite Two-Face Stories! I'll make sure to share that list with you when I actually get the collage made and the descriptions written up. ;)
I still haven't seen his The Batman episodes.. Really want to correct that. Such a darn shame he never appeared on TAS; that show could've done with him what it did with so many other rogues. And yeah, I'm really interested to see your top Harv choices.. ;) Will check it out, and the other lists you've linked as soon as I can.
John Robledo I have seen your list and I love it! As for mask, I agree that his best portrayal outside of comics was The Batman. He was a great Antagonist in his debut, but was underutilized for the reminder of the series, just like Ivy and Basil. Shame.
Frankly, thats one of my big problems with The Batman; a lot of people complain about the designs and such, but my biggest issue was they gave a lot of villains really good intros, but then either didn't really use them to their full potential afterwards, or just didn't give them material that was AS good following that intro, even if they were the main villain. Killer Croc, Ragdoll, Black Mask, Bane...I won't say it was WASTED potential, because their intros were all pretty awesome, at least in my opinion, and they were fun when you saw them again. But their true power just never got to be showcased properly after their first appearance :P
1:10 - N°5 - Black Mask 1st appearance 3:10 - N°4 - Under the hood 4:35 - N°3 - War games 6:20 - N°2 - Dark trinity 8:15 - N°1 - War paint/Faces of death
Black Mask being one of my favorite Batman villain of all time. Does consistently get the shaft. Like when Warner Bros advertises Batman Arkham Origins he was billed as the main villain. Of course that’s not what we got. That’s just one example. Hopefully one day we do get the definitive Blask Mask Movie, comic book or what ever one of these days. Hope fully someone can end the curse of the Black Mask Curse! This is one of my favorite video of yours Rogues. Have a nice day!
War games is the one that remind me of Blackmask the most. Though, the most favourite would probably the first appearance of him in 80s and the War Paint/Faces of Death one on the first list of urs 🙂.
*Black Mask confirmed main villain for the "Birds of Prey" movie* Finally! Let's hope they don't mess it up, I still remember how that *Gotham* episode ("The Mask") that I was so hyped about still hurts 4 years ago >< (fun fact: Richard Sionis from that episode was made comicBat-canon in the new RHATO as Roman's father) _Thanks a lot for this video Rogues_ I've been waiting for _this_ one in particular a long time ^^ For some reason I've always been a fan of Black Mask, I discovered him back in the days with the Red Hood arc (+ the pretty great movie), and he was indeed a lot of fun in this one. Or maybe the first time was in Catwoman: Relentless, but he was written the same way with the same dark sense of humor. Recently I've read the 6 issues of the *Batman: Unseen* title by Doug Moench (the chara's creator, yay) and Kelley Jones, and since you didn't mention it, I assumed that you might have missed it... Roman Sionis (skull 'mask/face' era) plays quite a big role in it Without spoiling too much, kinda like in "Under the Red Hood", he is the 3rd man in a "Batman - new mysterious foe - Black Mask" triangle, so you could kinda call it a Black Mask story =) IMHO it's an interesting read to understand Roman Sionis character, his origin story is retold from his perspective (and they removed the racoon, yay ^^), and it's my favorite so far but as a Batman story, it had many problems, and I wasn't a fan of the "real villain"... Art is cool if you like the style, and the suprise villain has a very... interesting design ;_ ; Anyway, hopefully good ol' Mask will get to do something big in the near future since he's part of the "Black and Whites" trio along Penguin & Great White Shark, the top dogs in Gotham "Rebirth era" gangs-wise. Because I think he had like 2 lines in "All-Star Batman", and that alliance didn't do much in Rebirth in Red Hood & the Outlaws; (great arc this one indeed)... and I don't remember White & Penguin helping Sionis during his most recent war against Catwoman [with the whole "White Mask" story] Anyway, I'm gonna stop ranting, storry, I used to post on your videos all the time, I've missed it =) glad to see that your channel keeps growing, and that you still post quality content on a regular basis And if you're still reading at this point I hope that one day you do a "forgotten rogues" video about Philo Zeiss/Mr Zeiss, Lew Moxon's bodyguard with the cool googles who made it personnal with Batman... I've always liked this dude and his haircut (was pissed when he later shaved his head >
Torture is a means to forcibly remove people's pretences, their masks. People show their true faces when under such duress. It's the opposite of putting on a mask and becoming a more powerful version of yourself. Very appropriate for someone who grew to hate all the pretentious bullshit of people like his parents. At the end of the day he wants realness and honesty from people. That's the best I could come up with connecting masks and torture.
We need a top 5 Man Bat stories video! I've read a lot of his stories lately and wanted to see your favourites. And also just more top 5 stories in general;)
Yeah, I did say I was gonna do it... but now that I've branched out, I'm kinda more eager to cover non-bat rogues; been thinking about Parasite, Trickster and a few others. That doesn't mean I'll never do Man-Bat, though. Well, we'll see what I end up doing.
I think The Batman did Black Mask right. Ruthlessly efficient crime lord ("You're to be applauded for getting me out. And fired, for letting children slow you down.") who has an enigmatic element in his mask. It can't be removed, it allows him to sit through a chemical attack as if it were a gas mask, and it doesn't give him stupid googly eyes or a gimp aesthetic. And it's never explained! Which is great. The only thing I would change would be to give him a little of the Outlaws one's personality. A hatred of criminals who cause more collateral damage than make a profit. Have him refuse to work with some of the other Rogues. Have him order hits on the Joker because "That guy's bad for business". Have him give Batman anonymous tip offs when anyone threatens anything that would ruin the economic value of Gotham. Suddenly there's an argument for not putting Black Mask straight into jail. "I could do that. But then there's no street element doing its part to foil Ivy's next 'Kill all the humans' plan." But it shouldn't be his chief reason for being. Screw the crazies, but his main concern should always be making money.
Also. Your microphone is way better. Your louder, but that works. I agree. Hopefully we will get Black Mask in a video game. Maybe he'll shine there like Scarecrow
5.can't go wrong with a good origin story 4.and thus we're introduced to DC's take on the Punisher 3.they do realize this means war, on a side note, Spoiler will be missed 2.I'm not sure that Bizarro is big on taking orders 1.just about the same situation Batman was in when it came to "Arkham Knight" But if you think these are interesting, then what I'm working on will give Black Mask something that's definitive
I picture the perfect Black Mask to go like this: Batman has been at his career as a crime fighter for about a year. Joker has shown up and maybe a few other rogues, but the mob still has control of most of the city. But Batman is constantly pressing them inward. His non-jurisdiction means that he can follow them across rooftops, invade private property, figure out exactly who everyone is and punish them accordingly. In comes a new criminal. He's not very noticeable, is actually quite wimpy, and fails to shine compared to the big names. But he lasts, and he survives. Because this Black Mask isn't the real one. He gets his orders from another Black Mask, who gets his orders from yet another Black Mask. The identity is shared among a pool of like-thinking individuals, and if one is taken out by Batman the others step up. In short, Black Mask becomes the main kingpin of Gotham because nobody knows who the real one is, if there even IS a real one. He survives because Batman can't see everything at once, and even when he catches the Black Mask, he was only receiving orders from another Mask over the internet from a source far away. Black Mask becomes the organization itself, a self-replicating criminal organization that exists because its the only kind that CAN exist with Batman prowling about.
I think a good boost for black mask is to do a hush for him, like make him an actual friend of Bruce Wayne so his turning as a villian is much more personal, it also allows him to work with people like Hush
Yes a new video centering the 5 best villain stories. I have to say Black Mask has a lot of potential, but frustratingly he has been crimally underrated. Just for once I and the many fans would like to see a live action batman film that would focus Roman Sionis turn into Black Mask. Somewhat similar to his first comic book appearance. What do you think?
Welcome back,; I hope you.are better. Good Black Mask Video. Considering Batman is getting married, maybe you could make.a video that explores his relationship with Catwoman.
Thank you! Yeah, I would've been back sooner too, if Maskie wasn't such a tough nut.. ;) I guess something with Catwoman would've been fitting, not sure I want to though.
Gotham Rogues well if you make something , it could be top 5 stories that show their relationship over the years, one I would recommend is the story by Alan Brennert, set on Earth Two where Batman and Catwoman fight the Scarecrow. Be well.
I was always one of the readers who thought they preferred Black Mask as a mobster type. A transitional character from the Falcone "Godfather"-esque mobsters to a type of masked, psychotic --- and therefore, more Batman-ny --- type of mobster. I always thought his gang of masked goons was a good way to play on minions and explore the evolution of crime in Gotham from traditional to costumed-and-nuts. But thinking about it recently, since his weird fetish with mannequins was there from the beginning, I have kind of decided I prefer the "psycho of sadomasochism", vice-lord interpretation as more original, more unique. More adult, certainly, but a take that differentiates the character from the rest of Batman's rogues. Whatever, I think we can agree that the movie take as a freaky, homosexual will probably be unacceptable.
Not sure why people have such a hard time writing him. Just combine the old mask theme with the newer mob boss version. I like the old origin of him being dropped on the head and bitten by a raccoon; it's so strange yet simple.
Good to see you again Rogues. I can see why you had trouble finding great stories about Roman. In all honesty Black Mask is just a generic Gangster who wears a mask. Even Arnold Wesker is more interesting than him. Maybe one day someone will reinvent black mask as a cult leader, who forces his followers to wear masks. Also, maybe they can change his name, because black mask is pretty boring. I cannot think of a new name for him at the moment, but maybe you can think of something. Anyway, thanks for another good video.
The modern version is kinda generic yeah. The old one was unique though, and did just what you said: forced his followers to wear masks. Personally I'm fine with the name, although I'll admit it aint the greatest name ever. You're welcome man!
For me black mask should be used more often because he has potential maybe instead of DC forgetting him maybe do a way to boost old Roman (old Roman) by maybe feeling everyone wears a false face and making people show their true face like if i would write Batman and rewrite my way maybe Roman tries to prove everyone wears a mask by disfigureing Harvey and maybe when Harvey tries to get revenge it's like Romans way of saying you wore your mask know we can see your true face (but that's my idea maybe you can help me with this rogues )
I keep hearing people talk about how much potential this guy has, but honestly, he just seems to be a lame character. When has this guy ever been good? And what is unique about his character? If you think about it, he is just Two-Face except without the duality or the sympathetic backstory. A "friend" of Bruce Wayne who gets deformed and becomes an angry mob boss. He's also got no gimmicks or unique "cool" factor. The only time he was ever cool was in "The Batman" Cartoon, but that's because with the radical, kung fu redesigns of other characters (and the lack of Two-Face), he was able to stand out as one of the few gangster mob boss characters with some sort of disfigurement. Maybe he is barely used and is underexposed, because he just sucks or he is redundant. There is a reason why some characters rise to the top, while others fade into obscurity. Anything Black Mask has to offer can be granted and done better by other characters. Batman already has a ton of villains anyway. Maybe he could work as a villain for another Rogue's gallery, like Nightwing, Red Hood, or even Green Arrow.
I had an idea for a new black mask interpretation that i though could be an improvement over the torture driven maniac that we have now. He would have arrived from a different city in the late 90s and ever since has Been growing his criminal empire, he would be rich, but his background would be a complete mystery, with people only knowing him for his ever worn black Mask. His shtick (as all Batman villain have One or more) Is that he Is obsessed with information, he would state that with such modern technology at our disposal still all It takes for him Is One primitive porcelain Mask to Hide his identity Unlike other Mobsters who would strike with force. Black Mask would use mostly blackmail and exposure to obtain control over the Underworld using physical force only when needed This would create a rivalry between Batman and black Mask to Which One of them reveals the identity of the other first
Yeah, I mean they sorta did in the 90s - he was a crime lord, but a sort of cult leader too.. I dunno.. almost feels like Moench merged two different villain ideas in one.
I don't know if there are. Batgirl year 1 would obviously be included, probably as number 1. Maybe misfits too, he was pretty cool there, and not silly at all (except for his costume). Maybe some of the old silver/bronze age batgirl stuff.. I'll give it a try some day at least.. :P
I love your channel and if you’re ever interested I would love to do a long form phone interview about batman villains with you for my podcast. Please let me know if this sounds like something worth your time
Three best "modern" Batman characters: Black Mask, Scarface, Harley Quinn. They've all been underused and misused, despite their potential. Everything else, from all the sidekicks to any of the rogues have been awful, Hush and Azrael included.
Oi Rogues where is the forgotten villains vid on blind justice from the 3 parter for the 50th anniversary of batman cos i got part 1 a while a go and i would like to know more about the him
My Favorite was when Catwoman killed him. Oh, you mean actual stories on him? Whoops, uh... The one where he ate a bulle-oh, same thing? I've got nothing, then.
Gotham rouges if you going to do Deacon Blackfire next, I thinking don't because I have strange feeling that he might appear in Gotham tv show some day!
Making him a scary-looking Kingpin is so ininspired tho guys. You realize you could do that with literally *any* character? It's not unique lol. Roman's gotta stand on his own. Unless his mask theme comes back, that's not happening any time soon.
I always wanted a story where Black Mask wants to figure out Batman. He wants to know who is the mask and who is the man. It would have him figure out Batman is his childhood friend Bruce Wayne. And he leads the false face society to reveal everyone’s true face. Also a redesign of Roman’s mask. Skulls are to overused. Maybe instead a warped face with strange features but not to over the top and his classic suit and hat. And bring in some of that sense of humor from his modern take.
Damian Prock I wasn’t. I was dealing with Penguin while Bruce decided he could take on most of Gotham by himself without anything bad happening to him. Aside from Jim hating him for a while, Tim hating his guts for lying, and did I forget his secret identity being revealed? Yeah if Bruce brought me along his identity would be safe and I could’ve taken on the militia while he took on Scarecrow and Jason. Plus Tim hasn’t gotten over Bruce being that big of a jerk to him. Or releasing him after Barbra was found alive
I'm a firm believer in that there are no bad ideas, just bad execution.. except when there are REALLY bad ideas. I really believe Black Mask isn't a bad idea, he's just executed pretty badly.. I want the character to succeed and become a true great bat-rogue. Get the recognition he deserves.
I agree. Batman Arkham Origins could have been much better if Black Mask actually was the #1 villain, rather than a decoy. That is only about 1/3 of the reasons why I liked the other 2 PS3/X360 games more.
Black Mask has been shit on throughout the entire Arkham Series.
He doesn’t appear in the first game
In city, he’s curbstomped by guards
In Origin’s, he’s just replaced with Joker
In Knight, he’s killed by the Red Hood
Poor guy.
@@Reagan1984 wah wah wah
Exactly, he has a lot of potential.
@@makutas-v261 IKR
I never picture him as the mask based villain, I always picture him as the kingpin of Gotham one of the major crime lords
cowboy7597 some would think he is the Red Skull's grandson
cowboy7597 - He can be both though.
Gotham Rogues he can and that would create the perfect black mask, I do find it odd no writer has tried to combine the two, also when I got this notification I was watching your videos
Gotham Rogues who would win in a fight? Black mask or the Red Skull
I would assume Red is more powerful.
I think one reason Black Mask tortures people is to get them to show their true selves. "Take their masks off" so to speak. It's like when Ledger's Joker says "In their last moments people show you who they really are" in The Dark Knight.
Actually, Black Mask uses torture for intimidation and entertainment
@@damianprock1650 that reference.😂
@@ultrabigfella well it is true
Yeah that’s why I like him in between torture and mask obsessed. If the torturing has something to do with that obsession I mentioned, I’m okay with it.
the shitty post millennium version of black mask, yeah.
"You just can't help but like this guy, even though there aint much to him." That's exactly how I feel about Gothams' Victor Zsasz.
Perhaps so
Black Mask is one of my favorite Batman villains. He feels like someone you would find on The Dark Web. Since he loves to torture people, he feels like someone you'd find in The Black Room, which is a video section of The Dark Web where you watch people being tortured. Even though I have NEVER AND NEVER HAVE been on The Dark Web.
Overall, Great villain.
You good bro?
The reason I voted for Black Mask in the previous video was out of shear curiosity, not because I had any attachment to the character so consider that satisfied. I largely agree on the character and his wasted potential. Usually, in most modern Black Mask stories, You could swap him out with the Penguin and it would make no discernible difference. I figured you'd put War Paint somewhere on this list. In my personal opinion, the best story featuring skull-face Black Mask is the Catwoman story "Relentless".
Who would you say it was most challenging to find good stories for? Mad Hatter? Mr Freeze or this guy?
I'd say this guy haha.. at least with Hatter I had the impostor to fall on.. although I suppose there's an "impostor Mask" too, with Jeremiah Arkham. Never liked him becoming Black Mask 2 though..
I hope Man-Bat will prove easier.
Yes! Yes! Yes! I'm so happy your back. And that next is Man Bat! WOOOOOO! Also, maybe you should do Bane Stories.
Anybody thinks that Black Mask has the potential to become the Kingpin to Batman's Daredevil? I mean both Bruce and Roman knew each other since childhood, which might make for a more personal rivalry. Black Mask might also work better as a toned down, calculating and complex villain to give him a unique edge as, come on, most of the rogues already are over the top and sometimes outright psychotic acting, but that's only my opinion. Great vid and glad you're back
That would be interesting to me, as I usually only see Penguin as a recurring character that owns illegal businesses. It would be interesting to see various gang leaders fight to be the wealthiest one.
I wouldn't be so sure
I'd prefer Penguin.
Penguin already fills that roll
@@alexandersmith7061 Exactly
I think that mask could be both a sadistic and powerful gangster and an insane mask obsessed cultist. The torture thing could still work really well as long as it's not his only 'thing'. Anyway, I'll check these stories out.
When I was younger I loved the skull face Black Mask, now I prefer the mask theme version with the Brown suit and hat, I love that design. I wish I could write for DC to try to make a good black mask story haha! Good video once again Ol Rogues
Yes!!!!
You are back !!
Good list Gotham. Such an underrated villain. Who deserves so much more. Masks are a fascinating theme to write about. Like Black Mask could have so much to discuss with Wayne and his Batman persona.
Yeah, I always figured Roman should see through the Bruce Wayne mask, and realize he's Batman.
That'd be so interesting.
Both Roman and Bruce have the traits in common that they feel the need to redeem themselves but took opposite paths. Bruce puts on a mask and goes to be a vigilante to save the people of Gotham, whereas Roman puts on a mask and aspires to build an empire of crime
@@Godfather9814 talk about an outstanding grudge
Gosh Black Mask is so underrated! He needs to make a big screen appearance in a Batman movie one day so much potential.
Indeed!
Look at the abomination that happened in the late Harley Quinn movie. It's as if the only thing they got right was the personality
I'm still waiting for a top best ventriloquist story's
Yes! That would be perfect
The Real Super Sam ikr
So good to see a new video review from you! Maybe time is on Black Mask's side. After all Scarecrow didn't appear for over twenty years until he was resurrected. I hope a great Black Mask story is in the cards. Looking forward to your Man Bat video! Wishing you all the best!
You didn't know this but it's my birthday, best birthday present yet!
Charm Frog happy birthday man
Happy Birthday!
Happy birthday, you old charming frog!
Since you mention Stephanie you should do an Underrated Rogues video on her father Arthur Brown AKA The Cluemaster.
Yeah, something with the Cluemaster could be fun. I love the comic where Eddie kidnaps him for stealing his gimmick.
Yeah poor old Arthur was really having a bad day that issue. LOL
i hope someday we get a mix between classic black mask and modern black mask
Just found your channel, and I understand your rant in the begining my second favourite Batman villain is Black Mask so thank you so much for making this video :)
Hey Rogues! Not sure if you've heard, but there's gonna be a new major Scarecrow story coming out later this year! A six part story called Kings of Fear! Here's hoping that it'll finally be that definitive comic story Crane desperately needs!
Is it going to a miniseries or is it an arc in the Batman comics?
I think it's gonna be a miniseries
Yeah I did hear that, and it seems awesome! Kelley Jones is drawing it! I'll definately give it a review once I've read it. See, this is what excites me, and not another Joker tale or mini. I hadn't heard about Riddler though. I wonder if it'll use the same depiction from War of Js and Rs, or if this is a new take on Eddie. Haven't read much with Bendis, but I've been hearing lots of bad stuff about him lately..
Hi! I had an interesting video suggestion I haven't seen anyone else come up with. What if you review the Killer Moth episode from Teen Titans? He stands out on the show as the only Bat-Rouge they used, and they used a much more threatening version than the bumbling idiot we typically see on the small screen (plus there are plenty of new elements, like his costume and daughter!) I know Batman isn't in the show, but Robin is! Either way, keep up the great work at your own pace! :)
Or maybe not even the specific episode, just the series' use of him as a character!
Completly agree
That sounds pretty interesting, I didn't even know he appeared on that show; haven't seen much of it.
Gotham Rogues I believe he is only a major villain in two episodes, the first of which is PHENOMENAL (Date with Destiny). I highly recommend a watch!
Love ya rogues ❤❤❤
Yay you are back! And cool vid because I waited for this video.
I found your channel a few days ago, I absolutely love it and had to instantly subscribe. I especially loved your Riddler and Ra's al Ghul videos, they're two of my favourite villains but as you say in their vids, it is hard to find good stories with them that reflects their true character, especially Riddler. This was such an awesome video as well, Black Mask is one of my top villains, even though I personally prefer the skull version of him, this vid was still great and informative. Black Mask would be the perfect villain for a solo Batman film if the DCEU ever sorts out just what it's doing, think we were all a bit miffed with how he was hyped for Arkham Origins and was entirely mistreated so a proper mainstream portrayal would be nice.
Would love it if one day you do a video on Killer Moth , he's a character I just think is ridiculously brilliant. Keep up the great work!
Thanks, and glad to have you onboard! And yeah, Mask really needs to be in a movie - if not in a Batman movie, than at leats in a Catwoman movie, considering their rivalry in the comics. As for a Moth video, a lot of people want that, so I'll probably do it some day.
@@mr.rogues4145 glad to hear it
Thank you brother
I love the whole black mask seeing torture as art and and being brutal and having a very charismatic personality yet having a very scary side I like that take the most
(rubs hands together) All-righty, so...I'm going to come right out and say it, I am not that familiar with ol' Masky. Interestingly enough, ALL of the stories I've read that feature him in a major way are on this list...and it makes four out of five, no less. The only one I'm NOT familiar with is Dark Trinity. (Frankly, after hearing your description/analysis of it, and seeing the images from it...I MUST read that one VERY soon.) I've read "Under the Hood," of course, though not for his sake; his first appearance, believe it or not, was the very first story with him I read - a friend of mine, who is a comic collector, shared it with me back in High School. I later got to read your number one pick via the same friend, only a year or two ago, in fact. As for "War Games"...I haven't read the entire arc, but I've read bits and pieces of it. There are a couple of stories that involve him, so to speak, that I've read, but not really in a major way...at least, not to my recollection. Most of what I know of Black Mask comes from other media...and given how poorly (and how rarely) he tends to be treated in other media, perhaps it's no surprise, therefore, that he's not exactly one of my favorite Batman Villains. On a list of my Top 24 Batman Villains, I placed him quite close to the bottom. I like the guy, but I'm not his biggest fan. It seems to me though, more and more recently, that people are starting to wake up to Black Mask; I know one or two people who even consider him one of their top ten or fifteen favorite Batman Rogues of all time. I think this may be due to the Arkham games (flimsy as his portrayal there may be) and the movie adaptation of Under the Hood, "Under the Red Hood," more than anything else. Of course, "The Batman," of all shows, might be part of it, too...others may disagree, but that I consider that to be the best Black Mask out there. He's never been more intimidating, in my opinion.
Speaking of favorite stories - random side note - I have finally chosen my picks and ranking for My Favorite Two-Face Stories! I'll make sure to share that list with you when I actually get the collage made and the descriptions written up. ;)
I still haven't seen his The Batman episodes.. Really want to correct that. Such a darn shame he never appeared on TAS; that show could've done with him what it did with so many other rogues. And yeah, I'm really interested to see your top Harv choices.. ;) Will check it out, and the other lists you've linked as soon as I can.
John Robledo I have seen your list and I love it! As for mask, I agree that his best portrayal outside of comics was The Batman. He was a great Antagonist in his debut, but was underutilized for the reminder of the series, just like Ivy and Basil. Shame.
Frankly, thats one of my big problems with The Batman; a lot of people complain about the designs and such, but my biggest issue was they gave a lot of villains really good intros, but then either didn't really use them to their full potential afterwards, or just didn't give them material that was AS good following that intro, even if they were the main villain. Killer Croc, Ragdoll, Black Mask, Bane...I won't say it was WASTED potential, because their intros were all pretty awesome, at least in my opinion, and they were fun when you saw them again. But their true power just never got to be showcased properly after their first appearance :P
1:10 - N°5 - Black Mask 1st appearance
3:10 - N°4 - Under the hood
4:35 - N°3 - War games
6:20 - N°2 - Dark trinity
8:15 - N°1 - War paint/Faces of death
Black Mask being one of my favorite Batman villain of all time. Does consistently get the shaft. Like when Warner Bros advertises Batman Arkham Origins he was billed as the main villain. Of course that’s not what we got. That’s just one example. Hopefully one day we do get the definitive Blask Mask Movie, comic book or what ever one of these days. Hope fully someone can end the curse of the Black Mask Curse! This is one of my favorite video of yours Rogues. Have a nice day!
Nice to see you back at it been waiting for this.
Rest in peace. Steve Ditko
War games is the one that remind me of Blackmask the most. Though, the most favourite would probably the first appearance of him in 80s and the War Paint/Faces of Death one on the first list of urs 🙂.
The Brubaker Catwoman story was really good. Dixon used him , too.
Really enjoyed watching this!
*Black Mask confirmed main villain for the "Birds of Prey" movie*
Finally! Let's hope they don't mess it up, I still remember how that *Gotham* episode ("The Mask") that I was so hyped about still hurts 4 years ago >< (fun fact: Richard Sionis from that episode was made comicBat-canon in the new RHATO as Roman's father)
_Thanks a lot for this video Rogues_ I've been waiting for _this_ one in particular a long time ^^
For some reason I've always been a fan of Black Mask, I discovered him back in the days with the Red Hood arc (+ the pretty great movie), and he was indeed a lot of fun in this one. Or maybe the first time was in Catwoman: Relentless, but he was written the same way with the same dark sense of humor.
Recently I've read the 6 issues of the *Batman: Unseen* title by Doug Moench (the chara's creator, yay) and Kelley Jones, and since you didn't mention it, I assumed that you might have missed it...
Roman Sionis (skull 'mask/face' era) plays quite a big role in it
Without spoiling too much, kinda like in "Under the Red Hood", he is the 3rd man in a "Batman - new mysterious foe - Black Mask" triangle, so you could kinda call it a Black Mask story =)
IMHO it's an interesting read to understand Roman Sionis character, his origin story is retold from his perspective (and they removed the racoon, yay ^^), and it's my favorite so far
but as a Batman story, it had many problems, and I wasn't a fan of the "real villain"...
Art is cool if you like the style, and the suprise villain has a very... interesting design ;_ ;
Anyway, hopefully good ol' Mask will get to do something big in the near future since he's part of the "Black and Whites" trio along Penguin & Great White Shark, the top dogs in Gotham "Rebirth era" gangs-wise.
Because I think he had like 2 lines in "All-Star Batman", and that alliance didn't do much in Rebirth in Red Hood & the Outlaws; (great arc this one indeed)... and I don't remember White & Penguin helping Sionis during his most recent war against Catwoman [with the whole "White Mask" story]
Anyway, I'm gonna stop ranting, storry, I used to post on your videos all the time, I've missed it =)
glad to see that your channel keeps growing, and that you still post quality content on a regular basis
And if you're still reading at this point
I hope that one day you do a "forgotten rogues" video about Philo Zeiss/Mr Zeiss, Lew Moxon's bodyguard with the cool googles who made it personnal with Batman...
I've always liked this dude and his haircut (was pissed when he later shaved his head >
I wonder who they got to play him
War games is the most underrated batman story ever
Where have you been we've missed yah 😁
Yeah I would've put this video up sooner if it hadn't taken so much time looking for good Mask stories..
Gotham Rogues Do top 5 Red Hood stories
@@raven3067 now that I'd like to see jasher, Red Hood is like DC's answer to the Punisher
@@damianprock1650 yeah I'd like to see that too. But I don't see the comparison between Red Hood and Punisher.
@@raven3067 well, they're both gun toting vigilantes with tragic pasts, an interesting fact once you think about it
The only best story with him was in Batman Under the Red Hood story arc.
I think one that should be on here is the Catwoman, when she killed Roman! But Dark Trinity should be number one~
I certainly thought about putting some of the Catwoman stuff on here too.
YAAAAAAAS YOU'RE BACK♥
Torture is a means to forcibly remove people's pretences, their masks. People show their true faces when under such duress. It's the opposite of putting on a mask and becoming a more powerful version of yourself. Very appropriate for someone who grew to hate all the pretentious bullshit of people like his parents. At the end of the day he wants realness and honesty from people. That's the best I could come up with connecting masks and torture.
"replaced with torture porn" I'm subbing just for that XD
Yes!! Been waiting for a new video !! :D
We need a top 5 Man Bat stories video! I've read a lot of his stories lately and wanted to see your favourites. And also just more top 5 stories in general;)
Yeah, I did say I was gonna do it... but now that I've branched out, I'm kinda more eager to cover non-bat rogues; been thinking about Parasite, Trickster and a few others. That doesn't mean I'll never do Man-Bat, though. Well, we'll see what I end up doing.
Mr. Rogues ahh very well. It is your channel after all. Certainly interested to see those guys as well.
I think The Batman did Black Mask right. Ruthlessly efficient crime lord ("You're to be applauded for getting me out. And fired, for letting children slow you down.") who has an enigmatic element in his mask. It can't be removed, it allows him to sit through a chemical attack as if it were a gas mask, and it doesn't give him stupid googly eyes or a gimp aesthetic. And it's never explained! Which is great.
The only thing I would change would be to give him a little of the Outlaws one's personality. A hatred of criminals who cause more collateral damage than make a profit. Have him refuse to work with some of the other Rogues. Have him order hits on the Joker because "That guy's bad for business". Have him give Batman anonymous tip offs when anyone threatens anything that would ruin the economic value of Gotham. Suddenly there's an argument for not putting Black Mask straight into jail. "I could do that. But then there's no street element doing its part to foil Ivy's next 'Kill all the humans' plan."
But it shouldn't be his chief reason for being. Screw the crazies, but his main concern should always be making money.
Good stuff
Huh...kinda got excited for the character after seeing those arkham files of yours. *I like your version the best by far*
Im from 2019:
Rogues 2018:man bat is next
THE VIDEO DROPPED A WEEK AGO
Top 5 Villains That Should Be in Beware the Batman, the Batman: Arkham games, or The Batman or Top 5 Teen Titans Villains?
All really good lists
Also. Your microphone is way better. Your louder, but that works. I agree. Hopefully we will get Black Mask in a video game. Maybe he'll shine there like Scarecrow
5.can't go wrong with a good origin story
4.and thus we're introduced to DC's take on the Punisher
3.they do realize this means war, on a side note, Spoiler will be missed
2.I'm not sure that Bizarro is big on taking orders
1.just about the same situation Batman was in when it came to "Arkham Knight"
But if you think these are interesting, then what I'm working on will give Black Mask something that's definitive
I've always preferred the pinstripe suit and fedora. A quirky skeleton-faced guy reduces him to being the evil twin of Mr. Bones in my eyes.
Top 5 Jason Todd stories?
I picture the perfect Black Mask to go like this: Batman has been at his career as a crime fighter for about a year. Joker has shown up and maybe a few other rogues, but the mob still has control of most of the city. But Batman is constantly pressing them inward. His non-jurisdiction means that he can follow them across rooftops, invade private property, figure out exactly who everyone is and punish them accordingly. In comes a new criminal. He's not very noticeable, is actually quite wimpy, and fails to shine compared to the big names. But he lasts, and he survives. Because this Black Mask isn't the real one. He gets his orders from another Black Mask, who gets his orders from yet another Black Mask. The identity is shared among a pool of like-thinking individuals, and if one is taken out by Batman the others step up. In short, Black Mask becomes the main kingpin of Gotham because nobody knows who the real one is, if there even IS a real one. He survives because Batman can't see everything at once, and even when he catches the Black Mask, he was only receiving orders from another Mask over the internet from a source far away. Black Mask becomes the organization itself, a self-replicating criminal organization that exists because its the only kind that CAN exist with Batman prowling about.
Black Mask might be the most evil villain in Batman's rogues gallery; he wears blackface. Not even the Joker does that
I think a good boost for black mask is to do a hush for him, like make him an actual friend of Bruce Wayne so his turning as a villian is much more personal, it also allows him to work with people like Hush
True
Yes a new video centering the 5 best villain stories. I have to say Black Mask has a lot of potential, but frustratingly he has been crimally underrated. Just for once I and the many fans would like to see a live action batman film that would focus Roman Sionis turn into Black Mask. Somewhat similar to his first comic book appearance. What do you think?
Yeah, I wanna see that too. And if not in a Batman film, than at least in a Catwoman movie, considering he's got a long running rivalry with her too.
That could work too. Thank you Gotham Rogues. Keep up the good work.
I wish they made a Old Age Mad Hatter vs Old Age Black Mask story, about Hats vs Masks.
There is a Black Mask vs Mad Hatter story actually (in the New52), and it's a fun one.
Welcome back,; I hope you.are better. Good Black Mask Video. Considering Batman is getting married, maybe you could make.a video that explores his relationship with Catwoman.
Thank you! Yeah, I would've been back sooner too, if Maskie wasn't such a tough nut.. ;)
I guess something with Catwoman would've been fitting, not sure I want to though.
Gotham Rogues well if you make something , it could be top 5 stories that show their relationship over the years, one I would recommend is the story by Alan Brennert, set on Earth Two where Batman and Catwoman fight the Scarecrow. Be well.
Dude thank you so much for this vid.
I was always one of the readers who thought they preferred Black Mask as a mobster type. A transitional character from the Falcone "Godfather"-esque mobsters to a type of masked, psychotic --- and therefore, more Batman-ny --- type of mobster. I always thought his gang of masked goons was a good way to play on minions and explore the evolution of crime in Gotham from traditional to costumed-and-nuts. But thinking about it recently, since his weird fetish with mannequins was there from the beginning, I have kind of decided I prefer the "psycho of sadomasochism", vice-lord interpretation as more original, more unique. More adult, certainly, but a take that differentiates the character from the rest of Batman's rogues.
Whatever, I think we can agree that the movie take as a freaky, homosexual will probably be unacceptable.
Not sure why people have such a hard time writing him. Just combine the old mask theme with the newer mob boss version. I like the old origin of him being dropped on the head and bitten by a raccoon; it's so strange yet simple.
Awesome video
Good to see you again Rogues. I can see why you had trouble finding great stories about Roman. In all honesty Black Mask is just a generic Gangster who wears a mask. Even Arnold Wesker is more interesting than him.
Maybe one day someone will reinvent black mask as a cult leader, who forces his followers to wear masks. Also, maybe they can change his name, because black mask is pretty boring. I cannot think of a new name for him at the moment, but maybe you can think of something.
Anyway, thanks for another good video.
The modern version is kinda generic yeah. The old one was unique though, and did just what you said: forced his followers to wear masks. Personally I'm fine with the name, although I'll admit it aint the greatest name ever.
You're welcome man!
so rebirth black mask is basically just kingpin
Top five Killer Moth best stories, please.
That I'd like to see
I enjoyed his appearance in Batman Brave and the Bold.
underrated batman villains for me.
For me black mask should be used more often because he has potential maybe instead of DC forgetting him maybe do a way to boost old Roman (old Roman) by maybe feeling everyone wears a false face and making people show their true face like if i would write Batman and rewrite my way maybe Roman tries to prove everyone wears a mask by disfigureing Harvey and maybe when Harvey tries to get revenge it's like Romans way of saying you wore your mask know we can see your true face (but that's my idea maybe you can help me with this rogues )
Yeah thats a good idea; that's basically what I've been thinking too, including the bit with Harvey.
Gotham Rogues well we both agree on the idea rogues love your videos
I would’ve added Battle for the Cowl, but idk if you wanted just Roman
What is the music used in this video? I love it
I keep hearing people talk about how much potential this guy has, but honestly, he just seems to be a lame character. When has this guy ever been good? And what is unique about his character? If you think about it, he is just Two-Face except without the duality or the sympathetic backstory. A "friend" of Bruce Wayne who gets deformed and becomes an angry mob boss. He's also got no gimmicks or unique "cool" factor. The only time he was ever cool was in "The Batman" Cartoon, but that's because with the radical, kung fu redesigns of other characters (and the lack of Two-Face), he was able to stand out as one of the few gangster mob boss characters with some sort of disfigurement. Maybe he is barely used and is underexposed, because he just sucks or he is redundant. There is a reason why some characters rise to the top, while others fade into obscurity. Anything Black Mask has to offer can be granted and done better by other characters. Batman already has a ton of villains anyway. Maybe he could work as a villain for another Rogue's gallery, like Nightwing, Red Hood, or even Green Arrow.
Can you do dr story's when you did the Silver Smith the Doctor who was an evil
I had an idea for a new black mask interpretation that i though could be an improvement over the torture driven maniac that we have now. He would have arrived from a different city in the late 90s and ever since has Been growing his criminal empire, he would be rich, but his background would be a complete mystery, with people only knowing him for his ever worn black Mask. His shtick (as all Batman villain have One or more) Is that he Is obsessed with information, he would state that with such modern technology at our disposal still all It takes for him Is One primitive porcelain Mask to Hide his identity
Unlike other Mobsters who would strike with force. Black Mask would use mostly blackmail and exposure to obtain control over the Underworld using physical force only when needed
This would create a rivalry between Batman and black Mask to Which One of them reveals the identity of the other first
Ragdoll is in Flash Season 5!
For real??
Yep. They reveled a bunch of new villians for the Season 5 Today!
You could easily merge the mask theme and the crime-lord theme. I don't know why they didn't.
Yeah, I mean they sorta did in the 90s - he was a crime lord, but a sort of cult leader too.. I dunno.. almost feels like Moench merged two different villain ideas in one.
True.
Also do think there are even enough Killer Moth stories to make a video? I mean I know people want it but lol.
I don't know if there are. Batgirl year 1 would obviously be included, probably as number 1. Maybe misfits too, he was pretty cool there, and not silly at all (except for his costume). Maybe some of the old silver/bronze age batgirl stuff.. I'll give it a try some day at least.. :P
Batgirl year one is a "mothsterpiece"
I guess there was that one time he became that weird mutant charaxes.
Black Mask got a record of having bad, okay, and mediocre storyline. Let's hope someday he'll get a great arc someday.
Do a forgotten villains amygdala
Yeah he's a good one.
Do the top 5 best Victor Zsasz Stories
Some day ;) He's got better stories than ol' Masky here that's for sure. Just his origin, for example, is a lot better.
@@mr.rogues4145 Exactly
I actually like the modern Black Masks better. The lack of a gimic seems more realistic and, to be honest, refreshing.
Makes him kind of boring though.
I love your channel and if you’re ever interested I would love to do a long form phone interview about batman villains with you for my podcast. Please let me know if this sounds like something worth your time
Three best "modern" Batman characters: Black Mask, Scarface, Harley Quinn. They've all been underused and misused, despite their potential. Everything else, from all the sidekicks to any of the rogues have been awful, Hush and Azrael included.
Oi Rogues where is the forgotten villains vid on blind justice from the 3 parter for the 50th anniversary of batman cos i got part 1 a while a go and i would like to know more about the him
Does anyone know if Black Mask was killed in teen titans special #1?
My Favorite was when Catwoman killed him. Oh, you mean actual stories on him? Whoops, uh... The one where he ate a bulle-oh, same thing? I've got nothing, then.
Gotham rouges if you going to do Deacon Blackfire next, I thinking don't because I have strange feeling that he might appear in Gotham tv show some day!
Yes I love Black Mask and can I tell you something
I think a top 5 bane story video would be interesting
Yeah he's certainly down the line. The only major bat rogue I haven't covered yet.
Making him a scary-looking Kingpin is so ininspired tho guys. You realize you could do that with literally *any* character? It's not unique lol.
Roman's gotta stand on his own. Unless his mask theme comes back, that's not happening any time soon.
What if he gave people masks attached to his face and it replaces their face and Roman would do it somewhat like Professor Pyg
Can you please do top 10 best Carmine Falcone stories
Feeding catwomen's sister her brother in laws body parts as to be here.! That was sick on a hole batman villain level.!
Can I make a reaction video to this
What is that song?
What’s name of the song
A solo black mask movie!
Yeah I could see it as a mobster like movie it would be dope
Top 5 Red Hood stories
That's something I'd like to see, but he's more of an anti-hero than a complete villain
I used to have a dog named blackie
I always thought his name was pronounced se-OWN-us; not Psy-ON-us
Maybe it is haha.. I don't hear it pronounced that often.
Sorry for being such a grammar Nazi, you can say it however you want.
Also; what are your thoughts on Disney buying FOX?
I think Disney has bought enough as it is.. soon they'll own the whole world.
idk, AT&T bought DC and WB.
My stories are boring and suck to you? Hmm I’ll have you dealt with.
Not if Red Hood, Batman, or even the Punisher have anything to say about it Sionis
I always wanted a story where Black Mask wants to figure out Batman. He wants to know who is the mask and who is the man. It would have him figure out Batman is his childhood friend Bruce Wayne. And he leads the false face society to reveal everyone’s true face. Also a redesign of Roman’s mask. Skulls are to overused. Maybe instead a warped face with strange features but not to over the top and his classic suit and hat. And bring in some of that sense of humor from his modern take.
They did that with Hush in "Arkham Knight", you should know since you were there
Damian Prock I wasn’t. I was dealing with Penguin while Bruce decided he could take on most of Gotham by himself without anything bad happening to him. Aside from Jim hating him for a while, Tim hating his guts for lying, and did I forget his secret identity being revealed? Yeah if Bruce brought me along his identity would be safe and I could’ve taken on the militia while he took on Scarecrow and Jason. Plus Tim hasn’t gotten over Bruce being that big of a jerk to him. Or releasing him after Barbra was found alive
@@ohitsthatguy8079 still just about the same once you think about it