Boom! Wham! Pow! The ComiQuad is a column dedicated to the spandex-laden world of comics and superheroes. It goes up each Tuesday and will alternate between comic book reviews and other comic book news. Reviews shall try to be spoiler-free. Zam!
Birds of Prey #4
One of the most compelling features of any well-written superhero team comic book is the harmony (or disharmony) of character voices. In some issues, the choir sings in unison. In others, they clash and duke it out for the reader’s enjoyment. Birds of Prey #4 builds on its growing momentum by giving its superheroines even more of a chance to speak.
The primary narrator of this month’s issue is Starling, one of DC’s newest female superheroes. Her brassy, comical voice stands in stark contrast to Black Canary’s usual composed, cooler observations. Even the short quips from Batgirl and Poison Ivy are rich with varied characterization.
The interior art serves as a suitable palette for the ladies’ varied and entertaining facial expressions. Given the current state of some comic book art, it’s important to note that a comic filled almost entirely with women does not feature any exploitative art.
This fast-paced entry to a strongly written and drawn series finds a healthy balance between character advancement and plot advancement. Hopefully the series will dive into the voices of the ladies in future installments.
Review: 9/10
Incorruptible #1: Artist Edition
The difference between Incorruptible #1: Artist Edition and the original #1 issue is a mostly black-and-white art scheme with a slew of sketches and drawing extras at the end. Fortunately, I had not read the original issue before the artist edition, so the review of the story is completely fresh.
The comic’s concept is by far its strongest feature. The world’s premier superhero, the Plutonian, has gone berserk and has embarked on a massacre of the world’s people and superheroes. Max Damage, a notorious supervillain, has hung up his evil mantle to become the superhero the world now needs.
Unfortunately, the book’s writing does not live up to its lofty concept. The comic spends far too much page economy on a relatively formulaic exchange between Max’s former lackeys and the police. Frankly, Max is the only moderately compelling character in the book. His sidekicks, especially his female, underage love interest named “Jailbait,” are too trope-familiar.
The art is reasonable. Artist Jean Diaz’ large, full-page spreads are impressive, but the smaller, more intricate scenes look mediocre. The artist’s edition’s black-and-white adds drama to some pages, yet feels bland on others. The occasional coloring of loud words like “Fwoosh!” and “Baby!” were an okay touch. The extra sketches at the back of book were pretty impressive.
For fans of the series, this edition could be an a great supplement to the original. For non-fans, it might not be worth the $3.99.
Review: 6.5/10
Wonder Woman #4
Most images of Wonder Woman feature her bravely rescuing innocent citizens or wrastlin’ down some ne’er-do-wells with her Lasso of Truth. Wonder Woman #4 features metalhead Diana donning leather pants and a matching vest at a London rock club.
Although Diana has a few strong moments in this issue, it’s her supporting cast that makes the story particularly special. Both her allies, Zola and Hermes, and her enemies, Hera and Strife, offer moments of insight, humor, and pure terror. Goddess Strife is particularly interesting as she fills the “bitterly boozy mean girl from high school” role.
Cliff Chiang’s art continues to be appropriately striking. By modeling itself loosely after Greek art, it sets the perfect visual tone for a comic rooted entirely in Greek god mythos.
The only complaint comes with the general lack of action. For the past two issues, there’s been no physical conflict. It’s about time Wonder Woman starts laying some serious smack-down.
Review: 8.5/10
