[Editor’s note: This review may contain spoilers]
Writer: Mairghread Scott
Artists: Paul Pelletier & Norm Rapmund
Colors: Jordie Bellaire
Letters: Deron Bennett
Summary
“Art of the Crime” part one. During a high-speed chase with murderous art thief Grotesque, the villain K.O.’s Batgirl with a souped-up stun gun that temporarily fries the device implanted in her spine. (That thing that helps her, you know, walk and be Batgirl?) Babs finds herself in for a whole new world of hurt now that old wounds have been opened up—and so does Grotesque.
Positives
I like the cover by Sean Murphy and Matt Hollingsworth. It’s very stylistic and creepy. The image makes me want to the read the issue the second I see it.
The interior art is also good. The first part of the issue is focused on a motorcycle chase that feels very dynamic. The art teams plays this whole section out very well as well as the rest of the issue. Another highlight is after Babs’ chip is damaged, it is screwing with her head. The artists shows her point of view in these scene and it’s very creative and strange.
The issue sets up a potentially cool story. It has always been weird that Barbara had such an easy get out of jail free card with this chip. I accept it because I love Babs as Batgirl but it’s still a little cheap. While it’s not the first time, I like that Mairghread Scott is using the chip as an Achilles heel. And in addition to that, it is doing something beyond just not allowing Babs to walk. I’m excited to see where this story goes.
Negatives
There are no negatives worth mentioning in this issue.
Verdict
This is a great issue. The action is dynamic, well-paced and fun. The art is creative and exciting. And the story is an exciting idea that will really challenge Barbara in a good way. I recommend checking this issue out.
