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Review: Harley Quinn Rebirth

By Philip Schweier
August 3, 2016 - 14:35

Okay, I’m not sure what I just read. It kind of reminds of the irreverent Plastic Man series DC Comics published 10-12 years ago. Nothing to be taken seriously, just something for those who love the insanity of the character.

Our story begins with besties Harley and Ivy enjoying a spa day, as they recharge the batteries from Harley’s previous (New 52) series. Then Harley recaps her origin and introduces a handful of supporting players, many of whom have “zombie fodder” written all over them.

Oh, yeah, zombies. They're kind of a big deal right now. And in other news, Bruce Willis was dead the whole time. But maybe that just adds to the satire

Joining Harley on her madcap journey down the wabbit hole is Red Tool (copyright DC Comics), an irreverent loud mouth who seems intent on convincing the audience he’s the bigger tool. As the story unfolds, we are treated to a carnival of corny gags, one-liners and double entendres (plus a cameo by a certain group of meddling kids).

It’s like the Three Stooges without a Moe. Don’t get me wrong, I like the Three Stooges, but if SNL (and the aforementioned Plastic Man series) has taught us anything, it’s that short comedy bits can’t sustain an ongoing story.

I’d like for Harley’s new series to change that pattern. If not, perhaps it might become is a showcase for various writers and artists to vent their comedic spleen, putting the pantheon of DC heroes into the most ridiculous of situations. Let’s face it, they need that from time to time. In a world full of Dark Knights and battle-hardened Amazons, we need a pie in the face once in a while to remind us to laugh once in a while.

Even so, the artwork is worth the price of admission to Harley's freakfest. I'm not familair with Chad Hardin's work, but I hope to see more. It reminds me of the clean, classic rendering from the likes of Dick Giordano, George Perez, or Jose Luis Garcia Lopez.

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12