Written by: Judd WinickSing it with me, “LOVE IS IN THE AIR!”
Or maybe it’s lust, I can’t really tell at this point. Catwoman gets so hung up on the thrill of the moment that it’s hard to know when she’s compensating for her REAL emotions and when she’s being truly genuine.
Bats is definitely on hiatus from pursuing anything with Catwoman, but new partner in crime, (literally) Spark, (again, literally) so far, seems to have an interest in Catwoman that stems beyond thievery and hijinxs. Whether that’s a good or bad omen has yet to be seen. He seems to be a nice enough guy though, saving people before they’re blown to bits. Hero, villain, or just plain thief with a kind heart. (Oh man, I think I have a crush!)
There simply isn’t a lot to go on right now to make an honest judgement of Spark. Welcome to the mind of Selena Kyle, blindly trusting anyone who makes her purr with ecstasy. But I guess that’s the theme of this issue, the unknown. In addition to the mystery of Spark, we’ve also been introduced to a new hooded villain who prowls the night streets, looking for prostitutes, and killing them…or at least that’s what we’re to assume. And the Court of Owls is invading this titles as well, targeting Oswald Cobblepot! So much is unknown.
Artistically I’m still missing Guillem March, but I still love Adriana Melo. There’s a certain amount of playfulness she puts into our lovely feline kleptomaniac, giving her a equal balance of flirt, sex appeal, and girlish attitude, juxtaposed with her athleticism, womanly charm, and fervor…
The only real complaint I have about the art is how loose it feels, but that’s simply my personal taste and doesn’t speak towards the actual quality of Melo’s art. I’m thankful March is still doing the covers, however; his work is gorgeous and exciting. (If I ever see him at a convention, I’m totally going to ask him to do a commission for me!)
Winick is certainly serving Catwoman well by making this more than just about the sex appeal. With a new heist partner (because he’s definitely not a mere sidekick) and a brainy counterpart, there’s a real purpose and focus that’s driving this title forward, attempting to give Catwoman an interesting and vibrant supporting cast. The Court of Owls inclusion doesn’t seem to weigh the story down either.
However, with all that being said, this issue doesn’t go above and beyond; never providing any jaw dropping moments or deep, meaningful bits of oratory worthy of an Oscar nomination. (Because comic books can be nominated for an Oscar? Nice thinking Jimmy :S) This is nothing more than a fun installment of Catwoman filled with stealing, sex appeal, action, and fun. You’ll enjoy this issue if that’s your thing!
More to come in 30! (Well, I guess it’s less than 30 days by this time, but you get my meaning right?)
7 out of 10 stars
