In a World of Pure Imagination?...Willy Wonka was Right.
An essentially crime-free Gotham paired with The Joker Ice Cream Factory...A Disney-esque Gotham, if you will. Sound too good to be true? In this Gothtopia crossover issue, the red-haired Barbara Gordon commonly known as Batgirl, is in fact the same hero, but donning a costume of pure white with the alias "Bluebell". Her partner? Charise Carnes, known as the cunning mastermind Knightfall, but in this world of ice cream and smiles, "Daybreak". What a fine pair! You know something is seriously off kilter when you see a flowerbed framing a gargoyle perched on a Gotham city skyscraper. However in the city of Gotham, the superheroes who protect it and its inhabitants don't have much in the way of work. Crime has dropped a shocking 90 %!
The one kink in this Utopian city is the character Angela Ramirez. Her world "seemed" perfect: she has a wonderful husband, a beautiful daughter, a well-to-do career at the Joker Ice Cream Factory...But something is off somehow. In a place where she should know only happiness, love, and laughter, darkness is her only ally. What will become of this shining city of near-perfection? Will Gotham remain crime-free? Is it a good day to take a tour of the Joker Ice Cream Factory?
Pros: This has got to be hands down, one of the best and my most favorite Batgirls issues thus far. The art was absolutely gorgeous, the colors incredible, and the writing worked so well together. The entire creative team needs to be proud, this issue was flawless. Not to mention that the inclusion of a familiar face from the Batman: Death of the Family story arc sent chills down my spine. I almost let out a little shriek of delight!
Cons: The only gripe I really had with this issue was the costumes of Batgirl (Bluebell) and Knightfall (Daybreak). They looked a little goofy to me. That being said, I think that was the point of the nonsensical vibes I got at the start of the comic. It was supposed to be a bit over the top to create that perfect contrast with what readers know Gotham city to be and its superheroes to be.
If you're interested in reading a comic with a female protagonist, this issue is the perfect place to start! Batgirl is definitely a chronic must-read!
