The Good
Last issue gave us a completely different direction for this title, and though it’s been a controversial one, it’s caught my eye more than anything else since the new writer started. It felt like a chance to try something truly unique and different with the most outsider member of the Bat-family. But it helps if there’s been a foundation laid, so now we flash back to Batwoman seemingly in the thrall of something otherworldly about to administer a punishment to some petty vandals that would make Judge Dredd tell her she’s being harsh. Marc Andreyko’s never had a problem capturing what makes Kate Kane so effective when she’s under the cowl, and this issue, for the most part, is no different. The first part of the issue is alive with intrigue and flashes to other scenes that mimic the disorientation the main character eventually feels, letting the reader feel it along with her.
Georges Jeanty is probably best known for his pencils on BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER, so this is a lateral move for him, both thematically and visually. There’s an almost oppressive darkness and shadow over nearly all the panels, particularly those that take place outside. This isn’t an action-heavy issue, but when the action takes off, it looks great and when it doesn’t, the book still has a great sense of flow. Which is important when cutting back and forth between not only locations, but inner-thoughts and hallucinations. Karl Story’s inks calcify and clarify the various characters’ actions and reactions, as well as helping keep straight exactly who is who. Guy Major’s colors come through in a big way as well, giving the world depth and a sense of that foreboding darkness I mentioned earlier.
The Bad
It’s unusual to see Kathy both so caught off-guard and plainly emotional when she’s got her Batwoman duds on. Her interaction with Capt. Maggie Sawyer, and I get the history and current situation, is awkward where it shouldn’t be and gives the character a sense of desperation and weakness that feels beneath her. I get that she can be, and has been, emotional in the past, it’s one of the things I love about the character, but to have her lay the cards out on the table feels out of that character.
Speaking of out of character, while Jeanty’s visuals are generally good, the characters’ appearance and ages sometimes seem to vacillate between panels along with the detail level, rendering them mature women in one panel and giggling girls in the next. When he’s giving it his all, they look fantastic, but when he’s not, it shows unfortunately.
The Verdict
Last issue established a strong base, this one is building on top of it. I’m not a fan of every direction it’s going, but overall I still enjoyed this issue and, especially with what happens with Jason Blood on the last page, am up for whatever comes next. It’s an issue of extremes and when it’s up, it’s great, but when it’s down it is very so-so. The ups outweigh the downs, though, and if you’re a fan of Batwoman in and out of costume, I’d say this issue won’t steer you wrong.