Posted in: Comics | Tagged: batgirl, Batgirl and the Birds of Prey, Comics, dc, dc rebirth, entertainment
A Tougher Barbara Gordon: A Few More Thoughts On Batgirl And The Birds Of Prey #1
This week brings the release of Batgirl and the Birds of Prey #1, written by Shawna Benson and Julie Benson, with art by Claire Roe. While we've already discussed this creative team un-undoing the past, there's more to be said about this new comic. I've stomped my feet at the progression Batgirl has gone through over the past few years since Gail Simone's run ended. There was so much missing from a character that I had grown to love so much. Was it Burnside? Was it the new outfit? No. It had everything to do with Barbara Gordon and the way she was being written. Upon opening up the first page of Batgirl and the Birds of Prey, I honestly was geared up for more disappointment. However, I'm happy to report that I wasn't disappointed at all. Much like Simone's first Batgirl issue in New 52, we are greeted by Barbara Gordon with powerful inner dialogue. Each attack is met with an explanation allowing us to have more of an immersive experience.
Beyond that, the issue gives us some important background for new readers, and to correct the past as mentioned earlier. Page by page, the issue heats up. I couldn't help by smile as that tough, determined Batgirl that I loved so much returned to the page. It's not that I didn't enjoy moments of Batgirl of Burnside, because I did. Honestly, it was a completely different experience. With that said, the tone of Batgirl and the Birds of Prey is more my style when it comes to a superhero comic. I don't read too many of them, but when I do, I usually find myself ridiculously loyal to the characters and their voice. Claire Roe's edgier art style compliments the excellent script, and don't worry…the yellow Doc Martens are still in the picture.
I think we can all agree that Barbara Gordon is an inspiring character, and I finally feel like this new creative team has brought her back to life. I'm really looking forward to seeing how Hope Larson does taking over Batgirl #1 next week. Hopefully it will pair well with this comic.