Reviewer: Chris Delloiacono
Story Title: The Year of the Rat
Written by: A.J. Lieberman
Pencilled by: Steve Yeowell
Inked by: Steve Yeowell
Colored by: Bob Pinaha
Lettered by: J. Benjamin
Editor: Matt Idelson
Publisher: DC Comics
I’m quite surprised that a comic like HARLEY QUINN has lasted as long as it has. Books about villains generally don’t last long, at least under the banners of the big two. HARLEY QUINN is almost always engaging; originally Karl Kesel and now A.J. Lieberman have built some wonderful stories around what is no more than a “C†level villain. Harley isn’t super powerful, and the pathos of her villainy isn’t completely debilitating, making for a somewhat “human†character. She’s got lots of problems (what an understatement, she’s a super villain after all) but in her own way Harley’s quite endearing.
A.J. Lieberman has only been onboard for eight issues, but once again sets a perfect tone. He’s now integrated several new characters into Harley’s life, and they’re becoming driving forces in the book. The most important character is Detective John Bishop, who Harley has met in both her costumed identity as well as her day job as physiatrist Dr. Seaborn. Harley decides to go out with Bishop in her Seaborn guise, but of course there is an ulterior motive. Harley’s misadventures in identities out of costume have been some of the most memorable through the series run, and what becomes a date from hell is no exception.
The Joker has only shown up a handful of times in over thirty issues of HARLEY QUIINN, but he rears his wicked features once again. The scheming Joker wants to join forces with Harley, hoping to horn in on her latest job. Understandably Harley is leery of her former beau, and who can blame her since the Joker’s tried to off her more times than Gene Kelly danced with Ginger Rogers. Harley wants something from Bishop, and the Joker does everything in his power to ruin their date. While the Joker’s attempts are relatively tame for the Clown Prince of Crime, the dark undercurrent is there. Lieberman captures a lighter mood, which has been missing since Kesel left, while continuing the dark overall tone set in recent issues.
I cringed when I saw yet another fill in artist, but the main difference from last issue is the art is excellent. Steve Yeowell’s artwork is understated, but quite memorable. His depiction of the Joker isn’t the wild haired crazy, recently rendered by Jim Lee in the pages of BATMAN, but a more realistic portrayal of his look from BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES. The action is well crafted, and the facial expressions greatly varied.
This is as good of a time as any to jump on board HARLEY QUINN. The balance between Harley’s costumed work, and her secret identity is very entertaining. The Joker looks to be a major part of upcoming issues, and the dynamic between he and Harley should make things very interesting. Hopefully the recent news of an impending cancellation are only idle rumor, Harley’s too good to lose.
