Poison Ivy 46
Writer: G. Willow Wilson
Artist: Leandro Fernández
Colorist: Arif Prianto
Letterer: Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou
Cover Artist: Jessica Fong
With Mayor Isley’s increased volatility, Janet-from-HR and Juhi set out across Gotham in search of Harley Quinn, as Janet believes Harley is “the one person on this entire planet that can talk Ivy off the ledge.”
Along the way, the duo break up some police brutality, Juhi reflexively summons her magic companion, they have tense encounters with Catwoman and Great White Shark, and they talk lots, and LOTS of policy and politics, before nearly being blown up in the bombing of a small business. All of this serves to strengthen Janet’s resolve in her mission to find Harley.
Mundy: This issue feels like one long Aaron Sorkin walk-and-talk episode. The writing is top notch. The dialogue is excellent. The mission is righteous. The underlying messages are heard and understood. The confrontations are menacing, for different reasons. It’s just not very exciting.
Foggy: Spot on my friend. As I read this issue, I can’t help but read with the knowledge that this is supposed to be a “Bad Seeds” tie in, or at least an issue building to “Bad Seeds” crossover with Batman. With that in mind, what does it add to that story. What does it add to what I’m reading in Batman? To be honest, I’m not sure. Yes, we are learning more about Poison Ivy’s state of mind. We are learning about the political landscape in Gotham. The problem is that, while that is good info to have, it’s certainly not necessary. We are aware of this landscape in the background of Batman. That is where it should stay, in the background. The story should be character driven. This issue seems to put the political landscape forward while burying the character…..at least for one issue.
Mundy: 2.5/5 Batarangs. While expertly written, and somewhat interesting in showing who Janet and Juhi are at heart, this feels like a bridge issue. It’s not quite filler. There is actual progression, and possible foreshadowing. Again, it’s just not exciting.
Foggy: 3/5 Batarangs. I do think there are missteps in pacing, but the issue is very well written. Can’t wait until they actually find Harley. Things should get real in a hurry!
