DC Universe Online Legends

reviewed by guest contributor Simon Breeze

DC Universe Online Legends
#1 'Legendary'
Written by Marv Wolfman & Tony Bedard, art by Howard Porter & Livesay and Adriana Melo & Norman Lee, colours by Ed Benes and Randy Mayor
#2 'Control'
Written by Tony Bedard, art by Howard Porter & Livesay and Adrian Melo & Norman Lee, colours by Carrie Strachan and Randy Mayor

You may have heard about a new video game kicking about based on some well known comic book superheroes - DC Universe Online. My first introduction to this was via a teaser trailer in which we see a world where a full scale war has broken out between our favourite superheroes and villains of the DC Universe: and the bad guys are winning!

The trailer really blew my socks off! (you can view it here courtesy of IGN).

As great as this trailer is these types of games are not my cup of tea. I am more of a 'I have a spare ten minutes' gamer now rather than one who can spend hours playing these sandbox type games. However, the trailer had peaked my interest and I couldn't help but have two thoughts: 1) Is there going to be a comic series of this? and 2) why don't DC make an animated film using this type of animation? I would love to see a Superman or a Batgirl film done like this - watch the trailer and you will see what I mean.

A quick internet search later and I discovered the following - Animated films? Who knows, we can only hope. Comic series? Yes. Oh yes!

I don't know about you, but I find that most tie-in comic series tend to be very hit and miss, mostly a big fat buttered miss in my experience. However, the trailer made the story look very interesting indeed. Not only that, but I have a gap in my 'Cape-Comic' reading at the moment and was looking for something with more than one hero and one that stood alone from current continuity. DC Universe Online Legends filled these criteria nicely and is a twelve month run, bi-weekly. Which means that I've got twenty-four issues of awesomeness to look forward to over the next year– and awesomeness it is indeedy!

The main premise for the story is that Lex Luthor, with the aid of an army of super villains, has finally defeated his arch nemesis, Superman and most of the other superheroes of DC's Earth. The first issue starts at the end of this war with an amazing first page splash of Lex about to plunge a Kryptonite tipped spear into Superman's heart, to be followed by an equally-as-fantastic two page splash as he finishes this act and thus Superman's life and the war.

Superman dead, heroes of the world defeated, Lex Luthor gloats over the dead alien he has fought so hard to destroy all these years. Then, suddenly, Brainiac descends from the stormy skies above the battlefield with an invasion fleet. Lex realises his mistake too late, the only person powerful enough to stop Brainiac (Superman) lies dead at his feet by his own hands ... and our story begins.

The comic now splits its story telling between two times. Several years before the war and the continued events from the first few pages of the comic at the end of the war of heroes, and it neatly slips between the two without any jarring or confusion. In the 'past' we get to find out how events brought about the war and how they neatly tie in with the 'current' events post the death of Superman.

The story is brilliant, anyone with even a surface knowledge of the DC Universe could read this series, it is already twisting and turning within the first two issues at a break-neck-speed and keeping you guessing as to not only where the story is going, but who can you trust now that heroes and villains have been thrust together to save the world from this common enemy (Brainiac), all under Lex Luthor's leadership? Lex clearly has his own goals and you can at times find yourself stopping to catch your breath as you are sent spinning in another direction of thought by yet more of his plotting and scheming to have his cake and eat it.

The action is great, lots of fisticuffs and plenty of Superheroes throwing their weight about throughout, and despite mostly all of the characters being big named heroes and villains there seems, so far, to be no treading on toes in these situations, everyone getting to have a fare crack of the whip so to speak. Which nicely leads me onto the art.

Having so many artist working on a book can become a train-wreck, especially with multiple heroes involved. With DC Universe Online Legends this is not the case, artist-to-artist the transition is seamless, if you are looking for it you will notice it, otherwise the story telling flows very well indeed. One of the things I liked about the art is the cover for issue #1, it is a brilliant wrap-around cover by Ed Benes & Randy Mayor and Ryan Sook, it is the sort of thing that in my youth I would stick on my bedroom wall to admire. Something I am not allowed to do now I am a 'grown-up' as I have been told by my wife 'Superheroes don't got with the sofa and curtains.'

All-in-all DC Universe Online Legends is shaping up to be a really enjoyable read and I am happy to part with my $2.99 twice a month to keep up with the action. I still have no intention of buying a copy of the game, and as far as I can tell this hasn't effected my enjoyment of the comic, to the best of my knowledge there seems to be no missing story that 'can only be experienced as part of the gaming experience.' The comic series is a stand alone – and there in is where my enjoyment is coming from.

It is all up for grabs. The story is out of DC Universe continuity. This means that you can kill Superman and get away with it. I quote Lex Luthor, 'SUPERMAN will NOT live again!' When one of the characters tries to suggest saving him from a Kryptonite spear through the heart (I'm not sure how that would worked if they had gone with it – but hay it is the comic world!) and Lex stops them. So, Superman is in this universe – dead - and if you can kill Superman in the DC Universe, everyone is a potential target.

This adds something that can sometimes be missing from the 'Caped Comic' universe: jeopardy. It seems all too easy to kill off a character and bring them back to life in the following issue or two, it has even to a degree become a bit of a joke for fans of comics. I am myself still placing my bets for when they bring Jonny Storm back to the Marvel Universe and the Fantastic Four are back to even numbers once again. With DC Universe Online Legends the death of a popular character is just that and there are no implications beyond the comic series and the story that is being told This, for me, makes it all the more exciting to read because actions are having consequences, which is the lesson learnt from the very first few pages of issue #1.

My last point is this (okay it is going to be two points, but they are related so stick with me!) and I hear this argument a lot: 'I have a friend who has just seen – insert superhero film title here – and wants to start reading the comics. But I just don't know what to recommend. I just don't know where a good jumping-on point is, there is so much back story?'

How often do you hear that one?

DC Universe Online Legends could be the answer. Yeah, okay it has almost every DC hero you can shake a stick at in it, but it is a great way to introduce someone to the universe that way too. You get Batman, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, Power Girl ... the list goes on and on and it is the same for the villains too. I would be more than happy in this situation to hand over my copy of this comic and say 'Give this a go' safe in the knowledge that with a little or next to no understanding of the DCU that person will at the very least enjoy this comic, and hopefully in some way find the crack in the doorway into the DC Universe and maybe find the courage to venture into other comic realms.

This doesn't mean that there is nothing for the hardcore follower of the DCU or those in-between either. DC Universe Online Legends is a breath of fresh air: with the cobwebs of continuity blown free the writers can take the characters in new directions, whilst still staying true to who they are and what they are about. This leads to some very dynamic, interesting and sometimes surprising story and character direction.

I'm giving DC Universe Online Legends a 5 out of 5 Capes. I am just loving it. I have already gobbled-up issue #3 the moment it landed on my doorstep and as a comic it is jostling for 'must read first' place on my comic pile when it arrives every other week. That is the other thing, bi-weekly! Every other Wednesday I have the next instalment, just enough time for the last issue to digest and not so long that I have forgotten the details either – perfect.


Thanks to Simon for his enjoyable and detailed review of DC Universe Online Legends - this isn't a title I've been picking-up and it sounds like I might be missing out on a good read.

Don't forget you can check out Simon's writing and art over at his personal blog while his excellent weekly webcomic - JesseKane - continues to release a new page every Wednesday.

Birds of Prey #4 Reviewed

After a little disappointment with issue #3 the latest issue of Birds of Prey - issue #4, the forth and final part of the Endrun story-arc - felt much more satisfying.

'Impact Fracture' opens with a prologue set 19 years ago along the Silk Road of Asia. As thunder cracks and lightning illuminates the night sky an old man stands alone in the rain.

From a house behind him cries of help can be heard as the old man looks to dismiss a woman who is seeking his attention - it appears the cries come from a woman who has recently given birth: to a girl. On hearing the sex of the infant the old man instructs the woman to dispose of the child as, he explains, he is allowed only sons.

As the woman carries the child from the house she is struck by a tremendous bolt of lightning, killing her - but remarkably not the baby - instantly. Perhaps sensing that the baby is destined to live the old man instructs a younger boy - known as Rabbit - to take responsibility for the girl, adding ominously that 'her training begins tomorrow'.

Returning to current day and we find Black Canary face to face with White Canary on a city centre roof-top - where we left issue #3. Black Canary - Dinah Lance - reveals that she has figured out the true identity of her adversary as the two are about to engage in combat. As each woman lands blow upon blow on the other Dinah taunts her opponent that she once took on and conquered her 12 brothers - a remark that initially appears to merely inspire White Canary to hit back harder and with greater frequency.

Elsewhere, we find Oracle - Barbara Gordon - at the mercy of Brian Durlin - Savant. Trapped in her wheelchair on the edge of a viaduct Barbara pleads with Savant not to take another step as she finds herself precariously close to the edge. Savant is out of his mind explaining that he'd been tortured by Calculators men simply for working for Barbara. Aleksandr Creote, explains that his partner Savant has lost the ability to judge time - he can't tell the difference between yesterday and ten years ago. Every day for the past two years he has relived the experience of being tortured - and make no mistake he blames Oracle.

Returning to the city and White Canary stands victorious over a grounded Dinah - declaring that her family were shamed by Black Canary and after she's watched Penguin - Oswald Cobblepot - kill Huntress, Lady Blackhawk, Hawk and Dove she would one day return to kill others close to Dinah. With her back turned and climbing a ladder off the roof top Black Canary seizes her moment and lets fly with her trademark sonic scream sending White Canary, and half the building structure, flying.

Across the city Penguin, who we thought was leading the remaining Birds to safety, turns his attention to Lady Blackhawk - Zinda Blake - and stabs her with a blade concealed within his umbrella. Immediately on the offensive Huntress - Helena Bertinelli - pulls out her crossbow and threatens her friends' assailant. Resisting the threat Penguin declares that the injured woman 'might' make it hospital if everyone follows his instructions and waits for his partners - White Canary and Savant - to join them. Penguin goes on to explain that his goal - power of course - will be his once he has Savant's detailed personnel files.

As Black and White Canary again come face to face we are reminded that Black Canary's previous encounter with White Canary's brothers - known as the Twelve Brothers in Silk - ended in defeat for the brothers and, in the eyes of White Canary shame: such shame in fact that White Canary hunted each of her brothers down one by one and killed each of them.

Back on the edge of the viaduct Barbara and Savant continue their conversation - a conversation about trust and about faith. Overcome by the memories of his experiences Savant himself moves closer to the edge and before bidding Barbara farewell, he steps off the bridge. Barbara pushes herself from her chair and manages to grab hold of the mans hand. As Savant pleads to be released Babs realises that she can't hold him and pleads with Creote for help.

With White Canary apparently getting the better of their fight she taunts Black Canary that she'll shortly take the lives of people close to Dinah - hearing a role-call of loved-ones names Black Canary snaps as she hears Sin, described as the child she abandoned, on the long list as the two women crash through a large window and fall to ground.

As Lady Blackhawk lies injured under the maniacal gaze of Penguin, Hawk - Hank Hall - senses that he's dying of the wounds he sustained earlier from White Canary's blade and pleads with Dove - Dawn Granger - to cremate him, not to let them bring him back from the dead again.

As Black and White Canary reach street level their fall is broken by a camper van and the two lie stationary but alive.

Overwhelmed by circumstance the usually peaceful Dove turns her attention to Penguin and punches him to the ground and unconscious. Seizing their opportunity she and Huntress gather up their friends and head for the hospital.

After some time refusing to help Barbara save his partner's life Creote relents and reaches down to grasp Savant's hand - pulling him back to safety.

With her plan in pieces White Canary regains consciousness only to find herself captured and bound by a relieved Black Canary. With the threat of the young woman now apparently neutralised Black Canary asks her prisoner whether she did indeed kill the kidnapper Gregory Chasco.

To Dinah's great surprise White Canary reveals that the killer was none other than Shiva ... and offers to team up to defeat her.


As I say, this felt much more like the quality of the first couple of issues of Birds of Prey and an altogether much more enjoyable read than the previous issue.

One of the things I'm enjoying about this relaunched series is the feeling of real depth to the individual characters and their back story. I've read and enjoyed a number of the older Birds of Prey stories and yet at no time do I feel like I'm 'missing something' when the story touches on events that I'm not familiar with - the book appears to be ideally suited to both new and old readers alike.

The reveal of the true identity of White Canary was, I must say, something of a surprise to me and I like that we're being introduced to a new character, albeit one with a connected history. I'd have liked it even more if she were given a 'real' name, other than 'Sister in Silk'.

I can't say I'm particularly familiar with the 'Twelve Brothers' story references in this issue although I'm looking forward to finding out more - by the same token I'm confident that everything I need to know has and will be referenced through the pages of this title.

The prologue was an unexpected and enjoyable feature of the story-telling in this issue and, towards the climax of the book, I enjoyed how the story cut rapidly from location to location leaving me with a sense of confusion at times - and I mean that in an entirely positive way!

I was a little surprised by Huntress's reaction to Zinda's stabbing. Would she really be able to hold herself back? And if she could would she then wait around on Penguin's terms or would she, as I suspect, take matters into her own hands, 'take care' of Penguin and get her friend to hospital.

The art on this book has, by and large, been superb and this issue continues that trend with a magnificent cover by Alina Urusov (which I'd love to see as a poster) and some great interior art from Ed Benes, Adriano Melo, J.P. Mayer and, again, colourist Nei Ruffino. As nice as it was the interior art did lack a little consistency at times I felt, notably the scenes on the viaduct with Barbara, Savant and Creote, that jolted me out of the moment and interrupted what was, until that point, an engrossing read.

In summary, four issues in and Birds of Prey is already proving to be one of my must read and most looked-forward to titles each month. We've had some great covers, superb 'cinematic' story-telling and wonderful interior art.

There's been plenty in this series so far for the long-time reader and equally plenty for the new or just occasional reader: and I don't want to underestimate just how difficult a line that must be to tread.

If you're already picking up Birds of Prey then you'll know where I'm coming from - if you're not then take my recommendation and pick it up, I don't believe you'll regret it.

Birds of Prey #4
Written by Gail Simone, pencils by Ed Benes and Adriana Melo, inks by Ed Benes and J.P. Mayer, colours by Nei Ruffino, letter by Swands, cover by Alina Urusov with variant covers by Ryan Sook, Joel Gomez, Fernando Pasarin, Randy Mayor & Carrie Strachan
Published by DC Comics, October 2010

Birds of Prey #3 Reviewed

The first story-arc of the returning Birds of Prey series continues with part 3 of the 4 part 'Endrun: Whistling Past the Gravestones'.

Opening at The Iceberg Lounge the Birds, minus Hawk!, are being very ... 'attentive' towards Penguins - it seems that Black Canary, Huntress, Lady Blackhawk and Dove are prepared to go to fantastic lengths to please Oswald Cobblepot.

As quickly as we've began to comprehend the behaviour of the women we discover that 'fantastic' is indeed the right word - we are witnessing one of Cobblepot's dreams, brought on perhaps as a result of blood lost during his earlier assault. In reality, as the women look on with a sense of disgust and, in Dove's case concern, Hawk keeps watch over the street from a nearby window.

Realising that it's only a matter of time before their whereabouts is discovered, Black Canary - Dinah Lance - contacts Oracle to discuss the groups next move. Oracle - Barbara Gordon, who is at this time back at base and ready to help the group move to a safe location - advises that she's spotted their pursuer - the mysterious White Canary - elsewhere in the city and sounds a word of caution.

Lamenting the situation they find themselves in Black Canary asks whether Oracle has any news on how Gregory Chasco - the kidnapper that she apprehended in Iceland - could possible have ended up dead several days later. As Oracle reveals what she has been able to learn from the authorities Dinah very quickly begins to feel like she's been set up ...

As Dinah ponders her situation Barbara goes on to explain that both Savant and Creote are now dead - information that Dinah finds very hard to process and understand.

Elsewhere in the club, Hawk and Lady Blackhawk are discussing how on earth White Canary was able to piece Hawk's skin with a blade - just as an armoured tank crashes through the wall and sends them diving for cover.

As the Birds scatter to evade the hail of bullets delivered by the ensuing rogue police officers Barbara discovers that her computer network connection has crashed leaving her powerless to help her friends. At first puzzled by how security could have been breached she reaches a frightening conclusion - she's not alone in the Batcave. Hearing a voice behind her Babs turns and discovers she has unwelcome, and unexpected, company ... Savant and Creote!

Back in the Iceberg Lounge Dove realises that as a 1920's or 1930's 'speakeasy' there ought to be a secret way out of the club. As Penguin's health takes a turn for the worse he mumbles a line about being a mermaid in the desert - a comment Hawk takes to mean that Penguin doesn't belong where he is, something he feels he can relate to.

As the onslaught continues Dinah realises that she has lost her comms link with Oracle and as she considers that things can't surely get any worse - a second tank arrives! Undeterred, Hawk jumps up and disables the vehicle ... as an all too familiar weapon - White Canary's hair blade - flys through the air and for the second time downs Hawk.

Reverting to his 'civilian' identity Hawk - Hank Hall - falls to the ground and lies motionless before his associates. Removing the hair blade Black Canary notices that there's a word written on an attached ribbon - 'Choose'. Immediately Black Canary relates this to the threat from White Canary that one of the team - or someone they know and love - will die every hour.

Returning to the Batcave we discover Barbara threatened and at gunpoint by Savant and Creote. Lifting Barbara from her chair and carrying her to their vehicle Savant explains how they faked their deaths and in turn breached security protocols. As Babs questions the duos motives and objectives she's understandably alarmed to discover that it's only a matter of time before her true identity is revealed to the world and only then would they put an end to their 'mutual pain'.

In the meantime, across the city Black Canary, Lady Blackhawk and Huntress are weighing up their options - and perhaps realising that those options are limited. Focusing on getting Penguin and Hawk to the hospital Dinah decides that she - and in turn the other team members if necessary - have to go after White Canary and stop her.

Ignoring Huntress's uncharacteristic advice that she take an initially low key approach Black Canary tracks down and confronts White Canary on a roof top overlooking their temporary hide-out. As the women exchange blows Black Canary continues to try to figure out her opponents identity - piecing together both verbal and physical clues she comes to a realisation that she does indeed know the identity of her new foe.


I thought this was a very enjoyable read although, for me, not the strongest issue since the series relaunch. On the whole I'm enjoying the pace that the story is being told at - three issues in and I feel like we've seen a lot of story told across those pages. I'm particularly enjoying reading the interaction between the various team members and I'm appreciating the Black Canary/Huntress relationship at the moment. The 'who is White Canary?' teaser has got me hooked and, while I'm carefully trying to avoid reading spoilers, I'm certainly eager to discover her identity (if I haven't already!).

I didn't particularly enjoy the opening pages of this book: I'm referring to the scenes from Penguins dreams. As beautifully illustrated as they were the theme - the Birds acting-out Penguins fantasies - felt rather ... gratuitous, unnecessary.

I was surprised by the return of Creote and Savant and, to be honest, a bit disappointed to see them back - nothing against the characters themselves but, while I'm not in principle opposed to characters dieing and then returning at a later date, it's only felt like 5 minutes ago we first learnt of their deaths. As with the scenes in the opening pages I'm willing to accept that there's a twist to come here that I'm not currently seeing perhaps.

As I've already said, the artwork throughout this book is superb: fantastic detail in the pencils - in their portrayal of the central figures, particularly Barbara Gordon, Benes and Melo have captured a familiar and yet fresh look I feel - glorious bold inks and, not to be underestimated, superb colouring throughout: very much the style of artwork that I enjoy.

For once I wasn't overly keen on this issues cover - I felt Cliff Chiang's illustration was just a little too 'cartoony' for my liking and somewhat at odds with the style of the rest of the book.

In many ways, this issue felt like what it is ... a 'middle issue' of sorts. Was I a little disappointed? Yes, I was. The quality of the first 2 issues was such that this didn't quite reach those heights for me.

That said, I certainly enjoyed the book and I'm very much looking forward to picking up issue #4 next month for the conclusion of 'Birds of Prey: Endrun'.

Birds of Prey #3
Written by Gail Simone with art by Ed Benes, Adrian Melo, Mariah Benes, Nei Ruffino and a cover by Cliff Chiang
Published by DC Comics, $2.99



As always when I review Birds of Prey I'd like to point you in the direction of a couple of great sites that will appeal to anyone with an interest in the Batman family. In addition to carrying my reviews of Birds of Prey and Batgirl you'll find all sorts of Batman, Birds of Prey and Batgirl-related news, commentary and conversation over at The Batgirl to Oracle Podcast message board and The Batman Universe Editorials - part of The Batman Universe network.

Birds of Prey #2 Reviewed

Following my enjoyment of the first issue of the relaunched Birds of Prey series - not to mention the critical acclaim that the issue received - I had extremely high expectations when I picked up and started reading issue #2: not only were my expectations met they were most definitely exceeded.

Picking up where issue #1 left off, 'Endrun', part two of this four part story-arc, opens up in the Gotham City retail district, where Dinah and Helena - Black Canary and Huntress - have, for the first time, encountered their new adversary: White Canary.

With The Penguin lying injured and covered in his own blood the two women take stock of their situation and deduce that the only way to stop this mysterious woman might be to 'take her down' with them - music to Huntress's ears as you can imagine.

With help on its way, courtesy of Barbara Gordon - Oracle - over the comms link Black Canary and Huntress realise that the time for talking is over and engage their target. As they deliver blow upon blow the women don't appear to be making any sort of impression - indeed White Canary takes it all in her stride and counters their moves effortlessly until ...

Momentarily distracted, Huntress seizes the moment, leaps at White Canary and, temporarily at least, disables her as Black Canary, losing control of her emotions, reigns down punch after punch until Zinda - Lady Blackhawk - arrives on the scene along with Hawk and Dove - Hank Hall and Dawn Grainger. At this point it's then the Birds time to be distracted as White Canary wrestles free from Huntress's grasp and, in turn, neatly evades Hawk's attack.

Back at base Barbara, still monitoring events via the comms link, picks up a story on a television news channel that Gregory Chasco - the villain featured at the beginning of Birds of Prey #1 - had died as the reporter goes on to say that Chasco's fatal wounds were as a result of Black Canary's actions. Furthermore, the reporter goes on to say, the channel had exclusive live footage of the 'vigilante' - Black Canary - at large on the Gotham City streets.

Aware that the police were on their way and realising that the situation was getting way out of hand Barbara orders Black Canary and the team to stop fighting and leave the area as quickly as they can. With the authorities closing in on the scene White Canary herself realises it's time to move on - but not before delivering a chilling warning - 'one of you will die every hour for the next six hours ...'.

Outnumbered and surrounded by armed police officers there's a decision to be made - fight or flight? Unsurprisingly for a group that includes Hawk and Huntress, Black Canary chooses to fight and, as the officers open fire, the Birds respond with their own brand of non-lethal force. As the fighting intensifies a police helicopter opens fire sending Dinah and Zinda scurrying to avoid the flurry of bullets. Apparently less concerned for his own safety Hawk watches on momentarily before taking action - sending the helicopter and its crew crashing to the ground.

Watching the events play-out on the television news channel Barbara is becoming increasingly alarmed at what's unfolding as details are revealed of Black Canary's ties to former Star City Mayor Oliver Queen who himself, the viewers are reminded, has a dark past. While still trying to make sense of events, Oracle receives a communication from a familiar source - Aleksandr Creote. A distressed Creote reveals that he and Savant - Brian Durlan - had come under attack from a woman saying that their association with the Birds meant they themselves were guilty.

Revealing to Oracle that Savant had died in the attack, and that he considers her responsible, Creote - in a genuinely shocking scene - takes his own life.

Returning to the alleyways of Gotham City the Birds are making their way to the safety of Penguins Iceberg Lounge nightclub when they come across a television set broadcasting the evenings news feed. To Black Canary's horror the broadcast reveals not only her civilian identity and more details of her personal life but also claims that she abandoned a young Asian girl whom she'd planned to adopt when the child proved 'inconvenient'.

The issue closes with Barbara trying to come to terms with events and realising that the strengths of the Birds - 'Canary's fists, my brain' - are being used as weapons against them: and it's now time to fight back.


As I said at the start of my review, this was a really enjoyable read that gave me everything I ask for from a comic book: the story was well paced, the art is simply fantastic, there was action aplenty, a little comedy - I like 'comedy', I don't enjoy 'silliness!' - there were acknowledgements to previous Birds legacy as well as a cast of characters with tremendous strengths that are occasionally also their weaknesses.

Regular readers will know that I'm not generally a fan of the long fight sequences often found in comics and I'll be the first to acknowledge that about a third of this issue is exactly that. However, on this occasion it seems to work for me and I think this is down to a number of factors.

Firstly, the pacing of Gail Simone's script which sees never more than a couple of pages of 'punches and kicks' before the pace changes and we, the reader, are able to catch our breath as the characters lick their wounds, consider their options and plan their next move.

Secondly, Ed Benes's page layouts are every bit as enjoyable and engaging as his illustrations. I'm sure we knew that Ed Benes is a talented artist - although I can't help but feel he's getting stronger all the while - and what's particularly caught my eye have been the panel layouts which, for me at least, give the pages a real sense of chaos, energy and excitement - if you've got a copy in front of you check out pages four to eight for an example of what I'm referring to.

As the story progresses I found myself enjoying - perhaps appreciating would be a better word - how Dinah's state changes: from plain aggression in the opening pages through resignation when confronted by armed police officers to the anguish she feels and exhibits when her identity and personal relationships are exposed on television: all perfectly captured by her varying facial expressions.

Likewise, with Barbara during and following the video call from Creote we saw, I think, the reactions of a young woman normally so used to being in control of events suddenly gripped with a realisation that these particular events were beyond even her control - for now at least.

Moreover, every character in this book was a joy to behold - Huntress's thirst for action, Zinda's charming 1940s dialogue, Dove's compassion, Hawk being ... well Hawk simply being Hawk! Returning to the comedy I mentioned previously, I enjoyed that Penguin was so immediately smitten with Dove ... his reactions and comments when Dove showed him just how compassionate she is really did make me smile.

I've so far done a pretty good job of avoiding the 'who is White Canary?' speculation and I'm not going to add to it here. I've got a few ideas - one or two I'd like to believe could be true and one or two I'm hoping not.

What I do know is that Birds of Prey has returned in strength and quickly established itself amongst my favourite monthly books.

An excellent read - I cannot wait for the next installment.

Birds of Prey #2
Written by Gail Simone with art by Ed Benes, Adrian Melo and Mariah Benes and a cover by Ed Benes
Published by DC Comics, $2.99

My reviews of Batgirl and Birds of Prey are also published at The Batman Universe Editorials blog - part of The Batman Universe network, and over at The Batgirl to Oracle Podcast message board

Birds of Prey #1 Reviewed

A quiet week blogging - such as this past week - usually means either I'm away from home (travelling for my work or on holiday with my wife) and can't find an internet connection, I'm working long hours at my 'day job' or I'm researching future articles and preparing reviews for this site. This week it's been a combination of the latter two - busy at work and busy at home reading and preparing reviews. On top of that all day yesterday was spent at the Bristol International Comic & Small Press Expo 2010 - a fabulous event that I'll write more about, probably tomorrow, once I've taken stock of what I picked up and how much money I spent!

In the meantime, one of the books I've read and enjoyed this past week has been Birds of Prey #1 - here's my review which is also published over at Batgirl to Oracle ...

Birds of Prey #1

I'd been looking forward to reading this book since it was first announced that the title was being relaunched and I'm pleased to report that my expectations were not only met but exceeded.

As a 'first issue' (of sorts) this book worked really well I thought: plenty for the long-time, committed reader while at the same time accessible and inviting for the new reader - of which there will be many I am sure.

Our story begins out on the frozen snowfields of Iceland as a lone snow-mobile makes its way towards a group of pick-up trucks and hooded, and armed, men. Standing out amongst the group one man is wearing a bright red jacket and he has a small child alongside him.

As the snow-mobile reaches it's destination the driver, a young woman, approaches the group and explains that she's brought the money - her part of the bargain - and she'd like to see the boss. The boss is the man in red, named Chasco, and the young child is a 5-year old girl called Katy, the daughter of diplomats.

Aware of the woman's identity - Dinah Lance otherwise known as Black Canary - Chasco explains that while the money is for the local man he, an American, has his own demands. Dinah's priority, however, is the young girl who she knows has a serious medical condition and needs hospital treatment immediately.

Chasco, still holding a handgun to the girls head, explains that he wants Katy's parents to hold a press conference where they should apologise for what he considers to be their war crimes and then ... they should commit suicide live on-air. Then and only then will he release the girl.

Realising that they've passed the point of no return Dinah makes a familiar gesture with her hands and, in the few seconds before the thugs realise what's happening, is joined by Zinda Blake - Lady Blackhawk - providing air-support.

With the men under fire Dinah focuses her attention on Chasco, and Katy of course, and with a series of swift blows disarms the man and knocks him to the ground. Amid the chaos young Katy has also been knocked from her feet and is lying perilously close to the edge of an ice-shelf that could collapse at any minute ...

Despite being grounded Chasco has been able to recover his weapon and has young child in his sights - with his finger on the trigger Dinah has to act quickly as she let's out a trademark sonic scream, races to gather Katy just as the ice shelf cracks, leaps into the air and manages to grab hold of the waiting helicopter. Mission accomplished.

Later on, while waiting at a city hospital Dinah and Zinda receive a very unexpected call ... it's none other than 'the world's premiere infojock' Barbara Gordon - Oracle - on the line from the Batcave: it's time to get the team back together. With Dinah and Zinda on board Babs turns her attention to the next member of the team: Helena Bertinelli - Huntress.

Across town, on the nice side of Gotham we are told, Hank Hall and Dawn Granger - Hawk and Dove - have engaged with a street gang known as 'The Sick Cheerleaders'. Armed and extremely dangerous the cheerleaders give as good as they take until Hawk disarms one female member of the gang and hangs her over the edge of a bridge. Fearing that Hawk is at this point out of control Dove urges her partner to release the girl - which he does but not without a chilling declaration - 'God wants a soldier'.

Later that same evening, across town in a Gotham City 'drinkin' bar' an old man is drinking alone at the bar talking to whoever will listen - at this time that whoever is the aforementioned Hank Hall and the the bar keeper, a young woman called Molly. In the corner of the bar, at this point in the company of Zinda, is a pensive Dawn Grainger - Hank is on a destructive, possibly even self-destructive path, and it's understandably worrying her - after all, he is her responsibility.

Elsewhere, Barbara, Dinah and Helena are discussing the events that have brought them back together after all this time - Babs has been sent a series of files containing sensitive, and damaging, information about people close to them including The Riddler, Power Girl ... and the Birds themselves. Along with the files came a threat: each hour somebody featured in the files will die and if the Birds don't try to stop it then the information will be published for all to see.

As the three women try to understand why the threat involves them and speculate who might be behind the plan Helena realises that they are being summoned ...

High up on a city centre rooftop we find none other than Oswald Cobblepot - The Penguin - under attack and pleading for his life. Standing tall in front of him, we see the outline of a mysterious female figure. With The Penguin now on the offensive (hasn't he always been pretty offensive?!) Black Canary and Huntress step in, tell The Penguin to step aside and leave things to them.

As a fight begins there's speculation as to who the mysterious woman is ... Cassandra Cain? Shiva Woosan? Despite holding a numerical advantage Black Canary and Huntress prove no match for their assailant who, with the women grounded, turns her attention to The Penguin.

Desperate for news Barbara pleads with her friends over the comms link for an update - Black Canary and Huntress are down, Cobblepot is dying as the mystery figure is revealed as ... The White Canary.

As I say, I had high expectations ahead of reading the book and often when that's the case I can end up feeling just a little disappointed - thankfully, and most definitely, not on this occasion.

I'd anticipated this first issue to be more like a zero issue, largely concerned with establishing - or even reestablishing - the characters so therefore it was a treat to discover so much story within the pages: so much so that I later found myself counting the pages just to see if this was a larger than usual issue (24 in case you were wondering).

The opening scenes of the story, set as they were in the snow-fields of Iceland, made for a great new beginning - atmospheric and chilling (no pun intended!) every panel filled with danger and excitement - and served as a timely reminder of the strengths of the 'Birds'.

From front cover to the last page reveal the art - Ed Benes so well complimented by colourist Nei Ruffino - was absolutely glorious. I'd expected great art but what we got again far exceeded my expectations: the attention detail, imaginative page layouts, the amount of depth to the panels themselves, the rich colours throughout ... absolutely superb.

It seems almost superfluous to comment on just how real, how genuine, the dialogue and narration felt. For many, myself included I believe, Gail Simone writes THE definitive Birds of Prey and as such the voice with which she wrote the characters in this issue is very much the voice I hear when I read.

All of this and a puzzling, intriguing new villain who I'm looking forward to finding out more about ... what more could one ask for?

Reading this issue felt very much like being reunited with an old friend - there was familiarity, my read felt at first challenging and became more comfortable, there was an opportunity for reminiscence and there was a realisation that life had moved on and that things will never be what they once were, and neither should they be.

Birds of Prey - it's good to have you back.

Birds of Prey #1
Written by Gail Simone with art and cover by Ed Benes with a variant cover by Cliff Chiang
Published by DC Comics, $2.99

Note:
DC have published a number of preview pages along with the solicitation for Birds of Prey #1 over at their website.

August 2010 Brightest Day Solicits incl. Birds of Prey #4

DC's The Source have published solicits for a number of the Brightest Day titles being released in August and, as I excitedly await delivery of this weeks issue #1 my eye was drawn, predictably I know, to the solicit and cover image for Birds of Prey #4.

Birds of Prey #4
Written by Gail Simone with art by Ed Benes, Adriana Melo and Maria Benes
Cover by Alina Urusov with a 1:10 'White Lantern Variant' cover by Ryan Sook, Fernando Pasarin & Joel Gomez
The explosive first arc of Birds of Prey concludes here! The Birds race against the clock to protect the Super Hero community, but can they make it in time and find their blackmailer? And the final showdown between Black Canary and White Canary is a can’t-miss fight between two martial arts masters!
On sale 11 August, 32 pages $2.99

My anticipation for this book grows with each new teaser image, cover preview, interview and solicit - I'll be waiting by the letterbox tomorrow morning ready to snatch my package of this weeks new releases from the postmans hands!

Gail Simone on Wonder Woman, Secret Six and Birds of Prey

Gail Simone has this week been talking about leaving Wonder Woman, continuing with Secret Six and returning to Birds of Prey.

Speaking with The Source, Simone spoke about the thrill of working on Wonder Woman, the support she received from the writers and creators that preceeded her on the book, and the numerous artists that she's worked with during her run.

The article finished with reference to some shocking surprises coming up in Secret Six, work with Ed Benes on Birds of Prey and a Welcome to Tranquility mini-series starting in July.

Along with the interview we were treated to Ed Benes cover to Birds of Prey #2, complementing the previously released cover preview for issue #1.

Read the interview in full at The Source.

One, Two, Three Reveals for Bat-Books

Wednesday was a real bonus day for Bat-fans over at DC's The Source - not one, not two, but three superb preview images from forthcoming books. Click on the images to enlarge them.

First up, Andy Kubert's (uncoloured) cover for Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne #1.

The six part mini-series, arriving in April, looks very interesting to say the least - click here for more information and sketches.

Next up was a double-page spread from Detective Comics #861 from Jock. Written by Greg Rucka, the issue will be in stores at the end of January.

Very nice indeed.

If these reveals weren't enough there was news that writer Gail Simone and artist Ed Benes will reunite to launch a new series of Birds of Prey.

The preview of Benes's art looks amazing and Simone has some exciting plans for the book that she talks about over at AOL Comics Alliance.

CBR also had some preview pages from Batgirl #6 on Tuesday this week but I'm avoiding those until I've read the issue!