Batgirls #6
DC Comics
Written by Becky Cloonan & Michael W. Conrad
Art by Jorge Corona
Colors by Sarah Stern
Letters by Becca Carey
The Rundown: The Batgirls face-off against Spellbinder and Tutor.
The story opens with Spellbinder explaining his position to a captured Barbara. Then an altercation occurs. Afterwards, Oracle broadcasts across Gotham City. Across town, at Arkham Asylum, Stephanie and Cassie face Tutor and his followers. After which Stephanie rushes to save Gotham from a deadly weapon. Finally, the Batgirls are approached by someone with a surprising request.
The Story: The last chapter of this storyline was all about intense action and reckoning. I love how Arkham Asylum is a character of its own in the Batman universe and how mental health is always addressed so specifically. It’s interesting how so many villains are formed during their time there as inmates or employees, and I can’t help but wonder on the comment that DC is making regarding the U.S. healthcare system. As always, I’m drawn to the relationship building in this series, and see the Batgirls grow in self-awareness regarding their own personal traumas is quite heartening. I think this is a phenomenal series filled with girl-power and I am really looking forward to future adventures with the Batgirls.
The Art: This issue has some really exciting and visually appealing action sequences. I found the modern comic styling and attention to detail to be both emotionally engaging and transportive. Overall, I was impressed with the aesthetics of the artwork.