[Editor’s note: This review may contain spoilers]
Writer: Mairghread Scott
Artist: Elena Casagrande
Colors: Jordie Bellaire
Letters: Deron Bennett
Summary
Sibling rivalry takes on a whole new meaning in this one-shot story that tracks Batgirl’s hunt for a serial killer whose M.O. strikes a familiar chord. Namely, a disturbing similarity to her brother, current convict James Gordon Jr. Family bonds are restored during a visit to his maximum- security surroundings, but Babs’ doubts linger. Is James Jr. helping to solve this case…or pulling her strings in a diabolical power play?
Positives
I love the cover by Emanuela Lupacchino and Dave Stewart. Batgirl is gorgeous. And James Gordon Jr. is very ominous; it’s an effective image.
The interior art is very good. Jordie Bellaire’s colors are nicely stylized especially the use of red. The characters are expressive and distinct. It’s an engaging read before you even look at the words.
I adore that Babs loves cheesy slasher flicks and that they were a thing the Gordon family bonded over. My younger siblings and I have always watched horror movies together regardless of quality so that element of the story strikes a personal chord with me.
Silence of the Lambs is my favorite book and also one of my favorite movies; I never get tired of the set up of a serial killer in prison having to help someone catch a killer. Mairghread Scott’s twist on it here is that the killer is the brother of the protagonist. That really does add a fascinating layer to this story. There’s a tragic and bizarre nature to the whole thing that I really enjoyed.
It’s also always fun to see Babs as a detective. This tone and kind of story suits her well. I like how she figures out the mystery; that’s effective and smart.
Negatives
There are no negatives worth mentioning in this issue.
Verdict
This is a fantastic issue. Scott’s script is so interesting. I feel like I know more about Barbara after reading this which is a tough thing to do after these characters have been around for so long. The art is great and fits the tone perfectly. I strongly recommend reading this issue.
