Birds of Prey (2010 Series) #5

September 26, 2010

Title: Aftershock Part One: Two Nights in Bangkok

Writer: Gail Simone
Pencils: Alvin Lee & Adriana Melo
Inks: Jack Purcell & J.P. Mayer
Colorist: Nei Ruffino
Letterer: Steve Wands
Cover: Alina Urusa
Editor: Janelle Siegel
Publisher: DC Comics

The Birds of Prey and their allies are left shattered by the events of the last four issues. Savant has been brought back from the brink of self-destruction, but Black Canary is ready to abandon the team for good and Huntress’s anger at the Penguin threatens to consume her.

The story here is as good as ever. Gail Simone’s grasp on these characters is second to none, and the chemistry between Oracle and her team helps make the series far more than just a standard superhero comic book. The Brightest Day elements of this title, which come forth through Hawk and Dove’s scenes, help to anchor the book to the greater DC Universe. All of it together makes for a very strong package.

The artwork, less so. The first section is pretty good, with strong figures and great colors by Nei Ruffino. When the artist changeover occurs, though, we’re left with weak faces and unnervingly big eyes on every character. It’s a real shame that Ed Benes couldn’t stay on this book longer, but I’m looking forward to Ardian Syaf taking over in a few issues. He’s a good artist and will bring some much-needed consistency to this title.

The artwork hurts this book’s rating considerably, but the story is still strong enough to make it worth reading.

Rating: 7/10