Flying high on the popularity of a new television series (changing networks notwithstanding), Supergirl is back with a brand new title. To start things off, we are getting a special Rebirth issue to introduce us to the character. Is it good?
Supergirl: Rebirth #1 (DC Comics)
The Lowdown
Following the events of The Final Days of Superman, Supergirl has teamed up with the Department of Extranormal Operations (DEO). With Superman gone, Supergirl wants to carry on in his honor and help the world… but she needs to get her powers back first. Director Cameron Chase is willing to help with that… at a price of course.
The Initial Impression
I wasn’t sure what to expect coming into Supergirl: Rebirth #1. I knew the comic would be taking a few cues from the TV series but that was pretty much it. And now that I’ve finished? I consider Supergirl one of the best Rebirth issues I have read so far. In my opinion, I think this comic did everything that one of these issues should do.
Oh yes. That werewolf is totally going to listen to you.
The Breakdown
Supergirl: Rebirth #1 lays down the groundwork for what the series will be about (Supergirl and her work at the DEO) and does it well. Right off the bat we learn a good deal of who the main character is, who the supporting cast will be, and a few plotlines are established on top of it. This issue is about as perfect an entry point for newcomers to the character as it gets, sans some bits of continuity referenced here and there.
Steve Orlando’s writing is impressive. His characterization felt on point for both Supergirl (who has matured a lot since her debut back in the New 52) and Cameron Chase, the latter especially nice to see again after being away for so long. Supergirl is upbeat and friendly, while Chase is both strong and commanding but also suspicious of our lead like with all superheroes. The dialogue between the two was pretty good and there was some nice banter between others characters, like Supergirl and her adoptive parents as well. However, there were some bits that sounded stiff and unnatural, like the ending meeting when Chase is talking with Kara. Otherwise, outside of a timescale on this series and the overall continuity of the universe (Supergirl only got to Earth a few months ago?), Orlando’s writing was great overall.
A lot of credit has to go with the art team as well. Emanuela Lupacchino, former artist of Starfire, provides the pencils; while she has some difficulties with the female characters having similar faces, the characters are drawn pretty well and their physiques don’t look inhuman or have bad proportions. The layouts are constructed and flow very well from panel to panel. The action is a tad static-looking, but is energetic in how it is presented. The inking by Ray McCarthy was good and the colors by Michael Atiyeh were beautiful, really making everything look so bright and colorful. Everything about the art came together well to make a bright, colorful, and upbeat looking comic from start to finish.
Is It Good?
Supergirl: Rebirth #1 is a bright, fun setup for the new Supergirl series. While you might balk at the word “setup,” rest assured it’s all good setup and acts as a great introduction to bring new and old readers to the character and her world. The writing was solid and the artwork was wonderful. If you are looking to try one of the Rebirth issues for the first time, definitely give this one a shot right away.
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