Connect with us
Harley Quinn and Batman #1 Review

Comic Books

Harley Quinn and Batman #1 Review

Read the prequel to the upcoming movie ‘Harley Quinn and Batman,’ out now digitally.

[amazon_link asins=’B073GHP2X5′ template=’AiPTProductAd’ store=’aiptcomics-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’3ee36d01-7543-11e7-b5cd-29b1c6912ea4′]

If you’re like me, anything with Batman: The Animated Series is a must look if not a must buy. That’s why I’m so amped for DC’s new Batman and Harley team up movie coming to theaters August 14th and hitting Blu-Ray August 29th (available for preorder now). But before that even comes out in a few short weeks, why not dip your toes in the digital-first comic book written by Batman: The Animated Series writer Ty Templeton and artist Rick Burchett?

Listen to the latest episode of our weekly comics podcast!

So what’s it about?

The official summary reads:

Harley’s sure she’s the best thing that ever happened to her puddin’, but the Joker treats her like just another henchperson. There’s only one thing to do: get the Batman involved!

Why does this matter?

If you’re going to watch the Batman and Harley Quinn movie this seems like a must buy just so you can get the whole story. This is all about Harley rejecting Mistah J and going it alone, and this digital comic tells you how that happened.

Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?

Harley Quinn and Batman #1 Review
Oh, Joker…

There are no ifs ands or buts about it, this series delivers Animated Series vibes and then some. From the excellent dialogue (like Joker playing with words) or the stone cold nature of Batman, this comic gets the characters from the show perfectly. It also drops you right into the type of climactic scene that usually ends an episode which means it’s all fun and no setup. As always, Joker has a ridiculous plan (poisoning BBQ sauce), has ridiculous weapons (a Joker mech!), and the dynamic between Joker and Harley is just great.

With that nailed, Templeton also keeps the narrative interesting, with a twist involving Harley you may not see coming. She has a strong argument Joker can’t deny, which leads to a surprise guest villain by the end. In general you can see where this is going–Jimmy Palmiotti and Amanda Conner have played with Harley hating Joker for a while now–and it’s rather easy to see how this builds towards the upcoming movie. That said, the cartoon vibe is strong with this one and any fan of the show will love it.

That’s in part because Burchett draws the characters in a clean and simple way reminiscent of the show. Joker has those yellow beady eyes that are creepy and when things get particularly cartoony (like Joker blasting his face off with a rocket launcher) it takes liberties with reality. The calm and ever perfect Batman is nicely done too.

Harley Quinn and Batman #1 Review
He’s obsessed!

It can’t be perfect can it?

[amazon_link asins=’B073GHP2X5′ template=’BottomAdAIPT’ store=’aiptcomics-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’817f94db-7543-11e7-bfec-81d438b6a5f0′]

At only 99 cents this is a cheap book so really it’s hard to judge. It’s short, sure, but it’s also so cheap it’s no harm no foul. It’s also not the most complex of comics seeing as it’s mostly an action scene, but again, it’s hard to fault it at this price.

Is it good?

This is a great slice of Batman: The Animated Series fun. It may be short, but at a buck it’s well worth a look.

Harley Quinn and Batman #1 Review
Harley Quinn and Batman #1
Is it good?
This is a great slice of Batman: The Animated Series fun. It may be short, but at a buck it's well worth a look.
Captures the voice of Joker very well
Nails the Animated Series feel visually and with character
It's a short read and mostly a climactic battle, but it is only 99 cents!
9
Great
Buy Now

Join the AIPT Patreon

Want to take our relationship to the next level? Become a patron today to gain access to exclusive perks, such as:

  • ❌ Remove all ads on the website
  • 💬 Join our Discord community, where we chat about the latest news and releases from everything we cover on AIPT
  • 📗 Access to our monthly book club
  • 📦 Get a physical trade paperback shipped to you every month
  • 💥 And more!
Sign up today
Comments

In Case You Missed It

WWE SmackDown preview, full card: March 1, 2024 WWE SmackDown preview, full card: March 1, 2024

WWE SmackDown preview, full card: March 1, 2024

Pro Wrestling

AEW Dynamite preview, full card: February 28, 2024 AEW Dynamite preview, full card: February 28, 2024

AEW Dynamite preview, full card: February 28, 2024

Pro Wrestling

AEW Rampage preview, full card: March 1, 2024 AEW Rampage preview, full card: March 1, 2024

AEW Rampage preview, full card: March 1, 2024

Pro Wrestling

Marvel unveils the new villains Bloodcoven appearing in 'Blood Hunt' Marvel unveils the new villains Bloodcoven appearing in 'Blood Hunt'

Marvel unveils the new villains Bloodcoven appearing in ‘Blood Hunt’

Comic Books

Connect
Newsletter Signup