Gotham City Sirens #1

Today is the day to snag your copy of Gotham City Sirens #1. Hmmm, I've been referring to this title as "Gotham Sirens" all this time (oops). Of course I have my copy in hand - or rather on my desk.

My reaction is mixed. But that's mostly because I'd seen so many preview pages that I felt as if I'd actually read most of the book. As expected, Guillem March's designs are lively and lovely. It still boggles my mind that some people feel his style is not a good fit for this title. I disagree and believe it's going to help move copies.

Paul Dini seems comfortable (as he should) writing for these characters. The three ladies seem not unlike their DCAU counterparts. Gotham City Sirens #1 could easily play out in the animated universe.

Written by Paul Dini; Art and Cover by Guillem March; Variant Cover by JG Jones

This all-new series features the bad girls of Gotham City! Catwoman, Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn are tired of playing by other people's rules regardless of which side of the law they're on. These tough ladies have a new agenda that's all their own, and they'll use any means necessary to pursue it. But can they get along and work as a team? And who will get hurt along the way? DETECTIVE COMICS and STREETS OF GOTHAM writer Paul Dini kicks off this brand-new ongoing series with amazing artwork by Guillem March (JOKER'S ASYLUM: POISON IVY, GOTHAM GAZETTE).

On Sale June 24, 2009

Poison Ivy is very much the venomous vamp. Harley Quinn brings the comedic relief. As for Catwoman...well, she's playing along for now. Out of the three I'd say Ivy seems to be the one calling the shots. Much to the chagrin of Selina fans I'm sure. (Don't even get them started on Catwoman's placement cover wise. Meow!)

Overall I can't say there were too many surprises. But it was still fun. There's a new goon running around Gotham City who goes by the name Boneblaster (ahem). Apparently he can turn bone to splinters with his fancy robot arms. Catwoman struggles to defeat Boneblaster but he's easily handled by Ivy's giant roots. They return to Edward Nigma's apartment and discuss their fiendish union (complete with new hideout). That is - after round two with Boneblaster. A later scene with Zatanna is hilarious. Poison Ivy "telepathically" controls a rose bush that sits in Zatanna's jacuzzi room. The roots form the head of Ivy and she proceeds to ask Zatanna about Catwoman's mental and physical stability. Every time Zatanna tries to cast a spell Ivy dunks her under water. More please! Also, check out the alternate cover done by J.G. Jones.

There is a preview for issue #1 at the DCU Blog here: Have a little GOTHAM CITY SIRENS on Wednesday.

Also, wander over to Comic Vine and check out G-Man's video review of Gotham City Sirens #1 here: Gotham City Sirens #1 Reviewed. The premiere issue receives a fairly positive review. For laughs look up G-Man's take on the new"Marvel Divas" series.

Posted in: Comics