Review: Supergirl #36

"Who's Laughing Now?"

Writer: Marc Andreyko
Artists: Eduardo Pansica and Julio Ferreira
Color Artist: Chris Sotomayor
Letters: Tom Napolitano

Review by Adam Ray

Summary

The previous issue left Supergirl in quite the predicament. We find her as we left her, in the clutches of a new Brainiac. The "Year of the Villain" has meant many nefarious plans are starting to come together.

Once she shrugs off her troubles, we see just how deep the problems outside her world go. The Batman Who Laughs has begun turning individuals to his twisted will across the DC Universe.

Positives

This issue drips with pulp action. Supergirl is definitely the character for it, and it shows here. We go from scene to scene with no real time to breathe: from the Fortress, to aiding Batman, to the shocking result of her change, back to the Fortress, to wherever issue takes us. It’s a roller coaster that keeps the tension and questions high. I’ve always counted on this title to exhilarate, and this is one of the best.

Negatives

As much fun as it can be, there is very little clarity to an issue like this. Sure, we get a section where she helps us orient ourselves, seeing where she was and why Brainiac had put the whammy on her. We also need to wonder how much of Issue #35 we need to remember. Action in a comic shouldn’t be an uphill battle, it should draw us into the plot, not be the plot alone. As much fun as this title is, it’s a struggle to find a story buried under the booms and ka-pows.

Verdict

I have to admit that I’m not consistently picking up this title again and again for it’s contribution to high literature, I come back because high octane action is so satisfying. Supergirl #36 is one of the title’s strongest for its stellar visuals and wild, exciting possibilities.

Images Courtesy Of DC Entertainment