Comic Book Reviews (Week May 19, 2021): Batman/Fortnite – Zero Point Issue 14, Catwoman Issue 31 & More!

Welcome to my comic book reviews for this week (May 19, 2021). I will be covering Batman/Fortnite: Zero Point Issue 3, Catwoman Issue 31, Runaways Issue 36, and more.

I have to begin by talking about the incredibly enjoyable Batman/Fortnite: Zero Point issue 3. From what I know about the fandom, this was one of the highly-anticipated issues in the story due to it featuring Batman’s fight with Snake Eyes. In my opinion, writer Christos Gage didn’t disappoint. From their first encounter to slowly building a level of mutual respect, Batman vs Snake Eyes is masterfully done. Every panel is wonderful, with artist Reilly Brown impressively making every punch and kick feel dynamic. There’s a moment where the rest of the players just stand and watch Batman and Snake Eyes fight. And you know what? I would have done the same.

And while the characters inside the world of Fortnite can’t talk, we do get a lot of world-building through an email correspondence involving the folks orchestrating the entire thing. It’s the organization’s fear of Bruce getting close to escaping that leads to Snake Eye being sent after him. Of course, the plan backfires.

With Batman/Fornite: Zero Point issue 3 ending on an exciting cliffhanger, while I’m excited about what comes next, I’m a bit disappointed seeing Selina being used in a certain manner. The last thing I want Catwoman to be is a damsel in distress.

Does it have obvious queer characters? Yes.

Recommendation: PICK IT UP!

Catwoman Issue 31

If you have been keeping up with my weekly reviews, you would know I took a break from reviewing the current Catwoman solo series. However, the current arc by writer Ram V is why I’m back to talking about it. I don’t know about you, but I’m enjoying seeing Selina fall deeper into Simon Saint’s world. From what I can tell, the narrative is setting things up for Selina in a manner that will connect with other books in the Batman line. She does succeed in rescuing Ivy (someone needs to give Harley a call!), but the danger is far from over.

Also, I have a small nitpick. While the cover is great, I would have liked for at least one woman trying to woo Selina as well.

Does it have obvious queer characters? Yes.

Recommendation: Pick it up.

Wonder Girl Issue 1

I liked Yara Flor being introduced in the ‘Future State’ event. That’s why I decided to pick up the debut issue of her solo by writer Joelle Jones. Having said that, I don’t think I will continue with it. I’m not saying it’s bad. I can see a lot of readers enjoying this series with Yara as the main lead and getting to learn more about Brazilian folklore. It’s just not for me, especially because I’m not a huge reader of the Wonder Woman side of the DC Comics world.

The art (pencils by Jones and colors by Jordie Bellaire) is gorgeous, though. So, maybe I’ll pick up a few more upcoming copes to support the series? I don’t know. I’m conflicted.

Does it have obvious queer characters? Yes.

Recommendation: Up to you.

Runaways Issue 36

Runaways is one of the few comic books out there that make me look forward to the messy interactions between the young cast. Writer Rainbow Rowell has a knack for making young superheroes act their age without coming across as annoying. Runaways issue 36 clearly sets things up for the future of the team. And I can’t wait to find out everything, especially with time travel shenanigans involved.

Does it have obvious queer characters? Yes.

Recommendation: PICK IT UP! 

Power Rangers Issue 7

Talking about another series featuring young superheroes acting their age without coming across as annoying, we have Power Rangers issue 7 by writer Ryan Parrott. After running away from the planet Onyx, the latest installment has the Rangers figuring out their next step in their mission to find the Empyreals. Turns out, those God-like beings are making their way to a planet called Hartunia. With Parrott continuing to give the team moments to think about morality, I really enjoyed seeing our leads deciding how to handle the predicament involving Hartunia.

According to Xi, wouldn’t it be best to let Hartunia be destroyed? Xi’s stance even made me think due to Hartunia being known as a planet that thrives by colonizing other planets and exploiting native resources. Parrott does a good job of showing the thought process of each Ranger as well as Drakkon. The opening of the issue has a scene where Zack opts for a surprising move to beat Drakkon during a “friendly” game. I wouldn’t be surprised if that part of Zack’s personality appears as the Rangers try and help Hartunia. Also, Drakkon is clearly planning something. I’m not sure if it involves him becoming the new Blue Ranger, but I can feel his brain working.

Does it have obvious queer characters? No.

Recommendation: PICK IT UP!

Phantom on the Scan Issue 2

Hmmm. I think Phantom on the Scan by co-creators (writer) Cullen Bunn and (artist) Mark Torres would work far better as a binge-read or a streaming show. The second issue tells us a bit more about how our random cast of characters is connected. It seems to go all the way back to the night the comet fell. Apparently, Matthew and his crew are sick and their psychic powers are symptoms of said sickness. There’s definitely enjoyable horror and mystery in this story, paired with creepy art. But again, it’s the type of storytelling I want to read in one sitting instead of waiting for a month for a new issue to be released. There’s just something about the pacing. I can’t properly explain it.

Does it have obvious queer characters? No.

Recommendation: Up to you.

Snow Angels Issue 4

I was provided a free digital copy of Snow Angels issue 4 for review. The opinions I have shared are my own.

From writer Jeff Lemire and artist Jock, Snow Angels issue 4 brings the first arc to a close. I don’t know when this series will return, but I’m looking forward to reading what happens next after all the secrets spilled in the current issue. It’s supposed to be a 10-part story.

While running away from the Snowman, Milli and Mae’s father decides to tell his daughters the truth. Turns out, he, his brother, and his brother’s wife broke the three rules years ago. And while I’m not a fan of the relationship drama that occurs between that trio, I did appreciate Milli and Mae being quite understanding of their father’s words. They are clearly confused. But they love him.

With their father now gone, it will be interesting to see what happens to Milli and Mae. The world as they know it has been broken. The Trench isn’t what they were taught, as kids, to be. 

Does it have obvious queer characters? No.

Recommendation: Pick it up.

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You can read Jessica’s review of Nightwing issue 80 here.

Which comic books did you read this week? Did you enjoy Batman/Fortnite: Zero Point issue 3? Let us know.

Author: Farid-ul-Haq

Farid has a Double Masters in Psychology and Biotechnology as well as an M.Phil in Molecular Genetics. He is the author of numerous books including Missing in Somerville, and The Game Master of Somerville. He gives us insight into comics, books, TV shows, anime/manga, video games, and movies.

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