POISON IVY #43 (DC COMICS)
Heavy is the crown for Gotham City’s new mayor.
Pamela Isley has been sworn into office. Maneuvering the political landscape is one thing. Dealing with a police commissioner like Vandal Savage is another. Let’s not forget about a public relationship with one Harley Quinn.
If that doesn’t complicate matters even more, Selina Kyle has returned to town….
POISON IVY #43 by G. Willow Wilson, Jaime Infante, Arif Prianto, & Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou (DC COMICS) continues the “Mayor Ivy” storyline!
Let’s take a closer look at what’s transpiring now
POISON IVY #43 by G. Willow Wilson, Jaime Infante, Arif Prianto, & Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Wilson ramps up the strains of Ivy’s relationship early in this chapter. The dialogue is sharp as both sides state their cases. In dealing with the public, Isley knows what is at stake. It is a far cry from normal to the fiery Quinn. Their talk ends with a defiant move on Harley’s part. The writing sets this moment up perfectly to push Isley back into her office duties. Her mood shifts the attention to Mr. Grasp. There are some issues with Gotham’s sewer systems. When they go to investigate, there is someone waiting to have a conversation.
Adding Kyle into play provides a great X factor in Ivy’s plans. Their banter ranges from friendly to direct. The “honor amongst thieves” sense grows in this stage. It leads to a quick resolve as Ivy and Grasp head further into the sewer’s darkness. Readers watch as Ivy makes a very “forceful” decree onto the Sewer tycoon. The writing unlocks her true feeling towards the matter and shows she’s not afraid to cross a line when needed in her reign. Its’ epilogue shows her impact on the citizens of Gotham. The mood tends to replicate her impact in cleaning up the city. Once in the final stages, another curve is thrown into the mix. How this new wrinkle plays out is anyone’s call. A solid issue all around.
Infante & Prianto showcase the pain running through Harley’s face as she hears Isley explain herself. Their expressions show the frustrations of Isley’s new job. There are many moving parts now involved. This ultimately ends with a bold full image conclusion. Events shift gears back to the present time with a half panel of Ivy at the desk. Her drama is swayed into dealing with Mr. Grasp. The closeup of his crooked smile tips off many thoughts. It sparks a walk underground which opens many eyes.
Catwoman’s entrance is given a half panel attack. Readers can easily sense the tension between Kyle and Isley. It leads to some strong looks as Isley defends her moves. Once that wraps, Prianto’s use of shadows takes over panels. There is a very gritty feel as Isley and Grasp walk. The near full image of the broken sewers launches Ivy into action. Her tactics come across with much pent up rage. This transitions to her trip to the city streets with much enjoyment from the residents. Her political actions drew many reaction. None possibly strnger than the last page. The full image shows more trouble has come into town and looking to stay awhile.
FINAL GRADE: 8.7
The weight of the Gotham political landscape closes in on Mayor Isley in her latest chapter. Wilson dials up the emotional drain with fantastic writing. Infante & Prianto craft impressive panels to navigate through the drama. This political term is one fans will want to keep an eye on at the shops!
Let me know your thoughts on POISON IVY #43 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
