Harley Quinn 2024 Annual #1 is by Erica Henderson and published by DC.
Harley Quinn 2024 Annual #1 is available now, in print and on digital platforms where all good comic books are sold. Grab your digital copy from Amazon Comixology UK right here.
Synopsis
Toot toot! Ladies and germs, don’t you just hate it when you bust your butt left and right with no reward? Whether you’re devoted to a life of heroism, villainy, or regular-person-ism—everyone needs a break. Which is where the HARLEY QUINN 2024 ANNUAL comes in! 40 pages of luxurious luxury cruise-based comedy guaranteed to leave you feeling rested, relaxed, and READY TO FRICKING SOLVE A MARITIME MURDER MYSTERY. When Zatanna gets framed for a mystery on a cruise ship, ol’ Shamluck Harley is on the case!
Review
In a delightful twist of events, Harley and a band of Gotham’s finest baddies indulge in a well-earned vacation aboard a cruise ship after pulling off a successful bank heist – a first for Harley. The comic kicks off with Harley and Ivy, amidst the backdrop of the bustling dock, humorously contemplating the various ailments one might contract on a cruise, such as norovirus and e. coli, alongside the more nebulous “unknown” diseases. This moment cleverly breaks the fourth wall, with the writers inserting a playful disclaimer about the lack of medical accreditation behind these claims, adding a layer of humour and self-awareness to the scene. The story then unfolds with Harley’s boredom on the cruise, leading her to a fascinating show and a murder mystery that she gets entangled in.
In my personal opinion, the dynamic between Harley and Ivy consistently stands out as a highlight in their comic appearances. Their complexity, entertainment value, and the sheer joy of following their adventures are my personal favourites, and what elevates their relationship is the delightful illustration style. It’s playful, vibrant, expressive, and a bit cheeky—mirroring Harley’s personality to a T. Each panel is brimming with character, making for a perfect visual companion to the story.
That said, something caught my attention in this latest Harley and Ivy. It’s become increasingly apparent that Ivy often takes a backseat in the narratives centred around Harley and herself. While this critique isn’t particularly new, it’s a recurring theme that fans like me find a bit disappointing. Nevertheless, in this specific comic, the decision for Ivy to have a lesser role did seem justified. However, I’m hopeful this doesn’t become a trend. Harley and Ivy are formidable characters individually, but their partnership has a wealth of potential that feels somewhat underexplored in instances like these.
Anyways, back to the subject at hand (as this comic is so so fun). Harley initially enjoys the cruise, but due to the extreme normalcy of a typical holiday, she soon becomes bored. She seeks entertainment elsewhere, leading her to a fascinating show headlined by “Zantana, Master of the Mystical Arts.” The show is a mix of magic, illusion, and comedy, with Zantana’s witty banter and impressive tricks keeping the audience on their toes. This is where the story truly stands out. The interaction between Harley and other characters, such as Zatana and the other familiar DC figures that make an appearance (no spoilers), especially with a murder mystery backdrop, is where the comic finds its comedic footing. The witty one-liners and the chaotically fun plot highlights Harley’s best qualities perfectly.
Overall, this comic delivers a rich, engaging narrative filled with humour, fun intrigue, and dynamic character interactions. The critique here is not of the quality of the storytelling, which is undeniably high, but rather a personal call for a deeper exploration of the relationship between Harley & Ivy that makes the characters so compelling in the first place. Harley and Ivy’s relationship, in particular, holds untold potential that could add even more depth and nuance to an already fascinating story. Imagine the possibilities!
Verdict
This comic is playful, vibrant, expressive, and a bit cheeky—mirroring the beloved Harley Quinn to a T. Each panel is brimming with character, making for a perfect visual companion to the fun story.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
