Harleen #1 is written and illustrated by Stjepan Šejić (AQUAMAN: UNDERWORLD, SUICIDE SQUAD, Sunstone). Harleen #1 is published by DC Black Label, an imprint of DC Comics.
In my opinion, I believe Stjepan Šejić has a firm grasp on characters within the realm of Batman. When I first learned Šejić was not only writing but illustrating Harleen #1 I squealed happily. We all know Harley Quinn is Harleen Quinzel. But, we may not all know what led her from being an amazingly talented psychiatrist to the lovely little psycho Harley Quinn. Sure, we know she falls for The Joker. But, what led her directly down this path? This re-imagining lays down that path for our curious minds.
Let’s dive into Harleen #1 head first. The story is told from Harley’s point of view. A future Harley is the one telling us each path she takes that led her to The Joker, and why with her total rationale behind it. This version of Harley even admits her own mistakes as the story unfolds. The thing is, Harleen is trying her best to do good. Harleen is certain she’s figured out the exact things that map the criminal’s mind. She wants to truly stop crimes before they start.
Just as Harleen is getting closer to her goals and bringing all her findings to light she meets him. Yes, you know the man I’m referring to, The Joker. Now, I could dissect every little detail of how she meets him, why she’s drawn to him, and how he’s like a drug to her that just won’t let her get any rest. But, that would ruin a lot of the fun of Harleen. And, that’s exactly the story this comic delivers.
I knew I was going to love Harleen from the moment I read the line “He smiles…and I make the WORST MISTAKE of my life…I SMILE BACK.”
Something I really enjoy about this story is all the connections that I see coming together with other characters that we know and love within Gotham City. Not just bats, and not just Joker. Lots of cameo’s from fan favorites. The writing within the pages of Harleen is cohesive and consistent with each character.
Bottom line – Batman Fan? Read Harleen. Joker fan? Read Harleen. Gotham Fan? Read Harleen. Harley Quinn fan…obviously it doesn’t need to be stated.
9/10 Stars
