REVIEW: ‘Catwoman,’ Issue #37

Catwoman #37 is published by DC Comics, written by Ram V, art by Nina Vakueva, Laura Braga, and Geraldo Borges, colors by Jordie Bellaire, and letters by Tom Napolitano. With Catwoman, The Gardener, and Harley holding off the Magistrate’s enforcers, The Strays attempt to get Ivy safely to the docks and beyond the reach of those who wish to exploit her. But not everything is as it seems, and not everyone’s loyalty is where it appears to be.

If there is one overriding theme in this issue, it is desperation. As Gotham rebels against the grasp of the Magistrate, every moment in Catwoman #37 feels urgent. And as always, our heroes find themselves with the odds against them and the situation grim. But if being heroes was easy, everyone would do it. And while Alleytown has its heroes, they may not be quite up to this task.

Writer Ram V once again shows off plenty of writing skill as the plight of Catwoman and her allies is conveyed throughout this story. As the ongoing struggle and relentless push of their enemies weigh down on the beleaguered defense, Ram V does a great job of bringing the weight of the moment to the reader without having anyone character come across as too defeatist or whiny, which would’ve been easy to do, given Harley’s presence in the story.

But while the desperate, pitched battle takes center stage in Catwoman #37, it isn’t the only game being played. Just like every previous storyline that has come from this run, there are more layers to the game than initially presented itself. I won’t spoil what the hidden game is behind the curtain, but it is a well-thought-out and crafted moment that gives the book a big pop in the back half of the story.

The other noteworthy positive aspect of this book’s story is how it continues to utilize the large cast of characters. While many only appear for a handful of panels, the writing makes sure that these brief appearances make the character’s presence worthwhile.,

The only significant flaw with Catwoman #37‘s narrative comes with an unsatisfactory ending to one of the story’s threats. The story shows some of our heroes locked in combat with them; the book cuts away for a page, and when it returns, they are simply gone. As these are opponents that had been previously established as not a threat that a couple of well-placed punches would put down, this off-camera victory feels a little cheap.

The art in this book continues to maintain the narrative’s action movie feel well. All the various action moments that litter the book are delivered well, and the reactions from certain characters during the book’s big revelations are spot on. Layer some quality colorwork, and this book’s art successfully maintains what fans have come to expect from this run.

Finally, we have the lettering. Napolitano’s letters deliver the action and plot twists equally well. It is always easy to follow and stays out of the art’s way.

When all is said and done, Catwoman #37 delivers another solid entry to Selina’s story. It will be interesting to see where the story goes next, as the plot directions that can follow from here feel wide open.

Catwoman #37 is available now wherever comics are sold.