Catwoman #38 is published by DC Comics, written by Ram V, art by Casper Wijngaard, colors by Casper Wijngaad, and letters by Tom Napolitano. With the final battles in Alleytown wrapped up, the world returns to normal. But there are still a lot of questions being asked and some at GCPD think Selina Kyle has the answers they are looking for.
This story sees Selina volunteering to go down to the GCPD’s Alleytown HQ to tell what she knows about the recent events that occurred in Alleytown during the showdown with The Magistrate. Accompanied by a lawyer, Selina confidently shows up to tell what she knows. But will her answers be enough to satisfy GCPD?
Catwoman #38 serves as an entertaining means to cross the Ts and dot the Is on the final chapter to Catwoman’s part of the recent Fear State storyline. While there are numerous story angles, side moments, and follow-ups that come to light through this issue’s narrative, I was happiest to see that my biggest issue with the previous issue was rectified here. That being the off-camera defeat of the Wight Witch by Ghost-Maker. Getting this obvious omission filled in made the story feel much more complete.
As questions are asked and answered, though often not to the satisfaction of all, Catwoman #38 never fails to deliver Selina in all her cool, collected confidence. Ram V continues to deliver the character in a way that plays to all of her strengths, as she remains capable of maneuvering around virtually every trap.
The only disappointment this issue brings for me is how it develops the ongoing situation with Father Valley. While it doesn’t feel completely wrong for the storyline to go in the direction that it does, it nonetheless left me wanting more from the story.
This issue sees a significant departure in the artistic presentation of this book. Artist Wijngaard brings the story’s emotional moments to life with a solid amount of force. The art in Catwoman #38 also manages to keep all the scenes well laid out for the reader. With the visuals consistently following where the conversation is focused, it would’ve been easy for the reader to get disoriented with where the story frequently jumps. Happily, the visuals combine with the smooth writing to keep it all straight.
The most notable change in this book’s visual presentation is its coloring. Wijngaard uses some striking color combinations throughout this book that give it a rather pop-art sort of feel to the preceding. This change is a lovely switch-up from the previous color work that the book featured. With so much of the book’s narrative delivered as voice-over laid on moments in the past or far away, Catwoman #38 requires a bit of extra clarity where its letters are concerned. Napolitano delivers this clarity without a single misstep. This allows the book to flow smoothly throughout its story.
Catwoman #38 manages to do what all final issues of a story arc need to do. It wraps up any loose ends that might remain from its previous issues, while also setting up the next chapter of its star’s adventures.
Catwoman #38 is available wherever comics are sold.
Catwoman #38
TL;DR
Catwoman #38 manages to do what all final issues of a story arc need to do. It wraps up any loose ends that might remain from its previous issues, while also setting up the next chapter of its star’s adventures.