REVIEW: ‘Harley Quinn,’ Issue #18

Harley Quinn #18 is published by DC Comics, written by Stephanie Phillips, art by Georges Duarte, colours by Romulo Fajardo Jr., and letters by Andworld Design. Harley Quinn is chased and captured by a new group. But they may want something from her that she was not expecting.

This is the start of a brand new arc and adventure, and it opens with an exciting beginning. An opening chase scene sees Harley face numerous characters in an energetic adventure. The constant movement is fun and there is a surprise around every corner. After that comes the true exposition and premise of the plot, which is equal parts interesting and chaotic. It is a massive departure from what has come before in the series but maybe a refresh is what was needed. Going beyond Gotham for this arc leads to a lot of unexpected drama with peril left on the final page. It is also the first issue that acknowledges the events in Dark Crisis, Partially explaining why Harley becomes involved. 

What hasn’t changed in Harley Quinn #18 is the brilliance of the title character. This has suddenly become a team book, but it is Harley that gathers the true personality. Bouncing off all of the others that join in brings more voices to the series. What is impressive is the way Phillips maintains a gag throughout the issue without it getting stale. Some of the new additions to the book are brilliant and grants Quinn a new team to play with. Most of them are from Flash or Batman comics, but one is an old nemesis of Harley herself, which will clearly lead to a clash later in the series.

With this new arc comes a new artist to the series, as Rossmo switches out for Duarte. Whilst the styles are dramatically different, the cartoony feel is still an integral aspect. The chase at the start of the issue is a superb proving ground. Duarte adds unique attributes to Harley’s look—for example, bigger bows in her hair—blending old and new traits. That youthful exuberance remains clear, but there are also some amazingly fiery facial expressions. The emotions are incredibly specific and hilarious at times.

The colours are excellent too, as Fajardo Jr. joins the creative team. It’s a new palette, but the idea remains similar. Harley is the most vibrant part of the comic. That brilliant red and the adorable highlights make it always stand out among the blues of the city around her. The exhibition of powers is bright and radiant. The letters are also very easy to read.

Harley Quinn #18 is a new start on many levels. The new art team carries that same soul that this book so proudly kept, with energy and enthusiasm constantly adding a smile to the face. But the story is massively changed, taking Harley out of her world and sending her to something different. The exposition is heavy, but it does give both Phillips and Harley a brand new and exciting adventure with a team full of chaos.

Harley Quinn #18 is available where comics are sold.