Harley Quinn #24 is published by DC Comics, written by Stephanie Phillips, art by Matteo Lolli, colours by Rain Beredo and letters by Andworld Design. Harley was killed. Then brought back to life. But the Lazarus Pit always leaves an imprint on those that visit it as Harley goes on a search for her killer.
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This comic contains a phenomenal story. The series is always hilarious and tongue-in-cheek, but there is certainly a darker spin as well. At first is an interrogation that Harley subjects Victor Zsasz to, mixing the tones constantly. It is an intense scene that is long but never loses its power. This takes up the majority of Harley Quinn #24 and it reveals so much about the main character. The scene transitions into an investigative yet silly moment. That balance of comedy and drama is perfect, with Phillips never pushing too far to either side. And it can switch in a second. The last page is extremely surprising, with a reveal coming out of nowhere.
This is a character-driven issue, focusing primarily on the changes in Harley’s personality. She can be very scary and serious, her intelligence showing just how terrifying she could be if she wanted to be. The venom she now has towards people is unsettling from such a positive, exuberant person. There is still the absurdity from her and her unpredictability kept me on a knife edge.
What has been excellent in recent issues of this series is the guest stars. Each one has had a long, distinct conversation with Harley. Zsasz is actually quite strange in this comic as a facade drops very quickly. His murderous rampage halts and he actually turns normal. It is weird and potentially takes away his specific personality, but shows the ability of Harley to alter people.
The art is immense. There are some delightful panels in this issue. From Harley’s new cult with members that impersonate her, to Zsasz’s hysterical facial expressions, the humour can come from the dialogue and the visuals. Harley’s first reveal is incredible, showing Lolli’s ridiculous intricacies. It’s the little things that lead to a fantastic whole. She flips from smiling to furious from panel to panel, creating unease. Perhaps the greatest part of the issue is the hyenas, who at points almost look like they have been rendered with a different art style.
The colours are stunning. There is a subtlety to their application, with some gorgeous fades. Harley will always be the most vibrant figure in her own comic and that is a glorious constant. The lettering has been consistently great for the entirety of this series.
Harley Quinn #24 is excellent. It is not a lively book, with an interrogation taking the place of a lengthy fight. But the dialogue and character development are so powerful that it is just as intense as any battle. Harley is such a strong protagonist that she can be exhilarating no matter what she does.
Harley Quinn #24 is available where comics are sold.
Harley Quinn #24
TL;DR
Harley Quinn #24 is excellent. It is not a lively book, with an interrogation taking the place of a lengthy fight. But the dialogue and character development are so powerful that it is just as intense as any battle. Harley is such a strong protagonist that she can be exhilarating no matter what she does.
