REVIEW: ‘DC Pride 2023’ Issue #1

DC Pride 2023 #1 is an anthology one-shot published by DC Comics, featuring stories by several creators. “Love’s Lightning Heart,” is written by Grant Morrison, art by Hayden Sherman, colors by Marissa Louise, and colors by Aditya Bidikar. “And Baby Makes Three,” is written by Leah Williams, art by Paulina Ganucheau, and letters by Frank Cvetkovic. “Hey, Stranger,” is written by Nadia Shammas, art by Bruka Jones, colors by Tamra Bonvillain, and letters by Cvetkovic. “Subspace Transmission,” written and art by A. L. Kaplan, and letters by Bidikar, “Anniversary,” is written by Josh Trujillo, art by Dan Aguillo, and letters by Lucas Gattoni. “Lost & Found,” is written by Jeremy Holt, art by Andre Dolt, and letters by Gattoni. “Teamwork makes the Dreamwork,” is written by Mildred Louis and letters by Ariana Maher. “The Dance” is written by Rex Ogle, art by Stephen Sadowski, colors by Enrica Erin Angiolini, and letters by Maher. “My Best Bet,” is written by Christopher Cantwell, art by Skylar Patridge, colors by Dearbhla, and letters by Morgan Martinez. “Bad Dream: A Dreamer Story,” written by Nicole Maines, art by Rye Hickman, colours by Bex Glendining, and letters by Rusty Gadd. These stories celebrate and explore the LGBTQ+ characters that DC have to offer, bringing them together.

All of these new collection of stories bring something different and essential, varying on what the creator wants to achieve with the tale. Some of them are existential, multiversal journies, which is what is displayed in the opening “Love’s Lightning Heart.” Morrison brings their limitless imagination to blow the minds of those entering the book instantly. Whilst it is expansive and features beings that make the abstract entities of Marvel blush, there is a bead of love that runs through it, as well as a lot of grief. Others are fun little asides as characters run into each other on patrol or by circumstance. Then there are those that come in with a real point to prove. This is most prominent in “Anniversary.” The true weight of terror that those in the LGBTQ+ community are feeling in the current climate can never truly be encapsulated, but this tale does a pretty stellar job of exploring the ongoing, near-constant fight for their right to even exist. I believe it is the story in DC Pride 2023 with the biggest statement. The book also keeps itself relevant within the storylines of DC, with the effects of Lazarus Planet being the lead-in for a couple of the entrants. There really is a selection of every kind of superhero story available, from chats with old friends to new flirtations.

The characters included offer plentiful and wonderful combinations. When needed, it brings those together whose love oozes out of the page. Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn may be the most perfect example of this. The powerful connection between two very different figures is one of the flagships relationships within DC. The established stalwarts provide stability and recognition to the comic. For some, they are being reunited for the first time in a long time. And for others, whilst they have existed for a while, it is their maiden appearance in the Pride special. For characters like Tim Drake and Alan Scott, who have over a century’s worth of publication history between them, it opens up new avenues of storytelling for them. It is also fantastic to see some brand new characters laced within the anthology as well. They are a part of the Dawn of DC relaunch and this is the perfect platform to not only introduce them to a new audience but to place them among established heroes.

The standard of dialogue is extremely high throughout the book. It feels like it is an opportunity for the writers to let their feelings be known and to really express themselves or the characters’ thoughts. There are some amazing monologues and conversations that are genuine and filled with pent-up emotion. And they can also be energetic and amusing as some matchups generate brand-new scenarios. Throughout the whole book is a general theme of love, but it is truly explored, not just stuck on the front of each tale. It should be noted that the tone of the dialogue changes for each story. There are multiple areas where the conversations are mature, but they aren’t so adult that it would deter younger readers from witnessing them. 

The art is phenomenal, again depicting the sheer spectrum of what DC can offer. Like with the writing, the order of the stories says a lot. Sherman’s work on the first story is brilliant for its cosmic nature, bringing with it the influences such as Kirby and Jim Steranko. There are parts of this enormous adventure that verge on disturbing. Then straight after that, the Ivy and Harley story of “And Baby Makes Three” is much gentler and cartoonish. Interspersed between the longer stories are some spectacular pinups, with terrific displays of talent. And again, “Anniversary” deserves special mention due to the unique painted style, an evocative and passionate approach to such an emotional story

This book would not be the same without color, and it is stunning in its entirety. Whether added by the artists or by a colorist, depending on the style, it’s an incredibly warm and inviting comic. And the lettering is easy to read despite several huge expanses of dialogue.

I also found it very humbling seeing the tribute to Rachel Pollack included towards the tail end of the comic. Where her contribution to the piece should be is a lengthy obituary and an outpouring of love and affection to her from those that knew and adored her. 

DC Pride 2023 #1 is both a celebration and a statement. It worships the characters and the creators that are making a difference by giving them a platform to shine. Every story is completely individual as both old and new figures are given space to be open and express themselves. But what is important to stress is that these characters and those that bring them to life aren’t going anywhere. The LGBTQ+ community is in danger across the United States and the world, and this comic can’t change that. But it can demonstrate that telling stories about embracing who you love and who you choose to be will be told forever.

DC Pride 2023 #1 is available where comics are sold.