Celebrating Harley Quinn: A Review of Issue #50
Harley Quinn #50 lands with a splash, evoking nostalgia and excitement as we mark a significant milestone in Harley’s ongoing saga. As both a reviewer and a devoted fan since the inception of the animated series, this review feels deeply personal, especially as it coincides with my 100th review of the Harley Quinn series for Dark Knight News.
A Journey Through Chaos
Having entered the world of Harley Quinn in 2018, I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing her evolution firsthand—from a chaotic anti-hero to a symbol of self-discovery. The journey has been nothing short of exhilarating. With each issue, Harley has taught me and countless others invaluable lessons wrapped in humor and heart.
Your Body Is A Temple
The cover of Harley Quinn #50 is a masterpiece in itself. Featuring the phrase, “Heavy is the head … With the Giant Brain,” illustrated by Elizabeth Torque and colored by Dave McCaig, it perfectly encapsulates Harley’s internal struggle. It’s a striking visual representation of her ongoing battle with her own mind, making it impossible to glance past. The April Fools variant by David Nakayama adds a humorous twist, showcasing the iconic rivalry between Harley and the Joker.
Mind Over Matter
From the very first page, Harley Quinn #50 grabs you by the collar. The opener thrusts us into a gripping scene where Harley faces impending doom at the hands of her quirky adversaries, the Gunbuddies—Gunbunny and Mayfly. These hilarious yet inept assassins add an entertaining dynamic, especially as they clash with Harley’s neighbors, the Throatcutter Hill Neighborhood Association.
But the real drama unfolds in Harley’s mind, where an intense internal conflict takes center stage. As she wrestles with her conscience, readers are left wondering: Who truly bears the responsibility for Harley Quinn’s fate? The stakes have never felt higher, and the tension is palpable.
Art Meets Emotion
Mirka Andolfo’s artwork in this issue is nothing short of breathtaking. The vivid illustrations transport readers into Harley’s mind, where imagination and psychological horror intertwine. The fight scenes within her consciousness are uniquely crafted, showcasing the complexities of self-love and acceptance. One particularly notable moment features the residents standing tall for Harley, especially Grimaldi, who prompts everyone to reconsider their true selves.
The comedic relief provided by the Gunbuddies lightens the tension, making readers chuckle even as Harley’s life hangs in the balance. Their antics serve as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, humor can shine through.
What Lies Ahead?
As the tumultuous battle between Harley’s heart and mind reaches a tentative peace, the question remains: What’s next for our beloved anti-hero? The scheming Althea lurks in the background, hinting that the drama is far from over. Issue #50 firmly establishes that Harley’s journey is an ongoing saga filled with unforeseen twists, ensuring that readers will be eagerly awaiting what comes next.
Final Thoughts
Harley Quinn #50 celebrates both the character and her community of fans, leaving us excited and reflective on the journey. It’s a poignant reminder of all the fun and chaos that Harley brings into our lives. Join me next time as we continue to follow this captivating character and her adventures!
Images provide courtesy of DC Entertainment.
