Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Matt Haley; Karl Kesel; Gloria Vasquez; Comicraft; & Digital Chameleon
Cover Art by Tom Grummett & Michael Bair
SUMMARY:
Published by DC Comics for March 2002, this prequel one-shot introduces Witchfire into DC continuity prior to Power Company # 1. Set up as a flashback six years before, reckless celebrity sorceress and goth singer Witchfire inadvertently meets Wonder Woman during a Boston Fleet Center concert.
Entitled “I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight,” Diana/Wonder Woman graciously accompanies her teenage friend, Vanessa, to a Witchfire concert. Unlike the awestruck Vanessa, Diana (who is still assimilating American culture) is skeptical of twenty-something Witchfire’s thrill-seeking appeal. Witchfire’s ignorant spell-chanting summons Nekron, the demonic Lord of the Unliving. Despite their team-up, Diana is left unimpressed by the publicity-obsessed Witchfire.
REVIEW:
Supported by Matt Haley & Kart Kesel’s capable artwork, writer Kurt Busiek delivers a reasonably good team-up story. Motivated more by fame than greed, Witchfire’s brash persona is surprisingly realistic, particularly in the reality TV/instant celebrity age. Though Wonder Woman makes a bland guest appearance, her parental-like scolding of the impulsive Witchfire’s glee is spot-on. Clearly, Busiek meant to present his edgy new heroine as an alternative to Diana — clearly the adult in the room. The problem is that Witchfire’s self-absorbed antics rapidly surpass any due welcome. Hence, the character’s clichéd persona provides minimal incentive to seek her future exploits in The Power Company.
Based on this story, at best, Witchfire might merit an occasional guest spot, as her character should be taken in small doses. Still, the spot-on cover art accurately showcases both heroines.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
The last page is Busiek’s Witchfire development file, which briefly details the character’s evolution. Busiek reveals that he once intended her to be a thrill-seeking and non-powered jewel thief named “Solitaire.”
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 5 Stars
