Written by Gail Simone
Art by Jesus Saiz; Nei Ruffino; & Carlos M. Mangual
Cover Art by Jesus Saiz
SUMMARY:
Entitled “Hostile Takeover, Part One of Two,” it was published by DC Comics for July 2011. A brief prologue reveals that the sinister Mr. Tripe has recently hired twin sisters Trissa & Somnia Lachess as aides for his ominous boss: ‘Mr. J.’ Coordinated by Barbara “Oracle” Gordon, the undercover Birds (Black Canary, Lady Blackhawk, Hawk, & Dove) infiltrate Tripe’s tech-proof Gotham City skyscraper.
Splitting up, the Birds encounter face-to-face threats. Interrupting an illicit weapons buy in the Gotham sewers, the Huntress horrifically realizes what shadowy menace is stalking the Birds. Renee “The Question” Montoya guest-stars.
REVIEW:
Perfectly capped by its cliffhanger ending, writer Gail Simone’s script is well-played, specifically: the Birds pitted against an enigmatic foe capable of overwhelming them. Implying just enough creepiness works for Simone’s script, as it’s an effective tool making her plot twists much less predictable.
However, one sequence that perhaps needed slightly more elaboration is the Huntress’ intuitive hunch re: the mystery villain – why would she know who this villain is? Otherwise, Simone is very much on her game, including the Question’s entertaining presence. Led by Jesus Saiz, the visuals (including a fine cover image) are of excellent caliber. Birds of Prey # 12, as a result, makes a dynamite read for fans.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
There’s a two-page letters-and-answers column, with a reverse-image cover reveal for Birds of Prey # 13. Ian Sattler’s DC Nation column plugs the Batman: Arkham City video game.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8½ Stars
