ONE SHOT ... (ISSUE #1?)
First off, kudos to DC for this creative team line-up:
Marguerite Bennett - Writer
Meghan Hetrick - Artist
Michelle Madsen - Colorist
Saidi Temofonte - Letterer
Katie Kubert - Editor
See anything special there? How about an all female cast of creators!!! Very cool.
Okay, but how did this all female team do? Better than I thought they would. Well, that came out more like I didn't expect these "women" to create a good book, but that is not what I meant. I mean this title ... this issue was better than I ever thought it would be or could be even.
Writing wise, we get an interesting look at a very disturbed girl. Yes there are images in here that seem a little over the top, but as this girl has the problems she has, I find it really fits the character well. Another thing the writer does well here is show our main character developing as the issue goes. We "grow" with her as she explores this "being" she wants to be ... needs to be. Again, did not expect to even care about this character, but came away more interested than I thought possible.
Art wise ... well ... first off, it fits perfectly. Lots of lines leads to a sketchy look. A look that doesn't seem "tight" and that is perfect for this issue. Minimizing the structure works best when describing a character with flawed morals or those bordering on insanity (traits of this character) and it really works here. I can however see where this style or look may not be for everyone, but I hope those that are not a fan of the "look" will at least understand how it ties into this book very well.
Colors are dark yet at the same time bright which showcases the various sides of this character, while the letters are also of a style that fits into the mental state of this character.
All other props go to the editor to putting this team together and giving the "okay" to this title.
I am giving this a bonus point for taking a title I had no interest in and making me not only like the issue, but really appreciate it. So please understand that when you go into shock with the grading below.
8 outta 10 - "I feel pretty, oh so pretty"s