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Review: DC Bombshells #29

By Philip Schweier
August 9, 2017 - 09:13

Okay, I came late to this party (almost 30 issues late), so forgive me if I jump right in the middle without much backstory.

DC’s Bombshells series is set during World War II, when despite shortages of everything, many American women managed to maintain a glamourous appearance – hence the title. The series features predominantly female DC characters front and center, battling the Axis powers who may have super-women of their own.

Issue #29 is Supergirl centric, as she confronts Dr. Hugo Strange, whose experiments in genetic manipulation has led to the creation of a clone, Power Girl. The two are forced into battle, but neither one really comes up the loser.

Meanwhile, Lois Lane and Andrea Beaumont – the vigilante known as the Reaper – have infiltrated behind enemy lines in search of Strange’s secret lab. The Reaper has a score to settle with Strange, if Lois can stay out of her way.

The introduction speaks of “defining moments,” and the belief in ourselves that we would stand against tyranny and oppression. But it goes further to question: would we really? If we have the courage to do it insight, why not in foresight? And in todays politically charged climate, it makes me wonder if some of us are complacent, just as others were when known oppressors came to power.

The book could easily have fallen into the unfortunate trap of feeding the pin-up tastes of some comic book fans. But thankfully, the creative team recognizes (how they NOT?) that the book needs to be much more than that. It’s a unique series for DC, taking place outside the usual continuity. This allows a broader sense of freedom, and the luxury of telling great stories without the constriction of editorial mandates.

See what happens when you let people do their job?

Rating 8/10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12