Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy #5: Like Two Notes Almost in Harmony

I’ll just say it, Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy #5 is the absolute best issue of the surprisingly heartfelt series so far. It’s an issue that captures essentially everything you could want out of a book exploring the wildly intriguing dynamic between these two characters.

I am simply elated after reading this issue. There is a shockingly large fandom surrounding these characters particularly when they are together, and this issue is a great example as to why there are so many fans. The two work wonderfully when everything comes together by the creative team. This series has had its ups and downs, yes, but issues like this really make it all worthwhile.

Is Floronic Man the most dramatic and dangerous villain they could be facing? No. But that isn’t what this series is about. The Floronic Man is simply a catalyst to jumpstart their journey together, resulting in a road trip style romp featuring Harl and Red that will make you beam with happiness. Neither character steals the focus, instead their chemistry together comes to the forefront in the best way possible. The issues that we had with last issue somewhat spinning its wheels are resolved here, recapped only with a brief montage. It feels like we are catching up in the best way possible.

The series so far has often danced around their relationship, but in issue five, the creative team manages to truly capture what makes them special. As strong as the writing is from Jody Houser, the artwork remains consistently impressive all throughout. The character faces are solid and while the background work is minimalist, it works for the pacing and action sequences. With Batwoman joining the fray this issue there were more than enough chances for awesome visuals and Adriana Melo, Mark Morales and Hi-Fi pull it off really well.

Batwoman’s inclusion was a welcome appearance from the larger DC Universe, but it was more than fan service because of her stern direction. She helped to catapult this penultimate issue into the final sixth issue, where we will apparently see a very comic book-y confrontation pitting Poison Ivy against Poison Ivy!

This is all certainly exciting and as long as the relationship between Quinn and Isley remains the focus, we’re sure to end the series on a high note. Be sure to catch up today before the final issue drops!