Hawkgirl #2: Always Bring A Corgi To A Bar Fight

Hawkgirl #2 is a well-balanced issue that discusses the trauma that comes with being a superhero and combines it with various magical and lighthearted characters. Fans of the character will appreciate the lore focused on the Nth metal that powers Hawkgirl’s wings and the tenacity of the new villain Vulpecula.

Characters such as Hawkgirl are a good reminder of the vast amount of characters in the DC Universe. While the Trinity of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman often take the limelight, a book focused on other members of the (currently) disbanded Justice League is an excellent expansion of the rich universe.

Written by Jadzia Axelrod, the story has two tracks: Hawkgirl struggling with trauma and the introduction of Vulpecula. As a villain, Vulpecula’s source of power is not entirely new in that unsuspecting people are allowed to make a wish, only for Vulpecula to have ulterior motives in the future. However, what makes Vulpecula terrifying is her offering of wishes to unsuspecting children who realize the tragedies of their decisions as adults. It’s creepy and horrifying and a good use of a magic-based antagonist.

The issue struggles a bit because it tends to lean on being wordy, with exposition being a little heavy-handed. However, this series is meant to be contained within six issues, so I suspect the author is trying to give Hawkgirl as much expansion in her lore as possible while balancing a new story. So it’s understandable but not entirely unnoticeable.

Amancay Nahuelpan and the colors do the art are done by Adriano Lucas. The two are a potent combination and the art packs a punch during action set pieces and is whimsical when characters such as Galaxy are present and with their partner. The lettering is of note in this series because of the moments with heavy dialogue. Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou helps readers keep track of who is talking with the different letter styles and manages to contain some heavier dialogue without overfilling the scene.

As one nottoo familiar with the character of Hawkgirl but as a fan of the DC Universe, it’s easy to recognize the character from the animated Justice League show. I think the fact that this issue was overall enjoyable is a testament to the writer/artist combination. It certainly has me interested to know where the story will continue.