Batgirl opinions solicited

[Static-Pulse]

Okay, here's the deal: the new Batgirl series intrigues me. The idea of a purposefully angry Oracle...at least I've read the writer said that's version he was given to work with...being forced to work with the ever plucky, ever determined Stephanie Brown seems like something that I might theoretically enjoy: disgruntled genius working with optimistic blond.

The big hiccup in that, and the main reason I've not tried the book, is because it's by DC. The last thing DC did that I enjoyed was Blue Beetle, and before that is was Enginehead. I don't think there's a comic premise I like that DC isn't capable of mixing with crap, sprinkling with anthrax, and serving to me as a Donut of Fail.

Here's my question: how bad is it? I've actually found that there's a higher chance I'll enjoy a book if vocal, friendly fans here on CBR dislike something. If people here say it's bad, then that's likely because it's fifteen degrees off-center, which is where I habitually rest; if people here say it's a great book with mature characters, I know that $3 is best spent on a McCafe coffee.

So, which is it?

[DarkKnghtJared]

It's been pretty good so far. The only complaint I have so far is Cassandra just randomly taking off the costume and leaving after a fight, but the writer has mentioned that he'd return to that later.

I'd recommend checking it out. :)

[Aiguille]

Honestly, its a little uneven from a technical standpoint, in how the scene transitions are paced. They can be abrupt, and the action choreography seems a little off. Sometimes the art is loose and tending to sketchy. I think Miller in particular is still getting his sea legs in the new medium. I can't really disaggregate inherited editorial status quo from intended direction two issues in, but the abruptness of Cassandra's departure is peculiar, and Stephanie keeps mumbling about how she can't sew. (Eh? She made her original togs, yes?) However, she does demonstrate a "pluck" and stubborness that are interesting. So much of this is setup, though, that I can't see the forest for the trees. We're not even to a proper costume, yet. (She's still traipsing around in hand-me-downs)

[Psavell2]

It's a little off kilter from the rest of the batbooks. I feel it's still a little early to judge. I'm buying it, I'm enjoying it, but I'm not loving it yet. It's wedged firmly between Outsiders and Cry For Justice at the bottom of my preferred reading list. Note that on that scale Cry For Justice is rock bottom as far as what I'm currently buying and reading.

[Personamanx]

I bought the First Issue today (I live a long way from any shop so Im only getting a chance to buy it now). It was okay. I would have preferred Cassandra Cain over Stephanie Brown, but overall it was a pretty decent read.

[Captain Jim]

I feel it's still a little early to judge. I'm buying it, I'm enjoying it, but I'm not loving it yet.

The above pretty well sums up my feelings as well.

I must admit, I''m questioning the need for this thread, as this ground has been pretty thoroughly covered in the respective threads commenting on the first two issues. In the past, this question has generated a lot more heat than light.

[Static-Pulse]

I must admit, I''m questioning the need for this thread, as this ground has been pretty thoroughly covered in the respective threads commenting on the first two issues. In the past, this question has generated a lot more heat than light.

My apologies in that case. I was hoping to ask from a slightly different angle, but if it's a touchy subject, by all means do what you must.

My thanks to everyone who posted and voted.

[Captain Jim]

My apologies in that case. I was hoping to ask from a slightly different angle, but if it's a touchy subject, by all means do what you must.

My thanks to everyone who posted and voted.

No, if I'd wanted it closed, I would have done so earlier. So far everyone's behaving, so we'll hope that continues.

[Karl O'Neill]

Not reading it in singles. Might try the trade when it comes out, if I have nothing else to read.

I wish people would let a series build up before examining them.

[Spiffy]

DC insisted that Babs had to be an angry disgruntled shadow of her former self?

Editorial interference. Who'd have guessed?

Oh wait. We should have. Based on EVERY DAMN THING THEY DO.

[paulski]

So far I'm liking it, mainly because I appreciate how they're using the character of Stephanie Brown properly again. It's not blowing my socks off yet, but it's only two issues, so c'mon!

[ScottyQuick]

I like it.

[invisiboy]

I read the first two issues. I don't like how the title (so far) disrespects both Babs and Cassandra. First, Cassandra -- without any real explanation -- just takes off the Batgirl suit and gives it to Steph. Okay, I get that DC is saving that story for a later time, but it doesn't make the early transition any more believable or easier to swallow. Secondly, Steph has zero respect for Babs, even though she knows Babs was the original, most famous Batgirl. Maybe the story needs Steph to be a cad to Babs in order to develop the inevitable (groan) sisterly bond, but Steph disrespecting Babs in the process won't win any Babs fans over to Steph's side.

[Dard]

It could become a decent series, but so far I can't tell.
It's simply too soon.

Abstain.

[q.u.e.e.n.]

Keep in mind this is the first I've ever read of Stephanie Brown, but she comes off more of a sidekick to me and maybe that's the writers fault. It's not bad by any means...I just hope we see some progress in her character.

[CocktailXYZ]

It's been nothing special so far, but I'm sticking around to see what develops.

[Doug Side]

Keep in mind this is the first I've ever read of Stephanie Brown, but she comes off more of a sidekick to me and maybe that's the writers fault. It's not bad by any means...I just hope we see some progress in her character.

To be fair, she is moving from the role of a sidekick's sidekick.. (Spoiler) to the role of a sidekick.. (Batgirl)

[invisiboy]

To be fair, she is moving from the role of a sidekick's sidekick.. (Spoiler) to the role of a sidekick.. (Batgirl)

Babs Batgirl was not a sidekick originally. That was added in the retcons of the past 12 years. It sucks, because most of the heroine's appeal was her independent nature. But it's safe to say this new Batgirl will be a sidekick, or at least be part of a team. She's not good or interesting enough to go solo. I guess we can expect lots of guest stars in the Batgirl book, as I suspect Steph will need the support. I won't be buying this drek though.