Generally speaking I tend to stay away from series like Harley Quinn. There is nothing inherently wrong with the concept behind the series, but it depends on a number of key factors in order for it to be successful. It is similar in a way to Deadpool from Marvel, a series that takes itself seriously but doesn’t. One that relies on jokes about pop culture references in order to make for an easy chuckle, and one which relies on breaking the fourth wall to speak directly to the fans from a crazed mind. All of this is set up on one underlying premise, that the writer can actually make a plot that is both engaging and funny while also being fresh and original. This is the inherent downfall of this specific format, at least in my opinion.
While this format is not for me, I don’t disparage those that do like it, and instead just stay away from either commentary on the format or the stories. In the case of Harley Quinn: Futures End, I found myself a little curious as to what was going to transpire, especially as I have read quite a few of the other issues and found their alternate timeline stories to be interesting enough. In retrospect though, I probably should have stayed away, as I didn’t really enjoy this story that much to the point that it is likely my least favorite entry in Futures End thus far.
The story is quite convoluted and throws in things which are not even really relevant, such as the mode of transport which Harley chooses at the beginning of the movie. Soon the plot veers into what seems to be an homage to not only one but two Tom Hanks movies, as elements of Cast Away and Joe Versus the Volcano are stolen for what passes for a plot here. Mostly though the jokes and humor fall flat, to the point that it seemed like it needed a laugh track to highlight when I was supposed to be amused.
Generally speaking I am the type of reader that likes a story first and the art second, to the point that as long as the art is not confusing or distracting that I won’t let it affect my reading experience. In this case though, the art is absolutely the best thing about this issue. The high point of the story for me was the almost beautiful visual of Harley in her (first of two) wedding gown, which out of nowhere pays homage to Disney princesses as well as seemingly to Pepe Le Pew. In the end though, the entire issue pretty much an all-around disappointment, with a plot so inane that it is hard for me to fathom how even a Harley Quinn fan might find it entertaining. Even on the surface the promise of a wedding between the two seemed like a fun and promising idea, especially for a potential future time line, but there were so many other ways to go with it that this just feels like a dud.
Story: Jimmy Palmiotti and Amanda Conner Art: Chad Hardin
Story: 4.0 Art: 7.5 Overall: 4.0 Recommendation: Pass
