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A Surprise Attack Changes Everything
Batgirl #4 ramps up the intensity as Cassandra Cain finds herself caught in a war between some of the deadliest fighters in the DC Universe. With Lady Shiva gathering unexpected allies to battle the Unburied, a sudden attack throws their fragile alliance into chaos. As battle lines are drawn, Cassandra must decide: fight alongside her mother’s enemies or take them all on herself?
Batgirl #4 – DC Comics
Creative Team: Tate Brombal (Writer), Takeshi Miyazawa (Artist), Wayne Faucher (pg 1-10 Inks), Mike Spicer (Colorist), Tom Napolitano (Letters)
The Writing:
Tate Brombal delivers another tension-filled chapter in Cassandra Cain’s story, expertly weaving action and emotional depth into a seamless narrative. The issue is driven by character dynamics that feel organic and compelling, particularly Cassandra’s strained relationship with Lady Shiva. Their interactions remain layered and full of unspoken emotions, adding weight to every moment they share on the page.
One of the standout aspects of the writing is how well Brombal captures Cassandra’s unique way of perceiving the world. A key sequence on the train showcases her ability to read people instantly, a skill that not only saves lives but also heightens the tension for the reader. This sequence is a testament to how well Brombal understands his protagonist, presenting her not just as a skilled fighter but as an intuitive and highly intelligent strategist.
The pacing of the issue is relentless in the best way. There’s a constant sense of escalation, with every scene pushing the tension higher. The uncertainty surrounding Lady Shiva’s true intentions adds another layer of intrigue, forcing Cassandra, and the audience, to question whether Shiva is being honest or manipulating events for her own gain. This ongoing thread of distrust makes the story even more compelling, keeping readers hooked with every new revelation.
Check Out The Previous Issue Review Here!
The Art, Colors and Letters:
Takeshi Miyazawa’s artwork continues to be a highlight of this series, blending fluid action with expressive character work. The fight sequences are visually engaging, with dynamic panel layouts that emphasize movement and impact. One of the most impressive aspects of the art in this issue is how Cassandra’s thought process is visualized through a shadow self. A brilliant and creative way to showcase how she mentally breaks down a situation before making her move. This visualization gives readers an intimate look at how Cassandra thinks and reacts, making her unique fighting style feel even more distinct.
The emotional depth in the artwork is just as strong as the action. Facial close-ups are used effectively to convey subtle shifts in emotion, whether it’s Cassandra’s uncertainty about Shiva’s motives or the intensity of the battle sequences. The use of lighting and shading adds an extra layer of drama, reinforcing the tension that runs through the entire issue.
Mike Spicer’s colors bring the book to life with bold, striking hues that enhance the overall intensity. The colors aren’t just visually appealing—they also serve a narrative function, subtly shifting to reflect the emotional weight of each scene. The battle sequences are particularly well-colored, with vibrant tones that make every impact hit harder.
Tom Napolitano’s lettering is smooth and easy to follow, complementing the high-energy pace of the story. The placement of word balloons keeps the dialogue natural and fluid, while the sound effects enhance the impact of the fight sequences without overwhelming the artwork.
Final Thoughts:
Marty 9/10:
Batgirl #4 is a gripping and visually stunning issue that continues to elevate Cassandra Cain’s story. The combination of high-stakes action, emotional depth, and masterful storytelling makes this a must-read for fans of the character. Tate Brombal delivers a script that keeps the tension high, while Takeshi Miyazawa’s artwork brings every moment to life with breathtaking detail. The evolving relationship between Cassandra and Lady Shiva remains a driving force in the series, adding layers of complexity that make each interaction feel meaningful.
With its relentless pacing, cinematic fight sequences, and compelling character moments, Batgirl #4 solidifies itself as one of the standout issues of the series. Whether you’re a longtime Cassandra Cain fan or new to her story, this issue is an absolute must-pull.
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