On my last visit to Conquest Comics, I came across issues # 3 and 4 of The Joker, a new monthly series from DC Comics. I would have picked up numbers 1 and 2 if I found them. I have always been a fan of any comic or graphic novel containing the Joker or his sometime girlfriend Harley Quinn. Both of these issues begin with Joker stories and end with stories featuring Punchline. James Tynion IV is responsible for this interesting take on our favorite clown, as well as assisting Sam Johns with expanding on the character of Punchline.
The artwork of Guillem March and colors of Arif Prianto take on a more maniacally artistic feel when The Joker appears, as to the more realistic approach in the non-Joker scenes. This kind of reminds me of the old Batman TV show which presented the hideouts of the villains on a slant. Mirka Andolfo (artist) and Romulo Fajardo, Jr. (colors) provide a realistic approach to Punchline's feature, even with the appearance of Orca.
While both books are featuring The Joker, the story seems to take the reader inside the head of Mr. Gordon, who is now working as a private detective. Cressida is financing Gordon's trip to Belize, in search of The Joker. Gordon believes that The Joker is responsible for an attack on Arkham Asylum, which is immediately denied. However, Gordon's quest to find The Joker appears to have put the ex-commissioner in the middle of a war.
Meanwhile in Punchline's universe, Aiden is found to be in possession of recordings of The Joker's therapy sessions. While Punchline is being attacked in Blackgate Penitentiary, Bluebird is getting a taste of an aerosolized paralytic courtesy of Aiden. With plans on burning the majority of the evidence left at the crime scene, Aiden appears to have a certain loyalty to Alexis.
This glossy-covered comic provides a great punch to these characters. I love the way issue #3's cover shows The Joker relaxing in the water with a drink in his hand. After all, he could be spending time in a hotel because he is on vacation. Somebody could be setting him up with the Arkham job. All we know is an inactive Joker is a very dangerous one!