DCAU #243: Claws

IN THIS ONE... Catwoman liberates lab animals and punishes a cosmetics CEO.

CREDITS: Written by Ty Templeton; art by Rick Burchett and Terry Beatty.

REVIEW: A story I would personally have put in The Lost Years instead of that Robin retread issue, "Claws" bridges the gap between Catwoman, the blond anti-hero of the first series, and Catwoman, the black-haired hardened criminal of the New Adventures. The story takes place a year before present day, just after Batman changes costumes, and gives Selina impetus to stop dying her hair... She's been using products developed by companies who use illegal animal testing!

Well, it's an effective animal rights story, right up her alley, and when she crosses the line, facially scarring the owner of Mercedes Cosmetics, Batman sees what she calls "the real her". And though it's in her head, the wall that's thrown up between them means the chance for romance is likely dead.

It's a very cool-looking issue; I can't believe how much Rick Burchett has grown as an artist since he started on DCAU titles, with interesting layouts, strong design elements, and expressive characters and action. Whether it's the fight with the criminal gang dressed as greasers, the atmospheric raid on the lab, or the use of shadows throughout, there's always something to look at. Full props to inker Terry Beaty and colorist Lee Loughridge as well.
REREADABILITY: High - An important tale in the DCAU continuity, properly emotional, and gorgeous to look at.

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