Michael Crowe recommends Bitch Planet #1
In the future, women deemed “non-compliant” will be dealt with accordingly and sent on a one-way trip off world. So, ladies, you better stay in line, fly right, and act proper otherwise relocation is the only option.
That’s just where Kelly Sue DeConnick (kellysue) and Valentine DeLandro (valentinedelandro) are headed if they keep producing more patriarchy pummeling issues of Bitch Planet. Image’s newest comic is fresh and exciting: a tongue-in-cheek homage to exploitation films. Specifically, DeConnick and De Landro tackle the subgenre of “women in prison,” subverting and reclaiming it for their own means. Both creators work in tandem, seamlessly crafting a world that is strange and otherworldly yet worryingly familiar.
DeConnick effortlessly weaves a tale that addresses modern social issues in an exaggerated way. Yet it is careful to never lose sight of the greater message contained therein. The scripting is painfully self-aware (painful in the fact that it’s subtle/perfect and everyone else should just give up writing and go home). When picking up this comic, expect the unexpected. DeConnick is not satisfied letting any trope off the hook. This book is out for blood and seeks to turn everything you might assume about a female protagonist on its head. She’s taking no prisoners…except, you know, the ones she’s writing about.
De Landro’s art is just as fearless. She doesn’t shy away from something usually not found in mainstream comics: full frontal nudity. Don’t be mistaken; this is NOT for your titillation. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. De Landro’s decision to depict women unapologetically nude is a celebration of the body as art itself. She is eager to show women of every size, shape and color. This is refreshing and important, especially in a medium that is often all too happy to depict an idealized version of “woman” for a male audience. Within the story it is a statement that any woman can be subject to detention on Bitch Planet. Outside of that, it is a statement that any woman can be subject to harassment, especially those deemed not desirable by society.
Between its smart, politically driven narrative and gorgeous, all-inclusive art this book is sure to be one of the greatest new science fiction comics of the year. So grab the first issue and strap yourself in for a rough and tumble ride to Bitch Planet. For more stunning work from these creators be sure to check out the latest iteration of Captain Marvel written by Kelly Sue DeConnick and Shadowman: End Times illustrated by Valentine De Landro.
[Read Bitch Planet #1 instantly on comiXology]
Michael Crowe is a member of the digital assets/launch team. In his free time he enjoys reading, watching and writing science fiction and horror.