Even A Plant Man Needs Hugs — Reviewing ‘Poison Ivy’ #33

No matter what, forces of the status quo of humanity always seek to stand in the way of any progress. It finds ways to ruin what could be beautiful and grand changes for the world. This happens no matter who comes up with the change, whether hero or villain.

Pamela Isley’s grand experiment to build something better for nature and humanity stands revealed in Poison Ivy #33. Unfortunately, as G. Willow Wilson, Marcio Takara, Arif Prianto, and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou continue their epic run, the authorities have come calling to tear it all down and her as well .

Much like the series itself, where Poison Ivy stands now compared to where she began is so much better. This is a character with even more depth, development, and focus than ever before. While still a villain to the world at large, we have witnessed how much Pam and others around her have changed. Together she and Undine, formerly a foe, have turned Marshview into something truly beautiful.

Forces within and beyond humanity, though, have other desires.

Wilson has really crafted something special with her writing on this series. Every character moment and motivation feels authentic and relatable. That holds even when they are doing something against what we might think is right or fair. Reasons and the effects are clear and hefty at all times.

It’s always good when we get Takara back. The other artists who step in are amazing and bring their own flavor to the series. Sometimes, though, it’s the original flavor that you’re craving. Whether a story is the full eco-horror or something more akin to this issue, it’s gorgeous under Takara’s care.

Characters are always so detailed and fulfilled. Their presence is always felt, with emotional states worn on their sleeves and everywhere else. Bits of the aforementioned eco-horror vibe are always present. These shift to blend with the more friendly and beautiful, reminding us that Poison Ivy is always dangerous. Especially when that which she cares for comes under fire.

Prianto’s color choices highlight this so well, pouring so many vibrant and lush tones across the page. All of the natural spaces really pop off the page with their beauty. Heavier colors swirl around to keep the overall edge present at all times. All of the choices add to the depth and detail that was already present in the artwork.

This all combines to make sure we feel the impact of this world.

The same can always be said for the voices here. Wilson has nailed their delivery and Otsmane-Elhaou their presentation. Together, these two give the characters such distinct emotionally resonant and encompassing voices. Otsmane-Elhaou’s usage of colors and varying designs elevate the words to a whole other level.

Just the plethora of speech balloon types and displays would be enough to stand above. Add in the various shifts to font, the colors, creative uses of dark spaces, caption work, and SFX and it’s an even bigger game. This is why he’s a letterer who is in high demand.

Poison Ivy #33 is now available from DC Comics.