One of the newest cartoon series added to DC’s rooster has been the popular ‘Harley Quinn’ series that debuted November 2019. The cartoon follows Harley and her bestie Poison Ivy in her attempt to overthrow the Joker and become the queen bee of Gotham after coming to terms with the state of her toxic relationship.
The sweary, bloody and gore-filled show takes a new turn with an animated format that reminds me of ‘Hazbin Hotel’ which debuted on YouTube last year too. This new form of Not Suitable For Children cartoons seems to be making a popular comeback with the likes of AdultSwim and DC taking the lead. This is not revolutionary if you look at anime and the issues, gore and NSFW themes frequented through some of the more adult shoes. However, with ‘Harley Quinn’ it definitely feels like DC are making an attempt to catch up.
The vocal talents of Harley are those of Kayley Cuoco (The Big Bang Theory) as you’ve never heard her before as she does a great job with the rage-induced, potty-mouth Dr Harleen Quinzel. The Joker is voiced by Alan Tudyk as should be praised just as highly because he does a truly wonderful job. I would even go as far as to put him high on my favourite Joker voices list.
If you love Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy then you will adore this female-driven plot. It is full of power, surprisingly relevant and comedic too with the addition of Frank the man-eating plant. Each episode reveals a little more of everyone’s favourite manic, pixie dream girl.
If this carton shows us anything it’s that Harley Quinn is a beast by herself. She is not just some clown’s girlfriend.
