Starfire has a deep history in the DC Comic universe. This work ranges from her time in the minds of Marv Wolfman and George Perez, to her time on the Teen Titans. After the events of Blackest Night, Starfire joined the Outlaws. DC Comic fans have not been satisfied with her role as part of the Outlaws and have demanded for her to receive her own story. On June 10, 2015 DC Comics released Starfire issue 1 written by Amanda Conner & Jimmy Palmiotti and penciled by Emanuela Lupacchino.
The Good:
The backstory of Starfire is established quickly, which allows the reader to know who she is and what her powers are. With her backstory and powers established the comic focuses on the culture shock elements of being on earth. The elements she is exposed to bring out her character as it allows the reader to connect with Starfire as she learns about earth. During this process the reader can see her different qualities such as kindness, caring, daring, flirtatious and bold. These characteristics along with the new character design capture the idea of a strong female superhero. These elements combined with the amazing coloring job throughout the comic give Starfire one hell of a first issue.
The Bad:
The first issue of Starfire has a few hiccups. The opening pages of the comic give off a vibe that it is the middle of a comic rather than the start as the art and the panels are oddly placed. This forces the reader to have an awkward introduction to the comic. The other hiccup is the lack of action in the issue. The issue is a relatively boring issue as minimal action takes place. The action that does take place is either a demonstration or a simple action, provides no threat to Starfire, and minimally reinforces her backstory.
The Verdict:
The first issue of Starfire has it high points and its low points, which is not uncommon for first issue of comics. By no means is the first issue a great issue but it does accomplish the goal of introducing a new Starfire to the DC Universe. The issue, which lacked action, does end on a cliffhanger leaving the reader to expect more action in the next issues. So if you are a Teen Titans fan, or love Starfire, or are looking for a kickass female superhero, or just want a comic that utilizes bright California type color, Starfire is the comic book for you.
You can pick up the first volume of Starfire here.
