Seeing as Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice made Wonder Woman reconquer her presence in pop culture, it is no surprise to see DC Comics taking the opportunity to bring us new and hopefully refreshing projects.
One of them is the all-ages mini-series called The Legend of Wonder Woman which piqued my curiosity right away.
First of all, I would like to warn you that the following review will be coming from a Comic Book newbie, and as any personal opinion, as subjective as it can be.
Note: This Review refers to the Print Edition Issue #1 (corresponding to Chapter One, Two, and Three of the Digital Edition)
As you could probably guess by the name, the series is a take on Diana’s origin story (and one of the multiple Wonder Woman origins currently being released). It has been written and drawn by Renae de Liz, and inked by her husband Ray Dillon; and in my humble personal opinion, the involvement of a female artist has contributed very positively to a deeper, more empathetic reinterpretation of the character of Diana (and her world).
The book opens with a narrative that starts right from the very beginning, with a very specific history of the Amazons and Hippolyta, Queen of the Amazons. It then progresses smoothly, from Diana’s birth through her relationship with her mother and to her own internal struggles. All of these events are narrated in a way that focuses primarily the emotions of each character involved. And how delightful this is!
The storytelling style is easy to grasp, De Liz doesn’t simply throw you into an unknown world, opting instead for being very clear about the basics, the concept, and the history of the Amazons itself. The pacing is perfect, it compels you to keep reading.
The art is what I would describe as ‘adorable’, expressive visuals that are perfectly complemented by the lettering and clever layout. In fact, the last time I went to the Comic Book shop to buy one of the latest issues, the lady who attended to me pointed at the cover and exclaimed: “Aw, isn’t she adorable in this series!” The attendant has also mentioned how both she and her nephew were reading the series together, which only emphasizes the fact of it being refreshingly targeted to young readers and girls.
Overall, the first issue of The Legend of Wonder Woman felt extremely magical, emotional and spiritual to me. It explores not only Diana’s core, but her motivations, her background, her past. If our experiences dictate the ‘what’, ‘how’ and ‘why’ we do what we do, then this series could be the missing link for the true understanding of Wonder Woman’s character.
With the main question being it “Where does this story fit in the DC continuity”, I admit it makes me only slightly sad that it most likely doesn’t. At the very least, I would like to see more of this Diana, daughter of Hippolyta, whose motivations and past have been finally explored, and more of this magical society of peaceful Amazons secluded from the outside world. Apart from that, and judging by this first amazing issue, these series is more than enough to be enjoyed on its own, and personally recommended by me.
16 Responses
Diana <3
I’ve never really watched any Batman and Superman movies including the recent Batman vs. Superman movie. I just find it too dark and I prefer everything Marvel. Anyway, although I’m not a DC Fan, I found Wonder Woman interesting with the illustrations of Renae de Liz. It’s really more appropriate that a woman illustrate a woman so it’s not sexist. Also, young girls and women become empowered with the Legend of Wonder Woman.
Great artwork! I’ve always admired sketches and comics as a kid, though I admit superhero comics didn’t have a pull on me. DC and Marvel story lines overlap and become too complex, there are too many retcons. As you said, this one probably doesn’t fit into DC continuity. Perhaps it’s something you have to enjoy on its own.
I saw batman v superman with my 12year old son and all throughout the movie, he answers his mom's questions should I can not undertand anything. And yes, even before the movie reveals Wonderwoman's character, he already told me. Ihihi.
Your style of writing is gorgeous; fluid, engaging and easy to read!
I generally prefer to read novels over comics, however I do enjoy the occasional comic. The visuals in this book looks delicious and not at all over-sexualised, which has happened with her character previously.
I may have to hunt this comic series out! Thank you so much for the detailed review! š
I have never really been into comic books but I do love DC comic and Marvel shows. Your review definitely made me want to check it out. I didn’t really know Wonder Woman’s story.
Well written! I am not so much into comics, but the post was very engaging. It is very difficult to keep someones interest unless the topic is of their interest, but u did a wonderful job! keep it up
Thanks for sharing the pictures. They are cute! They are not exactly "chibi" style but almost. I really don't know anything about Wonder Woman. I was always into Batman. But I'd be interested in learning more!
I like how it introduce directly the power of women. Not into comics but I adore the movie adaptations.
Wonder Woman was never my thing. It's actually a shame because she looks so heroic and cool. I was more the Barbie doll kind of girl. And batman was something I used to watch on tv
As a woman, I am inspired by wonder woman. I could relate to her, and I am also interested knowing about her origin. I like wonder woman, In fact I have a few wonder woman collectibles. I might get this comics and hopefully can find one locally.
I love Wonder Woman and having a geeky boyfriend makes it easy for me to appreciate these things. It's fantastic to know the new comics series is adapting to younger readers. The graphics are awesome and the story sounds interesting. There is definitely more to Diana than meets the eye. š
It is so sad that I have never got the chance to read any DC comics… I used to read Avengers and those comics from Dark Horse and oh some Japanese Manga too! I am clueless about Diana but I do adore her personality as depicted in movies
I’m looking forward to the WW and JL movie next year, thanks to the BVS movie. I’m more of a DC guy than marvel, bec. Superfriends (Justice League of the 70s-80s) dominate the superheroes cartoon world.
Thanks for sharing this really good review I love to read comics in free time Batman is my favorite but for a change like to read other comics too. From your review I can see this is also great comics.
Now this is the kind of story I love to read and even watch. I always crave for the cause before I jump into the climax of the story. Is this out in Amazon?