"Birds of Prey" (not to be confused with the DC/WB television series: see April '19 overview) is a "Suicide Squad" sequel, directed by Cathy Yan and scripted by Christina Hodson. It's a spectacular showcase for Harley Quinn or more precisely, the super-hot, super-talented thespian of a potential new, sex-symbol age, Margot Robbie.
The treatment in this instance, subtitled "And the Fantabulous Emancipation of the One Harley Quinn", is surreal and wry, with Harleen Quinzel on the outs with the Joker and crossing paths with a few of Gotham's hearty heroines to fight (of all ironic things) villainy. In the interim, the grim manifestation of Black Mask/Roman Sionis (Ewan McGregor) occurs, along with face-slicing henchman supreme, Victor Zsasz (Chris Messina).
Because of its violent, irreverent slant, the plot places emphasis on the Deadpool-ish, narrative intricacies of evil-doing, brushed by a hope for redemption, which in the process pushes the good gals to the side, even though their presence remains constant.
Those good gals consist of Black Canary (Jurnee Smollett-Bell); Huntress (Mary Elizabeth Winstead); Renee Montoya (Rosie Perez); and Cassandra Cain (Elle Jay Basco). If the truth be known, Cain is a questionable, if not reckless good lass, who's got a price on her head for snatching a secret-harboring diamond from the grasp of Mr. Mask.
It must be noted (though most will have already deduced this) that the "Birds of Prey" label is a ruse, for though the Bat Family-inspired offshoot does stage crime-fighting stunts (including acts of vengeance), Robbie's Quinn is the center-ring force. Considering the pizzazz the actress sparked with her "Suicide Squad" portrayal, WB's decision was wise.
The ravishing Robbie has become and will remain an important figure in the Hollywood scene, because she recalls the glamorous, playful punch of the good ol' days. It's interesting, therefore, that stupid-ass, here-and-now Hollywood would use her so effectively (again, no less), but perhaps this indicates that cinematic matters are taking a better turn.
Whether by accident or plan, "Birds of Prey" is a girl-gang, circus showcase of virulent, sex appeal. I liked it very much and will be certain to add it to my library when the opportunity comes.
Do leap in. Robbie's smokin' Quinn (and her resilient compatriots) will not disappoint.
Damn discouraging:
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