Review: Harley Quinn “The Line”

Overview (Spoilers Below)
The Queen of Fables gets out of her literature prison…only to go to actual prison! Harley, being friends with her and all, breaks her out and invites her to join the crew. However, she might not be like what Harley expected…

Meanwhile, Ivy and Kite Man attempt to go out on a few dates, with some awkwardness and vital messages in tow.

Our Take
Once upon a time, there were childhood fairy tales filled with nursery rhymes and Disney-ified adaptations. Then, many moons later, DC got a hold of them and turned them upside down. Who would have thought the Big Bad Wolf was really after flesh this whole time? Essentially, if anyone had a shred of innocence left before watching this, it likely flew right out the window by the episode’s end.

It’s not the most original concept of cranking childhood icons up to 11. However, the sheer brutality of it all was pretty astounding. The aftermath of the Queen of Fables’ dirty work literally looks like it came right out of a slasher flick. Even then, I’m not even sure the legendary horror icons would go as far as the Queen of Fables did here. Clearly, the streaming market was the right choice for this series. The creative team definitely has looser restrictions than they likely would have had anywhere else. Overall, it’s a nice addition to the series that adds a bit of unique flavor to it.

While not earth-shattering hilarious, things still manage to be pretty humorous here. Clayface throwing his eyes upon seeing the Queen of Fables’ massacre was definitely a highlight here. Riddler swiveling his way into the restaurant before Kite-Man’s reservation added another level of funny yet somber humor as well. Neither of those gags compares to the mockery of the superhero origin towards the end though. That statement right there was pure gold (or at least a decent size bowl of Lucky Charms). Overall, some wonderful bits of hilarity here that will likely make anyone chuckle.

Additionally, the messages featured throughout were nice touches to the overall main dish. Harley’s line was an interesting concept that makes me ponder. Despite her villainy, she still has a bit of morality on what’s acceptable and what’s not. It really gets the gears moving within my brain, keeping myself thinking about this moment for a good, long while. The subplot’s message of self-confidence is fantastic as well. Ivy’s a bit concerned here being seen with Kite-Man, a lesser villain in the eyes of their world. However, she eventually realizes that she shouldn’t feel shame for being around someone she likes just because society doesn’t. Definitely a message to take to heart within our own society. It’s a great reminder (and confidence booster) to not over-think on what other people may think of you.

All in all, this episode is pretty solid craftsmanship. The interior may be a bit rocky from some overused parts. However, the reinforcements come in strong, holding up the structure with ease. In other words, fairy tales gone wild just works.