***Contains Spoilers***
Batman/Huntress: Cry for Blood is a fascinating six-issue miniseries that dives deep into the complex and morally ambiguous character of Helena Bertinelli, aka the Huntress. The story, set shortly after the events of No Man’s Land, is a dual narrative—a retelling of Helena’s origins alongside her present-day struggle to prove her innocence in a murder case. As she confronts her past, her ties to Gotham’s criminal underworld, and her place among the Bat-family, the story crafts a layered portrait of a woman walking the line between justice and vengeance.
What truly worked for me was the exploration of Huntress’s duality. Her origins—rooted in a brutal mafia upbringing—are starkly contrasted with her current attempt to carve out a moral code. This back-and-forth structure made the narrative feel fresh and gave weight to her actions in the present. Helena’s complicated relationship with the Bat-family is a central theme, and while they never quite trust her, this dynamic added tension, particularly in her interactions with Batman himself. The inclusion of Vic Sage, aka The Question, was a surprise highlight. His philosophical and probing presence added depth to the story and piqued my interest in his character.
I also appreciated how the story embraced the grittiness of a mob tale. Huntress’s ties to Gotham’s organized crime scene make this feel more grounded compared to the usual superhero fare. And then there’s the ending—it left a lasting impression. Huntress does kill, albeit indirectly, in a way that cements her status as neither a traditional hero nor a villain. She exists in a morally gray space, and I loved how the story leaned into that ambiguity without offering easy answers.
That said, there were a few aspects I didn’t love. The pacing felt uneven at times, with the flashbacks occasionally dragging. While her relationship with the Bat-family was compelling, it felt odd to reconcile her presence here with her concurrent tenure in the Justice League of America during this era. It’s not the story’s fault, but the continuity clash was noticeable. Finally, while the mob story was engaging, it did feel like territory we’ve seen before in Gotham’s lore—perhaps not entirely fresh.
In conclusion, Batman/Huntress: Cry for Blood is a compelling read that shines a light on one of DC’s most underappreciated characters. It’s a gritty exploration of identity, morality, and justice, offering a story that’s equal parts origin tale and character study. While not perfect, it’s a book I’ll enthusiastically recommend to anyone curious about the Huntress or looking for a grounded Gotham City story. For its gripping narrative and moral complexity, I give it 4 stars—an excellent read that deserves a place on your shelf.
Feature Image Batman/Huntress: The Cry for Blood #1 cover art by Rick Burchett, Alex Sinclair, and Todd Klein
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