Batman's Girls

In reading the various Batman books recently, I've begun to notice a trend.  There seems to be an increase in the number of theme-costumed females making their first appearances.    Mind you, I'm not complaining.  I think it's fantastic.  It feels like a throwback to Batman villains of yesteryear, when Batman was a bit campy and fun, and the villains all had a particular, unique theme to their costumes, their mannerisms, and their methods.  The ones I've noticed (and liked) lately in the Batman books include:  Catgirl, Enigma, Peacock, and the Absence.  

Enigma

Catgirl

Catgirl and Enigma are like the Teen Titans: they're young proteges to older established characters.  In this case, Catwoman and the Riddler, respectively. I like that Catgirl is a more feminine version of Catwoman.  She's dressed like the pet that a socialite like Paris Hilton would carry around in a satchel, sporting a diamond encrusted collar and bright pink clothing.  Over the years, the Riddler has toned down his brightly clad costume, but not his daughter, Enigma.  She puts it out there, sporting a large, prominent question mark on her chest and bold striped pants.

Peacock

In addition to these two new teenagers to the Batman Family, two theme-costumed women have made their first appearances in the Batman books as well.  Like Bruce Wayne, Sasha Lo is a wealthy woman who also happens to have a different kind of nightlife.  She dons an Oracle-like mask, a vibrant costume, and goes by the name of Peacock.  Although we still don't know much about her, I'm looking forward to seeing her again from time to time.

The Absence

Last but not least, there's one of my new favorite villainesses: The Absence.  The woman has been shot in the head, leaving a gaping hole.  You know she's gotta be pissed.  Yet she's still a fully functioning (but short-tempered and unbalanced) person, now with heightened mental capacities. 

Goldie Hawn in
"Death Becomes Her"

She's extra pissed off because, as socialite Una Nemo, she used to date Bruce Wayne and she feels like she's been used and tossed aside.  (By the way, what's up with that name?  Una Nemo?)  She reminds me of Goldie Hawn's character from the classic 1990s movie Death Becomes Her.   

Kudos to the Batman writers for the introduction of these fun, new additions to the Batman Family.  I hope to see them around for many years to come, and I hope the tradition of introducing unique, themed characters continues.



And now, a parting glance from Batman. 

Hysterical.