Catwoman: Selina's Big Score (Classic Review)

Originally released in 2002.

Writer: Darwyn Cooke

Artist: Darwyn Cooke

Publisher: DC Comics

Collects: Original graphic novel

As I was reading this gripping heist story, it occurred to me that it wasn't really about Catwoman.

No, sorry. Let me clarify that. Darwyn Cooke has an excellent handle on the character of Selina Kyle. She's a woman with a troubled past, looking towards a brighter future. She takes what she wants when she wants it and is not too proud to be proud without losing a shred of her grace or allure. This is a spot-on portrayal of Catwoman.

But Selina's Big Score is one of those stories that superhero fans are somewhat afraid of. It feels almost free of the confines of the DC Universe, and could honestly be about a totally original group of characters and still be just as good. However, most comics readers won't pick anything up unless it has a big name they recognise on the front.

Where Do I Start With... Catwoman

Who?

A Batman villain almost as old as the Joker, Selina Kyle first caught the Dark Knight's eye as Catwoman in 1940 (initially known as simply "The Cat"), and was created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane.

Over the years, she eventually evolved into an on-again/off-again love interest and femme fatale type for the Batman, and is now something of an anti-villain, occasionally starring in her own spin-off series.

She remains one of the most famous Bat-villains and has appeared in various media adaptations, played by many different actresses, including: Julie Newmar, Lee Meriweather, Eartha Kitt, Michelle Pfeiffer, Adrienne Barbeau, Halle Berry, Gina Gershon, and (soon) Anne Hathaway.

Okay, so where do I start?