Batman: Secret Files - Miracle Molly #1
- WRITER
- James Tynion IV
- Artist
- Dani
- Letterer
- Tom Napolitano
- Cover Artist
- Little Thunder
- Publisher
- DC Comics
- Price
- 4.99
- Release Date
- 2021-09-21
- Colorist
- Lee Loughridge
A genius tech guru and leader of the Unsanity Collective, Miracle Molly is a new kind of vigilante for Gotham City. An astute, colorful and compassionate person, Miracle Molly was envisioned by writer James Tynion IV and brought to life by artist Jorge Jiménez in the pages of Batman #106 -- where she was introduced as a thorn in Batman's side from the get-go. The character has been gradually fleshed out ever since, yet much of her past remains shrouded in mystery. Led by Tynion, the talented art team of Dani and Lee Loughridge create an unforgettable origin story that shows a different side to Molly's previous life.
Batman: Secret Files - Miracle Molly #1 starts with the Unsanity Collective executing their plan to break into and enter a wealthy household, who have recently purchased a trifle for a ridiculously insane amount, to steal it and help fund their cause. As Miracle Molly makes her introduction to the family seated at their dinner table, the son immediately recognizes her as his wife, Mary. This leads to a long-winded flashback narrating the loneliness and suffering of Mary at the hands of sexist bosses, overbearing in-laws, and a dogmatic society. Escaping into her cyber world, Mary learns of a man named Master Wyze and his mysterious Unsanity Collective who promises people feeling shackled to give a start over.
As James Tynion IV's electric run on the Caped Crusader nears its end, he takes a breather from the main storyline to focus on Mary. Tynion weaves a solemn tale centering around a robotics engineer feeling entrapped in her monotonous daily routine. To add to her woes, she is constantly condescended by her husband and undervalued as an employee, despite having a brilliant mind. Her slow descent into depression reverberates throughout the panels, and with no way out, it spirals out of control, turning into desperation. Miracle Molly's previous overlaid with Master Wyze's monotonous speech creates a haunting effect akin to hearing a desperate echo in a dark well, clamoring for help.
Up-and-coming artist Dani, who recently contributed to DC's horror imprint Hill House, creates hauntingly beautiful art that captures the book's melancholy tone. Dani's unique linework, even though reminiscent of the Gonzo art style, plays a big part in bringing readers into the story. Colorist Lee Loughridge, known for his work on The Batman Adventures, accentuates the artwork through careful use of colors to create a play on light and shadow. Loughridge uses a muted color scheme for Mary and a bright palette for Molly, creating a contrast between her two personas.
Batman: Secret Files - Miracle Molly #1 is an emotionally powerful origin story that chronicles the events that lead to Miracle Molly's emergence. Through the character of Master Wyze, Tynion makes a compelling argument on the rigidity and bigotry of society. However, it feels like a one-way rant without critical analysis. At times, the story feels stagnant and goes about in circles just like its protagonist. That being said, Batman: Secret Files - Miracle Molly #1 ends with a leap of faith that ultimately gives readers an intriguing read.