Last week, I asked you, the readers, what item you most wanted to see reviewed. The votes are in, so here is a review of . . . The Killing Joke Joker Pop.
Fans of the classic 1988 graphic novel The Killing Joke were thrilled when the story was made into an animated film, and Funko celebrated this occasion with a New York Comic Con exclusove based on the Joker’s outfit in a classic scene where he shoots and paralyzes Brabara Gordon. Even though this story has often been criticized for its treatment of Batgirl, pretty much everyone agrees it is one of the best depictions of the Joker ever written; and Funko seems to be living up to that legacy, with what I believe is one of the best Joker Pops yet.
Before I get into detail, I will go right ahead and say that this is an amazing figure in every way. The colors are perfect, with the hair being a much more vivid and bright shade of green, staying loyal to the comics. The details of the paint are perfect as well, with even the small and intricate palm tree design on the shirt having a crisp outline and clear definition.
Additionally, the choice of accessories is great. In one hand, the Joker holds the camera featured on the famous front cover of the graphic novel. The details on this part are amazing, such as individual buttons and a slightly curved lens. In the other hand, he holds the drink he has when knocking on Barbara Gordon’s door. The orange color of the drink is actually inside the glass rather than painted on the outisde of it, making it look like the glass contains a liquid.
I only have one problem with this figure, and it’s not even really a big deal: Brian Bolland, artist of The Killing Joke, has a very distinct manner of drawing Joker’s head, with a long face that has sunken eyes and a pointy chin (as seen in the image below). I’ve always been a big fan of that appearance, so the rectangular head of the Pop seems a little off to me.
All in all, I’m giving this Pop a 9/10. In addition to being based on one of my favorite comic stories, it is well designed and executed.
Again, I’m going to let you guys decide what I’ll be writing for next week. The two options are the new Doctor Strange or the Dark Knight Returns Armored Batman. Cast your vote in the comments!
Matt Norris