DC has always been one of those entertainment sites that is never usually afraid to take risks. They will try something at least one. I feel like there is something respectable about that. It's like, at least, they're trying. Even if that attempt's end goal does end up being a disgrace. During the turn of the millenium, it seemed like the company struck gold with Smallville. The show was a runaway hit that ultimately ended up bringing to life its own Justice League, Justice Society and even comic book continuation.
Much like, our Suicide Squad retrospective from yesterday, with success ultimately comes the attempt to duplicate it. The creators tried their hand at an Aquaman series. It's truthfully unbearable but if you have the DC Universe app, you can now stream it in all of its glory. Or could even just sign up for the free trial. Then there was the even worse attempt at an NBC Wonder Woman pilot in 2011. It's like they didn't even really bother to read the source material. It felt like the equivalent of not really studying for a test but rather skimming the source material. Which brings us to the original live-action attempt at Birds of Prey.
Throughout its 13-episode run, there is really no cohesive story. Not the way that we've come to know it with Arrow, or the Flash. Instead, the series fixated on demonstrating the relaltionship between the team of Huntress, Oracle and Dinah. Yup, not the Black Canary, just Dinah. As a fan, it's frustrating to see some of the things they bring to the screen. It's worth noting that this version of the Huntress is Helena Wayne. The daughter of Catwoman and Batman - a PRE- Crisis staple. Then, there is new Gotham, Old Gotham and No Man's Land - a relevantly fresh thing within the comics at that time. Of course, the famous Barbara Gordon shot which transformed Batgirl into Oracle.
Fan status, aside, this series is fairly bad with a few redeeming qualities. Ashley Scott as the Huntress is pretty amazing casting - especially for its time. Going back to watch this as a modern-day viewer, it feels very much like a product of its time. Everything from the music, the set designs, cinematography, the costume designs and more - in every way feel like the early 2000s. That's not to say that it's a bad thing but Scott is definitely the strongest weapon within the arsenal. I would even argue that Dina Meyer is worth mentioning. Her turn as Barbara Gordon is equally as impressive. However, the rest of the cast and most notably the writing, makes this a HARD watch at times.
Overall, Birds of Prey (2003), feels more like a blind date rather than true love. The short lived television show operates on random knowledge of its source material and unbearable writing. Taking random notes throughout the DC history book to create a product that is tonally impaired, pointless and forgettable. Its' leads in Ashley Scott and Dina Meyer at least allow for some substance of entertainment. Even, their strength isn't enough to save this show. Though not as terrible as 2011's Wonder Woman pilot - these 13 episodes are neck in neck for it. Skip this one and fly for the source material.
RORSCHACH RATING:
If you or someone you know is reading this right now and you are struggling with suicide, depression, addiction, or self-harm - please reach out. Comment, message or tweet to us. Go to victimsandvillains.net/hope for more resources. Call the suicide lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Text "HELP" to 741-741. There is hope & you DO have so much value and worth!
Victims and Villains is written and produced by Josh "Captain Nostalgia" Burkey. Music by Yuriy Bespalov & Beggars. Birds of Prey is property of DC Entertainment and Warner Brothers Television. We do not own nor claim any rights.