Injustice: Gods Among Us – Year Five #21
Genre
Superhero, Alternate Universe, Action, Drama
Main Characters
- Harley
Quinn
- Shazam
(Billy Batson)
- Superman
(Mentioned)
- Batman
(Mentioned)
- Regime
and Insurgency members (Cameos)
Writer
Brian Buccellato – Known for his dynamic work on The
Flash and his gripping storytelling in the Injustice series,
Buccellato continues to add emotional layers to an increasingly intense
universe.
Artist
Mike S. Miller – His expressive linework and
action-packed panels capture the chaotic and emotionally charged atmosphere of
the Injustice world.
Editor Details
Jim Chadwick – As a key editor for many DC
digital-first titles, Chadwick’s guidance ensures the narrative tone stays
consistent across the sprawling Injustice saga.
Publisher and Brand
DC Comics
Imprint: Digital First / DC Universe
Release Year
2016
Brief Plot Summary
In Year Five #21, the dark world of Injustice
slows down for a rare moment of introspection. After enduring an overwhelming
wave of trauma and chaos, Harley Quinn finds herself emotionally frayed.
Seeking solace, she makes a surprising decision to visit a therapist—though in
her usual unpredictable fashion, the encounter doesn’t go quite as planned.
But fate throws her a curveball in the form of Shazam, whose
unexpected appearance offers Harley a unique kind of therapy. Their interaction
explores the contrasts between innocence and madness, power and vulnerability,
bringing a thoughtful balance to a series often dominated by epic clashes and
political intrigue.
Notable Arcs or Storylines
This issue forms part of Injustice: Gods Among Us – Year
Five, the final year before the events of the original Injustice video
game. Year Five emphasizes the collapse of remaining resistance efforts and the
Regime’s increasing control under Superman. While this issue is more
character-driven, it serves as a poignant breather in a story often defined by
brutality and loss, and hints at Harley's deeper struggle with identity,
sanity, and her place in the new world order.
Fan Theories or Interpretations
Fans have speculated that Harley’s continued mental
evolution in Injustice could suggest a redemptive arc more aligned with
her later portrayals in Harleen or Batman: White Knight. Her
interaction with Shazam—a character representing youthful innocence and
morality—offers a symbolic moment where she questions her role not just in the
Regime-Insurgency war, but in her own self-worth. Some interpret this scene as
a turning point where Harley may begin to forge a new identity, independent of
both Joker and the Regime.
Review Summary
Injustice: Gods Among Us – Year Five #21 shines by focusing on emotional nuance rather than explosive spectacle. Brian Buccellato crafts a heartfelt narrative that humanizes Harley Quinn in unexpected ways. Mike S. Miller’s artwork subtly shifts from bold and energetic to soft and reflective, especially during Harley’s introspective moments. While not a major plot-driving issue, its character development adds weight and emotional complexity to a world defined by moral extremes.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
