DC Comics – Bombshells #71 (2016)
🗂️ Genre
Alternate History • Superhero • War Drama • Fantasy
👥 Main Characters
-
Wonder Woman (Diana of Themyscira) – The Amazon warrior and symbol of peace, now leading a revolution in a world ravaged by war.
-
Cheetah (Barbara Ann Minerva) – A cursed archaeologist turned feral predator, serving as both a rival and a tragic mirror to Diana.
-
Vixen (Mari McCabe) – Defender of Zambesi, wielding the power of animal spirits to protect her homeland.
-
Queen Hippolyta – Diana’s mother and guiding force, whose legacy influences her daughter’s choices.
✍️ Writer
Marguerite Bennett – Known for weaving emotional depth into historical fantasy, Bennett brings both ferocity and compassion to the women of Bombshells.
🎨 Artist
Mirka Andolfo – With her signature fluid lines and expressive character design, Andolfo delivers intensity and elegance in every panel.
📝 Editor Details
Kristy Quinn – Ensures narrative cohesion across the sprawling Bombshells universe, maintaining the unique tone of each character arc.
🏢 Publisher and Brand
DC Comics
Brand: DC Comics – Bombshells (Digital-First Series under DC’s alternate universe imprint)
📅 Release Year
2016
🧵 Brief Plot Summary
Bombshells #71 dives into the thick of battle as war erupts across Zambesi. Wonder Woman finds herself face-to-face with Cheetah in a brutal confrontation that goes far beyond fists and claws — it's a clash of ideologies. Cheetah, consumed by her curse and resentment, embodies chaos, while Diana stands as a beacon of hope and leadership. As the conflict escalates, Vixen fights to protect her people, struggling to keep her homeland from falling apart. The issue culminates in a moment that tests Wonder Woman’s resolve, her compassion, and her willingness to fight for peace in a world gone mad. 🌍⚔️
📚 Notable Arcs or Storylines
-
The Zambesi Uprising Arc – A politically charged storyline that explores themes of colonization, heritage, and female empowerment.
-
Cheetah’s Redemption Path (Implied) – Hints of inner conflict and tragic origin deepen the complexity of Barbara Minerva's character, planting seeds for potential redemption or further descent.
🧠 Fan Theories or Interpretations
-
Duality of Womanhood in War – Fans interpret the Diana vs. Cheetah battle as a metaphor for internal conflict within powerful women—nurturer vs. warrior.
-
Vixen as a Spiritual Successor – Some readers suggest Vixen represents the next evolution of Wonder Woman’s ideals, shaped by native culture rather than mythology.
-
Zambesi as a Symbol – The setting is seen as a stand-in for all oppressed nations, with supernatural forces reflecting real-world colonial struggles.
🌟 Review Summary
Bombshells #71 is a visually captivating and emotionally layered entry in the series. Mirka Andolfo’s art shines with expressive faces and dynamic combat scenes that feel alive. Marguerite Bennett’s storytelling is rich with heart and historical resonance, blending action with philosophical undertones. The characters are more than costumed icons—they are warriors grappling with identity, trauma, and legacy. Whether you’re here for the battlefield drama or the character introspection, this issue delivers on both fronts. 💣🔥💫
Ideal for fans of strong female leads, wartime heroics, and beautifully illustrated alternative histories.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
