Arsenal and Starfire slowly get their due
This has been a hard series for me to fully get into, not only for the obvious controversy over Starfire's portrayal in issue #1, but also because the only character that seems to get any real significant development is Jason Todd. But that's part of this series strong points, since besides a not so spectacular introduction in issue #1, the Red Hood has received some really touching moments and strong character development, whose presence continues to be felt in this issue. In this chapter, however, it takes a backseat to Starfire, who was never really portrayed in a strong way. Here, she gets a bit more dialogue, a bit more development, and one line towards the end that may quell the anger of some of this series more vocal opponents.
Roy continues to be under-examined compared to the others, but in this issue there is a bit of narrative introducing a few things from the tragic areas of his past to new readers, which is a good sign. This issue also shows the strength of his character a bit more, building somewhat from issue 3. Unfortunately, one thing that makes me lose interest in the story is the fact that the average woman is always portrayed as one track minded flirts who can't help but be attracted to Jason (such as the Stewardess in issue 2), which can be seen in a couple of almost negligible and otherwise forgivable lines that i would normally ignore if it weren't for the past complaints people have made in previous issues, which bring a few worries to this title's portrayal of women.
Ignoring the characters, a few parts of the story just don't work. One of the antagonists, while foreshadowed early on, seems like he came out of nowhere, and is given a back story that just falls flat. Not only that, but the dialogue is hit and miss, especially with Roy Harper, and is perhaps the series biggest weak point. As for the art, it's hard for me to form a proper opinion, though i guess my main issues with it stem from some very weird facial expressions, not helping the fact i don't really care much for this style in general. It's not a bad issue, and I'm probably nitpicking most of these things, but it only gets 3 stars from me. However, it does have promise, and with every new issue it seems to confirm that if we stick around, there will be plenty to enjoy in the future.
