When the creative team for Cheetah & Cheshire Rob the Justice League #1 was announced, many comic book fans felt like they knew what they were getting into. Writer Greg Rucka, known for his amazing work on some of the best Wonder Woman stories, was teaming up with one of DC’s most talented artists, Nicola Scott, who’s celebrated for her gorgeous artwork. It felt like a guaranteed hit. But somehow, this first issue manages to go beyond all expectations.
Rucka’s writing is the perfect place to start. He knows these characters inside and out, especially Cheetah, who he wrote during his iconic Wonder Woman run. From the very first page, he perfectly captures who Cheetah is: a beast trapped inside a woman’s body, tormented by her urges. But Rucka also gives us a fantastic version of Cheshire, a lesser-known but equally brutal and playful villain. Her opening scene is pure Cheshire, and it’s a testament to Rucka’s skill that he makes her just as compelling as her more famous co-star.
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The central part of this book is a classic heist-story setup. Cheetah approaches Cheshire with a wild idea: to rob the Justice League’s Watchtower. The risk is immense, and Cheshire is understandably skeptical. But the genius of Rucka’s script is how he uses this familiar trope to explore the deeper motivations of these villainous women. We learn that Cheetah isn’t doing this for selfish gain; she’s searching for a way to control the animalistic monster she’s become. This adds a layer of emotional weight to the story, turning it into something more than just a simple heist.
And then there’s the art. Nicola Scott is at the top of her game here. Every single page is a visual feast. Her character work is a particular highlight; she flawlessly conveys emotion through expressions and body language. You can feel the anguish in Cheetah’s face and the dangerous playfulness in Cheshire’s smirk.
The heart of the issue, a long conversation between Cheetah and Cheshire in a diner, is a masterclass in visual storytelling. Scott’s art, paired with Annette Kwok’s vibrant colors, makes the scene sing. The body language and expressions are so expressive that the dialogue is almost unnecessary to understand their conversation.
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While some readers might find the issue a bit slow-paced since it’s mostly setup and character work, it’s a deliberate choice. Rucka and Scott take their time to build a compelling narrative and introduce some big questions that will keep you guessing. What is the powerful “Power Bank” Cheetah wants to steal? Why did she pick Cheshire to help her? And does the item even exist, or does Cheetah have a hidden agenda? The issue leaves you desperate for the next installment.
Cheetah & Cheshire Rob the Justice League #1 is a fantastic debut. It’s a testament to what happens when a creative team at the peak of their powers gets to tell a story they’re passionate about. If the rest of the series lives up to this first issue, this will be one of the best books of the year.
‘Cheetah & Cheshire Rob the Justice League #1’ Review: Villainy Never Looked So Good
Cheetah & Cheshire Rob the Justice League #1 is a fantastic debut. It’s a testament to what happens when a creative team at the peak of their powers gets to tell a story they’re passionate about.
















