“The Big Apricot” plunges us back into Gotham, and let’s just say it’s not looking its best. This Gotham is giving off major “end of days” vibes. Cut to our favorite femme fatales, the Gotham City Sirens: Harley Quinn, Poison Ivy, and Catwoman. They’re knee-deep in a supervillainous sewage lair – Enchantress’s, to be precise. Their mission? To swipe Enchantress’s “Heart of Darkness,” which DC fans might recognize as Eclipso’s power source. Turns out, Ivy thought this was a “save the planet from undead hordes” gig, while Catwoman’s just here for the bling—a certain black diamond.

We’re treated to some fantastic action sequences showcasing each Siren’s unique talents. Harley’s acrobatics are, as always, a sight to behold, Ivy’s plant powers are in full bloom (pun intended!), and Catwoman cracks her whip with impressive flair. Teamwork, however? Let’s just say it’s a work in progress. Things go south, and the Sirens find themselves captured, facing a roasting from Enchantress’s skeletal horde. The skeletons have a point, though. Why is this a team? The Sirens, surprisingly, find common ground in this one. Catwoman seizes the opportunity, grabbing the black diamond and making a stylish exit. Oracle, in a fit of dramatic flair, also declares she’s quitting (though, let’s be real, she wasn’t exactly on the team). And just like that, the Gotham City Sirens are no more.

Back with Harley and Ivy, we find them in what can only be described as the “lazy phase” of their relationship. Think pajamas, takeout containers, and generally avoiding the apocalyptic mess outside. Honestly, who can blame them? Gotham looks like a hot mess. (The water’s practically glowing, giant bats are snatching people off the streets, and looting is the new city sport.)

After regrouping, Harley hatches a plan to head to Metropolis for a Superman gala. She’s determined to finally get a “thank you” for saving his life last season. Ditching the pajamas for something a little more glamorous, Harley and Ivy arrive in the sparkling Metropolis. But, as expected, chaos quickly ensues at the gala.

Honestly, I haven’t always kept up with Harley Quinn seasons 1-4, but season 5 seemed like the perfect time to jump back in—a nice change of pace. And I had to check out that new DC Studios logo!

The episode was hilarious, especially the scenes with Riddler and Clock King. Clock King’s clock-related jokes were genuinely funny, but he also made a good point about Harley and Ivy being a bit stuck in a rut (I mean, pajamas with stains to the store?).

Harley’s still over-the-top, but that’s just her personality at this point.

The episode is also packed with references. I caught nods to Superman’s Solar Suit from “The Death of Superman,” his original black shield emblem design from Superman #4 (by Jerry Siegel and Paul Cassidy, published in 1940), and even the Superman: The Dark Side black suit with the lightning-like “S.” We also saw the Phantom Projector, Krypto (making an appearance before his live-action debut this summer!), and tons of other Easter eggs.

We’re introduced to Lena Luthor (Lex’s sister), who seems genuinely nice but has an underlying edge. Being Lex’s sister, it’s hard not to be suspicious, even though she’s putting on a good front.

Superman seems a little burned out with people not needing saving. This, however, comes full circle at the end, with Harley Quinn putting on her psychology hat and giving the Man of Steel a new lease on life.

A certain “Heart of Darkness” makes a callback right on Lena’s neck (which doesn’t look good). However, she saves face by offering Ivy a job and a new purpose: creating a new Green Haven in Chrome Metropolis.

I love a show with irreverent humor, and Harley Quinn continues to deliver. Harley and Ivy seem right at home in Metropolis, and while it’s best not to take this comedy too seriously, Ivy taking out an “S”-level supervillain with her bat is hilarious. The season five premiere strikes a great balance between intriguing plot and laugh-out-loud moments, promising a hilarious adventure as our favorite villainous couple takes on the Big Apricot.

Harley Quinn’s Season 5 Episode 1 Review: Harley and Ivy Find Love and Chaos in Metropolis!