Why Did Halle Berry's Catwoman Costume Return to DC Comics?
DC Comics' newest issue, Catwoman #71, brought fans to Catwoman for her newest, striking Costume. The design appears strikingly similar to the Catwoman Costume that Halle Berry's Catwoman donned in Catwoman 2004 (Catwoman is considered one of DC Comics' biggest flops). It has served as a reminder to many - that Catwoman's character is known for making her appearances in many mediums, specifically with film. It was created by DC Comics - giving Selina Kyle the chance to shine. This recent debut of the costume has even sparked a new round of debate surrounding its impact - especially as DC Comics Catwoman continues to expand across the universe and its characters become staples.
Those fans interested in this version of Catwoman should recognize that while it has received more critical acclaim after it first made its debut (most often considered one of those "so bad it's good" moments that gives audiences an intriguing glimpse at a unique story that could be remade, this one was also considered controversial because it changed how Catwoman was perceived in DC Comics. In essence, this new issue of Catwoman, Catwoman #71 has introduced a unique and unexpected blend of Catwoman's Costume with that being associated with a film. It could make a statement to audiences and those who love DC Comics about the potential of a new design for Catwoman. But also that even if a Film didn't fare well it is possible to still maintain that iconic image that can be loved in its own right. Even as the creators go through those iterations, fans are given an opportunity to reimagine what this character may be - all while taking the most prominent costumes - like Michelle Pfeiffer's look in Batman Returns (the movie directed by Tim Burton). These looks became instantly recognizable and iconic.
Who Was The Patience Phillips Version of Catwoman?
Fans of Catwoman recognize Selina Kyle as being a prominent figure - especially those who grew up watching Batman ( the animated and film franchises) or were enthralled by Catwoman Comic Books. Her origins and overall style in Catwoman's comic world is centered on the ability to adapt and become more than just a Batman Villain but a hero or a symbol for those wanting a glimpse of those with skills who may not always want to be heroes.
Halle Berry, however, took a different route when she played Patience Phillips (not Selina Kyle). Her Catwoman - from Catwoman 2004 was one of DC Comics biggest, dramatic movie failures that did not appeal to critics - who saw it as being too unconventional. But this is where some viewers also find the production endearing. It gave rise to the "so bad, it's good" concept.
What's the New Look For Catwoman's Costume?
The costume for Catwoman #71, the cover of which was designed by Seba Fiumara ( a famous artist known for his impressive style), features a bold new look, one that has even drawn parallels to Halle Berry's Patience Phillips version, although the creators were quick to say this was merely a coincidence. Fans who are interested in this story will find Selina Kyle still at the forefront of the comic, and will see that she is an individual with immense strength, agility, and intellect. These attributes were showcased through past DC Comics productions.
It was mentioned in the latest Catwoman #71 Release Date (December 18, 2024) that the creators, Torunn Grønbekk (writer), Marianna Ignazzi (artist) and Seba Fiumara have also embraced the legacy of Catwoman - specifically the iconic Catwoman Costume , drawing parallels with the sleek Selina Kyle Costume of the past - the overall look shows DC Comics Catwoman's evolution from being a villain to a hero in this iconic look that will bring audiences a much more grittier aesthetic.
When was the First Catwoman Movie?
Fans may recall seeing the Catwoman, with the most prominent of these being Michelle Pfeiffer who took on the Selina Kyle role for the Tim Burton movie, Batman Returns (released in 1992) which brought audiences an unconventional and daring interpretation of this Batman villain.
However, fans of Catwoman also recognize the movie from 2004 (titled, Catwoman), which was not considered one of DC Comics biggest wins and may be known to some as an ironic but engaging performance from Halle Berry, making it an intriguing and fun part of the franchise's story. This gave viewers an early look at this character who also received additional appearances, particularly through an animation and game formats.
How Did Catwoman Originate In DC Comics?
Catwoman's character has had many stories across DC Comics and various adaptations across the decades (including comics, films, animation, games, etc.). Catwoman's story spans nearly a century, which brings with it, numerous origin tales. DC Comics Catwoman first appeared in a Comic Book, "Batman" #1 in 1940. There was also an alternative to this story: Her introduction came with a short story - “The Cat” - in which she also gained prominence for a few more comic appearances and established herself as a popular character - which also launched a long and complex Catwoman history that gave audiences a fascinating and unforgettable perspective.
Fans have watched this character shift roles throughout DC Comics - often being presented as a hero. While her main story often focuses on Selina Kyle, fans of Catwoman Story have seen that her persona has changed. It is still a major influence that can be seen as having an intriguing Catwoman Origin. Selina Kyle has made numerous attempts to become part of a society that often ostracized her - a trend she had in her origins as Patience Phillips , who gained feline-like powers. However, there's a darker element: There were some comic books where Catwoman gained new powers through an unfortunate transformation in becoming a werewolf, one of DC Comics' most iconic - in her struggle for power - to navigate Gotham in hopes of seeking wealth and adventure.
Who is Bast in Catwoman?
Throughout Catwoman's history - particularly in those appearances in Films and comics - her presence as an independent character - has been both compelling and noteworthy.
As a notable figure, Selina Kyle has received some of the most compelling roles - specifically those who appeared as Catwoman in Catwoman 2004. The movie features a Catwoman Origin where Catwoman gains her power through the power of "cats," particularly from those deities and figures from Egyptian mythology - specifically, Bast who appears as the cat goddess that grants power. While Catwoman is often seen in her Selina Kyle Costume as she roams Gotham, in those instances of the film and in this particular Catwoman's Story that had some creative, fantastical elements - this one took her a little further than what some audiences would be used to - and was a more unorthodox approach. Those interested in exploring these Catwoman Powers - and discovering the depths of DC Comics - should pay attention to the rich historical origins of Catwoman's Character that, surprisingly, have not been featured as prominent as they should, in other film adaptations and comics - as those moments continue to offer a great source of inspiration and insight into her overall story, a trend that is seen in many instances where the character is explored.
