Harley Quinn Season 4 Review: Explosive Twists Ignite Harlivy Romance

Editor's Note: This piece was written amidst the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, highlighting the absence of the writers and actors on strike and the impact it has on the show being discussed.

Since its debut in 2019, Harley Quinn has continuously reinvented itself. It has not only switched streaming platforms three times but has also altered the structure of each season. Now in its fourth season, the animated show premieres on the newly-renamed Max. Despite the ever-changing nature of the show, its motto of expecting the unexpected remains unchanged. This season, the focus shifts to Harley's adaptation to Bat Family responsibilities and Ivy's challenges as the CEO of the Legion of Doom. While this bold move largely succeeds and fuels Harley and Ivy's passionate relationship, it comes at the expense of the remaining characters in the gang.

Harley Quinn season 3 concluded with the girls going their separate ways in terms of their moral outlook. Harley came to the realization that she had a desire to assist people instead of causing them harm, and she stepped in to fill the void in the Bat Family that arose due to Batman's imprisonment. On the other hand, Ivy chose to accept Lex Luthor's offer to lead the Legion, hoping to carry out her ecoterrorist agenda. In Harley Quinn season 4, the focus immediately shifts to the consequences of their career decisions on their daily routines and their bond. While Ivy faces challenges in gaining recognition as a woman in a leadership role within the world of villains, Harley grapples with the Bat Family's principle of non-lethal actions. However, they manage to make time for each other amidst the chaotic situations they find themselves in.

Kaley Cuoco and Lake Bell seamlessly portray Harley and Ivy, creating a sense of ease in their characters' relationship. While Harley Quinn's writers present obstacles, they are never insurmountable, resulting in a delightful portrayal of the dynamics between Harley and Ivy. Whether they are on opposite sides of a hero-villain conflict or navigating the complexities of a romantic trip to Vegas, the show effectively balances their personal growth with charming domestic moments.

However, this well-executed balancing act does not extend to Harley Quinn's supporting characters. While the Bat Family's increased involvement offers comedic potential and opportunities for growth, they only receive significant attention in later episodes of season 4. Outside of a humorous subplot involving Nightwing's posterior and a recurring joke about Talia al Ghul's ignorance about Damian, the Bat Family doesn't command much focus. Thankfully, Ivy's coworkers, Nora Fires and Bane, have their moments to shine, but the introduction of new villains pales in comparison to previous seasons.

Clayface, expertly voiced by chameleon actor Alan Tudyk, is unfortunately overlooked in the initial chapters of Harley Quinn season 4. His ambitions for the stage appear to be more of a punchline this time around, failing to engage the audience. On the other hand, King Shark (Ron Funches) and his wife Tabitha embark on a heartfelt and comical journey as they prepare for parenthood. However, even King Shark feels slightly distant from the dynamic duo of Harley and Ivy.

Despite the feeling of compartmentalization throughout the season, Harley Quinn continues to deliver clever remarks with enthusiasm. Poison Ivy's support for villainous women in the workplace provides abundant material that is not wasted, and Harley herself has unexpected moments of wisdom and camaraderie, revealing the humanity beneath her eccentric and eccentric ways. In summary, season 4 comfortably adapts to its new environment after a brief adjustment period, much like its leading characters, and offers the same profanity-filled, satisfying enjoyment as previous years. Catch the first 3 episodes of Harley Quinn season 4 on Max starting July 27, with new episodes airing weekly.