Birds of Prey: The Complete Series

Like, omigod, TV chick superheroes! And, yes, they are as totally dull and shallow as most Hollywood chick superheroes, but hey, they look fantabulous with tight leather, bared midriffs, and vapid stares. Birds of Prey was a short-lived hit on the WB during the 2002-03 TV season, and this set collects all 13 episodes, which follow the adventures of the daughter of Batman and Catwoman—the “metahuman” Huntress (Ashley Scott)--who protects New Gotham City after her dad like totally abandoned it (bummer!). Characteristic of the WB, the show pandered to a level of adolescent angst that even teens would find superficial as Huntress and her roommates—Oracle (Dina Meyer), who used to be Batgirl until the Joker tried to kill her and is now a computer expert confined to a wheelchair; and Dinah (Rachel Skarsten), who is learning how to use her metahuman skills while going to high school—all mope a lot, wallow in self-pity, and occasionally fight crime, with plenty of time left over to fall in love with inappropriate men (each as screamingly dull as the gals), and have gabfests over fears of commitment. DVD extras include the unaired pilot and all 30 episodes of the animated web series Gotham Girls. Not recommended. (M. Johanson)