Juliet Burton is a nerd. Their previous shows, such as Hopepunk, have focused on using the joy found in pop culture to navigate a complicated and challenging world. Their new show, Villain Era, is about powerful women in pop culture, mostly comic books, and also embracing that power for yourself. In an incredibly nerdy way. Juliette is a cosplayer as well as a comedian, and her choice of costume is partially based on their favourite characters from comics.
Female comic book characters tend to go through a cycle of initially being villains before crossing over into the hero side. Though typically they tend to stay a baddie, it all depends on your definition. Villain Era’s theme is about taking a cue from the funny pages and embracing your own mutant powers and being yourself; a message that many of us need to hear.
Burton’s style of comedy feels like you’re having a lovely chat with an energetic, neuro-diverse nerd who’s in love with all the fine and geeky things the world has to offer. Charming and mesmerising, but also a bit of a whistle-stop tour of the world of genre – Burton wisely flits from topic to topic, rather than going all the way down into one of the many topics. Most of us know who the X-Men are, and STARBURST readers know why Rogue can fly; Burton leans toward the Starburst side, but is careful not to leave anyone behind.
Would we love to see a show filled with deep-cut references to the Shooter era of Marvel comic books? Totally, but would it sell tickets? Probably not. Best to save that for an MCM or Worldcon Panel. Burton gets the vibe right and holds the door open for fans and non-fans alike. A tricky thing to do, and it’s always a pleasure to see it done well.
Villain Era is about embracing your true self and letting your flag fly. It’s a brutally honest show, that wear’s it’s horny, inquisitive and neuro-diverse heart on its sleeve. It’s also bloody funny, with a solid tempo of gags and observation, with the odd bit of real life commentary thrown in. There’s some crowd work, but it’s more to draw the audience in than anything else. If you happen to be a fan of shows like BAHfest or Smartypants , or you just happen to be a huge nerd who loves all things heartfelt and funny, this one is for you.
Cracking stuff. Recommended.
