Daredevil by Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev Review

After reading all of Frank Miller's Daredevil work and Mark Waid's initial Daredevil series I decided to get into the other famous and excellent run on the character from the early 2000's by writer Brian Michael Bendis with artist Alex Maleev. These dark and gritty tales became a highly acclaimed run on The Man Without Fear. The main take away from the run was that it outed Daredevil's secret identity to the public, something that Matt Murdock had to deal with all the way up to Waid's 2011 run. So after completing and enjoy both Miller's and Waid's run on Daredevil I wanted to get into the other big run on the character in between both of the aforementioned writers.

Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev’s 50 plus issue stint on Daredevil remains one of the most influential creative runs in comics. Their run on Daredevil started in it's second series, starting in December 2001 until January 2006 was at the time was the longest running tenure on Daredevil, which was only surpassed last year.

Daredevil was started anew in 1998 with Kevin Smith's Guardian Devil story arc launched the new series. With issue #16 Bendis joined the series with Maleev joining with issue #26. Their award winning run lasted until issue #81, making it one of the longest running and most critically acclaimed runs for any writer on the character. Its been regarded as one of the greatest creative tenures in the comic giants history, stating that it rivaled Miller's influential work on Daredevil. 

These three massive trade paperbacks collect the entire Bendis and Maleev run. Each of the graphic novels collect around 20 issues, consisting of between 3- 4 story arcs of this best selling series.

Book 1 #16 - 19 and #26 - 40; Wake Up, Underboss and Out
Book 2 #41 - 50 and #56 - 65; Lowlife, Hardcore, The King of Hell's Kitchen and The Widow
Book 3 #66 - 81; Golden Age, Decalogue and The Murdock Papers, What If Karen Page Had Lived? and Marvel Ultimate Team-Up #6-8

Wake Up #16-19, with art by David Mack.
Ben Urich, Investigative reporter for the Daily Bugle. His current assignment is the murder trial of Wilson Fisk, the Kingpin of Crime. So why is Urich spending all his time with the catatonic son of a costumed criminal and how is Daredevil connected to a child he doesn't even know?

Underboss #26-31
Newcomer Sammy Silkie, plans to overthrow the Kingpin/Wilson Fisk and take his place. There is a connection between this uprising and the contract on Daredevil's life? The pulp noir crime drama begins here as the creative team of Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev start their epic run on Daredevil, also features a special silent issue.

Out #32 - 40
Daredevil's secret identity is exposed to the world! Matt Murdock's most guarded secret is sold to a tabloid newspaper. What can will the Man Without Fear go to reclaim his life? The volume ends with a three part intriguing court room drama story with artist Terry Dodson.

Lowlife #41-45
Matt Murdock is forced to reckon with the problems and legal ramifications that emerged as a result of his public outing. One of Daredevil's most dangerous foes returns to take over the NYC underworld as Matt dwells on his problems, as a new love appears at the most dangerous and complicated time of his life.

Hardcore #46-50
Matt Murdock life gets a lot more troublesome. He's simultaneously faced with murder charges, a new romance, being outted by the tabloids, the return of one of his deadliest foe's Typhoid Mary and the Kingpin's attempt to restore his fallen empire bring on a shocking and surprisng ending.

King of Hell's Kitchen #56-60
A year on since Daredevil did the unimaginable, beating Wilson Fisk to within an inch of his life and declaring himself the new Kingpin. Now that the Yakuza has come to stake their claim for Hell's Kitchen, targeting Matt Murdock leading to an unforgettable battle royale.

The Widow #61- 64
The Black Widow returns to her ex-lover Matt Murdock, on the run she in laying low as Daredevil comes face to horrible face with Jigsaw as assassins are aiming for Blakc Widow's own head.

The Universe #65, Special 40th anniversary double length issue. This story backtracks over the time period that Matt Murdock was outed and fills in some holes in the already heavy plot from the points of view of other heroes in the Marvel Universe with guest artists while setting up the next story arc in the series.

Golden Age #66-70
Following his release from prison, Alexander De Bont, former Kingpin of Daredevil's earliest days. setting his sights on the outed Daredevil enlisting the help of classic Daredevil
villain, Gladiator. This unique story is told in three different time periods featuring distinctive art and coloring in each era. A classic crime noir story.

Decalogue #71-75
Covering what happened during Daredevil's year-long reign as the new Kingpin. His cleaning up of Hell's Kitchen revealed in all the bloody detail. Told from the perspectives of a support group who've been affected by Daredevil.

The Murdock Papers #76-81
The climatic end to Bendis and Maleev's epic run. Their award winning run has reached its conclusion. The return of Wilson Fisk makes was for a thrilling finale. Fisk has in his possession concrete evidence that Mudock is Daredevil and in exchange Fisk demands complete immunity for past crimes. Daredevil and guest stars are on the hunt for the papers in a stunning finale.

The end of this final volume also features bonus issues. What If Karen Page Had Lived? is an imaginary story if the worst event in Matt's life didn't happen, if she survived the attack spiraling off to another chain of events. the three part story collected in Marvel Ultimate Team-Up #6-8 features the escape of Frank Castle/The Punisher from prison with Spider-man and Daredevil after the dangerous vigilante.

Following Frank Millers momentous work on Daredevil, few writers achieved the same level acclaim. Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev became the next great creative team for The Man Without Fear, their award winning four year work was the next great Daredevil run.

It brought readers back to the crime noir roots of success that Miller planted over two decades earlier. Their work emulates Miller's time on Daredevil, integrating the street level tone that Miller introduced and making it part of Daredevil's character. Their first story arc; Underboss is influenced by Miller's seminal Born Again story, The Kingpin's knowledge of Daredevil's identity is now made public. Bendis takes what Miller had introduced and takes it to new heights without retreading old ground. Within the first year of their four year run it introduced the biggest change to the status quo for Daredevil on a level not seen since Miller's run. It laid the foundation for the stories to come and beyond that's felt all the way to current Daredevil series, showcasing that this newest run was off to a very strong start.

The stories centered on the daily humanity of the hero: Matt Murdock’s personal life. It reversed the narrative taking it from a typical superhero comic and making it into a crime story that included a costumed hero. Its grounded stories are so real are a reason behind its influence. Bendis understood that plot of stories is very important but so emotion and character that's even more critical. Matt Murdock was flawed man, sometimes his actions were so distanced from what we’d expect of a classic Marvel hero and as a Lawyer he repeatedly compromised his oath-bound ethics—but this enriched the mythology greatly. The art by Alex Maleev created certain visuals for the series that matched the dark and gritty storytelling. It had wonderful sense of mood: dark, gritty and foreboding.

The outing of Daredevil's identity is the single greatest element factor of the run, it a common superhero trope that's been explored in a way no other superhero comics had ever done. There was no quick fix or close call like so many other masked heroes have faced, it's existed all the way to the current series and it's due to be rectconned in the new Marvel Universe reboot; All-New, All-Different Marvel. The revelation made way for great stories to come for the series and The Man Without Fear.

Bendis and Maleev continued what Miller had started, in the 80's Miller redefined Matt Murdock's world, but Bendis has pushed it to new heights without retreading old territory. The run inspired Mark Waid's 2011 Daredevil series as a counterpoint to all the dark stories and misfortune the character had been put through. Bendis and Maleev's four year work on Daredevil continues to be one of the major high point of the characters history. It is the eptionme of dark gritty and realistic Daredevil. All collected in these three big paperback volumes giving over 50 issues of brilliant and unforgettable Daredevil stories.

Daredevil by Frank Miller & Klaus Janson Vol.3 Review

Daredevil by Frank Miller & Klaus Janson Vol.3 is the conclusion of one of the most influential and acclaimed comic book runs of the Man Without Fear – Daredevil. Frank Miller concludes his highly successful run of the series with Inker-Penciller Klaus Janson. Collecting the final six issues of his initial run; #185 – 191 from August 1982 to February 1983, also included are other works by Miller, an alternate version detailing what if Matt Murdock became an agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. in What If? #28, the gritty urban crime western story #219 and Daredevil: Love & War, a 1986 graphic novel. Their character defining run ends here on the last of three collected trade paperbacks that covers the end of their four year run.

It’s more from the master of crime of noir featuring stunning visuals and gut-wrenching storytelling as Frank Miller ends his run. The drama, tension and action doesn’t falter or slow down towards the concluding part of Miller’s series. It’s as good as everything that preceded it. By issue #185 Miller had nearly relinquished his role as artist only providing rough layouts for Janson to both pencil and ink. Although Miller returned to the role for his exciting conclusion issue on the series. The final six issue of the initial run by Miller are great. Issue #185 -Guts is a pleasant start to the book, it’s a lighter tone and fun story depicting an investigation by Matt Murdock’s partner and best friend Foggy Nelson’s and his foray into the world of organized crime, he even comes face to face with The Kingpin. It is a change of pace for a light hearted single issue tale before the story gets back to its more familiar tone. The main story arc cumulates from the best of the previous aspects of Miller’s run. The Hand and their return to New York, Stick, Black Widow and Elektra are all a big part of this final story arc that’s a thrilling and a satisfying end to arc ending issue #190 another excellent and brilliant double length.

Issue #191 Roulette is frequently cited as one of the greatest single issues of all time and rightfully so, for this finale of Miller’s initial run has Daredevil pay a visit to a hospitalised Bullseye, bringing back the villain that had long plagued Daredevil since Miller’s run began. He lies motionless, paralyzed due to their last encounter. The over the edge hero plays the deadly game with his deadliest enemy as he reveals the reason that brought him here as well as his own back story. Daredevil reevaluates what it means to be a hero. The art is dramatic with depth as Miller pencils his final issue with guest Inker Terry Austin providing excellent work with dark tones to match the story. An element that’s very effective was the use of the same panel several times and in the climax, becomes larger, zooming in closer on a helpless and still Bullseye. It was great bringing back the villain for his final issue even if it a reduced state. A fantastic issue that you instantly want to re-read again that marks the end of Millier’s initial run on the series, serving as the conclusion on a highly successful run. It summarizes many of the moral themes and character statements the writer focused on, reflecting on the nature of morality, law and ongoing conflict between good and evil in society that became one of Marvel’s single greatest comics ever published. It could also be considered as one of the earliest high points of Miller’s career, predating The Dark Knight Returns and Batman Year One by less than three years. The story is the single greatest highlight of this collection, its brilliant. Unfortunately it can only undermine the impact of the two single issue stories that follow.

What If… was a series that explored alternate paths of various Marvel heroes and issue #28 featured what if Matt Murdock became an agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. Miller penciled and co-wrote the story shortly after he became a Writer on the Daredevil series. It’s a nice bonus tale that’s something you’d expect to find in a collection such as this. Being a Daredevil fan you know the origin story so well and this is an alteration of the familiar event. Issue #219 marks a single issue return by Miller on the series, Badlands is an urban crime story that’s like a modern western. Matt leaves his Daredevil persona at home as he’s traveled to a little crime ridden town and doesn’t utter a single word in this gritty crime tale. It’s very good, giving you something that’s different from what we’ve come to expect from both Miller and Daredevil, it’s an interesting story.

Love and War is the final piece of the collection. Originally printed as a graphic novel in 1986 features Wilson Fisk/The Kingpin trying to help his wife Vanessa recover from her catatonic state from events of the Gang War story line that was featured in Vol.1 of this series. A story very much told in the presence of the crime lord, he arranges the kidnapping of the wife of Psychiatrist Dr. Mondat as a method of persuasion to help Vanessa’s recovery. The kidnapping of the doctor’s wife is carried out by Victor, a psychologically disturbed man who carries the real horror of the story. Daredevil plays a supporting role as he attempts to rescue both the Doctor and his wife from the actions of Fisk, it shows his savage nature to help his wife, the one he thing he truly holds dear. It’s an excellent story that builds upon Miller’s initial Daredevil run further expanding upon the antagonistic relationship between the two, explaining the reason behind the change in Kingpin’s attitude toward Daredevil that indirectly bridges Miller's first run with his jseminal Daredevil story Born Again. A great story focusing on the motivations of both The Kingpin and Dr. Mondat showing the depths what both men go to for their wife’s. It’s very much a violent story down to the actions of the psychopath Victor. Originally printed in a single Graphic Novel that’s no longer in print is a nice bonus and great way to end the collection of Daredevil by Frank Miller books, a somewhat unheard of book and story. The art of the story is distinctively painted by Bill Sienkiewicz, his skillful art doesn’t make it appear as dated as others in the collection. Everything that followed in Millers primary run in this collection features Millers doing something different and not trying to re-create the same kind of style of stories he had previously done, An alternate history, a modern western tale and a story more focused on sympathizing with the villain, positioning Daredevil in the background of the story offering a change of pace of the 35 issues over the three trade paperbacks.

Miller brought some of the greatest and interesting aspects back for this final arc including The Hand, Stick and Elektra and the welcome re-appearance of Black Widow. The final story arc raises the drama, action and tension for an exciting story that has a grand finale feel to it. The inclusion of Miller’s other work, What If…#28, issue #219 and Love and War is a great bonus from a writer that you are interested of reading more from. When Miller first came on board Marvel's ailing Daredevil series, his role was largely visual, but seeing how well fans were responding to Miller's darker style, he eventually took full control of the series, Daredevil gained a new level of recognition and respectability. Miller’s take redefined the character for a generation and has lived on to be a classic decades later.

But Miller wasn't done with the character he later returned for several issues of what is considered the definitive and greatest Daredevil story; Born Again. Miller’s return to the series was heighted due to how successful and influential everything he had done previously. Miller again later returned to the character for his 1993 limited series The Man Without Fear, redefining the origin story that included many elements that originated from this original run of the series.

Frank Miller ended his brilliant four year run on Daredevil as both a Penciler and Writer with one of the most amazing comics ever published, with issue #191 which saw Daredevil be so open about his doubts and give an interesting point of view with respect to violence. Miller’s final issue that he cited in a 1983 interview as the issue he’s most proud of before passing the torch to another comic’s legend Denny O’ Neil. Miller's stories, tone and artistry herald one of Daredevil's greatest eras and is concluded in the last of three trade paperbacks. If you’re a Frank Miller Daredevil fan who’s previously read the best known books; The Man Without Fear and Born Again, go back a check out this amazing and influential run of his first take on the character that’s arguably one of best takes of Daredevil and some of the greatest comics you’ll ever read, essential reading for any Frank Miller or Daredevil fan.

Daredevil by Frank Miller & Klaus Janson Vol.2 Review

Daredevil by Frank Miller & Klaus Janson Vol.2 is the continuation of one of the most influential and acclaimed comic book runs of the Man Without Fear – Daredevil. Frank Miller continues his highly successful run of the series with Inker-Penciler Klaus Janson collecting Daredevil #173 – 184 from August 1981 to July 1982. Their character defining run continues here on the second of three collected trade paperbacks that covers the midpoint of their four year run. 

Frank Miller continues his gritty noir take of Daredevil, street level crime and unraveling legal conspiracies while infusing the series with the tone that has become so synonymous with the character. This was the era where Miller first introduced the ninja element to the series, creating the ninja cult The Hand and introducing Stick, Daredevil's former mentor and - perhaps most importantly – Elektra, returning for a lengthy story arc that would become what the series was best known for. It achieved a height of success and acclaim years before Miller later returned to the series to for the amazing story arc Born Again.

This is the book that's the core of Miller and Janson’s run and everything great about Daredevil, I got this book long before I purchased Volume 1 and 3 of the series due to its recognition. The Gladiator makes a sympathetic appearance in an early story line, even fighting alongside Elektra and Daredevil. It’s the return his former flame and the escape of Bullseye that weighs most heavily for our hero, with issue #181 Miller’s began writing in a new spectacular fashion.

Elektra remains to be one of the greatest parts of the Miller’s time on the series. Her first appearance in the previous collection marked in debut Daredevil #168 and this era of stories is what’s been viewed as the highlight of Miller’s original run on series, putting his biggest addition at the forefront of a story that was dubbed The Elektra Saga. She was earlier introduced as a long lost love interest to Matt Murdock who became an assassin. This is the main story arc of the collection, The Elektra Saga, (starting with her debut in Daredevil #168 from Volume 1 and issues #174-182), the conclusion of the story became one of the most shocking and iconic aspects of comics, the imagery is unforgettable. All of the previous plot points cumulated in Daredevil #181, it was a great story with superb action sequences. The double length issue a big deal for its time and still holds up as a significant read more than thirty years later and still considered as one of the major high points of Miller’s Daredevil run. It’s highly likely the one story line fans think of in relation to Miller’s original run in the late 70’s/early 80’s. Miller was at the top of his game, doing his best work as writer and artist, the duel between Bullseye and Elektra is iconic. Its outcome results in Daredevil gradually became a darker kind of hero, this kind of drama and urban crime stories began to attract attention. The revamping of the series might have seemed controversial amongst fans, but it clicked with new readers, increasing sales. Miller had taken a second-tier Marvel character and turned him into on of Marvel’s most popular. It’s really with this era that Frank Miller and Daredevil began to break new ground. It was also in this period that the comic returned to monthly status rather than bi-monthly just three issues after Miller came on as writer. It also highlights Daily Bugle Investigative Journalist Ben Urich as a important player, whom has his own share of the danger as he seeks to uncover truth and conspiracy.

The Punisher first meets Daredevil in a dark and controversial story line “Child’s Play” that concludes the collection. The Punisher/Frank Castle and Daredevil, they are both after a drug pusher who is selling drugs to children. The two crime fighters come into conflict with each other, mostly down to their methods of dealing with the perpetrators. It made for a fantastic story just after the previous story. This one is very different kind of tale, but its dark and gritty, things you’ve come to expect from this interpretation of Daredevil. It was a great story to end the collection.

Daredevil by Frank Miller and Klaus Janson Volume 2 wherein Miller continues his highly acclaimed run, introducing more aspects to Daredevil continuing the most influential period for the character almost redefining a darker interpretation of the hero and stories. The showdown between Elektra and Bullseye remains one of the most iconic moments in comics. Miller's take on Daredevil was characterized by darker themes and stories that hit its peak with issue #181 in this volume. The clash between two Daredevil enemies is one of the most visually iconic and shocking scenes in Marvel history. It stunned readers and the drama was wracked up a few more notches. This is the high point of Miller’s initial tenure on Daredevil. It has so many elements that made the series so great and became a classic. It showcases both Frank Miller and Daredevil breaking new ground, entering a new level of stories and success. If you only pick up one of these trade paperbacks collecting Miller’s original run on the same, let this be the one.The creative team of Miller and Janson’s continue their daring reinvention of the character, raising the series to new heights.

Daredevil by Frank Miller & Klaus Janson Vol.1 Review

Daredevil by Frank Miller & Klaus Janson Vol.1 is the beginning of one of the most influential and acclaimed comic book runs of the man without fear – Daredevil. Frank Miller began his highly successful tenure starting as penciler then co-plotter and finally series Writer taking over from Roger McKenzie who was an early influence on Miller’s own writing. It collects Daredevil #158 – 161 and #163 – 172 with inker-penciler Klaus Janson. Peter Parker, the Spectacular Spider-Man #27-28 is also collected. Miller and Janson’s daring reinvention of the character quickly made Frank Miller on of the biggest and most influential stars of comic book industry. This character defining run begins here on the first of three collected trade paperbacks and the beginning of his four year run.

First appearing in 1964, Daredevil got a new lease of life during 1979-1983 by Writer-Penciler Frank Miller. This trade collects the beginning of Miller’s legendary run starting with issue #158 when Miller first began penciling Roger Mc Kenzie’s scripts. He first drew Daredevil in Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man #27–28 which guest stared Daredevil assisting a temporarily blinded Spider-Man. Miller then began Daredevil art duties beginning with issue Daredevil #158 and later took over from issue #168 where he introduced Elektra, who would go on to become a long time fan favorite character and staple of Daredevil universe. The majority of the book features mostly standalone stories with appearances from Natasha Romanoff/The Black Widow, The Hulk, Doc Ock and classic Daredevil villain The Gladiator, while lengthier three part stories arcs feature The Kingpin and Daredevil’s best and greatest adversary Bullseye. Investigative Reporter Ben Urich sets up a new relationship for Daredevil for many stories to come. The issues collected from February 1979 to July 1981 and contain a few noteworthy issues including; #158 first Frank Miller art of the Daredevil series, #168 Miller took over on the series and first appearance of Elektra and #170 the first appearance of The Kingpin to Daredevil comics and remains a big part of the Daredevil universe.

Miller brought many new aspects to the Daredevil series during his four year run. As an artist on issue #164 Miller which was a re-envisioning of Daredevil's origin story, the creation of ninja assassin Elektra and bringing Spider-Man villain Wilson Fisk/The Kingpin to the series, all these elements would be something Miller revisited during the retelling of origin story in his 1993 miniseries The Man Without Fear, which now incorporated included all these elements for the redefined Daredevil origin story with John Romita Jr. Elektra remains to be one of the greatest parts of the Miller’s time on the series. Her first appearance in Daredevil #168 marked in debut and first meeting with Matt Murdock during their college years. Although a single appearance Miller would later bring her back as presented in the second volume of this trade paperback series in a larger story arc that became one of the one of the highlights of Millers tenure as well as becoming on of the most iconic moments in comics. Miller’s inclusion of The Kingpin is a recurring foe connects to his later work on the series and character including Love and War, The Man Without Fear and the permanent classic Born Again.

These classic stories mark the start of Millers run on the character that reinvented the series. The series quickly evolved into a sprawling epic with riveting dramas and Miller infused the series with its noir tone that is now synonymous with the character. These are elements were still remaining for a long time after the torch was passed to new creative teams. He laid the groundwork for many years of stories to come and setting a darker tone for character which pretty much remained up until a 2011 relaunch from writer Mark Waid. This collection is a fantastic start to a new era for the character that influences had been felt all the way up to the current Daredevil series on Netflix. Daredevil Vol. 1 collects the beginning of Miller’s critically acclaimed series that brought the character to new level of heights fame and success. If you’re like me and a big Frank Miller fan, having already checked out the best of his other Daredevil work, its great going back to beginning of Miller’s initial run on the character. 

Since his creation by Stan Lee and Bill Everett in 1964, the work by Writer Artist Frank Miller became one the first major highlights of the characters lifespan. Miller’s influential tenure during the early 1980’s evaluated the character popularity as well as Miller’s own reputation. This collection is the begging of a new era for both; Comics legend Frank Miller and one best character’s in comics Daredevil. Daredevil by Frank Miller and Klaus Janson Volume 1 is where Miller slowly sows the seeds for many of the iconic elements of the Daredevil mythos to come, starting off the most influential period for the character.

Daredevil Volume 7 Review

Daredevil tangles with monsters, the Jester and the white supremacists group; Sons of the Serpent in this final chapter of Mark Waid’s three year much acclaimed run on the Man Without Fear; Daredevil. This final trade paperback features art by Chris Samnee, Jason Copland and Javier Rodriguez throughout issues #31 – 36.

The concluding collection of Waid’s 2011 series is consistently entertaining and brilliant throughout, the story continues as Foggy goes through his treatment and Matt continues to lead his double life of running the law firm and being the crimson clad vigilante. At lest he’s got a replacement to help with one on his careers as Kristen Mc Duffie returns, bringing back romance into the forefront to Matt’s life. An early interaction between Matt and Foggy provides one of the funniest moments of the series but it very quickly goes into a very serious territory as Daredevil takes on something that is different from his usual super villain antagonist. A riot instigated by the media manipulations of the Jester working on behalf of the Sons of the Serpent. It’s a more realistic problem than we've been used to and maintains that the story feels fresh and being a great chance of pace.

Members of the white supremacist group are hidden everywhere in plain sight across New York and even hidden within the justice system. They've employed the Jester to help prompt riots and spread their message of hate throughout the city. In an attempt to stop the group Matt seeks to learn more and his investigation leads him down South crossing paths with the Legion of Monsters. Their inclusion of the monsters is a slightly kookier element to the series but Waid makes it work, it injects some variety and who better to reveal the occult origins of the serpents than these monsters whose own origins come from the occult.

It deftly mixes action with moments of serious, cultural insight .The story approaches a thrilling climax as Matt is faced with some hard choices, things get darker and more intense for Matt Murdock. It also continues to inject humor and fun to the character that has been really put through the worst of times of his life, adhering to the initial approach of the series.The drama, the twists, the turns all takes place in this final chapter of this acclaimed run, making Daredevil one of the greatest and best superhero comics, returning the vigilante hero to his former glory Making one of the best Daredevil series since Frank Milller and Brian Michael Bendis’s earlier runs.

The final issue does have that grand series finale feel to it, Matt’s revelation in the story’s conclusion is felt throughout the Marvel universe. This story arc was a great end to a fantastic series, Mark Waid wrapped up his run in a satisfying ending. Few superhero books have kept the consistent high level of quality that Daredevil has these past few years, for 36 issues this series has been one of the best monthly superhero comic around. To call it amazing doesn't really give you the full scope of how good it is, but it must be said: Daredevil is amazing, describing it as monumental probably doesn't do it justice. From the very first issue Mark Waid gave this series a new direction and tone that was a brighter and more adventurous Daredevil that, at times, felt like the heart of the Marvel Universe.

Collected over seven trade paperbacks this era of Daredevil comes to an end,the series focused a lot on Matt Murdock, the legal practice and the nature of his abilities. The creators also sought to bring out the swashbuckling namesake of Daredevil, becoming more daring and adventurous than before. We’re reminded that his abilities are both a blessing and a curse, the stories never feel stale, Waid gives the readers enough innovations to keep his stories feeling fresh and creative. The shift in tone both narratively and visually continued to open the character and his stories to more possibilities than just crime noir which had characterized the horned hero for decades. a character so used to be steeped in darkness, constantly getting knocked down, he reached a turning point, changing his attitude to what he had to deal with, giving a more upbeat and positive spin on the character’s perspective. Mark Waid’s run had a good balance of lighter fun moments and dark tense moments, which always made it an exciting and exhilarating series easily making it one the best superhero comic book around. I've never read a series from issue #1 to its end, It is a stellar series.

What you expected was a bittersweet end to an amazing series, the sad poignant cover art of the final issue, that even has an the inscription “DD vol.3 2011 – 2013” hidden along with the names of previous Daredevil creators makes it all feel like the end, only its not. Thankfully it would continue onto a new series for 2014 with the same creative team returning starting again at #1 as Matt Murdock takes on the next part of his adventure that had been set up in the final pages of this story arc. It will be exciting to see that gives way to what will hopefully be an equally fantastic series. I bide my time though I’ll wait and get back into previous successful runs on Daredevil by Frank Miller and later by Brian Michael Bendis. For three years Mark Waid’s take gave a very different and unique approach on the Daredevil, sustaining his reputation as one of my favorite and most underrated comic book characters. 

Daredevil Volume 6 Review

Daredevil Volume 6 is the penultimate collection of Mark Waid's Daredevil series. Matt struggles to keep his law firm afloat while his best friend and partner Foggy Nelson undergoes treatment, a new case reopens a chapter from Matt 's past - pitting Daredevil against a conspiracy that grips the highest levels of law and order in New York City. Plus: Daredevil team-ups with Silver Surfer and the Indestructible Hulk. Collects Daredevil #28-30 and Indestructible Hulk #9-10 by Mark Waid with art by Chris Samee, Javier Rodriguez and Matteo Scalera.

Under the direction of Mark Waid Daredevil has easily become one of the best in superhero comics, It's exciting, fun, and engaging. This volume sticks to shorter stories, more than likely preparing for the final story arc of the series.

Now that the mastermind behind Daredevils recent troubles has been stopped. Matt Mudock can focus more on his life, Foggy’s recovery treatment and their struggling law practice. Matt's latest client is a man he once feared in his youth and now needs his help leading to a courtroom drama that takes a dramatic turn. It all gets very thrilling and exciting as a sinister organisation that has infiltrated the courthouse, opening up a new criminal conspiracy. Then, when Matt is visited by an alien seeking asylum on earth, that is being pursued by the “Cosmic Rider of the Spaceways”. It’s no big surprise that the guest star is in stand alone tale is The Silver Surfer. Teaming up with Daredevil is a delight and a fun action story.

The third and final storyline "Blind Rage " is another team up collected from “Indestructible Hulk” #9- 10 also written by Mark Waid with artist Matteo Scalera. This Hulk series has an interesting and innovative premise. Bruce Banner has willingly joined the spy organization S.H.I.E.L.D. allowing them to use the Hulk as a weapon in exchange for providing Banner with the means and funding to create a lasting legacy for himself. Matt Murdock is Banner's attorney, as insurance that S.H.I.E.L.D. doesn't double cross him. Their latest mission; stopping a cartel of high tech weapons dealers just off the bay from Hell’s Kitchen. It’s a great concept and it’s definitely has its moments of big action and destruction scenes that only the Hulk can provide. It is great story as well as an extra bonus to the collection. It's not a integral to the Daredevil series but is still worthy inclusion.

These three stories has Matt Murdock, the man, being called upon more than his crime fighting alter ego. After everything that has happened in the series so far, Matt’s personal life and law practice are at the forefront. Shorter than previous Daredevil collected editions, the short self contained stories are enjoyable while not forgetting previous plot elements as the series gets better and better in one of the finest superhero comics series being published and being one of the best comic book runs in recent years.These books are serialized storytelling rather than self-contained tales. They're part of a larger story line unfolding with every issue, becoming one of the best superhero comic book runs. It is sad to see this much loved series in its final stages. I'm highly anticipating the series finale soon in Daredevil Volume 7.

Graphic Novel Book Reviews, Daredevil, Justice League, Green Lantern, Green Arrow.

Hello readers,

I'm catching up on some of my recent Graphic Novels reviews. Daredevil Vol. 1 was the last one I read that I received at Christmas and the rest that have followed from then up until last night. Hope you enjoy them and you find these useful.

Marvel Masterworks Daredevil Vol.1

Marvel Masterworks is a series of graphic novels collecting issues of the original series of Marvels most loved characters. These books reprint the issues in full colour. Marvel Essential series collect more issues in a single volume but all issues are in black and white. So in my opinion Marvel Masterworks are the best choice when wanting to experience the original incarnations of Marvels most popular heroes. This Daredevil collection features the first 11 issues of Stan Lee’s Man without fear, Daredevil. Issue one depicts his origin and the rest of the book follows his early adventures and foes. All was as introducing readers to Foggy and Karen Page. 

I thought this was a fantastic book full of crazy and really out there moments that would have been the norm in the 70’s when these comics were first published. There fun and gives readers a real taste of how these characters in their first incarnation.Daredevil meets many foes and a love triangle develops between Karen, Foggy and Matt. These earliest stories were the inspiration for Tim Sales and Jeph Loeb’s much loved mini series Daredevil: Yellow.

Justice

The Justice League are not the only ones who can come together working towards a common goal. Enter the Legion of Doom.The Justice Leagues fall at the hands of their villains as they all strike them at once, how will the heroes come back and how will they stop the evil plans of all their enemies combined. This Graphic Novel collects all 12 issues of this mini series by Jim Kruger and the amazing Alex Ross.This is a brilliant book, I got such a kick out of it and I couldn't recommend it enough. It was a great story from Alex Ross and Jim Krueger. This 12 issue series is one of the best books I've read in recent months.

Although superhero stories can be very complex and have over the decades grew past the traditional good guy vs. the bad guys kind of stories. This story is both the traditional aspect of a group of Superheroes and Super-villains facing each other while still being an extremely clever and sophisticated blockbuster of a tale. It feels epic.

When a group of villains all experience a shared dream of earth’s demise and The World’s Greatest Super-Heroes, the Justice League unable to stop it they form an alliance to prevent the destruction of the planet. Every character gets their moment in this story with each hero narrates their own chapter that their the lead in, giving great variety to the narrative as villains take down heroes, one by one in a coordinated attack, while the characters like Poison Ivy and Captain Cold are doing good deeds to benefit mankind as the Legion of Doom turn the populace against earth's heroes. The story is full of great surprises and turns that I don't want to give away. Its one of the best Justice League stories out there and  I cannot praise this book enough, it’s exceptional, a good old fashioned tale of good guys vs. the bad in this awesome story.

Justice League Vol.4 The Grid

Throne of Atlantis was the high point of the series and in my opinion, the best stories of Justice League New 52. This story carries on for the events from Throne of Atlantis where the League wants to expand it ranks and give full time membership to many of it's reserves. Two story-lines exist in this book, the second is that of the Justice League series has been building to since its beginning; The Trinity War, where three different Leagues to war over a mysterious object. The Trinity War was the first big crossover event and this volume collects the first and the concluding chapter of the epic story-line with chapters of the story found in other books of to complete the Trinity War story arc. I wasn't really a fan of this story, it was good but it to too hard to top the three previous volumes that have come before it; Origin, The Villain’s Journey and the crowning glory Throne of Atlantis. These tales by Geoff Johns and various artists just got better and better and will be difficult to top. I enjoyed this book but I don’t feel the need to go and seek out the missing parts to complete the story, it wasn't for me. On a positive note I was extremely satisfied with the final issue and conclusion of the Trinity War story as it paved the way for a bigger and more interesting plot to unfold in Volume 5 with the arrival of the Crime Syndicate of Earth-3. 

Green Lantern: Secret Origin
Geoff Johns retells comics most popular Green Lantern, Hal Jordan’s origin story. This story was released mid way through Johns 2005-2011 series in issues of Green Lantern #29 - #35. The story was re-imagined to include several new aspects of the Green Lantern mythos; The Blackest Night prophecy and the introduction of Atrocitus , the soon be leader of the Red Lanterns. This story line served as the main inspiration for the Green Lantern 2010 live action movie in which Geoff Johns was involved with. You get to discover a lot of similarities between the book and the movie, even some direct quotes and scenes. The also focuses on some of Hal’s moments of his youth. The book is great and it tells the pretty standard origin story and it does a great job of wetting your appetite and wanting more of a Green Lantern story. This book is a great introduction into Hal Jordan, Green Lantern of Sector 2814. 

Identity Crisis

Such an brilliant book and suspenseful a murder mystery story. The 7 issue miniseries by Brad Meltzer, a well known and acclaimed thriller novelist creates a truly suspenseful and dark tale. Sue Dinby, wife of the Elongated Man is preparing her husbands Birthday surprise when an unknown intruder attacks and resulting in Sue’s murder. This tale takes a more human look at our heroes, every hero is out searching for the killer while still in fear that their own loved ones could be next.

This was a hugely successful story. I think it is exceptional when writers incorporated a classic genre story into the world of Super-heroes. Green Arrow has a prominent role in the story and long buried secrets come to light. There is a division in the Justice League, a team within a team. It is a great aspect of this story. It will keep you hooked from start to finish and with ramifications for years to come.

Green Lantern: Rebirth 

Geoff Johns 6 issue mini-series that resurrected the greatest Green Lantern of them all, Hal Jordan.

Hal made the ultimate sacrifice and had taken his final bow. A new Green Lantern of earth had taken his place. Kyle Rayner had been earth's primary Green Lantern for many years since Hal’s death and he is vital in his resurrection. Hal’s body was dead but his soul was seeking redemption and became the host for the Spectre; the Spirit of Vengeance. During the Identity Crisis story I was introduced to this aspect of Jordan’s new existence and during a conversation with his best friend Oliver Queen/Green Arrow, Hal teased that he was working on something when Oliver asked him about making a return to the land of the living.

This was easily one of the greatest Green Lantern epics that will ever be told. At a previous Comic Con DC Comics had a video of various creators and had a montage of them all specifying it was one of the best stories and also this was the place for new fans to begin with Green Lantern. Mid way through the story Kyle summarizes the events that had transpired to fully catch the reader up to what had happened. It was a great part in  the story and if you had been a long time reader of Green Lantern you would know the story but it was delivered here is such a great fashion and integral to the story.

It is another one of those epic stories that features the entire Justice League and other heroes including the other earth bound Green Lanterns. It is easily one of the most important Green Lantern stories of in existence and better again Green Lantern’s Brightest Day.

Green Arrow: Year One

I've had this book for quite a while and it was worth the wait. I'd been saving it along with other Green Arrow books for after the fantastic second season of the ARROW TV series had come to its conclusion. I was waiting to enjoy these books when I was missing the greatest TV show I had ever watched.

Green Arrow is a great character to get into, he's one of my favorites and it's great getting into the characters roots. These comics are the TV series inspiration as well as potential future story lines. Green Arrow graphic novels new and old are growing in popularity due to the success of the show and Green Arrow: Year One is the best place to start. First of all I love the cover, when I ordered the book online it had a different cover image. This one is just exceptional looking and so reminiscent on the ARROW TV series. Green Arrow Year One as the title suggests is the origin story of how Star City's Emerald Archer came to be. This 2007 mini series written by Andy Diggle with great art by Jock who modernizes and retells the events the led to the arrival of Green Arrow.

Oliver Queen; frivolous playboy and reckless thrill-seeker, who also seeks more out of life, and after a rather embarrassing public display Oliver decides to join his friend and bodyguard, Hackett on a sea voyage. Oliver later finds himself betrayed and left for dead, marooned on a not so deserted island. He struggles to survive the harsh environment and later stumbles upon drug running cartel that has enslaved some the islands inhabitants for their drug manufacturing operation all ran by a woman Oliver has named China White. He has always been seeking a more meaningful life and has now found one thing he does care about, justice. Oliver takes the stand to stop them and free the people, and all while figuring out what he wants to do with his life and who he wants to be. The story plays out like a survivor action story in this grounded superhero origin tale. All the adventure takes place on the island while giving birth to a new hero for justice.

This series served as an inspiration for the creation of the ARROW TV series. Writer Andy Diggle even has two characters named after him, one of the main characters John Diggle who has a brother named Andy. The character of China White, whose first and only appearance is in this limited series, appears in the television series, - Season 3 has her introduced as a main villain in the flashbacks- direct homage, it seems, to her role in Year One.

This book is a great start for fans looking to begin an interest in the Emerald Archers stories. Green Arrow Year One manages to tell a thrilling re-imagining of Oliver Queen's beginnings as Green Arrow that keeps the essence of the original origin but updates it in a very formidable approach to Green Arrow's definitive origin story.

Green Lantern: No Fear 

The greatest Green Lantern of them all is back. I really enjoyed Green Lantern: Rebirth, Hal’s resurrection and redemption was complete, now it time for him to get on with his life as Hal Jordan and a Green Lantern. No Fear was the follow up and the re-launch of a new Green Lantern series penned by Geoff Johns. The book collects the first six issues. I wanted to get this because I like origin stories and stories early in a hero’s career. I was interested too because it is an earth bound Green Lantern story. It featured two antagonists that I as a reader haven’t encountered before. The opening segment is beautifully illustrated by Darwyn Cooke. His work is a joy to behold but in my collection of graphic novels it is scarce. The opening of the book is Hal flying with Kyle Rayner, without him Hal would not have gotten a second chance and Hal is very grateful of that. The story could never be as good as its predecessor but is still good. It is a new start and introduction to the series and Hal’s life on his home. I enjoy his new relationship with General Stone, calling on Green Lantern when matters arise. There is some great action scene’s in this story, especially those involving The Shark, a gruesome villain that I've never encountered before. The book is great and I really enjoyed the earth bound element of it all. I liked the “What Has Gone Before” cosmic recap of events. The book was great but for now I’ll skip the next two books and go straight into the next big event;The Sinestro Corps War is coming soon.

Bye for now

K

My Collection: Marvel Select DAREDEVIL

Marvel Select Daredevil

The one that started it all.This was my first Adult Collectors Action Figure. My wonderful girlfriend got it to me on our first trip away together while we went on a trip to Dublin for a concert. I love Daredevil. He's always been one of my favorite comic book characters, and now with this figure I can display that as well as a souvenir of our first time away together. 

I was first introduced to Daredevil in the Spider-Man animated series two part episode "Framed " and "The Man without Fear" and later the live action movie. I really like and he became one of my favorites comic book characters. I liked the grittiness and how he didn't have super powers just enhanced abilities and how he trained himself to become a crime fighter. I loved the best of the graphic novels, Frank Millers tales, Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale Yellow mini-series and currently the outstanding Mark Waid series that I'm really enjoying at the movement. I'll later make my way onto the Brian Michael Bendis's run of Daredevil stories.

This was the one that started off my collectors action figure collection. I have quite a few Daredevil Graphic Novels as I am a huge fan. He  is a great character that has featured in some great stories that both me and my girlfriend both really enjoy.This an excellent and detailed figure. The figure is subtly detailed in a way not to look too much like a toy but more item for adult collectors figure. It also comes with the cross cathedral rooftop display base, just like the cover of issue #3 in Kevin Smith's Guardian Devil story. Marvel Select Daredevil stands at 7 inches tall and for me is a must have action figure. 

Bye for now

K