Daredevil #132
CharactersBullseyeDaredevil Foggy Nelson Freda Foster Heather Glenn Henry Foster Lieutenant Bert Rose Matt Murdock |
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Old DD finally comes face to face with the lethal extortionist
Bullseye- and loses! But can he still prevent him from taking another
life in his deadly game of blackmail?
Plus: Matt and Heather's relationship comes closer to home.
Review: A somewhat disappointing conclusion to the first Daredevil
vs.Bullseye story. This issue contains the future archfoes' first battle,
waged under a circus tent, and it verges on boring. Basically, Bullseye
toys with DD, repeatedly refusing opportunities to kill him. This might
have worked when this issue first came out, but knowing all the hatred
Bullseye has for DD now, it's a little bizarre to see him spare his life
four times in half as many minutes. The big top is a poor stage for their
battle; Bullseye charging DD with a bull elephant is a rather tacky
picture. I also find the way Bob Brown draws Bullseye without pupils or
corneas a little wierd. Their rematch at the end is much better, with
Bullseye using some pretty unusual weapons, but it is over far too fast.
There are plenty of pluses to this issue, though. My favorite
part is where Daredevil tries to lead Bullseye away from the crowd,
remembering what happened in
#127; it's a true proof of how dynamic Daredevil became under Marv's pen
that he finally considers the consequences of his actions beyond those of
dying himself. The art is pretty good throughout, and the subplot with
Heather is very nice. It's good to see something actually being down with
their relationship.
Those who have not yet read Bullseye's early appearances should be
warned that Marv Wolfman's Bullseye is not the same as Roger McKenzie's
Bullseye. The same person, yes, but a wholly different character: one
more concerned with petty cash and reputation than an overburgeoning ego,
amongst many other differences. Marv's Bullseye is in many ways just as
interesting as Roger's, but if you buy this issue just for Bullseye's
appearance you will be greatly disappointed.
Plot/Underlying Themes:2
Portrayal and development of Daredevil as a character:3
Art:3
Overall:3
My rating system:
1 = Poor. Plot is hackneyed, simplistic, nonsensical, or some combination
of the three. Underlying themes, if they exist, are completely sick and
twisted. Daredevil is mis-portrayed, and the issue either shows no
development of his character or develops him in a way that makes little
sense. Art is terrible, actually afflicting the comic. Should be
avoided, unless it serves as a link between plotlines.
2 = Weak. Plot is hackneyed, simplistic, or nonsensical. Underlying
themes are absent. Daredevil is not portrayed as a unique or striking
character, and the issue shows no development of his character. Art is
undistinguished, adding nothing to the comic. A generally bad comic, but
with a few redeeming qualities.
3 = Satisfying. The plot may or may not be simplistic, but it works.
Underlying themes are either mild or absent entirely. Daredevil is
portrayed convincingly, and strongly enough that you care about what
happens to him. His character is not developed, but you find out
something about him that you may not have known before. Art is roughly
average, with little or no weak points and a few strong panels. Worth
buying, but not worth seeking out.
3+ = Excellent. Similar to 3, but better.
4 = Classic. The plot is original and multi-layered, but it is the strong
underlying themes that make it a great story. Daredevil is portrayed
intriguingly, and his character is either fleshed-out strongly or develops
in a way that adds to the story rather than to the shock value. Art is
strong and unique, with the characters portrayed passionately. A highly
recommended comic.
5 = Essential. The plot is original, multi-layered, and engaging. The
underlying themes are shocking and unusual, seeming to blind you with
truth. Daredevil is portrayed as a complex, multi-faceted character; the
comic is worth buying solely for a chance to truly see Daredevil. His
personality is fleshed out and develops in a way that adds to the story
rather than to the shock value. Art is powerful without being glossy,
leaning towards the realistic touch that is the mark of a good DD comic.
If you are a true DD fan, the only excuse for not buying this comic is not
being able to find it.
Daredevil (and other related characters appearing) and the
distinctive likenesses are Trademarks of Marvel Characters, Inc. and are
used WITHOUT permission.
Copyright © 2019 Marvel Characters, Inc.
All
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