Tony S. Daniel pulls double-duty in launching a new series for Slade Wilson with "Deathstroke" #1. As both writer and artist (as well as cover artist), Daniel is joined by Sandu Florea on inks, Tomeu Morey on colors and Rob Leigh for letters. While the profile for "the world's greatest mercenary" is certainly elevated by his appearances on "Arrow," this comic book launches independently of any other connections Slade Wilson has ever made: Teen Titans, Team 7, Green Arrow or otherwise.
Daniel doesn't restrain Slade's actions at all, allowing the readers into Deathstroke's thoughts as he justifies his choices as "adventure." The writer/artist doesn't pretend to make Wilson an upstanding example of moral excellence, but he does make Deathstroke an interesting character all the way through "Deathstroke" #1. When Wilson's secrets are tapped, we get a peek into Daniel's music collection and beyond, as the writer/artist drops codes like "KWS" and "2112." Daniel reminds readers that Deathstroke is an enhanced being, utilizing more of his brain (90%) than most. These are nice details to include, especially since Daniel skimps on some other details, such as taking readers to "one of Russia's new mega cities." The name might not be imperative, but as Deathstroke's sphere of influence expands and his passport gets punched, readers might enjoy keeping track of his travels.
Beyond that Daniel adds depth to Wilson's world in the form of additional characters, introducing readers to Tiggs, Wilson's "broker," and Angelica, a contact Wilson uses for information and other needs in Russia and beyond. The biggest contribution Daniel makes to the legend of Slade Wilson (considering Angelica's "situation" in this issue and Tiggs' cipher-like placeholding) is Possum, who appears to be set up a Wilson's Joker.
While this is the first solo title to be granted a second shot at success in the "New 52," "Deathstroke" #1 is a strong showing with plenty of intrigue, action and promise. Daniel brings a whole lot of destruction and pain, making this easily one of the goriest single issues since 2011, but the mayhem suits Deathstroke, and Deathstroke suits Daniel much better than his other efforts within the New 52 to this point. This isn't the be-all, end-all perfect introduction to Deathstroke, but it certainly is a great start for a new beginning, especially if you require blood and fire with your Deathstroke adventures.
Get the full review from Comic Book Resources here.
No comments:
Post a Comment