Daredevil #2

Cover by Paolo Rivera

Daredevil #2 (August 17, 2011)

Writer: Mark Waid

Penciller: Paolo Rivera

Inker: Joe Rivera

Colorist: Javier Rodriguez

Letterer: VC’s Joe Caramagna

If I can make a grandiose statement about all the comics I have been reading during this project, it’s that Marvel has consistently given me strong comic issues that are engaging and highly entertaining. I’m not saying there haven’t been misses with them, but what with the Avengers Academy, Red Skull: Incarnate and now Daredevil, I am definitely being converted into a Marvel fan.

Though there have only been two issues in this particular Daredevil series, both have been well written, extremely entertaining, suspenseful and had great characterization. Furthermore, the art by Rivera is solid though I have to say, I really love Rodriguez’s use of color. At night scenes, he focuses on grays, reds and subdued monochromatic schemes and yet, the comic is not dreary. During the day, the coloring is bright and clear without being cloying. The coloring works very well in showing the reader the various areas and atmospheres of New York City. 

Anyway, Daredevil #2 picks up with explaining just why Captain America (whose appearance was hinted at in the previous issue) is seeking out Daredevil in such a covert manner. Luckily, the reader has Daredevil’s very clear and genuine-sounding inner monologue to explain everything and help us understand what is going on and why. So far, Matt Murdock’s voice is one of my favorites in comic books; he’s funny without being desperate (like Deadpool) and he’s complicated without being overwhelming (like Batman or even Tony Stark). I enjoy reading his opinions and reasoning. He’s a good guy.

I also found it interesting how this comic handled rather heavy issues, such as police brutality, threats of domestic violence and intimidation of honest people. Rather than lamenting about the corrupt state of society or wallowing in the responsibility of being a vigilante, Daredevil simply narrows his focus on the task at hand and analyzes his choices. Waid definitely brought Daredevil’s lawyer sensibilities to the forefront of this comic.

Of course the comic ended on a cliffhanger, as comics are wont to do. I’m super excited to see what happens next and how Waid continues to handle Daredevil. Hopefully there will be no faltering.