Since the emergence of the new Netflix series, it seems as if Daredevil is becoming one of the more widely popular superheroes in the Marvel Universe. Luckily the Netflix series is not only a top notch superhero show, but also showcases the best things about Daredevil; his unique set of skills, and backstory. I will be the first to admit though that I've only seen a handful of episodes. After reading Daredevil: Back In Black Chinatown I was not only amped to watch the show, but soon realized just how cool Daredevil truly is. This trade paperback collects Daredevil(2015) #1-5 and material from All-New, All-Different Point One #1, both written by Charles Soule. As the back of the books states, thanks to SnapPow.com, its "A great jumping on point for fans of the recent Netflix series." This statement is definitely true. I am not only amped to make time to watch the series, but also excited to dive further into the world of Daredevil.
Daredevil: Back In Black Chinatown showcases a few of my favorite things about superhero books. First, it does a marvelous job at weaving a few different story lines together thus making them one as the book draws to a close. Secondly, I love when they put real human emotion into characters, for Daredevil, in many ways, its his emotional "baggage" that changes the scope of this book. Charles Soule seems to bring to life these characters and puts weight behind their action. The way he uses villain Ten Fingers provides an epic story that allows the reader to engage the story on a more personal and somewhat religious level. For me, this allowed me to ingrain myself further into the overall "feeling" of the book. Matt Murdock both in the suit and out of the suit was given room to breathe and Soule gave life to him in many conversational points throughout the story as well. There were a few times I was impressed at how much Soule captured the essence of being a lawyer and a superhero. Overall, Soule is at the top of his game here and his writing style will allow new readers an opportunity to fully enjoy a story about a character that is really now just beginning to become popular again. I don't want to dive into the story, this would allow for too many "spoilers", but trust me this book tells a fantastic narrative.
One of the biggest flaws I have as a comic book reader is really taking note of the artwork. From the opening page, quite literally, I was captured by the look of Daredevil. Ron Garney uses his somewhat spotty artwork to bring forth powerful characters. I would argue that this version of his suit is indeed the coolest. The dark tones used throughout the book breathes new life to this new suit and it not only makes Daredevil enjoyable to look at, but also does a service to the narrative. You'll also notice the use of darker, yet inviting color tones. The way Matt Milla brings the color red to life reminds you continually that you are truly reading a Daredevil book.
All in all, Daredevil: Back In Black Chinatown is not only one of the best Daredevil books I've read, but also one of the best trade paperbacks I've read. If you've never read a Daredevil book before then this is a good place to start. Just like me I'm sure you'll be itching to turn on the Netflix series after you read it.
Make sure to stop by your local Fantasy Books Inc. location and pick up a copy. Its well worth a buy.