Daredevil #129
CharactersBlake TowerDaredevil Foggy Nelson Heather Glenn Man-Bull Matador Matt Murdock |
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The Man-Bull is charged with a murder he didn't commit, and it's
Foggy
Nelson for the prosecution and Matt Murdock for the defense! When the
sentence of guilty is announced, the enraged Man-Bull smashes through in a
desperate attempt to escape. However, all that pales when Matt sees a
news clip with the startling revelation that the Kennedys are alive!
Pushing aside his other problems, Daredevil searches for the
Man-Bull, unaware that he has struck a sinister bargain with DD's old
archfoe, the Matador. The Man-Bull only wants to leave the country, but
will he harm innocents in his desperation to escape?
Review: Though the art is a definite minus here(the Man-Bull doesn't look
impressive at all, and in some cases even looks goofy, and I've never seen
poorer renditions of Foggy), this is quite an interesting issue. It kicks
off much quicker than most comics, and Marv's portrayal of the Man-Bull is
quite interesting, to say the least. Taurus is indeed the center of
attention for most of the book, and the ending is very original. Rather
than having Daredevil punch Man-Bull's lights out and pronounce, "Well,
that chalks up one more for the horn-head," we witness a hero who is
absolutely helpless to change the course of events. Daredevil also
suffered an unusual failure in #127, but this is different. In this case,
we witness a situation which turns out no differently than if Daredevil
had not been involved at all. A poignant statement, from any
perspective.
Plot/Underlying Themes: 4
Portrayal and development of
Daredevil as a character:3
Art:1
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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