Shadowman #1
Publisher: Valiant
Writers: Justin Jordan & Patrick Zircher
Artist: Patrick Zircher
Cover: Patrick Zircher
Fans have been eagerly waiting for the return of Shadowman ever since Valiant released that teaser image and preview a few months back. With that news came the question if Valiant could deliver with the title character’s reintroduction to this new generation of comic readers. Well, if there were any doubts about the creative team’s ability to deliver yet another stellar issue from Valiant, they will be put to rest once this issue is read.
First and foremost, this issue is very new reader friendly, as Jordan and Zircher deliver something new, while it’s still comfortable for those who read the series years ago. The first few pages just pull you in completely, thrusting readers into a huge battle and the final moments of a pivotal character. The pacing from here on out is excellent as we’re introduced to the principle characters and a very grotesque villain. One with a cheesy name, but creepy as hell nonetheless. Jordan and Zircher also present a Jack Boniface that is a bit of a fractured character, which should make him an interesting guy to get to know as the series progresses.
When the black and white preview pages were shown, Zircher’s artwork just blew fans away. Now that we get to see them in color along with the entire issue, this is one great looking book! Aside from slick and fluid visual storytelling, there is a very keen attention to detail. From character expression to the rich backgrounds and settings that fill the panels, we are given very solid work. There’s even a nod to the original series during the museum scene.
Shadowman is yet another great addition to Valiant’s comeback over the past few months. The setup is strong, and hopefully the book just gets darker and more exciting as the series goes on!
Infinite Speech
infinitespeech@comicattack.net
Great stuff!