Daredevil #12

By Mark Waid, Chris Samnee and Matthew Wilson

Daredevil is a character that has been around for a long time but never really left much of a thumbprint or had much spotlight. He’s had some big moments, but they are usually forgotten or overlooked for guys like Captain America or Spider-Man. Mark Waid and Chris Samnee have put together a great run that has brought the character back to the front of the line. He still may not get as much love as other characters, but his series is extremely well received by fans and critics alike.

Mark Waid understands Matt Murdock, just read any issue of his run on Daredevil. His characterization under Waid’s pen is some of the best, bar none. Waid definitely gives us a few twists in this issue as Matt tries to save his friend George from death. One of the best things about this issue is how well it’s written. Waid doesn’t dumb down his work for the audience here and the reader should be genuinely surprised at a couple of points in the issue. The motivations of the villain are also relatively fresh and make complete sense. The last page was a bit cheesy, but won’t ruin an otherwise awesome issue. Waid has been doing exceptional work on this title and has definitely left his mark on Daredevil.

For as good as the dialogue was, the art really shines this issue. Chris Samnee brings some of his finest pencils to the table this month, and the colors by Matthew Wilson make it better. Samnee sets up his panels very creatively and uses triangles many times as opposed to the normal square or rectangle panels. This is easy on your eyes as you slide from panel to panel. Scenes with Daredevil’s radar senses are flawless and Wilson’s addition of the pop art colors only add to the greatness. Action scenes are handled well and there is no confusion as to what is going on. Chris Samnee has been pretty good on this title, but this is his finest issue on Daredevil in quite some time.

Another great issue from one of the best tandems to ever take over Daredevil. It’s getting to the point that if you’re not reading this book, you’re really only hurting yourself. Waid and Samnee have secured their place in the Daredevil mythos with this masterful run on the title.