I asked at my comic store if this is Warren Ellis from
Nextwave, or Warren Ellis from Thunderbolts. The former was one of my least
favorite comics I’ve read (an unpopular opinion, I know) while the latter is
one of my all-time favorite runs. The answer is: this is Ellis working with
established continuity, but bringing his bad-ass sensibilities to a character
that can really flourish under that attention. This is Ellis from Thunderbolts!
Marc Spector was in LA, acting as a TV show coordinator in
his last series. I can’t speak too much to it, since I skipped that run, but I
was never sold on the idea of replacing Spector’s alternate personalities with
Spider-Man, Wolverine, and Captain America. I will catch up on Bendis’ take
eventually, but for now, I’m glad it is in the rearview mirror.
Moon Knight is back in New York, working with the cops, and
while he does seem to be a very lonely man (no Frenchy or Samuels here), he’s
got enough automated help to get by. Moonie’s car drives itself, and while he’s
rocking a sweet new costume, his tech still seems pretty darn effective. Ellis’
Moon Knight is a very competent detective, too. I never got that impression in
previous runs, but I like making the character more like a unique take on
Batman. Moonie really enjoys his bad guys seeing him coming, explaining the
white suit and mask. It isn’t the classic 70’s look, but it is a visually
striking and impressive design. I didn’t think I’d like the new take this much,
but after one issue I’m sold.
Declan Shalvey does a tremendous job establishing the tone
with Moon Knight’s new look, but he really impresses me with the surroundings.
The page showing Moon Knight descending into the lower levels of Manhattan were
impressive, and the old-fashioned SHIELD logo really won me over. I also like
that Moon Knight’s subtle heroics are totally visible on the page when you take
a second look.
I usually don’t mention colorists, but I need to make a
mention of Jordie Bellaire. Her use of colors to establish different moods in
different locations really powers the book. Plus, Moon Knight’s lack of color
on his suit is a striking use of negative space in the wash of constant color.
It’s a great look.
There are some more callbacks to previous Moon Knight
series, but I’m not going to ruin them here. But I can say that if you like
Moon Knight, hard crime heroics, or fantastic art, this GOOD book is for you.
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