DEATHSTROKE #1 Review

Can Slade Wilson’s give a stronger performance than last time he went solo? Read on to find out.

The official description from DC Comics:

The DCU’s deadliest assassin stars in his own ongoing series by writer/artist Tony S. Daniel! See him as never before in this explosive new series, with one surprise after another as we see Slade Wilson in the fight of his life!

Following a successful stint in the ever popular CW’s Arrow, it was only a matter of time before DC’s deadliest mercenary got another ongoing series. For a long time however I was on the fence as to whether to buy this or not, with Rob Liefeld‘s terrible run on the last series still stirring some unpleasant memories. Luckily this opening issue proves better, as though it’s far from perfect, it’s at least readable.

Tony Daniel may be one of the best artists in the business, but his writing can be very hit or miss. This opening issue sways closer to the latter, as though overall it’s a decent performance, it doesn’t give the compelling feel that a #1 should. Despite this there are some intriguing elements on display, with the action, and mysterious final page doing enough to enthrall from time to time. It was however not enough to overshadow the rather poor narration, with the series needing to do something major to become a worthy fixture on fans pull lists.

One thing that is rarely in question when it comes to Daniel’s work is his art, with it once again being amazing. Though I found the finish on Slade without his mask to be a little off (this may very well have been Tomeu Morey‘s colours not mixing well with Daniel’s pencils and Sandu Florea‘s inks), the look of Deathstroke in his full outfit was awesome. It was however the dynamic action that really captivated me, with the marvellous layouts helping to add energy.

Deathstroke #1 may not be the greatest start to the characters second go in The New 52, but it’s most certainly better than his most recent solo outing. It also leaves us with some curious developments, having me hooked for at least one more issue. Due to this I recommend this issue, but don’t expect to be amazed.