Customer Reviews

Daredevil Punisher: Child's Play

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Although this depicts DD's first showdown with the Punisher- the first of many classic clashes between these two- and was my first exposure to Frank Miller's comic writing & illustrating abilities, this collection is (literally) flawed. Every single copy of this TPB I've ever looked at has a few pages that are out of sequence. There's also a missing moment that was likely removed because the backstory involved was not included in this collection.

Fortunately, all the issues reprinted in "Child's Play" have also been reprinted in the new "Daredevil Visionaries: Frank Miller" trade paperbacks. The color's better, the pages are in order, the missing panels are restored, and the backstory that caused the omission of these panels- AKA the "Death of Elektra" issue- is also included. Pick those up instead.

`Late!

Child's Play is a reprint of Daredevil #182-184, which co-stars the Punisher. These issues take place during Frank Miller's long and glorious reign on his seminal book. His hard hitting writing, and gritty, crime noir art style (with a heavy assist by the brilliant Klaus Janson) are definitely present in this volume. Punisher, long before his overexposure in the 90's, is cold blooded, ruthless, and absolute, much the way he is now, in his Marvel Knights and Max issues.

Yet, the reason this book receives four stars instead of the full five, is the pure power of both these characters is lost in the quagmire of an overly preachy plot. Focusing on the inherent evils of drugs, namely `angel dust', the story becomes trite, and sadly at the end, predictable.

Do not let this be your one and only exposure to Frank Miller's run on Daredevil. Several graphics, including the Daredevil Visionaries: Frank Miller showcase his talent so much better. Especially recommended is Daredevil Visionaries: Frank Miller volume 2 ISBN: 0-7851-0771-1.