Customer Reviews

Daredevil, Vol. 12: Decalogue

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Brian Michael Bendis' prolific run on Daredevil begins it's final phase with Decalogue, as the series takes a different turn as Bendis reveals just what happened during Matt Murdock/Daredevil's reign as the Kingpin, and the effect it had on those living in Hell's Kitchen. Decalogue begins with a gathering of people, all of whom had been effected in one way or another since Daredevil declared himself the Kingpin. Ranging from petty shots at crime to something unbelievably horriffic, these people all have a reason to point a finger at the blind superhero, one of which knows more than he lets on, and knows quite a bit about Daredevil's history. What makes Decalogue so different from Bendis' previous arcs is that DD isn't the main character of the storyarc. Instead, he has become a recurring guest star or an urban legend as he is seen through the eyes of those telling their stories. It's a welcome change of pace for a mainstream superhero comic, and it's some of Bendis' best work since before he became Marvel's "it" writer. Alex Maleev once again supplies his usual great and moody art, and it's easy to see why he has been a fan favorite artist on the title for the past few years. All this sets the stage for the final storyarc from Bendis and Maleev, as things once again take a different turn for Daredevil and all those associated with him, and it also sets the stage for a bold new direction for the much maligned character.

How much of an impact did Daredevil truly make when he declared himself the Kingpin of Hell's Kitchen? The best way to find out is through the citizens. In Decalogue, Brian Michael Bendis does just that. Daredevil doesn't even feature too prominently in this volume. He's more of an urban legend here. The story mostly takes place in the basement of a church, where several of the neighborhood's residents have come to share stories about how much has really changed since Daredevil became Kingpin. Not all of it is good, either. I really enjoyed this chapter because it gives a real human side to the war that Daredevil wages on crime. Even though everything he does is to protect his people, not everyone sees it that way. Only a writer like Bendis could take something so mundane as a bunch of talking heads, and make it so completely riveting. Another must-read!

Daredevil has become an intriguing, high tension read every month! The writers have a handle on this title second to none. Give it a try. I'm glad I did.

this story was like nothing that i have ever experienced. it presented a very dark and supernatural atmosphere, which had me completely hooked.