A Beautiful Replay of The Man Without Fear’s Origin Story
In 2001, Marvel grabbed some talent from DC Comics to retell several character’s historical stories. They launched the colors series formally called Marvel Knights. Famous street-level fighters like Moon Knight and Ghost Rider would follow, but it all started with Daredevil: Yellow.
Jeph Loeb and the late Tim Sale are listed as the storytellers instead of the traditional titles of writer and artist. Jeph’s introduction shows his obvious love and respect for his partner, even describing the ink-wash technique Sale used in the comic. The sketchbook in the back of the book dives into the creative process. Like many great partners, the two didn’t always get along or listen to one another. Like the best partners, they were each willing to admit when the other had a better vision.
The heart of the book is the six-issue run of Daredevil with a celebrated unique look and feel. Throughout the story, Matt Murdock is writing to the late Karen Page, retelling his feelings when they met and through their early months together. It’s as much a romance as an action story, with poor Foggy Nelson caught right in the middle.
Loeb and Sale were really invested in not keeping Daredevil dark and gritty. Frank Miller’s Man in Black run had already told the story in that manner. Coming off of success with Batman, neither wanted to try and get darker and meaner than Miller had written The Man Without Fear.
They made the decision to bring back Daredevil’s original costume, created from and featuring the bright yellow of his father’s boxing gear. Matt is writing about his undying love for Karen, but there are several very emotional words about his love for ol’ Battlin’ Jack, too.
In addition to the original costume, there are other elements to his appearance. Fogwell’s gym is featured heavily. The office of Nelson & Murdock hosts plenty of the storytelling. There are tons of action shots and DD’s signature swinging through the New York skyline. The stakes are high but Daredevil kicks plenty of tail throughout the story.
Like many Marvel miniseries, there are plenty of cameos. The Owl and Electro are among the villains. The Fantastic Four pop in seeking some legal representation. There are even hints of Wilson Fisk, but the characters on the page refuse to give up his name. One won’t even name him despite being on death row.
Daredevil: Yellow is available in comic shops and bookstores now.