DAREDEVIL #7: Clearing the Ledger

New York City is exploding with crime as it is a race to Kingpin’s notebook and the key to controlling the city! As if working with a longtime foe isn’t bad enough for Daredevil, an old flame turns up reigniting past feelings and complicating the entire night.

Creative Team: Stephanie Phillips, Flaviano Armentaro, Rico Renzi, Ariana Maher, and Mark Basso.

The Story:

Matt: It’s part 2 of this high-paced race against time with Matt not entirely sure what this notebook holds he just knows that Tombstone and the likes of New York’s worst cannot possess it. What I really liked is how this issue opens up with a beaten and bloodied Matt who is narrating this entire issue. One of my favorite things is getting inside of his mind as he almost pep talks himself to keep fighting no matter the cost. It’s easy to forget that despite his powers and heightened senses that Matt really is still only human. Elektra makes her long anticipated return and despite there being no fireworks actually on the page, the discussion between her and Daredevil was electric and you could see the spark in Matt’s eyes being near her. It was a short but powerful sequence between the two that absolutely left me wanting more.

Eddie: Daredevil #7 continues Stephanie Phillips’ blockbuster run on this series as it enters the swing of this new arc. Where the first arc was character focused with the elements of a psychological thriller, we’re getting an action-based without sacrificing strength of character. Phillips’ script is fast-paced and tight without sacrificing what makes Daredevil special as a character, his internal struggles and interpersonal complexity.

The Art:

Matt: What Flaviano does extremely well in this issue is showcase how beaten up Matt is as we open the issue with his mask off. There are elements of his face that are swollen and Rico’s ability to shade and highlight the blood and puffiness with the colors stands out. I love during the action as Daredevil is hunting down the notebook the way Ariana letters his sarcastic banter at times. Matt is unserious while still being serious and her art with the lettering captures that while the other two have a grip on displaying the high speed action.

Eddie: Flaviano as the lead artist brings a different feel to this arc. His stylization and paneling lend a level of flow and grit that complement the kinetics of Phillips’ scripting. The lettering and colors of Ariana Maher and Rico Renzi continue to compliment the art. Maher’s letters add structure to the potential chaos and we feel Matt’s emotions as much as we see the impact of punches. Renzi’s colors solidify the environment, making the streets of New York almost its own character.

Final Thoughts:

Matt: 8.5/10 Daredevil #7 brings him face to face with the likes of Tombstone and New York’s worst while reuniting him with Elektra which can only mean the heats about to be turned up. We get some answers in regards to the notebook and Matt better focus himself before it’s too late.

Eddie: 10/10. A 10/10 issue. Stephanie Phillips is leading this creative team through a strong character action arc. They’re not afraid to try something different in terms of their styles and it makes everything stronger.

Overall Grade: 9.25/10

Let us know how you feel about Elektra’s return and check out more reviews by Matt and Eddie!