Black Widow #1 Review

Black Widow #1

Writers: Jen and Sylvia Soska
Artist: Flaviano
Colorist: Veronica Gandini
Letterer: VC’s Joe Caramanga
Publisher: Marvel

Review by Brendan Hykes

Black Widow fans and horror fans alike have been anticipating the new Black Widow series, from acclaimed horror directors the Soska Sisters, since it was first announced in October. Now that it’s here I can say that it definitely lives up to expectations. On New Year’s Eve, Natasha is helping Captain America thwart a terrorist attack. After her death during the Secret Empire event, and her subsequent resurrection by the Red Room, the beleaguered super-spy is frustrated and looking to blow off some steam. After butting heads with Cap on how best to deal with the terrorists, Natasha decides to head to Madripoor, where she seems to find exactly what she was looking for.

What’s great about this issue is how it manages to be lighthearted and also surprisingly dark at the same time, a line that could only be walked by veterans of over-the-top horror like Jen and Sylvia Soska. They’re able to present a darker, angrier Black Widow, ready and willing (eager, even?) to get her hands dirty.

The art, by Flaviano, goes a long way to keep things fun no matter how dark the story gets. His style is perfectly suited to superhero action, of which there is plenty. He maintains a strong attention to detail, both in the characters and the world around them. Plus there’s a really great-looking robot fight early on. And color artist Veronica Gandini manages to nail every tone with ease, keeping the book vibrant and keeping readers on their toes.

Verdict: Buy it!

Black Widow #1 is full of great superhero action with a dark undertone and an unapologetic dig into Black Widow’s violent side. This is well worth your time.