The Good
Moon Knight is back! Moon Knight was a character I immediately gravitated to as soon as I first started reading/collecting comics. At first I never realized that he wasn't as "popular" as Spider-Man, Batman or the X-Men. As I read the new issues and back issues, I didn't care what anyone thought. But then I noticed each time a new series would start, it would soon come to an end. In his last series, which I did enjoy on some levels, he pretty much went insane. And, of course, it ended again. Sigh.
When it was announced that Warren Ellis would be writing a new series, interest arouse among comic book readers. I couldn't help but start to smile. The penciled art by Declan Shalvey that was included with the announcement was amazing. To make it even better, Marvel later released some pages with colors by Jordie Bellaire. The anticipation over this series kept growing, along with a little trepidation. Could we finally be getting the Moon Knight series we've been waiting for?
Based on this first issue, the answer appears to be yes.
Right from the beginning, Ellis establishes who Moon Knight is. There is mention of his previous actions in LA and the added developments of Dissociative Identity Disorder (something I never fully felt comfortable with considering his past stories). The return of Detective Flint was also a welcome surprise. Ellis brings a great level of style, sophistication, and attitude to the character that makes his return a triumphant one. I am absolutely thrilled with this take on the character.
Shalvey's art and Bellaire's colors make this incredible issue even better. There are different vibes going on with Moon Knight--different layers, and they are captured here beautifully. The story has just the right feel to bring Moon Knight back to the streets of New York City and Shalvey and Bellaire's work just makes me so happy.
The Bad
This is probably my most anticipated new series from the All-New Marvel NOW! batch. I've often been a little skeptical with each new series but this is the first time in a while I am completely confident in a new Moon Knight launch. Let's hope this creative team is attached to the series for some time.
The Verdict
There's been a lot of buzz and anticipation over the new MOON KNIGHT series. I am overjoyed with what Warren Ellis, Declan Shalvey, and Jordie Bellaire have delivered with the first issue. New and old fans can easily jump into this series and Moon Knight's past hasn't been shoved aside in order to accommodate a fresh jumping on point. If you've been on the fence over adding another ongoing series to your pull list, reading this will convince completely. Get ready to enjoy a great new series.