Fresh from making “Chasing Amy,” Kevin Smith (one of my favorite filmmakers) worked on two projects. First, “Dogma.” A religious comedy set in the View Askewinverse (featuring Jay and Silent Bob) as I considered his best work besides “Mallrats.” Second, “Guardian Devil” An eight-issue Daredevil storyline focusing on the character who looks after a random baby of a runaway teenage girl. His ex-girlfriend/former secretary, Karen Page reunites. He’s conflicted with his Catholic upbringing. Short answer, Daredevil has a hard time living a double life as a lawyer and superhero.
All eight issues of Guardian Angel were officially published in 1998-1999 earning praise from critics, fans and readers alike. Anyway, Charlie Cox will reprise his role as Daredevil/Matt Murdock in a second season Daredevil: Born Again.” Before I get a chance to watch the aforementioned show on Disney Plus, I wanna share my thoughts on one of my favorite superheroes.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS whatsoever.
Good & Evil Aspects
Good: Kevin Smith did a decent job (mostly) writing all eight issues. Plus, he added a lil’ bit of in-jokes of his career. Touché, Silent Bob. I couldn’t find a 37 reference from “Clerks” within the comics. It would’ve been funny as heck.
Fun Facts
- Kevin made a cameo in Ben Affleck’s Daredevil as a forensic assistant. He’s pals with Batfleck.
- The third issue’s cover was recreating during the Opening Credits of Mr. Affleck’s iteration.
- I got my pic with Kevin and his bestie, Jason Mewes at Fan Expo Dallas 2023. Good times indeed.
Joe Quesada’s artwork is really good.
Action Sequences are solid displaying Daredevil’s combat skills. His battle with Bullseye was really intense.
Spider-Man, Doctor Strange & Black Widow make appearances in various issues.
Callbacks to previous storylines including Frank Miller’s highly acclaimed storyline, “Born Again.”
Primary Themes are Guilt, Faith, Loss, Forgiveness & Redemption. Each one’s handled maturely regarding Matt’s Character Development.
Fifth issue has a shocking moment that’ll make you gasp. I refuse to tell you. You’re gonna have to read and find out.
The Thing & Luke Cage make cameos in the last issue.
Evil: Dialogue’s all over the place. I know Kevin’s known for writing dialogue driven movies, but heavy dialogue in a comic book doesn’t fit the mold. A good blend of dialogue and action engages the reader. Like a balanced formula. A full on novel goes full detail describing a person, place or thing. A comic book however, has half an illustration, half talky talky.
Mysterio’s involvement felt outta place. Without giving too much away, he crossed a huge line. If you know, you know.
The Final Verdict: B, FOR BANKROLL!
Despite two drawbacks. “Daredevil: Guardian Devil” is a well written eight-issue storyline which marks a beginning of the character’s second volume. If you’re prepping up for Daredevil: Born Again’s second season, order a physical copy on Amazon or subscribe to Marvel Unlimited. It’s your call.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 