Daredevil #4 Review

Written by: Chip Zdarsky
Art by: Rafael de Latorre
Colors by: Matthew Wilson
Letters by: VC’s Clayton Cowles
Cover art by: Marco Checchetto, Matthew Wilson
Cover price: $3.99
Release date: October 12, 2022

Daredevil #4 begins Matt Murdock’s new life as leader of the Fist with Elektra by his side. On a remote island near Russia, a surly group of recruits trains to fill out the Fist’s ranks while Matt and Elektra undergo a deadly ritual to assume their crowns as King and Queen of the Fist.

Is It Good?

Daredevil #4 is a solid issue for one reason: it builds momentum. You get the distinct impression that Zdarsky is building towards some reckoning in the not-too-distant future, and all characters steadily turn toward that destination. Some are racing toward it, others are pulled along, but everyone is heading toward something big, and the anticipation is palpable.

Second to the sense of momentum and anticipation is Zdarsky’s willingness to shake up the status quo. Daredevil and Elektra both come out of this issue differently. New costumes, a new relationship status, and a new sense of purpose against their common enemy – the Hand led by the Punisher.

Strange as it may sound, this issue feels like it has a purpose beyond spewing out more generic Marvel content. Zdarsky is pushing the characters toward an outcome that could have big implications for each one going forward.

The plot centers around Matt Murdock’s arrival at his new home on a deserted island converted into the Fist’s new base of operations. He meets the new recruits, grudgingly accepts Stick as part of the operation and embarks on an early morning trek to complete a ritual that will cement him as the King of the Fist. There’s plenty of fist-fighting, and sword-swinging action, the plotting and pacing are tight, and the dialog is excellent. This may feel like a “quiet” issue, but it’s not. This is a potentially significant issue.

De Latorre’s art is stellar in this issue. Admittedly, I had misgivings when Chcchetto moved off the title, but those misgivings were unfounded. De Latorre’s linework is excellent, dramatic shadows are impactful, and Wilson’s colors are top-notch.

About The Reviewer: Gabriel Hernandez is the Publisher & EIC of ComicalOpinions.com, a comics review site dedicated to indie, small, and mid-sized publishers.

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Final Thoughts:

Daredevil #4 feels like a minor, quiet issue where not much happens, but looks can be deceiving. Characters grow, Daredevil and Elektra take significant steps, and the tension of a brewing war between the Fist and the Hand is in the air.