Comic Book Journal

I review some Punisher before, and I didn’t think I would ever really like Punisher again, but I’m finally surprised. Matt Fraction has practically taken over the Marvel Universe as a writer and I can finally understand why. Punisher War Journal #16 is a tale where Frank Castle only has one appearance, but his actions can be felt throughout. The plot is original. The story follows a group of Castle’s enemies who have formed a survivors’ group after he blew up a bar where they gathered. Their injuries all prove to be life-altering as one is left without the use of his legs, and the main character of the story, Martin, is horribly disfigured. He bandages his face and hangs up newspapers over the mirrors in his home he shares with his blind wife, in an invisible man type of situation, hoping the world will not see his exterior. He buys a gun to kill the Punisher, but when the Punisher shows up and kills an abusive pimp Martin learns that exteriors can be deceiving. Frank Castle lets Martin go home to his wife and promise to behave.

With this quiet tale of mercy and grace, Fraction proves he has the chops to helm not only the Punisher, but the rest of the Marvel Universe as well. His pacing was on key throughout the entire issue, his dialogue was believable, and his ending wrapped everything up tidily. This is how a comic book should be written, especially a stand alone like this.

The art was equally amazing Chaykin, I’m pleased to say is back within he element as he shows detail throughout the book in his backgrounds, and also illustrates Martin’s disfigurement nicely without letting that take away from the rest of the character’s expressions. He also did an excellent job on Castle himself, letting mercy show through subtle facial expressions and perspective changes. Great job by Chaykin.

I haven’t read a solid stand alone like this since Battlestar and I have to give Fraction and Chaykin props. I’d give this book a solid ten out of ten. I’d recommend this book for someone who has not picked up a comic book in years, or even a new reader as a great jumping on point, as it is an example of excellent plotting and pencil work. I wouldn’t be surprised if this issue is nominated for an Eisner. It should be.

For a review of a previous issue see my blog, http://www.comicbookjournal.net/whats-black-and-white-and-red-all-over/.