Comic book reviews for Punisher #1, Punisher #2, and Punisher #3 by Greg Rucka
Average rating: 4/5 stars
Punisher #1 by Greg Rucka
Art: Marco Checchetto
While I’m not 100% sold on this first issue, I am curious to see where this Punisher story goes, especially since Punshier stories seem to be all over the map these days.
I’m not surprised that Rucka brought in a heavy police and mobster element. Not only does this fit the Punisher’s background, but it also is one of Rucka’s writing interests. I’m interested to learn more about Walter Bolt and Oscar Clemons. Both of who’s names say “police” very loudly.
I liked that the opening wedding massacre isn’t going to be an on-going mystery. That by the end the Punisher has killed all the Exchange, except Sway, the leader. (Or possibly all of the Exchange, I suppose there could be more.) It felt right.
Checchetoo’s art was spot-on. It wasn’t too graphic, but it was certainly adult in nature. I appreciated that the barely surviving bride was drawn respectfully. Checchetoo also draws crowds really well, which is extra important in a book which takes place in the urban setting. Especially with all those subways the Punisher’s so fond of.
Interview, Ref: #110401-C. by Greg Rucka
Art: Marco Checchetto
Walter’s story of how he met the Punisher was interesting, and it tells a lot about his character why he doesn’t tell anyone about the Punisher and why he let the Punisher kill those people.
However, I do think the shorter story felt a little lighter than the main feature in quality. I’m not sure what it was. I do think it was interesting how different it felt considering it had the same creative team.
Punisher #2 by Greg Rucka
Art: Marco Checchetto
And the plot thickens.
I love that the baddies are using Punisher’s patterns of zero tolerance against him. That they know he’s coming after them, but they’ve done their homework. I also love a story where the villains do smart things against the hero, instead of just engage in battle.
The addition of Norah Winters to this story is awesome. Her quizzing Walter and Clemons about the murders just seemed perfect. I love how she digs under people’s skin, and how she gets them to say revealing things about themselves.
Rachel Cole waking from her coma seemed very true to life. All the little details about her as a victim of a severe trauma were perfect. It really helped this comic maintain it’s gritty reality-based feel.
Especially when a taloned birdman comes after Frank. Which Checchetto draws that bird man beautifully.
Punisher #3 by Greg Rucka
Art: Marco Checchetto
I continue to love how Checchetto is drawing Vulture. His and Punisher’s fight in the air was just gorgeous.
I adored Norah cutting her hair and rushing to where the fight was to get her story with half her hair cut and the other still long. Perfect Norah. And, of course, the Punisher basically falls in her lap.
I’m interested in learning more about the Exchange and just who they are. And of course, the police are a step or two behind them and the Punisher.
Rachel’s story seems intriguing. I’m looking forward to more about her next issue.