Writer: Bryan Edward Hill
Art: Elena Casagrande, Jordie Bellaire, and VC’s Joe Sabino
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $4.99
Release Date: July 19th, 2023
Marvel’s slickest vampire hunter returns in a brand new ongoing by Bryan Hill and Elena Casagrande! True evil is patient. And a dark, ancient power has been simmering quietly for centuries…and when Blade himself is the one to unknowingly unleash it, Marvel’s entire supernatural underworld will come out of hiding to demand he handle itas Blade #1 kicks off. You won’t want to miss the explosive first issue of this new volume!
If you’re interested in this comic, series, related trades, or any of the others mentioned, then simply click on the title/link to snag a copy through Amazon as you read the Blade #1 Review.
THE DISPATCH
Well, if you loved the Blade Movies, these opening pages reminded this reviewer of the opening to an action thrill ride immediately out of the gate. The art in the opening pages is sleek with cool colors and images that are unbelievably smooth. It truly enhances the read and makes Blade #1 leap out of the gate with a fury. And might I add, that’s exactly what a brand new number one comic needs: a freakin’ hook! We don’t need a backstory on Blade or some type of slow build-up. Nope! Hill gives us action coupled with fantastic art that is sure to mesmerize and intoxicate any new and interested Blade fan.
The fast and furious nature of Blade #1 continues as Hill quickly gets fans up to speed without revealing much of anything to fans. We know as much as the characters know. Nevertheless, we can all also tell someone is hiding something. And by the end of Blade #1, we find out exactly what that is… to a degree. Hill does a very poetic role reversal that was done perfectly in order to keep readers on their toes adding an excellent touch to this opening issue that packs a punch. However, what fans quickly realize is that Hill isn’t messin’ around as Blade #1 comes to a roaring end just as fast as it started.
ART
Now, I already highlighted some of the amazing attributes of Elena Casagrande and Jordie Bellaire a bit earlier. However, now I’d like to focus on some more specifics and examples. Sure, there is a slight Manga vibe to the illustrations. Nevertheless, the focus of the action scenes and the angles alongside the background redirection makes for some wildly attractive fight sequences. Moreover, Blade #1 is graphic. There is blood and guts so be forewarned. This ain’t for the little ones. However, it’s also not quite a horror comic either. Still, anyone paying attention to this issue would note that Hill’s story is set up perfectly for this creative team. Casagrande and Bellaire are equal players in the success of this opening issue.
FINAL THOUGHTS
If you’re looking for an escape the way old 80s and 90s action movies used to do, Blade #1 is just for you. It’s short, sweet, and powerful. The premise is easy to follow and ANYONE can dive right in with almost no background. Hill provides an entry-level comic for any comic fan to enjoy while delivering a safe place to get lost from the real world without any underlying themes or melodramatic undertones hidden within the pages. There are no politics or worldviews. Just hard-nosed action and extremely graphic illustrations. If you’re looking for something new to sink your teeth into, Blade #1 is exactly what you’re looking for. You need to check it out! Let me know what you think, have a great week, and God Bless!