Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews

Deathlok #1Deathlok #1
Marvel Comics
Edmondson, Perkins & Troy

The launch of Deathlok seems like an odd one, timing wise. It comes in the middle of the big event, Axis and apparently has nothing to do with the Death of Wolverine event or the middle of the Axis storyline for that matter. It seems to be simply a new title. The premise is a tried and true one where the perfect weapon is employed by some government agency to take out people or regimes as needed. The hook here is that the puppet string holders have the ability to wipe the memory of the weapon. Essentially the man that is Deathlok has no idea he's Deathlok. Its Jason Bourne before he goes rogue would be the best way to put it. The book is worth a look.

The comic spends its time allowing the reader to get to know the man behind Deathlok, his family life and some of what he does (or at least what he believes he does) as a profession. The comic also provides some mission level details to give the reader some action, a glimpse into the puppet master and the way they hold the leash on their weapon.

The comic book doesn't stop there. It also sets up another group that is looking for Deathlok for their own matters. This is helping to set things up for a longer term plot. This all works very well in terms of pacing.

There's no doubt about it; this is a good read. It reads fast, but it's packed with details about the characters, missions and plot. There is also enough mystery in here to surprise the reader and keep them guessing on some of what they see in the book. The comic is also removed (for now) from the super hero element in the Marvel Universe, which seems like a good idea.

Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle ReviewsThe downside to the book is there isn't anything you haven't seen before. The plots are very entry level and the setup is something you can kind of see coming. This isn't a deal breaker but it prevents the issue from popping out among the crowd of comics.

The art is very good. Deathlok is a menacing character for a human being and the art presents him that way. There are some brutal scenes in the comic and the art doesn't hold anything back. This is a dark comic book and the art makes sure to leave an impression on the reader.

Deathlok is a comic book you had no idea you wanted. However, if you like spy comics or comics with government cover-ups and conspiracies then this is a book to pick up. This is an action-packed first issue that provides just enough information to give you an idea of what's going on with the plot and characters. I recommend checking this out.

3.5 out of 5 Geek Goggles