Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews

PunisherMAX #8PunisherMAX #8
MAX Comics (Marvel Comics)
Aaron, Dillon & Hollingsworth

Bullseye becomes Frank Castle pre-Punisher in this issue as he kidnaps a family and assumes the role of the father in hopes of watching them get gunned down the same way Frank’s did. This issue is more creepy than the previous ones but no less powerful. Once again, Aaron delivers a story that has elements of sarcasm, humor, violence and strong characters. The story is entertaining and might even make you cringe a little bit while reading it. This is another great issue in the series.

Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle ReviewsThe issue is divided into three stories that weave together. The overall story is building towards something big in a future issue and while this issue deals with getting the characters there, it does so with powerful character work. Besides Bullseye going over the edge as he engulfs himself in all things Frank related we also follow Frank and the Kingpin.

Frank is no longer sitting on the sidelines. With the captured cop he begins to cross lines I’m not sure we’ve seen the Punisher cross in a long time. He tortures the crooked cop looking for answers about Bullseye and Kingpin. The Punisher finds himself going into dark places in this issue with the cop. Frank is clearly playing for keeps in this issue.

The Kingpin is paranoid. He’s locked up waiting for word on Bullseye killing the Punisher. However, he doesn’t fully trust the Bullseye but he’s caught in the deal he’s made with him for good or for bad. Kingpin isn’t simply sitting around though. He is also dealing with some problems within his house that seem to come to a boil in this issue. This was a surprising turn of events with interesting results.

Dillon delivers his best work in this issue when he presents the nut-job Bullseye. The grinning and innocence he shows in his face while committing ridiculous and heinous acts is nothing short of brilliant. Bullseye comes to life with his personality thanks to the amazing art in this issue. The entire issue is character centric and Dillon is the perfect artist for this type of work.

Aaron continues his superb run on the Punisher as he is creating a situation where all three characters are reaching the point of no return. The collision is on its way and it is proving that it will be an amazing one. I definitely recommend this comic book. It’s consistently one of the best reads month in and month out.

4 out of 5 Geek Goggles