The Good
Ladies and gentlemen, I'm here to tell you that NINJAK brings everything you could possibly want from it. I went in with high expectations (given the publisher's history and creative team, how could I not?) and this issue had me totally absorbed. When I finished the issue, I was left immediately wanting more. The excellent cover may have some of you thinking this is just another action book featuring a seemingly unstoppable badass, but it's much more than that.
Matt Kindt's script makes sure this is story that's both compelling and full of fan service. It brings the cool action you'd obviously expect, but it's hardly a book that relies on the action. This debut chapter pulls you in and teases just how much potential is here. There's an engaging insight into the lead, an unexpected amount of comedy scattered throughout, and a plot that absolutely has enough weight to spill across several issues. To top it off, we're given just the right amount of awesome action that reminds us just how formidable this character really is. I'm left wanting to learn more about Ninjak, the world around him, and witness more of his past and how it shapes who is he today. The script really does a phenomenal job balancing character, story, and sheer fun. And this is just the first issue, people. Yeah, I'm hooked.
The opening sequence is more than enough proof of Clay Mann, Seth Mann, and Ulises Arreola's ability to create some magnificent pages. From the way the panels are presented to the amazing character work to the brilliant level of attention that effects and settings receive, this a comic that's going to bombard your eyes with greatness. The creative and cinematic way these artists tell the story is impressive enough, but then they go ahead and make sure everything in the panels look terrific, too. It's an approach that works so well for Kindt's story and really enhances it. Even if you don't love the script as much as I do, I'm almost certain you'll be happy with the visuals.
The back-up story (written by Kindt and with art by Butch Guice and Arreola) is a greatly appreciated bonus. While the comic shows us current and young Ninjak, this story offers a little more insight into the earlier years of his career. Guice and Arreola craft a stunningly dark atmosphere, offer solid character work and it's cleverly presented (the kiss immediately comes to mind). It's a short tale that adds a little more emotional weight to his story and reminds just just how much history this guy has to offer. Just like the main story, this one leaves me wanting to see even more of Ninjak's life. The objective here was to prove this character has enough material to justify an ongoing and they've most definitely proven just that.
The Bad
I have no noteworthy criticisms about the comic. Well, I guess it's a bummer I can't read the next issue right away? But seriously, this issue exceeded my already high expectations. If you've been anxiously awaiting this issue, I'm feeling pretty confident you're also going to love it.
The Verdict
Many of us have waited months -- some even years -- for a Ninjak series and Valiant made sure it was absolutely worth the wait. Smart, exciting and full of jaw-dropping visuals, NINJAK needs to be on your pull list. It does such an excellent job teasing all this series has to offer. It offers the badass action you'd expect, yet it's so much more than just slick fighting. There's a strong script here, the promise of so much character development, and a legitimate interesting story unfolding. It sprinkles in just the right amount of humor, too. But hey, is anyone honestly surprised that Valiant has created yet another awesome series? Probably not. You've waited for a NINJAK solo series and Valiant's giving you the one you deserve. Go get it. Now comes the tough part: waiting for the second issue. Good thing Valiant always releases extensive previews, right?
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