Frankly a Great Start
I didn't follow Punisher MAX very closely but know many of its fans were concerned about how this series would change the franchise. If this first issue is a true preview of what's to come, I think they can put their worries to rest.
Writer Greg Rucka uses The Punisher #1 as something more than just an opportunity to bring back Frank Castle. He reestablishes what the Punisher represents as an icon and how his "heroics" are something much different than any other hero's in the Marvel universe.
The first five pages tell two stories that converge, without a line of dialogue. Artist Marco Checchetto does a fantastic job showing what starts out as what should be a couple's happiest day to one that ends in a tragic massacre. This is definitely a true Punisher series that's not going to skimp on the violence.
The rest of the issue is told from the perspective of Detective Walter Bolt as he investigates the shooting depicted in those first pages. We get some glimpses of Frank here and there until he emerges from the shadows to punish those responsible.
Later Bolt recounts the events of a shootout he was involved in during the investigation, but we see that his story doesn't match up with how it really happened (*spoiler- a guy with a giant skull symbol on his shirt shows up and kills people. Guess who?). I don't know if Bolt will be a recurring character but I did like this approach for the first issue. I hope in #2 we get to see a lot more of Frank, but it would be interesting to keep Bolt around too.
I honestly didn't know what to expect when I picked this book up and really enjoyed it. It sill may be a little intense for younger readers but I think removing it from the MAX line will draw new readership so that more people can enjoy this character. I'm looking forward to seeing what Bucka has planned as this series progresses.
