Writer: Rob Rodi
Artists: Sean Chen and Tom Palmer
Publisher: Marvel
In the second issue of Robert Rodi's run on Elektra, the idea of her as a deadly assassin is fired into the open, but perhaps to the point of redundancy. Sean Chen, with veteran inker Tom Palmer, provides the art talent, which is also a bit superfluous in its occasional stale coloring.
Rodi's goal with his run is to return Elektra Natchios to the assassin for hire she originally was. In this uninspired episode, Elektra is charged with the killing of an industrialist only known as "Prebble". Might be adventurous; unfortunately, there is little information present as to who Prebble may be, or why Elektra has taken the case so passionately. The plot is neither unique nor inventive; there is no clever scheme by Natchios to slay her victim or distinguished challenge in her path. Only here is an endless array of murders, which by the final pages becomes tiring and does not possess a hint of entertainment value. Even if it were evaluated as a "Day in the Life" approach, there is little character development or enticement, with the generic task of killing an unknown in a childish manner.
The only aspect of the comic which saves it from being a total failure is the attempt by Rodi to establish that to have Elektra as an adversary is always hopeless for the victim, no matter what measures are taken.
Sean Chen should not be penciling this book. Although his art is very realistic and anatomical, he should be penciling a superhero book with more character development, color talent and use of expressions. Even Tom Palmer's signature inks look bland with the earth-tones used by Avalon's Ian Hannin. Worth mentioning is the inventive cover; the black background embellishes the aesthetics well.
Thus far, this revamp is a misfire. Rodi needs to produce focused stories or arcs, or face the same downfall Joe Casey did with Uncanny X-Men. A general disappointment, but perhaps enough ideas are present for future ventures.
What did you think of this book?
Have your say at the Line of Fire Forum!