“The Widow Part Four”
Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: Alex Maleev
Publisher: Marvel Comics
The Plot:
Matt Murdock is helpless as Jigsaw rampages through his house. A fight would confirm his secret and ruining his life. S.H.I.E.L.D. leader Nick Fury helps catch the person gunning after the Black Widow. Murdock finally gives his estranged wife Milla what she wants.
Comments:
This storyline ties up nicely with seemingly few loose ends. In the end though, this story arc feels like an excuse for Bendis to have the Black Widow make sex eyes as Murdock. Even though this was one of the weaker recent “Daredevil” arcs, there’s still enough here to make a strong issue.
As always, Bendis reveals insights about the superhero genre that is not found in standard comic books. Murdock chooses not to fight Jigsaw, knowing that he has the legal right to use deadly force against intruders. He’s stopped by his sense of honor and the practical concern about blowing his identity. It’s refreshing to see heroes use their brains once and awhile, reaching the same outcome without fisticuffs. By signing the annulment papers like Milla wants, Murdock proves his love for her through deeds and words.
The reveal of who is behind the attacks against the Black Widow is this issue’s ultimate downfall. Only Marvel zombies and Black Widow fans will recognize the old man who looks like Mr. Feeny from “Boy Meets World” who was apparently married to the Widow once upon a time. His motivation for going after his ex-wife – he doesn’t like her. Imagine a man hating his ex-wife. You’ll never know what you’ll find in the funnies.
When the Black Widow – as drawn by Maleev – whispers to Murdock he should have slept with her when he had the chance, the male readers certainly agree. When she confronts Jigsaw after her towel falls off in Murdock’s house, it’s quite disappointing that “Daredevil” is not a Marvel MAX issue. Maleev’s Jigsaw looks like Leatherface from “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” – disturbing and an improvement from appearances in “The Punisher.”
Final Word:
Bendis and Maleev routinely turn out excellent stories about the Man Without Fear. When the standard is excellence, however, very good represents a step down and a disappointment.
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