Witchblade #1 Review: A Nostalgic yet Fresh Revival
Nearly a decade after its original run ended, Witchblade returns with a vengeance. This beloved comic, which originally ran from 1995 to 2015 under Top Cow Productions (an imprint of Image Comics), has been given a new life by Marguerite Bennett and Giuseppe Cafaro. Their retelling stays true to the spirit of the original while injecting fresh energy into the narrative.
The story follows NYPD detective Sara Pezzini, a character rooted in grit and determination. Sara is on a mission to eradicate the corruption within the police force that led to her father's death, a classic yet compelling setup that draws readers in from the start. Bennett’s portrayal of Sara is spot-on, capturing her no-nonsense attitude and relentless pursuit of justice.
As the plot unfolds, Sara meets with a potential lead in her case. Concurrently, we’re introduced to the enigmatic Kenneth Irons, who uncovers a supernatural artifact—the Witchblade. This weapon, true to its lore, seeks out its rightful host by leaping from woman to woman, leaving a trail of chaos in its wake. The tension builds as the artifact eventually finds its way to Sara at a crucial moment, transforming her into an otherworldly weapon.
Kenneth Irons and his menacing bodyguard, Ian Nottingham, play pivotal roles in this revival. Their introduction is handled masterfully, with just enough mystery to keep readers on edge. The issue closes on a chilling note with Nottingham reporting to Irons: "I know who has the Witchblade." I’m definitely interested in seeing what Nottingham has up his sleeve, being set up as one of the primary antagonists from the start.
Bennett’s writing is crisp and engaging, striking a balance between action and character development. Sara’s tragic backstory, while familiar, does not feel clichéd. Instead, it adds depth to her character and makes her mission all the more personal and compelling. Bennett also ensures that Irons and Nottingham are not mere background figures; their presence looms large, adding layers of intrigue to the story.
Of course, a legendary tale like Witchblade requires exceptional artwork to bring it to life. Giuseppe Cafaro rises to the occasion with art that pays homage to the original 90s style while also feeling contemporary. The frenetic action sequences, especially those involving the Witchblade, are dynamic and visually striking. Cafaro captures the essence of the Witchblade’s chaotic power with precision and flair.
Overall, Witchblade #1 is a successful rebirth of a classic property. Bennett and Cafaro have managed to maintain the original’s spirit—its bombastic, sexy, and fun essence—while also making it accessible to new readers. The story is engaging, the characters are well-developed, and the artwork is a feast for the eyes. Fans of the original series will find much to love here, and new readers will be drawn in by the compelling narrative and stunning visuals.
This new iteration of Witchblade is off to a fantastic start, and I can’t wait to see where Bennett and Cafaro take us next. This is a comic book revival done right, honoring the past while carving out a fresh path for the future. If you’re looking for a blend of nostalgia and new excitement, Witchblade #1 is definitely worth picking up.
