Last November I did a review of the Batman/Doc Savage one shot that served as a lead into the new First Wave universe. The review was not a positive one. The problem with that issue was that writer Brian Azzarello seemed more interested in introducing his new, pulp oriented, universe rather then telling a good story.
Despite my disappointment in that particular issue, I still liked the idea of a pulp oriented universe, so I held out hope for the comic books that where to follow. Well, now my wait is over and it has been at least somewhat rewarded. First Wave #1 was much better than the Batman/Doc Savage one shot. Azzarello is much more focused on telling a compelling story rather then introducing the different elements that will populate his new universe. The end result of this approach is, not only did I enjoy this issue but also it made me want to read future issues; what more can you ask from a comic book.
SPOILER WARNING In this one issue Azzarello raises several intriguing questions. Why did Doc Savage’s father send him away at this particular time? How did Doc Savage’s father die or is he dead at all? How did the bags of gold dust get into the coffin? Who are the Red Hand? What is going on in the jungles of South America that they are so willing to kill to keep secret? How are the Blackhawks involved in all this? The answers to these questions will obviously untangle the overall mystery that Azzarello is setting up. END SPOILER WARNING I have to say I, also, enjoyed the portrayal of the villain Anton Colossi. His role is this issue is small but his cold-blooded ruthlessness was memorable. I, also, want to take a moment to complement artist Rags Morales for this clean straightforward artwork. Morales’ artwork suited the story and the characters.
If I had one complaint, about this issue, it was the portrayal of the Spirit’s friend Dolan. He has been transformed from an honest; hardworking and competent officer of the law into a semi-corrupt police official. The reason for this change maybe made clear as we learn more about this universe but, for right now, anyone familiar with this character's past portrayals must be at least a little confused. And why was the Spirit sleeping in an open grave? Still, this issue was a vast improvement over Azzarello’s first foray into this universe and is well worth reading.
Keith Forney