Danny Ketch: Ghost Rider #1 – Guess Who’s Back, Back Again…

Howard Mackie is THE Ghost Rider writer. Period. During his run on Ghost Rider in the 1990s, Mackie played a pivotal role in redefining the character and revitalizing the series. He introduced new mythology, expanded the supernatural aspects of the Ghost Rider mythos, and delved into the complex nature of Danny’s dual identity. Mackie’s writing often delved into dark and gritty themes, making the Ghost Rider stories more mature and intense than the Johnny Blaze series that preceded it. Mackie also managed to leave his mark on Spider-Man during this era with his work on the “Clone Saga” storyline. Although the storyline became controversial and complex, Mackie’s writing managed to maintain a sense of suspense and intrigue. He introduced new twists and turns that kept readers engaged and invested in the narrative. Thankfully, Danny Ketch: Ghost Rider feels like a return to form for Mackie. 

This first issue is packed with exposition, premise building, and character re-introductions. And it’s delicious. Danny Ketch is balancing his dual life as the Spirit of Vengeance and… being a guy who lives with his mom. His girlfriend is a rookie cop. His pseudo-uncle is a machine guy wielding Johnny Blaze. A ruthless new villain is turning street thugs into overpowered monsters. It’s all here folks and if one is  nostalgic for 90’s Marvel – this is definitely the book for you! 

Newcomer artist Danny Picciotto really delivers in this issue in a way that compliments Mackie’s writing style. He is having fun channeling the 50,000 CCs of raw winding power that is Ghost Rider – with every wheelie and spin of the flaming chain. We’re talking Evil Kneivel posters, Butthole Surfer albums, and chili burgers with a side of moon pie level cool throughout this book. If this description sounds appealing, then buy this book (and congratulations on being awesome).