Deadpool #1: Definitely Not Age-Appropriate.

Deadpool returns in a new series with a brand new #1 issue reintroducing the Merc with a Mouth in a much less familiar setting. Can the creative team find a worthwhile story amidst the whimsical chaos? Or will the series be lost in the ever-increasing list of Marvel reboots?

Thanks to a particularly strong performance from an expansive creative team this new number #1 proves to be a comprehensive look into the craziness that surrounds Deadpool. At one point in the story, we find Wade beaten into the ground saying “My life is very violent.” and it paints a near-perfect portrait of what it is like to spend a day as Deadpool. He’s surrounded by monsters, bound by an ancient law he knows nothing about and can only seem to think of ways to exploit his new circumstance for petty pleasures. Seems like it hits all the typical notes, right?

Not as you might think.

Also found in this issue are violent and sometimes heartfelt connections to a larger Marvel universe and even a dramatic turn of events that kicks off an exciting story ahead. It has unusual depth for a Deadpool book. Which is something I say after having reviewed his books for quite some time now. Writer Kelly Thompson has managed to deliver a clever approach to the character that doesn’t feel one-note at all. Part of that success is the hilariously unexpected position Deadpool finds himself in suddenly wearing a crown, but it’s also thanks to some strangely powerful artwork.

The creative team takes us in a completely different direction from the previous Deadpool title with a more stylistic take that lends itself towards the dark action taking place. It’s vivid and sometimes surreal, which in and of itself punctuates Deadpool’s personality in a very interesting way. It might take some getting used to, but it’s a great new direction that suits the nature of the story remarkably well.

In a Deadpool book there is always one thing you can be certain of and that is dialogue! The Merc with a Mouth really earns his name in Deadpool #1 with a voice that feels different but still familiar when it counts. While the humor doesn’t always land, there are enough jokes to keep you having fun throughout the entire book. Special mention to letterer Joe Sabino for handling such a large task with apparent ease!

The premise is strong, but the characterization of Deadpool is where readers will find something new to dig into. It’s welcoming to new and longtime readers in that it doesn’t rely on past volumes to build on his place in the Marvel universe. I am surprised that the only X-Men mention we get has little to do with the Hickman-era reboot though, it feels like there was an opportunity to do something new and insightful with the character from that perspective. But who knows what the future holds! We still got a few great moments with some surprise characters including Elsa Bloodstone and even Gwenpool so it seems we are in for a real thrill.

As the ancient monster law demands…ALL HAIL THE KING!

KING DEADPOOL!