On the Rack: Elektra #1

I’ve never been much of an Elektra fan because I could never find a way to relate to her. That’s what appeals to me about this new number one, as Elektra embarks on a whole new adventure, writer W. Haden Blackman gives Elektra the opportunity to introduce herself. The opening of the book is bittersweet as Elektra reflects on all the normal things she has missed in her life. She laments never knowing her mother, that she wanted to be a ballet dancer but didn’t have the balance, she wanted to be an artist she didn’t have the eye; she knows that she is an assassin and that it defines her. I instantly sympathized with her because Blackman has demonstrated her humanity before the story even begins.

The story arc pits Elektra against fellow assassin Cape Crow. She is sent by Matchmaker to find her mark and bring him back alive, but she’s not the only one after him. The story is interesting and dynamic with a distinctive tone that creates a unique atmosphere and sets it in a world of its own. Elektra is presented with enough of a challenge that the story is sure to develop an exciting climax and there are already compelling hints at the action to come. But the real treat is Michael Del Mundo’s art. Each page is a water colour of carefully placed images that flow organically and enhance the storytelling. The majority of the book isn’t laid out in panels, but instead the images dance across the page, telling several aspects of the story at once.

I didn’t expect to enjoy Elektra #1 as much as I did. I didn’t anticipate sympathizing with Elektra, or that the narrative would draw me in so completely. Of course, the mesmerizing art is what made reading this comic an absolute pleasure. This first issue has set a high bar and I can’t wait to see how Elektra develops.