REVIEW: Knight Terrors: First Blood #1

The DC universe is getting ready to be shaken up once again in Knight Terrors: First Blood #1. This is a world where nightmares become reality for everyone; regular people, heroes, and villains too.

In the first issue, kicking off this major DC event, Deadman serves as the narrator and guide. He’s funny and charming and for a brief moment, helps readers forget the terror that’s on the way. But things go from zero to a hundred real quick. DC’s trinity of Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman find themselves in the middle of a dilemma that requires Deadman’s otherworldly expertise. Things go from bad to worse and before anyone knows it, the world has become a waking nightmare. How can our heroes stop it? Who’s even behind it all? The mystery is just beginning.

Joshua Williams’ writing is on point. Supes is Supes, Wonder Woman is Wonder Woman, and Bats is Bats. Harley Quinn makes an appearance and steals every panel she’s in as well. Not to mention an excellent Beastie Boy reference made by Batman of all characters. But the standout character is Deadman. Boston Brand gets to re-tell his origin story and redemptive arc but also gets to wax poetic about the loneliness he experiences in the after-life and crack jokes on Batman. He’s a deep and well-rounded character in this issue. And Williams’ interpretation should make any comic fan not entirely familiar with the character want to learn more. High praise for someone writing a character that has existed since 1967.

The art of this issue really stands out. Following the nightmare theme, Howard Porter’s art and Brad Anderson’s coloring is uber-stylized. Everyone knows what Batman’s nightmare is but the scene is far from mailed in. It’s haunting visually and are the standout panels in the issue. Even when switching between the dream world and the real world, all of the characters look like they are on the verge of melting off the page. The artists understood the assignment, and they nailed it.

Major events that affect entire comic book universes are always exciting, During Knight Terrors readers will visit the deepest darkest corners of the minds of many of DC’s most famous and infamous characters. And even though it’s nightmare/horror themed, thanks to the writing in this first issue, it’s also giving a fun summer blockbuster movie feel. Issue #1 is as fun as it is terrifying so this storyline could be a roller-coaster ride all the way through. It’s certainly off to an entertaining and intriguing start.

Writing – 4.5 Stars
Art – 5 Stars
Coloring – 4 Stars

Overall – 4.5 Stars

Written by; Joshua Williamson
Art by; Howard Porter
Colors by; Brad Anderson
Letters by; Troy Peteri
Published by; DC Comics

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Christopher R. Ford

Writer, author, and blogger. Published author of three children's books and also writes for the boy Creators For The Culture. Part-time sneaker head, full time nerd.