Comic Review: Man Without Fear (2019) #4

Man Without Fear #4

Marvel Comics

Writer: Jed MacKay

Artists: Paolo Villanelli & Andres Mossa

One issue away from the conclusion of this interlude, Matt Murdock gets yet another visit at his hospital bed. As we already saw what many of his friends had to say about his current state of mind, now the readers get to know the input from one of Daredevil’s greatest foes: The Kingpin.

In this chapter we learn Wilson Fisk and Matt Murdock’s take on their first encounter. We’re also shown just how afraid Matt is in this, clearly scary, situation. His nemesis standing over his defenseless, broken body and the most Murdock can do is lie there, pretend to be asleep and cope with the Fear incarnation (the one from issue #1) whispering in his ear.

Although MacKay, at first, appears to reiterate last issue’s format, present time alternated with flashbacks, he did something different. This time he presented the narrative from a subjective point of view instead of a more objective one. We are presented with both hero and foe’s opinions and feelings on the details of their first duel.

Another amazing feature of MacKay’s writing in this issue is Wilson Fisk’s characterization through his dialogs, more specifically his gloating. Composed of such low and petty regards yet coming out as a classy statement that displays to the reader just how evil, though charming and powerful Fisk really is.

The artwork for this comic, despite feeling very similar to Landini’s work in issue #2, presents itself with its own qualities. Villanelli’s traces bare some resemblance to Japanese manga style, specially in the action scenes. Such distinctive art style alongside Mossa’s colors present the reader with a beautiful set of panels for every page of this book adjusting the lighting perfectly whether to portray an ominous Fisk entering the hospital room or simply showing the room as it is, in a more realistic manner.

Man Without Fear has build itself, from issue #1 with the possibility of there never being a Daredevil anymore. Despite my initial beliefs, this interlude has shown itself creative in treating that subject as I’m sure it’ll be creative in it’s conclusion, providing the readers with a intriguing read and an interesting insight on Murdock’s mind as he goes through, yet another, difficult time. I’m looking forward to the final issue and I really hope the build up pays off.