Connect with us
Marvel Knights: 20th #2 Review

Comic Books

Marvel Knights: 20th #2 Review

Get a heaping dose of Punisher in this second issue.

[amazon_link asins=’B07JQ1Z162′ template=’AiPTProductAd’ store=’aiptcomics-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’d1dcf98b-ec62-11e8-b7e1-857190d40f62′]

The second issue of the Marvel Knights 20th reunion series is out today, this time written by Matthew Rosenberg (story by Donny Cates) and art by Niko Henrichon. So far we know Punisher is a cop in this universe, Matt Murdock is just beginning to remember who he was and one of Marvel’s biggest villains is behind it all. Just another day in the inter-dimensional weird world of the Marvel universe.

Listen to the latest episode of our weekly comics podcast!

So what’s it about?

The official summary reads:

This deluxe volume includes four classic Battle Angel Alita stories never before published in English, plus special bonus material! At long last, complete your Alita collection! This volume contains four manga short stories by Alita creator Yukito Kishiro, first published in Japan from 1997 to 2006:* Holy Night * Supersonic Fingers * Homecoming * Barjack Rhapsody Plus exclusive bonus material!

Why does this matter?

This is not only a celebration of the 20 year anniversary of the Marvel Knights line of comics, but it’s also a brand new take on our favorite heroes. They may or may not be the ones from the Marvel Knights universe (I’m leaning towards that they are), but regardless this is an Elseworlds take on our favorite heroes.

Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?

Marvel Knights: 20th #2 Review

Don’t freak out Matt.
Credit: Marvel Comics

This issue begins to get our heroes on track to kick some butt, although it’s still unclear how they’ll do that with so few heroes aware of what is going on. Rosenberg writes a good script here, opening where we left off with Daredevil and then revealing how Punisher and Hulk began their little dynamic duo together. We also get another hero introduced who has yet to wake up and realize who they are and a major question mark that bookends the issue itself.

Henrichon’s art has a sketchy, hand drawn look that suits the street-level heroes in play here. It’s as erratic as the characters’ emotions as they attempt to piece things together. There’s a key Punisher fight scene that’s quite exciting, keeping each move clear and each kick to Frank Castle’s face easy to follow.

Marvel Knights: 20th #2 Review

Ok, some progress?
Credit: Marvel Comics

It can’t be perfect can it?

By the end of the issue, we are left with no new answers aside from possibly a new lead. This story has lacked a big picture which makes the exploits hallow and a bit pointless. We’re only getting a face value look at the characters and not where the world is at. For all we know Spider-Man is swinging around and Iron Man too. It’s hard to care with no context.

The other problem I had with the issue is Punisher’s big fight scene. He basically takes a beating and doesn’t put up much of a fight. The fight scene is well rendered, but Punisher’s motivation is strange and almost comical. He takes a hit, gets up, takes another brutal hit, and gets back up. Aside from his slight interest in understanding the Punisher business, there isn’t much to him and he comes off as a bit dense here.

Is it good?

I want to like this series, but there isn’t enough here to care about any of it. Where does it take place, what is going on in this world, and why should we care about these befuddled heroes who are bound to figure out they were previously heroes anyway? It’s a frustrating experience.

Marvel Knights: 20th #2 Review
Marvel Knights 20th #2
Is it good?
I want to like this series, but there isn't enough here to care about any of it. Where does it take place, what is going on in this world, and why should we care about these befuddled heroes who are bound to figure out they were previously heroes anyway? It's a frustrating experience.
The fight scenes are well choreographed and the art suits the characters and story
Nice to get some back story on Hulk and Punisher
Really no progress on the mystery at hand
Very little context in this story leaving you confused
4.5
Meh

Join the AIPT Patreon

Want to take our relationship to the next level? Become a patron today to gain access to exclusive perks, such as:

  • ❌ Remove all ads on the website
  • 💬 Join our Discord community, where we chat about the latest news and releases from everything we cover on AIPT
  • 📗 Access to our monthly book club
  • 📦 Get a physical trade paperback shipped to you every month
  • 💥 And more!
Sign up today
Comments

In Case You Missed It

WWE SmackDown preview, full card: March 1, 2024 WWE SmackDown preview, full card: March 1, 2024

WWE SmackDown preview, full card: March 1, 2024

Pro Wrestling

AEW Dynamite preview, full card: February 28, 2024 AEW Dynamite preview, full card: February 28, 2024

AEW Dynamite preview, full card: February 28, 2024

Pro Wrestling

AEW Rampage preview, full card: March 1, 2024 AEW Rampage preview, full card: March 1, 2024

AEW Rampage preview, full card: March 1, 2024

Pro Wrestling

Marvel unveils the new villains Bloodcoven appearing in 'Blood Hunt' Marvel unveils the new villains Bloodcoven appearing in 'Blood Hunt'

Marvel unveils the new villains Bloodcoven appearing in ‘Blood Hunt’

Comic Books

Connect
Newsletter Signup