Black Widow #2 Review

Writer: Nate Edmondson

Artist: Phil Noto

SHANGHAIED

Atonement continues in Black Widow #2. Black Widow finds herself in in Shanghai per request of another job. She is ready to do what she needs to do for her own agenda but what happens when it clouds her judgement and mistakes are made. Can Black Widow finish this job? or Will she have a permanent stay?

The Ups:  Edmondson continues to lead us down the rabbit hole that is Black Widow. It is very clear that she is a complex character and that she has her own sets of rules to being an assassin and seeking atonement. Black Widow accepts a job from someone she owes. Unfortunately she bit off more than she can chew. Her mission ties into one of her old assassination jobs. It was a really nice touch and drove the issue quite well.Edmondson projects powerful emotions from Black Widow. You can feel sadness, regret and remorse in the dialogue. It made me feel all those feelings for her and I am rooting for her atonement. There is more character development  for her lawyer Isaiah. The interesting development makes him a character to keep an eye on. Edmondson has definitely nailed this book with just two issues in. Noto has a great skill in displaying emotions as well. Black Widows facial expression relayed Edmondson’s script flawlessly. The art is lively and full of amazing perspectives. The panels are fast paced actions that I could not get enough of!The Downs: Waiting another month for an issue feels inconceivable. Also why can’t the stray cat gets some love?

Overall: Edmondson has written a fantastic issue full of emotions and character development. He has shown us that Black Widow is more than an avenger and assassin. She is still normal within her own right like us folks. Noto just owns this issue with the colorful art work and the panel layouts. Noto was born for this book and I am glad to see him on it. If you are not reading this book yet then you are missing out on possibly one of  the best series of 2014! I strongly recommend reading Black Widow.

Grade 5 of 5