Uncover the Darkest Secrets of Daredevil: Comics Every Beginner Must Read!

Summary

Daredevil’s origin in 1964 was lighthearted with a bright costume and focused on quips.
Frank Miller revamped Daredevil in 1993, creating a dark, neo-noir version in The Man Without Fear.
Elektra’s introduction in Daredevil #168 in 1980 transformed her into a complex, iconic anti-hero figure.

Born on the tough urban landscape of Hell’s Kitchen, one of Marvel’s most intriguing figures emerges: Daredevil, or Matt Murdock. This character has resonated with comic book enthusiasts and casual viewers alike, particularly since Charlie Cox brought him to life in both television series and films.

Exploring the Marvel universe with its 60+ years of comic books might feel overwhelming for beginners unsure about their starting point. The character Daredevil, in particular, has been portrayed in diverse ways due to the imaginative work of skilled writers and artists. These depictions span from intense neo-noir crime dramas to traditional superhero stories packed with action.

9. Daredevil Vol. 1 #1

Matt Murdock Swung Into The Scene With His First Appearance

Writer: Stan Lee
Illustrator: Bill Everett
Release Date: April 1, 1964

As a passionate movie buff, I can’t think of a better beginning than the initial introduction of Daredevil in “Daredevil: Vol.1 #1” back in 1964. Unlike the brooding, dark-themed hero we know today, this Daredevil was all about lighthearted vigilantism. He was more akin to a jokester, often leaving his villains red-faced with his quick wit, much like Spider-Man’s antics.

The costume is more vibrant than some would guess, featuring a striking yellow and red color pattern rather than being entirely red. Stan Lee and Bill Everett laid the foundation for everything we know about Daredevil: he’s a lawyer who happens to be visually impaired, and in his spare time, he vigorously protects the citizens of New York City, particularly those residing in Hell’s Kitchen, from the criminal elements that threaten them.

8. Daredevil: The Man Without Fear

Frank Miller Left An Impact On The Character Forever

Writer: Frank Miller
Illustrator: John Romita Jr., Al Williamson
Release Date: October 1, 1993

When people imagine a grittier version of Daredevil, similar to how he’s portrayed in Marvel Cinematic Universe shows, they can thank Frank Miller. After introducing the character in the original comics, he drastically revamped it with his “Daredevil: The Man Without Fear” miniseries from 1993, which retells the origin story in his distinctive neo-noir style.

In a manner reminiscent of Frank Miller’s treatment of Batman in the 80s, Matt Murdock, Elektra, Stick, and Foggy Nelson undergo a transformation. This new portrayal is darker, more cynical, and features intense inner dialogues that heighten their characterizations, resulting in an iconic version of Daredevil that has significantly influenced subsequent comics and the Marvel Cinematic Universe series.

7. Daredevil Vol. 1 #168

Elektra Became An Instant Icon

Writer: Frank Miller
Illustrator: Frank Miller
Release Date: October 7, 1980

As a devoted cinema enthusiast who adores “The Man Without Fear”, if you’re yearning for more, delve deeper and discover where Frank Miller kicked off his remarkable journey in Daredevil #165. After donning the all-red suit for a while, Miller immersed himself wholeheartedly into the character’s darker aspects. However, it was in Daredevil Vol. 1 #168 that fans were initially acquainted with Elektra Natchios, one of Marvel’s most intricately crafted anti-hero characters to date.

At one point, Elektra and Matt were romantically involved at Columbia University, but their bond didn’t last. Subsequently, Elektra joined The Hand, a notorious ninja clan, turning into an assassin, while Matt took up the mantle of a vigilante. This transformation led to Elektra being portrayed as an adversary for Matt, and their relationship became intricate due to her frequent shifts between villainy and anti-heroism.

6. Daredevil: Reborn

A Nice Sampling Of Daredevil Outside Hell’s Kitchen

Writer: Andy Diggle, Antony Johnston
Illustrator: Davide Gianfelice
Release Date: January 11, 2011

Just like the Mark Waid series, Daredevil: Reborn redefines the character for a fresh start by moving him away from Hell’s Kitchen following the catastrophic Shadowland incident. In this new phase, Daredevil finds himself in Mexico, where Matt Murdock seeks a respite from his vigilante life, but ultimately finds himself donning the costume once more to battle a telepathic adversary named Calavera.

What makes “Daredevil: Reborn ” appealing is that, apart from some nods, it doesn’t tie into any other comic book series. This means that readers can jump right into the miniseries for a self-contained Daredevil adventure, while still providing longtime fans with a fresh take as Matt Murdock spends more time out of his costume than in it.

5. Daredevil: Yellow

Batman Talent Went Back To Matt’s Beginning

Writer: Jeph Loeb
Illustrator: Tim Sale
Release Date: June 6, 2001

In order to align with the grittier tales of later Daredevil comics, the graphic novel “Daredevil: Yellow” revisits the initial exploits of the title character when he donned the yellow and red costume. DC veterans Jeph Loeb (writer) and Tim Sale (illustrator) collaborate to bring a similar impact to Daredevil, as they did with Batman through stories like “Batman: The Long Halloween” and “Batman: Dark Victory“.

The narrative of “Daredevil: Yellow” primarily focuses on Matt Murdock and his relationship with Karen Page, detailing his transformation into a complete superhero, all while incorporating elements of tragedy, action, and emotion. Loeb and Sale masterfully added their unique touch to Daredevil, ensuring the story remains true to fan expectations of the character.

4. Daredevil Vol. 2 #16

Brian Michael Bendis Went Darker Than Frank Miller

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Illustrator: David Mack
Release Date: April 11, 2001

In the early 2000s, the second phase of Daredevil kicked off, and Brian Michael Bendis took charge starting from Daredevil Vol. 2 #16. His tenure is frequently viewed as the most grim, a significant statement when Frank Miller’s contributions are considered. During his time, Matt Murdock faced numerous challenges, including confrontations with adversaries like Bullseye and Kingpin once more.

Matt’s true identity becomes public knowledge, causing him additional suffering. Some may find the Bendis series excessive due to its frequent emotional blows for the reader, yet this is exactly what sets it apart as a daring run. Moreover, the narrative offers sufficient background information, ensuring newcomers can easily jump on board.

3. Daredevil Vol. 1 #181

One Death Made Marvel History

Writer: Frank Miller
Illustrator: Frank Miller, Klaus Janson
Release Date: December 29, 1981

Titled “Last Hand“, Daredevil Volume 1 Issue 181 marked a significant shift in how Daredevil tales were perceived. Although the character had previously faced grim stories and themes, there was always an undercurrent of hope that he would ultimately prevail and the story would end on a positive note. However, this notion was shattered by Frank Miller’s influence.

In a fateful confrontation, Bullseye and Elektra clash, ending with Elektra’s demise at the hands of her own weapons. This gruesome death of such a significant character in Daredevil’s life adds an extra layer of poignancy to his response. Given all that Daredevil has endured, this emotional response is particularly moving. Furthermore, Bullseye’s victory over Elektra serves to underscore his brilliance as a villain and deep-rooted animosity towards Daredevil.

2. Daredevil Vol. 3 #1

Not Every Daredevil Story Needs To Be Dark

Writer: Mark Waid, Fred Van Lente
Illustrator: Marcos Martin
Release Date: July 20, 2011

2010 marked the point where some readers had grown tired of the persistent gloom and frequent rainy nights in Hell’s Kitchen. However, this all changed with the arrival of Fred Van Lente and Mark Waid who brought a fresh perspective and atmosphere to Daredevil Vol. 3 #1. Their work provided both new and long-time fans with stories that struck a balance between the dark Miller era and the original Stan Lee era.

Matt Murdock’s character has become more playful, making his superhero adventures enjoyable rather than being constantly overshadowed by despair. A change of location from Hell’s Kitchen to vibrant San Francisco highlights Daredevil’s capabilities in a new light, and fans are drawn to the creative blend of witty dialogue, vivid artwork, and an overall revitalizing atmosphere brought about by Lente, Waid, and Samnee’s collaboration.

1. Daredevil: Born Again

Often Regarded As Daredevil’s Best Story

Writer: Frank Miller
Illustrator: David Mazzucchelli
Release Date: October 1985–February 1986

Longtime aficionados adore “Daredevil: Born Again” because it drastically alters Matt Murdock’s life in unprecedented ways. In contrast to her portrayal in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series, Karen Page is less endearing here as she betrays his secret for drugs, leading Daredevil to confront his own legal issues, police scrutiny, and the formidable threats posed by Kingpin and Nuke.

Daredevil: Born Again is frequently seen as a seminal tale for the character. It involves Matt Murdock battling a fake Daredevil, dealing with the distress of his identity being revealed, and undergoing intense emotional, mental, and physical trials. The ultimate confrontation with Nuke strengthened the notion that Daredevil is among Marvel’s most formidable vigilantes.

2025-03-10 22:10