Ghost Rider #1

Genre action Author Daniel Way Publisher Marvel Comics External Links Official Marvel Comics Website

All I can say is WOW! Simple yet refined, minimal but expansive - the first issue of Ghost Rider has restored my faith in Marvel. I cannot wait for the next issue. The art is fantastic, while the story line provided the Lucifer hook that we know we will see again and again in many issues to come.

I was leery of buying this book. I anticipated a pathetic attempt to revive one of Marvel's great spiritually tortured 70s creations (I sadly missed the recent limited series). But writer Daniel Way has captured my attention and drawn in me in a big way. I want to understand how Ghost Rider got out and why. What devilish plot has Lucifer got up his sleeve? And what has become of Greexix, our comedic relief?

After years of demonic torture at the hands of Lucifer in the form of continuously dashed hope, Ghost Rider (aka John Blaze) comes across Greexix, a demon grub worm who believes he can dig his way out of hell. When Blaze and Greexix make their way across the fiery pit and hide from the oncoming legions, it looks like they just might make it. But Lucifer is up to his old tricks, and apparently some new scheme, because he sets Blaze free even after dashing his hopes yet again.

Javier Saltares and Marx Texeira's artistic vision presents the story in splendid wide panel format that also includes full-page panels and a breathtaking 2 page spread just past the midway point of our story. Each of these panels allows a panoramic view of the action - almost in the same way you view a movie in letterbox. For scenes that include a moving motorcycle, this is an excellent way in which to capture perspective. Additionally, the artwork itself is very impressive and seems like a cross between Alex Ross's painted style and really good comic book art. The colors are true and defined and provide the right feeling and atmosphere. I am a new fan of these guys.

Magic, the spiritual and the supernatural are not the standard superhero comic book fare. This is one of those areas in which Marvel has yet to catch up to DC. Through no fault of either publisher, it has not been easy to get the public to buy into this genre, both literally and figuratively. But Ghost Rider, a character that has a lot of visual appeal to today's readers, provides Marvel with a chance to give a mystical hero solid footing in the Marvel Universe, even if on the fringe. So climb on board the blazing motorcycle for what looks to be a wild ride.