Marvel's flagship Avengers series has struggled to recapture the appeal of its past eras, even with talented creators at the helm. However, writer Chip Zdarsky and artist Marco Checchetto, the team behind a highly acclaimed Daredevil run, may have succeeded in putting the book back on track with its latest relaunch. Their new Avengers series chronicles the formation of a different team in the wake of "Avengers: Armageddon," with the old guard having retired. This leaves characters like Spider-Man, Wolverine, Miracleman, and a struggling Captain Marvel to answer the call when the world needs saving again. Much like the 2004 "New Avengers," this team is brought together by circumstance rather than active recruitment, a setup that appears well-suited for the franchise.
Zdarsky quickly establishes intriguing character dynamics within the first issue. He focuses on forging a bond between Matt Murdock and Carol Danvers, who is grappling with powers that are a shadow of their former self. The series also wisely centers on Spider-Man as the moral compass, deeply affected by the absence of the Avengers and the public's current cool reception toward superheroes. His mantra of power and responsibility takes on new critical weight in a time when there's no established team to fulfill the Avenger role. Zdarsky demonstrates a strong understanding of these characters and their motivations.
The artwork by Checchetto is a significant highlight. Coming off his work on "Ultimate Spider-Man," he brings a similar level of skill to the Avengers, with stunning figure work, expressive faces, and elegant line-art. The storytelling adeptly balances intimate character moments with large-scale action. Matt Wilson's colors further enhance the tone, creating an atmosphere that is both inviting and subtly eerie. The first issue also seamlessly integrates into current Marvel continuity, building upon Zdarsky's recent work and reflecting the present status quo of the characters without alienating readers unfamiliar with other titles. This integration helps make the Marvel Universe feel more cohesive.
"The Avengers #1" serves as a robust launch for the relaunched series, signaling a positive turn for one of Marvel's most important franchises. The new series immediately impresses with its blend of character-driven moments and epic action, effectively utilizing its unconventional team. With any luck, this collaboration between Zdarsky and Checchetto will mark the beginning of another legendary run.