Deadpool #4 – Review

By: Brian Posehn, Gerry Duggan (Writers), Tony Moore (Artist), Val Staples (Colorist)

The Story: Deadpool battles even more zombie presidents. Can you believe it?!

The Review: Gerry Duggan and Brian Posehn have a really tough job writing this series. Not only do they need to write humor and action, but they also have to write Deadpool, a character that has been everywhere for a few years and has gone into a lot of different directions with a plethora of writers.

He is a tricky character that can be written in many ways, but I do believe there are two distinct schools of Deadpool writers: the funny version, like Daniel Way in the beginning of the previous volume and the various mini-series with Deadpool as a central character. There also is the more characterized way, like Joe Kelly, Fabian Nicieza or Rick Remender. One makes more use of the character as a constant joke, with the humor being the complete focus of the book, while the other does not forsake the humor, but also show us that Wade Wilson is also a character with desires and certain empathy.

Deadpool #4 – Review

By Daniel Way (Writer), Carlo Barberi & Paco Medina (Pencils), Juan Vlasco (Inker), and Marte Gracia & Raul Trevino (Colorists)

Some Thoughts Before The Review: Fresh off an incredibly entertaining Secret Invasion launching point, Deadpool #4 marks the true test of whether or not the “merc with a mouth,” has the power to carry his own solo series. In my opinion, if the work done by the creative team for the Secret Invasion tie-in is any indication, Wade Wilson is in good hands. He should have no problem having a successful (and lengthy) run.

The Story: Since Deadpool’s last two jobs proved to be busts, he finds himself in need of cash and looking for work. This leads him to see Zeke, an old acquaintance that specializes in the type of work Deadpool is looking for. The job offer? A million dollars to investigate a zombie holed up in a castle that may have done something to Zeke’s wife.

What’s Good: Nearly everything (as long as you aren’t looking for something deep or serious that is). The artwork is vibrant, full of life, and incredibly well suited for the material. As for the story, it is a nice mix of silly and sinister that plays to the character’s strengths. And the writing? Entertaining as can be. Daniel Way knows how to serve up the funny in a variety of ways. Dry humor and sly remarks? Check. Wacky, totally silly randomness? Check. Off the wall situations? Check. I promise that the book will make you laugh at some point; and that definitely counts for something when so many comics these days aim for dead seriousness. Also worth noting is how Way gives Deadpool depth through a few surprisingly revealing comments. He doesn’t beat you over the head with it, yet it makes Wade an even more likable character overall.

What’s Not So Good: Very little. My only real complaint, a minor one, is that it seems as though Way is employing the “throw everything and see what sticks” approach to the humor. While it is sure to make everyone laugh at some point, it feels like a bit much when the shtick falls flat.

Conclusion: Deadpool #4 goes a long way in proving that the series is under control and in capable hands. The writing, artwork, and storyline all come together to form one of the most entertaining packages that Marvel offers.

Grade: A-

-Kyle Posluszny