Hawkeye (3rd Series)

(Marvel, 2003-2004)
™ and © Marvel Entertainment Group

With the release of Hawkeye #1, Marvel continues its trend of producing super-hero comic books without the pesky nuisance of actual super-heroes. Hawkeye, who once wore a purple costume and used trick arrows, is now simply known by his civilian identity, Clint Barton. His dark wardrobe is sensible and practical, he shoots plain old arrows (or at least will in the second issue), and he’s a hardened street tough (with a heart of gold) who likes hot chili and cold beer. His personality is roughly the same (he’s still an ex-carney with a rebellious streak), but the lack of super-hero trappings will probably alienate (or at least lessen the enjoyment of) readers with a fond recollection of Hawkeye’s stint as an Avenger.

Interestingly, the former Spandex-wearer appears to have picked up almost Bullseye-esque skills in employing common objects as weapons. The scene in which he uses a hairband and a spoon in bow-and-arrow-like fashion to shoot a bottle isn’t drawn particularly well, but it is a cool idea. Overall, the realistic, sketchy art fits the gritty nature of the story, which is a fairly clever take on the stranger-rescues-girl-from-bad-man scenario.

— Brett Weiss

Jump to issue: