Ghost Rider #1 (of 6)
Marvel Comics
Writer: Garth Ennis
Artist: Clayton Crain
Letters: Chris Eliopoulus
Price: $2.99
Rating: 4 ½ stars

Since the last Marvel Knights mini-series a couple of years back, Ghost Rider has very much taken a back seat in the Marvel Universe. That changes with this groundbreaking new mini-series by Garth Ennis and Clayton Crain. The story is brilliant and the art takes things to a whole new level. Artist Crain drew directly on the computer using a stylus pen and added all the finishing touches himself. He has brought a whole new technology to the industry and it about damn time.

Ennis uses the opportunity to give readers a back story about Johnny Blaze and his descent into Hell. Angels Malachi and Daniel narrate the story and their banter describes a life that should never have turned out the way it did. Unfortunately for Blaze, these narrators also have ulterior motives.

The art gives the horrific scenes a greater sense of despair. When Blaze is depicted in Hell trying to outrace the demonic population, it feels terribly real. Knowing that Ennis has never flinched from giving the readers the full Monty, it is incredible to see it elevated further then the reader had thought possible. Crain has given the art a photo-realistic feel that rivals Alex Ross.

I am not a longtime reader of Ghost Rider, so I don’t know all the back history. I have read books that featured him from time to time, but this is the first example of an issue I finish that I am hooked. I can’t wait to see what Ennis and Crain have in store for Johnny Blaze, and how they will succeed with the mission being given.

Ghost Rider #1 sold out at my local store, and word on the street is that it may sell out everywhere. Go get a copy today before it’s too late to get in on the buzz title of the fall.

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