More than likely – any other writer except for Mark Waid – and Daredevil meeting Silver Surfer on Earth would be an utter disaster, especially with Editor Stephen Wacker at the helm.
However, Waid gives us a fresh and fun approach to both the Sentinel of the Spaceways and the Man Without Fear in Daredevil #30. Perhaps a little too fun? We can probably blame that on Wacker.
The issue in itself is a one-and-done; it’s a one shot, “all-ages” one issue story where Daredevil and the Silver Surfer meet up as a result of an alien visiting the offices of Matt Murdock. It reads as if it’s a Disney cartoon – right alongside Ultimate Spider-Man – but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It goes a bit overboard (pun not intended) when Daredevil mentally controls Surfer’s board and takes it for a ride.
There is that train of thought where any comic book could be someone’s first, and Waid comes through with this issue regarding that. We’re introduced to a bit of background on Daredevil and his powers as well as some info on the Silver Surfer. Waid succeeds in giving the reader reasons to be interested in both characters and to continue reading the series. There’s been mention of Silver Surfer getting “reintroduced” at Marvel; Waid would be the perfect choice, and let’s hope it’s not akin to what Wacker and Alonso are doing with Nova and Guardians of the Galaxy.
Samnee’s art is perfect for the story in that it’s heavily influenced and a homage to the Silver Age. The issue reads as if it’s “innocent,” and Samnee’s “1950s” art fits perfectly. Now I’m curious if the rest of the series is more of the same.
If you are a fan of the Silver Surfer or just want to read a fun overall story, Daredevil #30 is for you.
