REVIEW: ‘Ms. Marvel and Moon Knight,’ Issue #1

Ms. Marvel & Moon Knight #1 is the second part of a series of one-shots published by Marvel Comics, written by Jody Houser, art by Ibraim Roberson, colours by Erick Arciniega, and letters by Travis Lanham. Ms. Marvel’s search for the owner of the robot swarm sends her into the territory of another hero, Moon Knight.

The premise of the plot remains the same as with the Wolverine issue, but Houser adjusts the story to fit the new addition. There was a classic superhero feel to the last one, matching the team Ms Marvel aligned with. Here Kamala literally walks into the setting of a Moon Knight comic and the tone turns creepier and unsettling. The writer does an excellent job of summarising what is happening within the Moon Knight mythos without getting bogged down with exposition. A newcomer to that world will understand what they need to whilst many mysteries aren’t explained, which may lead to them wanting to pick the current series up or watch the current show.

Then, the team-up begins and it merges gritty, street-level comic notions with wacky concepts and giving the character something to fight. This issue is more mobile than the last, which leads to a surprising guest star. The final part of this one-shot escalates in the scale of the action to an intense degree before the villain of the whole crossover is revealed.

The brilliance of this team-up is fuelled by the lack of chemistry between the characters for much of the issue. Moon Knight is actually a rare inclusion in these crossover books due to his quiet and outsider nature. But with a chatty, friendly foil in the shape of Ms Marvel, it accentuates both. As Mr. Knight, it is refreshing to see him be so open and inviting with Kamala as the conversation serves as exposition and builds a dynamic between the heroes. As Moon Knight, he is abrupt and efficient with his words, but not unfriendly. The other person that gets involved is one I am not familiar with but is so fascinating that I am now fiendishly trying to find out more.

The art is fantastic. A change in the artist shifts the tone and keeps the book energised. Roberson’s style utilises realism and Ms Marvel is brought into that style superbly. Both Mr. Knight and Moon Knight are incredible, with that iconic mask and cape beautifully brought to life. There are many panels that struck a significant connection to David Finch. This is a dark book filled with heavy shadows and the two characters often find themselves close to each other. This can be considered claustrophobic and heightens the pressure of the situation. The robot swarm has also been changed in a way that fits a horror story more effectively and makes the skin crawl. There are some fantastic designs for the robots that tap into a creepy side of sci-fi. 

The colours are magnificent at creating an atmosphere. Much of the book is captured in the glow of a gorgeous yellow light, emanating from the streets and the city around our heroes, Moon Knight has his signature pristine white suit. Whilst it is designed to stick out, it fits the ambiance of his surroundings because he has been seen in them for so long. The one that is so different and unfamiliar is Kamala in her brilliant blend of red, yellow, and blue. That does not mean she doesn’t look amazing, but she is the most eye-catching, colourful figure in the book. The lettering remains dynamic and easy to read, with some excellent usage of SFX included.

Ms. Marvel & Moon Knight #1 is a superb combination of extremely contrasting characters. These are heroes that don’t fit together at all in terms of tone, looks, or personality, but that is what makes this comic work so well. Kamala feeling awkward being around Moon Knight and in his world provides the book with an edge and unease. Whilst the skeleton of the plot remains similar to that of the last one-shot, The fantastic art team has managed to make it different in its visuals and Houser adjusts the setting to alter the personality. 

Ms. Marvel & Moon Knight #1 is available where comics are sold.