REVIEW: ‘Daredevil: Gang War’ Issue #3

Daredevil: Gang War #3 is published by Marvel Comics, written by Erica Schultz, pencils by Sergio Dávila, inks by Sean Parsons, colors by Ceci De La Cruz, and letters by Clayton Cowles. This is part of the Gang War event. The mysterious assassin’s identity is revealed as Bellona, one of X-23’s clones, as Madame Masque tries to claim another territory.

One of the most integral tie-ins to the Gang War crossovers, this small series becomes even more linked to the main book. With the introduction of Madame Masque, one of the biggest players in the war, Hell’s Kitchen has become even more important. Masque is building a collection of the old gang leaders and gets to add another within this issue. Using Bellona as her pawn has given her a perilous weapon that strikes fear into the hearts of anyone. Elsewhere, Elektra tries to help more civilians as the chaos spreads around the neighborhood. The pace is rapid but allows for some moments of heart and attempts at connection. With their continuous bouts, the conflict between Daredevil and Bellona has been entertaining. However, it is in danger of becoming repetitive.

Daredevil: Gang War #3 is a terrific display of how much Daredevil has grown. It does this by using Bellona as an example of who the assassin used to be. The clone is filled with trauma, pain, and rage, mistreated from the day she was created. That backstory is different in circumstance to Elektra’s, but the emotion remains the same. Their connection as broken women has been paramount to the heart of the comic. Daredevil shows both strength and sensitivity to multiple figures in this book. She speaks to those in her community with respect and offers them protection. She treats the children with softness, being a hero instead of a vigilante. Elektra routinely has conversations over comms with the other heroes involved in Gang War, and her reactions and interactions are brilliant.

The art keeps the action interesting. The design of all of the characters is fantastic. The Owl opens with a presence and prestige, exhibiting a delicious arrogance smacked back down. His billowing coat and wild hair make him look like a classic Disney villain. Bellona looks amazing underneath the mask. The inking around her eyes makes her look feral. She has a smirk before she is unleashed, with scars that tell a story. Elektra also has wild hair everywhere, a motif started by Marco Checchetto. The action is brutal and brilliant. And Madame Masque’s collection of classic villains in their classic costumes is hilarious.

The colors are stunning. The vibrancy is breathtaking, and the variety in the shades is mesmerizing. The red on Daredevil’s costume is all-encompassing and is a fantastic representation of what a superhero outfit should achieve. It’s always eye-catching. The lettering is provided by Cowles, who is not just the premier letterer from Daredevil but also happens to be one of the best in the world.

Daredevil: Gang War #3 is pushing its key characters closer. The agony both women have endured and unleashed on others ties them together. Elektra picked up on that similarity when she first laid eyes on Bellona and has been trying to save her and stop her from harming others for the entire time. Whilst it is deeply connected to the main book, there is constant communication with the other heroes. Daredevil has demonstrated that she is capable of protecting Hell’s Kitchen on her own. The others have had help, and Elektra has truly proven herself.

Daredevil: Gang War #3 is available where comics are sold.