"Witchblade" Comic Review

 

     This week I wanted to look at a book that has spawned a multitude of adaptations and, in my opinion, revolutionized an art style. "Witchblade" was created by David Wohl, Christina Z, and artist Michael Turner; and was first published in 1995. I wish I was more versed in the history of comics, but most of my reviews come form my personal thoughts and feelings regarding certain stories and how they were told; so with that said, some of the comics I consider revolutionary may not be the first to break certain revolutionary boundaries. "Witchblade" was a story that came out around the time of the big comic boom of the 90s. Along with other stories of a similar genre were "Lady Death," "Gen13," and later on "Magdelena." Eventually a multitude of the Top Cow universe characters made at least an appearance, if not their origins, within the pages of "Witchblade;" "The Darkness" being just one of them.

     The story of "Witchblade" surrounds the young New York police detective, Sara Pezzini. Sara eventually stumbles upon an ancient relic called the witchblade which transforms her into a (semi) armored fighting super-hero. For the most part, the back story behind the witchblade is a clouded one; and its only through its current owner, Kennith Irons, that Sara is able to learn of the witchblade's mystical powers and previous historical wielders. Unbeknownst to Sara, Kennith Irons has his own sinister plot and understands only a woman can wield the witchblade; and so he assumes by controlling Sara he will control the witchblade.

     The first thing that many people notice about "Witchblade" is the art style. Most of the characters have long hair and six packs. This was thing that initially drew me to read "Witchblade," of course the fact that in full garb, Sara appears very promiscuous was another selling point for most people. The story behind "Witchblade" was a unique one. Since its initial launch, many other comics follow the same path of the hero obtaining the special item; and although this is nothing new to the hero's journey, this is the first time I can recall it being done with a woman as its lead role and portrayed with such dark undertones.

     "Witchblade" eventually became a live action TV series in 2001-2002 and starred Yancy Butler in the lead role. Although the series only lasted two seasons I highly recommend the first season to any fan of the book. The second season pulled a time rewind trick which kind of reset the first season, which wasn't a great move in my opinion. Sadly there were some issues that caused the series to end after its second season, but not because of low ratings. A few years later in 2006 another adaptation of "Witchblade" came out in anime and manga form. I recently had a chance to watch the 24 episode series which was thoroughly enjoyable. The show does contain a little more fan service than I would have liked, but the all around story was unique from the comic, and was a fresh twist on the series. Supposedly a "Witchblade" live action movie is in the works, but it has only been speculation as of now.