Written by Peter David. Art by Ronan Cliquet; Rob Stull; John Kalisz; & VC’s Cory Petit.
Back-Up Feature Written by Peter David. Back-Up Art by Colleen Doran; José Villárubia; & Todd Klein.
Cover Art by Barry Kitson.
SUMMARY:
Marvel Comics released this 48-page annual for July 2007. Entitled “Sandman: Year One,” the backstory of William Baker is revealed, as to why he becomes the raging Sandman. Taking after both his alcoholic blue-collar mother and the perennial jailbird father who abandons him, lonely Billy Baker gradually transforms into a hardened punk/small-time crook/ex-jock by adulthood.
Taking the alias of ‘Flint Marko’ as something of a homage, the embittered Sandman shifts his life’s ongoing failures to a hatred of Spider-Man. Betrayed by his girlfriend and his long-time best friend, Baker secretly reconnects in prison with the man he believes is his long-estranged father. Of course, Spider-Man is blamed for ruining their fugitive father-son bonding. Ultimately, the Sandman remains as dangerous as ever.
REVIEW:
Including some glimpses of implied nudity, this deep dive into Sandman’s psyche isn’t a necessary read. Frankly, it’s more like of blah ‘Too Much Information’-type story. The Sandman’s evolution from a bullied youth to perennial criminal loser might well apply to any number of Marvel and DC’s super-villains. Suffice to say, despite decent writing and pretty good visuals, this Sandman origin tale is for die-hards only. The issue’s pertinent value comes from its thought-provoking back-up feature.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Entitled “Leah,” this six-page tale depicts a homeless young girl’s adoration of Spider-Man in wintry New York City. With the story’s only dialogue, the final page is a mix of realistic heartbreak and poignancy. The artwork is nicely conveyed. Suffice to say, the sentimentality behind “Leah” isn’t addressed often enough by the comics industry. Packing an emotional wallop, it’s the only reason this reviewer even purchased this issue.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6 Stars
