Written by Brian Michael Bendis
Art by Mark Bagley; Scott Hanna; Frank D’Armata; Brian Reber; & Virtual Calligraphy’s Cory Petit
Cover Art by Mike Mayhew & Avalon’s Andy Troy
SUMMARY:
Released for April 2004 by Marvel Comics, this premiere is a sequel to Bendis’ Jessica Jones solo series: Alias. The initial multi-issue arc is entitled “Thin Air.” World-weary Daily Bugle reporter Ben Urich contemplates the latest anti-Spider Man headline, as his own investigative work is now relegated deep inside the newspaper. Pregnant with Luke Cage’s child, Jessica Jones is compelled to accept a steady gig from J. Jonah Jameson as his on-staff super-hero consultant. She will now team with Urich for the Bugle’s ongoing super-hero exposé: The Pulse.
Meanwhile, a homicide victim grimly discovered in the Central Park pond will soon haunt the Bugle’s staff.
Notes: Despite his cover presence, Spider-Man only appears as a “Daily Bugle” headline. The Pulse itself would prove short-lived, as this series was discontinued in mid-2006.
REVIEW:
If construed as Marvel’s answer to DC’s Gotham Central, it’s a smart move. Presenting The Daily Bugle’s major players an opportunity to shine outside Spider-Man’s shadow, writer Brian Michael Bendis launches this series with a solid murder-mystery opener. Evolving past her foul-mouthed private detective phase, this matured Jessica Jones is both likable and relatable in her new role anchoring The Pulse. As an ex-super-hero herself, Jessica’s detective insights appear to be a nice fit for the series’ premise.
The same applies to Urich re: his past alliances with Spider-Man and Daredevil. The presence of Luke Cage, Robbie Robertson, and J. Jonah Jameson indicates The Pulse has the potential for terrific depth exploring the effects of super-heroes on New York City. This issue’s dialogue, suffice to say, is well-played.
While the visuals aren’t spectacular, this issue’s art squad still delivers all that is necessary. Including the cover image, the artwork is at least B-caliber. Overall, The Pulse offers a satisfying stopgap prior to the first New Avengers series, which recruits Spider-Man, Cage, and Jessica Jones to the team.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
None.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars
