Daredevil #158
(FINE/VERY FINE)
FRANK MILLER ART BEGINS IN DAREDEVIL TITLE, DEATH STALKER ORIGIN & "DEATH"
"Daredevil #158," released in May 1979, marks a significant turning point in the Daredevil series due to the beginning of Frank Miller's influential run as the artist and eventually the writer for the series. This issue, written by Roger McKenzie with artwork by Frank Miller and inks by Klaus Janson, showcases the early development of the darker and more gritty aesthetic that Miller would become famous for in the comic book industry.
The story in "Daredevil #158" features Daredevil confronting Death-Stalker, a villain who can become intangible at will, making him a particularly elusive and dangerous foe. The issue revolves around Daredevil’s efforts to protect a scientist targeted by Death-Stalker, intertwining intense action with the personal drama and moral dilemmas that are a hallmark of the series.
Frank Miller’s artwork in this issue is noteworthy for its dynamic composition and attention to detail, elements that brought a new level of depth and intensity to the visual storytelling of Daredevil. Miller’s influence would grow over his tenure on the series, steering the narrative towards a more noir-inspired direction and significantly developing the character of Matt Murdock/Daredevil, along with the introduction of key characters such as Elektra.
"Daredevil #158" is celebrated not only for its compelling narrative and artwork but also for setting the stage for one of the most critically acclaimed periods in Daredevil’s history. Frank Miller’s run on Daredevil is often credited with revitalizing the character and the comic, infusing it with a complexity and psychological depth that has defined Daredevil's character ever since.
