Grendel vs. The Shadow #1

      The first character that brought writer / artist Matt Wagner to the attention of fans everywhere was Grendel, a true rarity - a lead character who was a criminal mastermind, constantly at war with an otherworldly law enforcer.

   For the first time in years (if not decades), Wagner returns to his original creation, and provides an interesting twist.

   Grendel makes a jump through time from the present to the 1930s. (I'm not sure if Grendel is actually set in the '70s or the "present," but so far it really doesn't matter).

   In his new reality, Grendel decides to take control of the mob families - but while regular criminals don't offer much of a challenge to that super-villain, he may have met his match with the classic pulp hero known as The Shadow.

    It promises to be a clash of giants - both are incredibly smart, capable and ruthless.

   The art is terrific, loaded with powerful layouts, great character designs and detailed environments - Wagner brings the '30s to life (and it's interesting to compare the visual difference between the modern era and the past).

   It's a powerful (if sometimes grisly) beginning to this miniseries. Sign me up!

Grade: A

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