Are you a fan of Marvel and Netflix’s Daredevil? Do you want to give the best Daredevil comics a shot for the first time? Well, fear not, we’ve got you covered!
The world of comic books can be more than a little daunting at times, and it can often be hard to know where to start. But for those who want to know more about the characters that have piqued their interest on the big and small screen, we’re here to give you a jump start.
Daredevil premiered on Netflix in 2015 and is still going strong. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the Man Without Fear before diving in, or if you’re a serial binge watcher, we’ve put together the best Daredevil comics so you can learn more about Matt Murdock’s more humble origins.
Related: Daredevil for Dummies: A pre-Netflix primer
Whether you’re a comic book aficionado looking to revisit the series, or are completely new to comic books, here are the five best Daredevil comics you shouldn’t miss out on! But beware, there may be some mild spoilers ahead.
1. ‘Daredevil: The Man Without Fear’
Title: Daredevil: The Man Without Fear
By: Frank Miller (Author), John Romita Jr. (Illustrator)
Where to buy: Amazon, Marvel Comics
Daredevil’s origin story has been told multiple times over the years, but Man Without Fear’s portrayal is still considered one of the definitive origins — and also one of the greatest stories for the character in general. This trade follows Matt Murdock as he transforms from the runt son of a boxer into a street level vigilante. This is the first of many Miller helmed runs on this list, as his work on Daredevil is exceptionally written.
2. ‘Daredevil: Yellow’
Title: Daredevil: Yellow
By: Jeph Loeb (Author), Tim Sale (Illustrator)
Where to buy: Amazon, Marvel Comics
Daredevil: Yellow is set early in Daredevil’s career, and tracks Matt Murdock’s mission to bring his father’s killers to justice. It also explores his romance with Karen Page, and touches upon themes of fear and love beautifully. It’s one of the weightier and more sentimental Daredevil stories, but still shouldn’t be missed.
3. ‘Daredevil: Born Again’
Title: Daredevil: Born Again
By: Frank Miller (Author), David Mazzucchelli (Illustrator)
Where to buy: Amazon, Marvel Comics
In Born Again, Matt Murdock finds his secret identity has become not-so-secret after Karen Page trades it away for a drug fix. This trade is one of Daredevil’s high points, and there were many during Miller’s time on the series. It chronicles Matt Murdock’s attempt to put the secret to bed and keep it from his arch-nemesis, Kingpin, whilst also trying to help his former girlfriend with her struggles.
4. ‘The Elektra Saga’
Title: The Elektra Saga
By: Frank Miller (Author, Illustrator), Klaus Janson (Author)
Where to buy: Amazon
Elektra is so intertwined with Daredevil that this series is essential to any Daredevil fan. Introduced as the former love of Murdock’s life, The Elekra Saga deals with her return in both Daredevil’s personal and superhero lives. They find themselves at odds when Elektra becomes Kingpin’s chief assassin, and the way that it (inevitably) ends is absolutely heartbreaking.
5. ‘Daredevil: Redemption
Title: Daredevil: Redemption
By: David Hine (Author), Michael Gaydos (Artist)
Where to buy: Amazon
This is a story that takes Matt Murdock away from his home in Hell’s Kitchen, and this sensational read is highly recommended. It follows Daredevil as he’s faced with a perverted version of his own beliefs, highlighting his isolations amongst his peers and has him dealing with his worst nightmare. People seeking the wrong kind of justice.
Want more comic book recommendations? Check out our bi-weekly podcast dedicated to all things superhero, Hero Hype. Our regular Comic Corner segment is dedicated to scoping out the best of the best of comic books for your favorite characters. There’s no character too big, or too small.
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