Iron Fist: The Living Weapon #1
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Iron Fist: The Living Weapon #1

Writer: Kaare Andrews Artist: Kaare Andrews Publisher: Marvel Comics Release Date: April 9, 2014 Cover Price: $3.99 Critic Reviews: 33 User Reviews: 9
7.9Critic Rating
8.3User Rating

High above the city, in a multi-million dollar penthouse, Danny Rand, a.k.a. Iron Fist, "The Living Weapon," is haunted by the consequences of choosing death over life. A message from Iron Fist's mystical homeland of K'un-Lun brings Danny back to his blood soaked origin of betrayal and vengeance! Revenge is a weapon that cuts both ways.... Will Danny survive the bloodletting? A one-of-a-kind kung fu action epic directed by the inimitable Kaare Andrews!

  • 10
    PopMatters - shathley Q Apr 23, 2014

    Simply put, the Marquez obit allows for an insight into the inner unity between the two halves of the issue, and between Danny Rand's two stories. The violence that allows the Iron Fist to flourish, and the mundanity that saps the vigor from Danny Rand's life is exactly the same. In the space of just 22 pages, Andrews has demonstrated a profound and hauntingly beautiful argument for the Iron Fist being of a very different genre of story to either Spider-Man or Wolverine or Green Arrow or the current cinematic shibboleths of Iron Man or Batman. In Andrews' skilled hands, Iron Fist is given an entirely new and radically thrilling creative vision, one for which only one issue per month is far, far too little. Read Full Review

  • 10
    But Why Tho? - William Tucker Jan 1, 1970

    Iron Fist #1 is a stunning merge of the past and present. The main characters and the mythology of this comic have existed before this book, from Danny Rand to the new hero to the entire fable of the Iron Fist. And yet Wong is forging a new story from all of them, literally shattering parts of their history to craft new legends. The writing and the dialogue are energetic and enjoyable. The art detailing the fight scenes and gorgeous battlefields is a visual delight. Read Full Review

  • 10
    Pastrami Nation - Nolan Smith Apr 13, 2014

    Andrews style is a perfect match here, as we see classic comic book elements mixed with graphic design elements, creating a very pleasing adventure from start to finish. I was hoping, REALLY hoping, this book would be good, and I was wrong. It's amazing. It's an action flick rolled into comic panels, but done the right way. The energy and emotion leaps off the page, and by the end of it, you want more" I know I did. Read Full Review

  • 10
    Comics Refueled - ironmarco Apr 11, 2014

    This series feels like it has real potential. The art is outstanding and different and Andrews writes Danny Rand well. Danny broods a little more than usual at first but after the action picks up he becomes much more energetic and even makes a few jokes. As the first part of a series this issue does a great job of introducing the character and showing what makes him interesting. This series is also different enough from the previous Iron Fist books that the fans who enjoyed "Immortal Iron Fist" or his roles in other books will get something new out of this. It's still a little too soon to tell how the book will play out since we know so little about the story arc, but with the style this book has I have no doubt that future issues will be a refreshing and entertaining read. Read Full Review

  • 10
    Max Level Geek - Jonathan Semoneit Apr 9, 2014

    Iron Fist is an experience, unlike any comic out there. The only downside with this issue is that it has an ending. Be warned: After reading this issue, Andrews will spark a craving in you and that craving can only be satiated with more Iron Fist. You'll want more, and you'll want it immediately! There, now don't say I didn't warn you. Read Full Review

  • 10
    Comic Vine - Tony 'G-Man' Guerrero Apr 9, 2014

    Iron Fist is back like you've never seen before. It's some dark times for Danny Rand and that means we can expect some high octane action and adventure. Kaare Andrews cranks up the intensity while giving us a different take on the usual upbeat Iron Fist we've seen so many times. It's a great change of pace and gives us an enticing first issue. Most of the new All-New Marvel Now! relaunch series have been wonderful and Marvel has another hit on their hands. Iron Fist is a great character that has been underused for too long. This is a great time to get to know him all over again. You'll feel the excitement oozing from the pages. Read Full Review

  • 10
    Comic Booked - David Hinspeter Apr 15, 2014

    The stark depressing feel of this new Iron Fist series was startling, even if the art was incredibly beautiful. His detachment and complete focus on violence is a dark turn for the character, despite his lethal and combative history. There is poetry amidst the narration that enhances and underscores the art, be it the loneliness of repetition or the violence of kicking a robot zombie ninjas head off, in true martial arts epic tradition. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Chuck's Comic Of The Day - Chuck Apr 15, 2014

    It's been typical through Iron Fist's past series that his stories start out strong and then eventually fade - but I'm a fan of the character, and hope this series will break the trend. It's off to a promising start! Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Comicosity - Aaron Long Apr 9, 2014

    Iron Fist: The Living Weapon#1 is perfectly embodied by it's title. Andrews' take on Danny Rand is dark and brooding, but not light on action by any means. This hyper-stylized book draws strength from electric pencils and colour work that set the mood brilliantly, and a mysterious tale that will hook you in and make you crave issue #2. All-New Marvel NOW! has ushered in some fantastic new titles, and Iron Fist: The Living Weapon is one of them. Read Full Review

  • 8.8
    Multiversity Comics - Zach Wilkerson Apr 10, 2014

    “Iron Fist: The Living Weapon” has some pretty large shoes to fill after the extremely well received “Immortal Iron Fist.” However, if this first issue is any indication, the series is set to sore to equal heights, albeit by taking a considerably different path. Rand's characterization is a little one-dimensional at this point, and the issue primarily stands on its strong visual story-telling. However, there's a terrific sense of conflict by issue's end, and perhaps Rand's newfound purpose will lead to a more fully formed protagonist that readers can get behind. Even with its faults, Andrews' has definitely created something special for readers to enjoy. Read Full Review

  • 8.7
    IGN - Benjamin Bailey Apr 10, 2014

    As enjoyable as the story is, the reason to buy this Iron Fist comic is the art. Andrews delivers some of his best work to date, designing and drawing the hell out of this thing. It looks unique, smooth and gorgeous. Every page feels like a work of art, perfectly designed to tell the story of that moment, that scene. This book looks incredible and is worth your hard earned bucks for its pretty, pretty pictures alone. Don't let another awesome Iron fist story slip passed you. Pick this up now. Read Full Review

  • 8.5
    We The Nerdy - Henry Varona Apr 15, 2014

    Iron Fist: The Living Weapon was one of the biggest question marks of All-New Marvel NOW! I can now happily say that it is a great read, and if Andrews is allowed the freedom he desires, it will make for a memorable read. With the upcoming popularity the character is sure to endure from Marvel's Netflix series, there is no better time to get in on the ground floor with a character. Iron Fist: The Living Weapon is a great compliment to past Iron Fist stories while engaging new readers. Sign me up for more. Read Full Review

  • 8.4
    Weekly Comic Book Review - Minhquan Nguyen Apr 13, 2014

    At times it seems a bit unoriginal, but it's crafted with a great deal of thought and panache. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Comic Book Therapy - Kevin Finnigan Apr 11, 2014

    A great start to the new volume. Andrews takes us to places we haven't seen Danny before. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    CHUD - Jeb Delia Apr 12, 2014

    Like a lot of artist-writers, Andrews is stronger on the former than the latter, and his dialogue can be pretty on-the-nose, though in this kind of hard-boiled tale, that's almost the point. But this is a great start to a new Iron Fist series, one that has the potential to stand beside Immortal Iron Fist, but very much on its own little bootied feet. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Big Comic Page - Craig Neilson Apr 12, 2014

    Overall, for an introduction to a new (to me, at least) character, Kaare Andrews has done a terrific job here in making me instantly invested in Danny Rands past, present and future. Consider me on board with this one for the foreseeable future, unless something truly drastic happens. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    ScienceFiction.com - Ben Silverio Apr 13, 2014

    Basically, I'm glad that the trend of martial arts comics is making a comeback. I love Shang-Chi's expanded role in the Marvel Universe, but to go and give Iron Fist a solo series is definitely a step in the right direction. And as much as the themes may be a throwback, 'Iron Fist: The Living Weapon' has a very modern feel to it. In addition to the great art, our main character isn't shown in the best light, but that's what makes him interesting. You'll definitely want to check this out to follow Danny's journey to see if he brings himself to be unbroken once again. (Also, ninjas. Because who doesn't love ninjas?) Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Major Spoilers - Chris Wilson Apr 10, 2014

    I like that Marvel has been giving some of their lower tier characters their chance to shine. So far theyve been a success and Iron Fist: The Living Weapon #1 is no exception. Kaare Andrews has crafted a fun, creative opening issue that all readers should get a kick out of. There are a few similarities to other work that brings it down some, but its still worth a buy and Im going to be adding this one to my pull list. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Fortress of Solitude - Byron Hendricks Apr 16, 2014

    This debut issue of a new Iron Fist is one of the greatest titles available through Marvel Now. It is a must read, especially with the Heroes for Hire cast making their debut on Netflix in the not so distant future. Do yourself a favour and grab this comic, you will be surprised to see just how successful a re-telling of an old story can be. Kaare Andrews has pulled off one heck of a job, one that will create a strong following for this all new comic series. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Comics Bulletin - Apr 15, 2014

    Still, I loved it. The feeling of The Living Weapon #1. The way the pages look like the old school comics. The callbacks and the knowledge of the past. The art and story and everything Kaare is doing is cinematic and incredible. The origin tale is what keeps this new All-New Iron Fist from being the perfect comic. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Word Of The Nerd - Sean Ian Mills Apr 11, 2014

    The issue ends with Danny needing to return to K'un Lun. That's a solid enough plot for the character, though the specter of Immortal Iron Fist looms over such a story. Danny already returned to K'un Lun in that series. Can Andrews come up with something better and more interesting this time? It might not be fair to so closely compare both series, but Fraction and Brubaker's Immortal Iron Fist reinvented the character and brought him into the 21st century, making Iron Fist: The Living Weapon possible in the first place. Danny Rand's currently popularity rests almost entirely on that previous series, so here's hoping Andrews can take that popularity and run with it. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Comic Book Resources - Doug Zawisza Apr 11, 2014

    Andrews gives the reader plenty to savor in "Iron Fist: The Living Weapon" #1, while cracking open the mystery of Rand's past once again. This could be construed as a misstep or a deconstruction, but really, Andrews is just looking closer at the life of Danny Rand and the death around him. I was initially cautious about the notion of another Iron Fist solo series and fully intended to avoid this altogether, but was convinced me to at least give this a try. Andrews has punched a hole in any flawed logic I would have been able to provide contrary to recommending this comic book with the utmost confidence. This is a solid re-examination of Iron Fist and appears ready to focus solely on Danny Rand. Read Full Review

  • 7.5
    Rhymes With Geek - Ian Mondrick Apr 11, 2014

    Iron fist: The Living Weapon is comics by way of Tarantino. Andrews knows what to make ugly, what to make beautiful, and has full control of all the knobs in between. Letting a talent like this take the reins is yet another smart decision by marvel, who can chalk up another successful re-launch as a reward. Read Full Review

  • 7.0
    Comic Spectrum - Bob Bretall Apr 18, 2014

    Andrews has a slightly skewed take on Danny Rand's younger self's road to K'un Lun too. His Dad comes off more bat-shit crazy than I remember, and his Mother a bit less valiant. Again, a different take but not necessarily bad. If you are reading Iron Fist for the first time, this will serve as a great “my version” of the character and his origin. In the end, this was a very well put together comic that I just didn't care for. It's well worth reading, I'll be curious to hear from people about their feelings on Andrews take on Iron Fist. I suspect there will be a lot of people raving that this is perfect and others decrying it as terrible. Read Full Review

  • 7.0
    Comics: The Gathering - King Oct 26, 2014

    Moving on, I always have the highest respect for artist/writers (“double threats”), and believe it adds a little more personal inflection to the work as whole in terms of characterizing it. This much is apparent, as I feel Andrew’s art and writing perfectly complement one another in terms of introducing us to a darker storyline as well as handling the subtle/casual moments of Danny’s life, in addition to the brutal/kinetic portions of his duties as Iron Fist. I can’t say I’m personally too pleased with the persona shift facing Danny Rand, but perhaps in issues to come I will understand the character better and maybe even find the Danny I’m used to. Read Full Review

  • 7.0
    Following The Nerd - Jake Tanner Apr 10, 2014

    I really wish we'd been given more in terms of what's going on in the plot of this story, but this gives me just enough to stick around for an issue or two if no other reason than to get a bit of background on the character. I'm a big fan of the kung-fu genre, and if you're reading this review it would be my guess than you are too. This book has plenty of great action even if it's a bit light on story so you should definitely give it a look! It's not perfect but it has a ton of potential! Read Full Review

  • 7.0
    Newsarama - Forrest C. Helvie Apr 11, 2014

    The art alone, however, should make coming back for Issue #2 a safe bet. Read Full Review

  • 7.0
    Newsarama - Lan Pitts Apr 9, 2014

    Now I'm sure the devil is in the details and more will be revealed later on, but as the first step into this new direction, yeah, it's ballsy, but something I'm really not sure about just yet. Andrews' certainly has a grasp for the tight, action-packed scenarios and gives something for the reader to latch on to, but without a stronger narrative, I think they might start to slip. Read Full Review

  • 6.0
    AIPT - Jordan Richards Apr 9, 2014

    Iron Fist: The Living Weapon #1 is a rather lackluster start for this new series. While its main character is certainly fleshed and has an interesting backstory, he himself feels rather boring and the story here barely exists, with only vague direction of where it is going. Hopefully it can pick itself up and head somewhere exciting in the coming issues. Read Full Review

  • 6.0
    Eye On Comics - Don MacPherson Jul 28, 2014

    The tone of the first-person narration and the artwork makes it clear to me that this comic is something of a love letter from the writer/artist to Frank Miller. The tone of the narrative captions seems to evoke an easy comparison to the opening narration in Miller's classic The Dark Knight Returns. The visuals harken back to Miller's work on Daredevil and the first Wolverine limited series, complete with their seemingly airborne ninjas formed out of dark shapes and flowing fabric. Andrews has always proven himself to a versatile and talent artist, and this tribute to Miller further demonstrates that. The limited color palette helps the art to stand apart from standard super-hero genre fare as well. Read Full Review

  • 6.0
    All-Comic - Jeremy Matcho Apr 11, 2014

    Iron Fist the Living Weapon is off to a pretty solid start so far and Kaare Andrews is solely responsible. The art could use some stability, but Andrews writes and draws with a lot of passion so he will no doubt rectify this once he gets into a groove. Iron Fist is a character that is in need of some publicity and with this comic and his Netflix series in the work, thats exactly what hell get. Read Full Review

  • 4.6
    Geeked Out Nation - Mark Pritchard Apr 9, 2014

    The highlight of this book is the artwork. Like I said before, it's very creative and I love some of the individual panel layouts, but what do we have here at the heart of the story? Not much, not much at all. It's been done many, many, many times before, and the lasting impression I have of this book is of a lack of core, a lack of a story that needs to be told. Put simply, this is a book that has nothing to say. Iron Fist #1 looks great, but a spiritual emptiness pervades everything about it. In many ways it's a lot like the character of Daniel Rand himself. Bored, empty, with nothing to say and unable to connect with any of the real issues of our times. Read Full Review

  • 1.5
    Capeless Crusader - Jay Gabel Apr 10, 2014

    I've checked out a fair number of the All-New Marvel NOW! #1s and written reviews on a handful of them. I've enjoyed the other titles that I haven't reviewed, like Moon Knight and Secret Avengers. I even enjoyed X-Force, which I'll freely admit is average-at-best. This is the first one I've read that was bad and is the first comic in a few years that I'm actually returning to the shop. I don't recognize this gloomy jerk who they're calling Iron Fist, and the comic surrounding him was just poorly done. Avoid at all costs. Read Full Review

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