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Defenders #8 Review: The War of Kingpins

Fixer, Moonstone, and Titania are trying to figure out what their next move is as members of the superhuman underworld with the war to take the Kingpin's seat raging across New York City. As if summoned by his name, Diamondback shows up with an offer for the three rogues.

Meanwhile, the Punisher is behind bars again, and the Defenders are reckoning with the consequences of enlisting the help of Deadpool.

Defenders #8 cover by David Marquez and Justin Ponsor
Defenders #8 cover by David Marquez and Justin Ponsor

I really hope this one isn't cancelled after all.

Also, I appreciate that Defenders acknowledges how much of a colossal detriment Deadpool is to everyone who trusts him for one second. He's just so awful.

Furthermore, I get that it's supposed to be because he's bulletproof, but there's something hugely uncomfortable about Deadpool having an uncontrollable urge to shoot the one black guy on the Defenders. It's played for a joke, and that doesn't help that discomfort.

Beyond that, Defenders #8 continues the "Kingpins of New York" tale with increasing stakes and chaos across the city. Diamondback is recruiting superhumans, Black Cat may be back, and others may be vying for the seat too. New York is a powder keg, and everyone has a match.

The Defenders themselves have a bonding moment that is both a heartwarming and quite funny.

We also get some backstory on Diamondback and why he is so obsessed with the Kingpin mantle.

Defenders #8 art by David Marquez and Justin Ponsor
Defenders #8 art by David Marquez and Justin Ponsor

David Marquez's artwork continues to astonish with its excellent style, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to convey expression and personality visually. Justin Ponsor's color art is great to match Marquez's pencil and inking talent. Plus, the two are joined by Michael Avon Oeming, who does some flashback sections that fit the noire tone of the story they tell.

Defenders #8 is another fantastic installment to an already great series. The tension is heavy, the stakes are high, the characters are great, and the art is incredible. This one is highly recommended. Give it a read.



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Joshua DavisonAbout Joshua Davison

Josh is a longtime super hero comic fan and an aspiring comic book and fiction writer himself. He also trades in videogames, Star Wars, and Magic: The Gathering, and he is also a budding film buff. He's always been a huge nerd, and he hopes to contribute something of worth to the wider geek culture conversation. He is also happy to announce that he is the new Reviews Editor for Bleeding Cool. Follow on Twitter @joshdavisonbolt.
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