Price range: $6.95 through $9.95
Shadowhawk Volume 1 follows Paul Johnstone, a former D.A. who, after being attacked, becomes the vigilante Shadowhawk, a figure with glowing eyes who brutally attacks criminals with “lightning” speed, often leaving them paralyzed. The story explores his violent methods and his personal life, including his relationship with Jamie, a journalist, and his confrontation with the villain Arson.
Shadowhawk Volume 1 is the title for the first four-issue miniseries by Jim Valentino for Image Comics, featuring Paul Johnstone as the titular vigilante known for his violent methods, including breaking the backs of criminals. Created amidst the initial Image Comics launch, it showcases a classic style with a raw, action-oriented narrative, a distinct art style that includes computer coloring, and a team that credits Valentino’s wife Diane for lettering and Eric Stephenson as editor. The series was released in 1992 and concludes with an epic confrontation against Savage Dragon, with the story of Shadowhawk’s origin and other adventures appearing in a trade paperback collection titled Shadowhawk Chronicles Vol. 1.
Key Details:
Writer & Penciller: Jim Valentino
Publisher: Image Comics
Original Run: 1992, four-issue miniseries
Character: Paul Johnstone becomes Shadowhawk, a violent vigilante with a ruthless streak, a characteristic that sets him apart from other heroes.
Story: The overarching plot revolves around the hyper-aggressive and extremely violent nature of the vigilante, who acts as judge, jury, and executioner.
Art & Style: The comic uses a classic, gritty art style with modern computer coloring, and the backgrounds are reminiscent of the classic Spider-Man daily strip style.
Crew: Diane Valentino handled the lettering and Eric Stephenson served as the editor.
Context: The comic was published by Jim Valentino, a co-founder of Image Comics, during the initial launch period of the company.
Collectibles: The entire run of the original series is collected in the Shadowhawk Chronicles Vol. 1 trade paperback.
