Jane Foster: Valkyrie #1 Review

by Harlan Ivester on July 24, 2019

Writers: Jason Aaron & Al Ewing
Artist: Cafu
Colorist: Jesus Aburtov
Letterer & Production: VC’s Joe Sabino
Publisher: Marvel Comics

            Jason Aaron writing Jane Foster, WITH Al Ewing. Need I say more? As if one of them weren’t enough, the other is sure to bring every bystander in. We all have one reason or another to be excited about this. Take note, speculators. Natalie Portman might lead in this role in a few years.

            What I really like about this first issue is that it tells you everything you need to know about Jane Foster’s life without stopping the story to fill in the uninformed as to how she got here. In one panel, she reflects on being Thor, but she’s doing it because it’s relevant to her current predicament and not because some readers might not be aware. Aaron and Ewing quickly but efficiently show us how being a super hero affects her day to day life. New mysterious powers are teased, and they pose important questions about how exactly being Valkyrie is going to be different for Jane. All the makings of a great #1.

            Cafu’s work is absurdly detailed and refined without feeling like it’s trying to be photorealistic. Every character has a distinct way of carrying themselves. It makes them feel so much more believable. When there’s a brawl, each hit has weight to it and a tangible impact. Aburtov gives each page a healthy variety in shading, although I think he makes New York look a bit drab. Valhalla has a much more notable personality, though, so maybe that’s the point.

            Jane Foster: Valkyrie #1 is a promising start for the series. Expertly delivered exposition, interesting questions about the future, and personal stakes are a perfect recipe for a new beginning. Top notch art solidifies the book in its place in the charts, sure to be one of Marvel’s biggest hits. Check it out.
 

Our Score:

7/10

A Look Inside