I would like to preface this review by stating that I did not read Matt Fraction’s run on INVINCIBLE IRON MAN, as it came to my attention too late. I took this as the perfect opportunity to jump back into the character of Iron Man, who I only read regularly before during the Busiek/Chen era and through trades of Michelline and Layton, and the original Larry Lieber/Stan Lee stories.

That being said, this issue was a study in contrasts. First off, Kieron Gillen kept me very much engaged with this first installment, providing a Tony Stark that is brash and snarky, yet loyal and honorable. A man who searches for redemption, not just for himself, but for his friends, be they living or dead. This bit of characterization really kept me caring about Stark, as a man who has learned from his mistakes and accepted the role that has been upon his shoulders for the last fifty years.

However, Greg Land’s artwork leaves much to be desired. Do not get me wrong, Land’s Iron Man is top notch. The armor looks absolutely fantastic and opening with it showcases what will surely be the artist’s strength during his tenure. However, the facial features of his characters need, for lack of a better term, dialed back. The faces come off as exaggerated at best, surrealistically creepy at worst. Here’s hoping Land manages to strike a balance with his work in subsequent issues.

Ultimately, I’m willing to give IRON MAN another issue at the very least, providing Gillen continues to keep me interested and Land finds his footing with his non-costumed characters.