Source: marvel.com
3. “The Last Iron Fist Story, Part 3”
Writers: Matt Fraction & Ed Brubaker
Artists: David Aja, Travel Foreman, & Russ Heath
Every issue starting with a snippet of a previous Iron Fist is a really cool idea. It’s a big retcon but one that makes a lot of sense. As well, the ancient China influenced aesthetic of Iron Fist in this series works in a wide variety of time periods and settings.
Anyway the actual focus of the issue is half on the attempted corporate takeover of Rand’s company by HYDRA and half on Danny trying to track down Orson. What works so well is that both are equally fun! It’s odd that Fraction and Brubaker are able to make boardroom drama as interesting as punching supervillains in the face.
By the end, Danny and Orson finally meet. They square off with their powers before Orson reveals the truth… he taught Danny’s father in the ways of the Iron Fist. I really adore the way Aja draws Danny. He’s beaten and a little hang dog and has kind of a baby-face, which all makes him feel distinct. Aja’s just great at drawing unlucky white blonde dudes, I guess.
