At one point in Hawkeye: Freefall #1, Parker Robbins (aka the Hood) asks Clint Barton exactly what his remit is, what gives him the right to operate outside the system, and fight crime as Hawkeye. Later, Hawkeye is treated with disdain by Captain America’s favorite lieutenants, Bucky Barnes and Sam Wilson. It’s clear this new title is going to be about Hawkeye proving his worth to his friends and enemies alike.

The issue starts with Hawkeye attempting to bust the Hood, and soon after seeing his efforts come to nothing when his charges are dropped. Shortly after this encounter, someone appears on the scene with Clint’s old Ronin costume and starts killing people, which puts him directly in conflict with the Winter Soldier and the Falcon. 

Something really compelling about this first issue is the way Matthew Rosenberg writes the relationship between Clint and his fellow heroes. Barnes and Wilson almost come off more antagonistic than Parker Robbins, treating Hawkeye like he’s incompetent, and their inability to work together becomes a liability towards the end of the issue. It’s a refreshing change from most superhero team-ups, which usually feature the heroes treating each other with mutual respect and trust. Rosenberg also includes Linda Carter, the Night Nurse, as Hawkeye’s newest love interest, a unique change from his typical superspy/superheroine type.

The art, by Otto Schmidt, is terrific. Schmidt is, of course, well known for a recent run on DC’s archer hero, but he manages to differentiate his style for this title enough that it feels fresh and exciting. Schmidt and Rosenberg use lots of small panels to cram the issue with information, giving the letterer, VC’s Joe Sabino, a run for his money.

Hawkeye: Freefall #1 is a strong first issue, showing promise for a compelling superhero arc that could propel Rosenberg and Schmidt to the superhero comics A-list. Can it do the same for Hawkeye himself? That remains to be seen.

Grade: A-