Over the past couple of years, The Punisher has experienced some intriguing developments. The last encounter readers had with Frank Castle was in the 12-issue series by Jason Aaron and Jesus Saiz, which aired from 2022 to 2023. This series portrayed Frank Castle as the leader of the Hand, Marvel’s foremost clan of magical ninjas, leading his war on crime down darker and more violent paths. This narrative was met with much debate among fans – The Punisher was depicted as more villainous than ever, and there were retcons regarding his family that painted him in a very unfavorable light – and it coincided with Marvel temporarily stepping away from the Punisher. Since then, there has been much discussion surrounding The Punisher due to the misuse of his symbol in real-world situations, and Marvel introduced a new version of the character, ex-SHIELD agent Joe Garrison. However, fans have expressed a desire for Frank’s return, and Marvel is set to fulfill that wish with the release of the new The Punisher: Red Band series on September 10, 2025.
Marvel recently announced that writer Benjamin Percy will be helming the latest Punisher series, which finds a fitting home in Marvel’s adult-oriented Red Brand comics, similar to the Marvel MAX line before it. These books cater to mature audiences, featuring graphic violence and bloodshed as one might expect. Additionally, the Punisher is set to appear in the upcoming Spider-Man film, “Spider-Man: Brand New Day.”
Over the years, the Punisher has proven to be a fan favorite character at Marvel. His absence has only served to heighten anticipation for his return. As such, the arrival of The Punisher: Red Band #1 seems especially timely, and ComicBook has an exclusive sneak peek of this first issue. However, please note that due to its mature content, viewer discretion is advised.
The Punisher: Red Band #1 Feels Exactly Like a Punisher Story Should Feel
Among the multitude of superheroes existing today, there are some who don’t conform to our traditional understanding of heroism, and the Punisher has consistently stood out as one of these unconventional figures. Unlike conventional heroes, the Punisher doesn’t rescue lives through acts we would normally consider heroic; instead, he targets those he deems wicked, eliminating them to prevent others from experiencing the pain he has endured. Recently, we found the Punisher in a grim state, transformed by the power of the Hand into a grotesque creature. During this time, his deceased wife, Maria, appeared as a spirit, expressing her regret over his actions that led him to the afterlife. Overwhelmed by guilt and darkness, he allowed the savagery unleashed during war to dominate him completely. Eventually, he was incarcerated in the Sanctum Sanctorum, and most recently, he was observed aiding children in their escape from battles within WeirdWorld.
As a devoted moviegoer, I found myself immersed in “The Punisher: Red Band #1,” where the opening unfolds on a fiery container ship. Initially disoriented, I, as Frank Castle, can’t recall my identity or the circumstances that led me here amidst the chaos and carnage. The gruesome sight of lifeless bodies and pools of blood is all too familiar, yet the presence of an empty 9mm Uzi and bags of fentanyl hint at this being Punisher turf.
It’s evident that Percy, with his knack for crafting complex and brutal characters like Wolverine, Ghost Rider, and Hellverine, is the ideal writer for such a gritty role. His extensive experience in shaping Marvel’s most ferocious personalities makes him their go-to guy.
The artwork by Julius Ohta and Yen Nitro adds a perfect touch to this brutal scene, brilliantly rendering Percy’s script into a violent and dirty reality that truly encapsulates the essence of the story.
The Punisher Is Back to Drown Crime in Blood
As a die-hard film enthusiast, let me tell you, the initial pages of The Punisher: Red Band #1 are nothing short of remarkable! The question that lingers in my mind is why this brutal anti-hero can’t recall anything about his past? Did he forget his association with the Hand and the extraordinary powers he once wielded? I’m intrigued to know how he managed to escape from Sanctum Sanctorum and discovered the secret of that mysterious boat. Percy, Ohta, and Nitro have truly outdone themselves in these preview pages, delivering a tour de force that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of The Punisher. This new chapter promises to be an exhilarating journey for fans like me, with its destination still shrouded in mystery.
The Punisher: Red Band #1 is on sale on September 10 2025.
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2025-09-04 21:11