If you are looking for a jump-on point, then you will want to start with this issue.  Not only is this the beginning of a new arc, Deadpool vs. S.H.I.E.L.D., it’s also a continuation of the first story arc, Dead Presidents. Although I enjoyed the stories in between the two arcs, this is the storyline I’ve been impatiently waiting for.

In case you missed the first arc, the presidents were raised from their graves by Michael, a necromancer and former S.H.I.E.L.D. agent.  Returning with evil intentions, Deadpool contracted with S.H.I.E.L.D. for a large sum of money, to re-kill the presidents.  Although Agent Preston was killed by George Washington, Michael was able to transfer Preston’s spirit into Deadpool, where she currently resides in his head.  After Deadpool re-killed the presidents, Agent Gorman refused to pay him.

In the current issue, Deadpool and Agent Preston consulted with Dr. Strange, in hopes of restoring Preston’s spirit into a physical form.  Meanwhile, Agent Adsit, Preston’s partner, made a shocking discovery when he attempted to order a life model decoy (LMD) of Preston.  There is already a Preston LMD running around town, and it’s not a good thing.  Turns out Agent Gorman is a bad guy, and has ordered a 10 million dollar hit on Deadpool.

The story ends with Adsit and Agent Phil Coulson in a secret meeting.

If the above events are not enough to entice you to jump-on, then obviously you’re not a candidate for Deadpool readership.

Brian Posehn and Gerry Duggan are the creative writers.  This issue is packed with page turners, jokes, and of course, violence.  The best dialogue is between Deadpool and Agent Preston.  A mercenary with a mental disorder that has a sassy African-American woman stuck in his head.  The jokes are hilarious, but their friendship is worthy of envy.  Great character interactions, especially Agent Gorman and Preston’s LMD.  She’s dangerous, but funny.

Text is brought to life by Mike Hawthorne (artist) and Jordie Bellaire (colors).  Realistic characters and detailed facial expressions.  Agent Gorman scares me.  I especially like the panels with Deadpool’s thoughts, they reminds of The Three Stooges.  And seeing Preston’s spirit is very touching.  Awesome cover by Mark Brooks.

VERDICT (drum roll please)

Deadpool is one Marvel title I highly recommend.