Stilts The issue marks the return of Stilt-Man, one of Daredevil’s more unusual and often comically regarded villains.
Stilt-Man, equipped with his telescopic, stilt-like legs, stages a series of robberies in Hell's Kitchen. Despite his peculiar modus operandi, he poses a legitimate threat due to the chaos his stilt technology can create.
Daredevil vs. Stilt-Man:
Daredevil confronts Stilt-Man in a fast-paced, creative fight. Miller uses the character’s ridiculous premise to inject moments of levity, contrasting with Daredevil’s typically grim battles.
Despite the humor, the encounter is still treated seriously, with Daredevil using his acrobatics and keen senses to overcome Stilt-Man’s technological advantage.
Matt Murdock’s Personal Struggles:
Alongside the action, the issue delves into Matt Murdock’s personal life, particularly his relationships and his ongoing struggles as a lawyer in a corrupt city.
The balance between his duties as Daredevil and his responsibilities as Matt Murdock is a recurring theme, explored subtly in this issue.
A Lighter Tone:
While many issues in Miller’s run are dark and brooding, this one injects humor through Stilt-Man’s antics and Daredevil’s wry commentary. The lighter tone provides a brief respite from the overarching darkness of Miller's narrative.
Themes
Persistence in Adversity: Daredevil’s ability to overcome even the most bizarre challenges, like Stilt-Man, reflects his unyielding determination.
Humor in the Dark: The issue showcases Miller’s ability to blend humor with darker themes, offering a more varied emotional experience.
Art and Tone
Frank Miller and Klaus Janson maintain the gritty, detailed art style that characterizes the run. Despite the humor, the visuals remain dynamic and intense, particularly in the fight sequences.
Significance
While Daredevil #186 may not be as heavy in thematic weight or narrative significance as other issues in Miller’s run, it’s a memorable installment for its blend of humor, action, and character exploration. The issue demonstrates Miller’s range as a storyteller and reminds readers of Daredevil’s versatility as a character.