Guess what Marvel character had a movie come out in 2005?

This miniseries was clearly designed to synergize with the (flop) Jennifer Garner movie.

That said, the comic is more than marginally better than the movie. Not much better, but better for sure.

It explores the origins of the Snakeroot and Hand ninja clans. We see their founding members get samurai training at the Ishiyama Sword School, learn the rituals to bring folks back from the dead, etc. If you’re heading to a Marvel ninja trivia night, this is essential reading. Otherwise, it’s a solid story but not one you “need” to read.

Elektra herself is barely in it–it’s mostly historical material, with Elektra appearing only in framing sequences for issues #1 and 5.

That’s Bill Sienkiewicz on the Kilmpt-tribute cover. Beautiful.

Apparently, this was planned as an installment with other minis plotted, but never executed due to poor sales and the poor performance of the movie.