Review: Superior Spider-Man #31 (Series Finale!)

Review of Superior Spider-Man #31 (series finale)
"Goblin Nation" conclusion & "Actions Have Consequences"

Written by: Dan Slott                                                   Written by: Christos Gage          
Pencils by: Giuseppe Camuncoli                                   Pencils by: Will Sliney
Marvel
$5.99

Can a series that has a million loose ends, an epic war being waged and more subplots than you can shake a stick at be wrapped up in a single issue? Yes it can. But can it be done without the ending being rushed, losing emotion or impact? Again, the answer is a confident yes. Superior Spider-Man #31 delivers an emotional, exciting and fulfilling conclusion to the series. It even manages to cover all of the loose ends aka damage done by Otto.

Anytime there is back-matter or multiple stories within an issue it feels forced (to make the issue seem more important) at best and at worst it is a weak excuse to inflate the cover price. However, this was not the case and  a second story was necessary. The first story covers the conclusion of the battle with the goblin nation. It delivers the action as Peter races with Miguel to put an end to the siege of New York and rescue those held captive. The second story is Peter addressing all the damaged relationships that have come out of "Superior" and they may not be resolved but you can see there are plot seeds being sown for future stories as Peter attempts damage control in his personal life.

In my opinion, one of the most satisfying moments of the tale involved Peter convincing others that he was really himself again and not Otto. Some people seemed rather too easily swain as was the case with Mary Jane. But the most classic Spider-Man moment was the way in which he convinces the Green Goblin. The action and pacing of the story feel organic and

The reveal that it is, in fact, Norman behind the mask was rewarding and I can't think of any plot twist involving a different person behind the mask being nearly as satisfying. The stage is being set for "Spider-Man 2099" Miguel to have his own title. I am having high hopes for that title because very intriguing plot threads have been sown in this issue as well. The dynamic between Peter, his family and his loved ones including Jameson were compelling because there was no magic reset button to erase the wounds that were caused. None of those relationships seemed as interesting as the one with Anna Maria. Her impact on Otto carried great weight with Peter and it will be very interesting to see where her relationship with Peter/Spider-Man goes in the future.

I've said that this has been a polarizing series for Spider-Man fans. At the series end Peter Parker has made his triumphant return to the helm of the mantle. I wonder if those who were so passionately anti-"Spock" will now go back in the trades and read what they were missing. During the run, so much of Spidey's mythos has evolved I feel that those readers who passed on "Superior" will be lost at times to the depth of what has transpired. A few examples are Horizon Labs and Alchemax, Spider-Man 2099 (who is getting a new ongoing!) and the legacy of the many Goblins. That is not including relationships both personal and professional (including the Avengers, Black Cat, Flash Thompson). If you were one of the people who stubbornely refused to give this title the chance it deserved than you should admit your foolish mistake and stop punishing yourself. Go and read the series and see why it was loved by so many.


Rating: BUY IT

Review: Superior Spider-Man #26

Review: Superior Spider-Man #26
Written By: Dan Slott
Art By: Ramos, Rodriguez and Martin
Marvel
$3.99 January 29th 2014


The narrative of this story is divided up into three parts with each section having a different artists and style. Before we begin reviewing the story itself, let me point out that the art switch was not confusing. It allowed the reader to switch paces between what was going on in each section. And each artist's style complimented the pace and the tone of that particular scene.

1- The first part of the narrative we can discuss is the battle between the goblins, The Green Goblin and Hobgoblin wage war on one another in glorious fashion. The artwork during this battle is simply stunning. Take the time while reading the fast paced action and just allow the artwork here to sink in. Without spoiling too much, the goblins decide that rather than wasting manpower or their minions and resources waging war, that they should face of one-on-one.....winner assuming control of both forces. There is a clear victor and some very cool clues and plot twists that develop as a result of this epic battle.

2- The second portion of the tale involves the Superior Spider-Man facing the scrutiny of the Avengers and his wiping of their computer files on him. Long story short and no big spoiler, he realizes he can no longer talk his way out of his behaviors and he quits the Avengers.

3- And lastly, but certainly not least..... building off of the momentum of last issue that had Parker fans ecstatic..... Peter is still fighting the good fight in the recesses of Otto's mind, he now realizes that he has always faced difficult odds, but that is what makes him who he is at his very core. In this section of the story, the artwork compliments the scene as it is reminiscent of the artwork of classic Spidey moments in his history. Peter is visiting in his memories. They are the memories that have not yet been erased and have managed to survive. Peter shows an indomitable will during these scenes and it shows that Slott has a masterful grasp of the character, Peter Parker.

I honestly have loved each and every issue of this title. A large part of me will be sad to see it go. Slott hasn't allowed readers to catch their breath with such a high paced and simultaneously deep narrative. He has woven forever lasting additions into the Spider-Man mythos.

Starting next month is the final arc of the series.......at least as we know it. (Still unclear how this will resolve and if we will have 2 Spider-Men or not). But, the big payoff of Slott's long-building epic is about to begin. The Superior Spider-Man, his machines and army are about to do war with the Goblins and their army...all while Peter attempts to fight back from the recesses of Otto's subconscious and reclaim his body/life.
So, come back next month because I am sure it is going to be explosive!

Rating: Buy it!

Review: Superior Spider-Man #25

Superior Spider-Man #245
Written by: Dan Slotted and Christos Gage
Art: Humberto Gage
Marvel: Jan 15th 2014 $4.99

Spoiler free so enjoy!

This title has had huge success as well as polarizing criticism/praise for the status quo change with Otto as Spider-Man. But, as the solicits have revealed in the last few days, Peter will be resurrected and regain the mantle of the Amazing Spider-Man.

This issue concludes the "Darkest Hours" story. Otto has bonded with the Venom symbiotie to become Superior Venom after removing it from Flash Thompson. Now, in this issue, Otto attacks the Hobgoblin's associates and is confronted by the Avengers. The Avengers appeal to their friend, Spider-Man,  to stand down and allow them to help him. Otto is not interested and decides it is time to sever ties with them in a chaotic and violent fashion.....going on the offensive and calling his spider bots and army to aid him to attack his former teammates. Tony is sent by Captain America away from the battle on another mission of importance that ends up being crucial for several reasons.

We also get an inside look at the goblins as they plot against Spider-Man and do recon on his island facility/ their capabilities for an all out attack. The Goblins also declare war on the Hobgoblin.

The beginning of Peter's return are seeded in this issue. Otto believes he has escaped this event with no one the wiser. He believes he has fooled everyone. We see the truth, which is that people are on to him and he has tested the limit one too many times.

Otto has been superior to Peter in his effectiveness and proactiveness, but at a cost. The cracks are beginning to show and when the cost of his reign as Spider-Man comes to its climax we can expect it to be explosive. The war against the Goblins is building. Everyone is suspicious of and outraged by this new Spider-Man including the city's citizens.

Dan Slott has weaved a masterpiece. You do not have to love the series, but you should appreciate its boldness. "Superior" has been inargueablly meaningful, exciting  and spawned many memorable plots that expanded the Spider-Man mythos.  We all knew Peter would eventually be back but it will be interesting to see if Peter adopts Otto's proactiveness in any way and how he could possibly mend the destruction Otto has caused in his personal life.

The War of the Goblins will end the title and return Peter to the mantle, but does this mean the end of Superior? Is Osborn the Green Goblin building this army? How will Peter's spirit break through and rebuild his life? Plenty of good reasons to keep reading the title.

And not to be forgotten, Ramos' art is consistent with the excellence he has been delivering the series. It really shines with his artwork on the Goblins including its newest recruit....*facepalm*  "Who?" you ask ...... Well, I promised no spoilers, so I'll end it there.

Ignore the forum's hate....this title is unforgettable and sells out each issue with good reason.

Rating: Strong Buy It

Did you get your invitation yet?

In typical end-of-year promotion, Marvel Comics is promoting an upcoming wedding by giving all of us, the prospective guests, a puzzle.  Granted, the pieces are taking a while to get here, but it looks like a big deal with the characters shown.

If we break this down, let's see what we have.First off, DEVIL DINOSAUR AND MOON BOY, WHAT??  Right off the bat, this seems to be a big character if they are starting off the puzzle with a long time character like this.  Next we see all of Alpha flight, so we know it is an international event.  The Asgardians are looking quite regal in their salute to who we assume is getting married.

Looking around, we see a lot of Avengers and X-Men throughout.  I personally feel bad for Stingray, Silver Surfer really had to photobomb right in front of his face, REALLY??  The other character I find interesting being in there is Forbush Man.  You know it is going to be important if he is there.

So what are your thoughts.  Give us a shout and let us know who you think it is.  And do you think this is a good idea as far as a promotion.  And where can we buy the puzzle after it is complete.

- Great Scott!

Avengers #24.NOW "Rogue Planet #1"

Avengers 24.NOW "Rogue Planet"
Writers: Jonathan Hickman
Art: Esad Ribic, Salvador Larocca, Mike Deodato, Butch Guice, 
Dean White, Frank Martin, Paul Mounts and Laura Martin
Price: $4.99 

Prelude to this issue:
The Avengers have been through a two front war on Earth and throughout the cosmos during Hickman's recent epic crossover event "Infinity". The massive tale had it's seeds  planted in the first issue of Hickman's current run and the story arc has only recently come to a close. The Avengers swelled their team ranks in order to meet such a threat at the start of the series. The heroes suffered several defeats prior to being able to lead a desperate and fragile alliance of intergalactic races (that included former foes such as The Skrulls and Annihilus) to victory. The arc ends with The Avengers victorious against both an ancient race of conquerors and Thanos' forces that had invaded earth . 

Avengers 24.Now could be viewed as a stand alone story, but you can tell that this is the tip of another iceburg and Hickman plans another marathon arc. This one shot is full of hints that the worst has yet to come. This issue also ties heavily into plot points from New Avengers, which Hickman also writes.

In this issue, we have an "Iron Man" from the year 3030 that races back in time to the present to warn the Avengers of oncoming destruction. Apparently, the memo got lost about time travel issues in the current Marvel U. The issue has a few lighthearted moments with the team enjoying some much deserved rest and relaxation, There are friendly games and a barbecue with Thor. But it isn't fun and games for Captain America and Tony Stark who discuss which members of this team of Avengers they should keep and which ones should be let go. No big spoiler, but Wolverine and Spider-Man are both off the roster with other members still being up for debate. This is when the future Iron Man arrives, convinces the team of the oncoming threat of a planet that is hurtling on a collision course towards Earth, and the heroes develop a plan to stop it. But sadly, at no time do you actually feel from the characters that they are actually in real danger. The concern that does carry weight with the team is who launched the planet in the first place.

The story is well thought out, concise and delivers what you would expect. Unfortunately, what I have also come to expect is very little in character development from the team members. The recent plots and team size have both been so large during Hickman's run that I feel that we lose character growth, development and personal stories of the teams members that would enrich the team as a whole. Sure, if you like Hawkeye, you can go read his solo title. But in this Avenger title it feels like you're holding a deck of gaming cards with stats and powers and not characters with personality.

But don't let that critique turn you off from this over-sized, stand alone story. It's funny, exciting, intriguing and once again building towards a larger plot. But, I do hope that the stories become more personal for the team members and not just another, "The world is going to end! Call everyone we know with powers!" Hickman has been able to deliver the epic tale, deliver new characters and members with interesting origins and bring the cosmic universe to the rest of the Marvel U. But can he make these large epics more personal? Time will tell.


Rating: Borrow it

Remember When.......Marvel's Secret Wars

In this first installment of Remember When, I am going back to 1984 and the birth of the Event Comic.  This was a comic book that worked to get the non readers into reading comic books, at least in my case.  This was a crazy idea to sell toys.  Mattel approached Marvel Comics then Editor, Jim Shooter, to create a comic to sell toys; that's it, that simple.  This was a 12 issue toy catalog.  But in my eyes, it was AWESOME!!  Here you have a story combining the X-Men, Fantastic Four, Avengers, Galactus, Doctor Doom, and a bunch of other villains into one big story.

The story goes that an all powerful entity wanted to pit the mightiest heroes and villains against each other to see who would be victorious.  He create a world; Battleworld; from pieces of hundreds of different planets.  The heroes and villains were transported from Earth in two separate vehicles to this Battleworld.  What this story also did, other than sell toys, was introduce new readers to a wealth of knowledge to the Marvel Universe and its characters.  The Avengers stayed together and made a formidable team, the X-Men felt that they were going to be judged as they were on Earth and separated themselves from the other heroes.  The villains had similar occurrences.  Doctor Doom thought he was above all the other villains and left on his own to figure how to take the power of this powerful being that brought them there, who we later find out is known as the Beyonder.  Also, Galactus being Galactus, must feed, so he begins assembling his world eating machinery to start to feed on the planet.

The Marvel Universe being what it is, shows us more of the faults that make their characters so intriguing.  The Fantastic Four are transported to the planet, missing the Invisible Woman, thus creating a longing for her from her husband, Reed Richards.  Iron Man was not Tony Stark at the time, but his best friend, Jim Rhodes, in the suit.  The Hulk realizes at this point in time, he is at a weakened state, but the loss of that gave him the intellect of Bruce Banner.  Ben Grimm finds out that he can change from the rocky exterior of the Thing to his normal human self, so he starts to have longings to stay behind since he can be human and not the monster he is seen as on Earth.  All of these things give a more human side to the characters.

Of course, we have battles here, and what is better than page upon page of numbers of heroes and villains fighting together.  After one such battle, Spider-Man's costume is badly damaged.  While wondering about the heroes base, he came upon a lab.  Here he found a machine that would create a new suit for him.  Little did he know that his new black costume would in turn become one of his greatest foes....Venom.

As I said, this was a comic series that truly captured my imagination and gave me a great cross section of the Marvel Universe.  It became a treasure hunt for me at comic conventions to find all twelve issues.  I also remember Marvel released a role-playing game through TSR (same guys who brought you D&D) and had a supplement for Secret Wars.  Everything about this comic was fun, something that is so badly missed from a lot of the comics released today.  Sure, I am still reading, but there is something about this series, that I still treasure to this day as one of my absolute favorite memories of comics.  Go out there, buy the trade, or if you are more adventurous, go to a con, and search out the issues.  The are great fun......that is until Secret Wars II.....but that is another story.  This is a story that I will definitely be revisisting, possibly going issue by issue and breaking down how good, and bad, it is.

- GREAT SCOTT!!!