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THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #797-800 MAY-JULY 2018 BY DAN SLOTT, STUART IMMONEN, WADE VON GRAWBADGER, MARTE GRACIA, NICK BRADSHAW, EDGAR DELGADO, HUMBERTO RAMOS, VICTOR OLAZABA, GIUSEPPE CAMUNCOLI, CAM SMITH, JAVA TARTAGLIA, MARCOS MARTIN, MUNTSA VICENTE, MIKE HAWTHORNE, JP MAYER AND JORDIE BELLAIRE

SYNOPSIS (FROM MARVEL DATABASE)

Addressing a blindfolded, bound, and gagged person, Norman Osborn welcomes them to his gentleman's club - now derelict and encrusted in dust and cobwebs from years of disuse. Removing the person's blindfold and gag, Osborn tells his prisoner to stop shouting for help - telling them that if they call out again he'll make a game out of torturing them to death. When his prisoner acquiesces, Osborn states that he does want to have a conversation, which is why he brought them to the abandoned club and decorated it with jack o'lanterns, adding that he has the perfect topic: Spider-Man.

Four hours earlier, Peter Parker and Mary Jane sit on her couch in her apartment, passionately making out. She flirtatiously remarks that he's one hell of a scientist, and when he asks what she means MJ replies that he proved time travel's possible. As she amorously unbuttons his shirt - stating that everything is back to how it's supposed to be - she sees his Spider-Man costume underneath and stops abruptly as she remembers why she broke up with him in the first place. Pulling away, she apologizes and says she can't be in a relationship with him again because of his double-life. Hurt, Peter asks how she could say that; and MJ retorts that being together with him was an excruciating experience - having him disappear as soon as a police siren went off and not knowing if he'd be home safe, waking up alone in the middle of the night terrified that he might've been killed. When Peter protests that he can't just let innocent people get hurt and killed, MJ replies that she knows this and can't ask him to stop being Spider-Man for her sake and that the guilt of knowing innocent blood was on their hands would kill both of them. She states the world needs Spider-Man but that she doesn't, resulting in an awkward silence between the two before she apologizes and says she'll always love and need him, but that there's no going back to how things were. Peter morosely acknowledges he understands and acquiesces when she asks he leave through the window, since it would be easier to explain Spider-Man visiting Stark Industries than her ex. As Spider-Man web-swings across the twilight cityscape, internally complaining about his perennial bad luck, MJ watches him leave and apologizes to him by herself. Standing on a nearby rooftop, Norman Osborn watches and wonders why Spider-Man has a spare key to the Watson residence.

In the present, Osborn interrogates his prisoner, demanding to know what the connection between Spider-Man and Mary Jane is. His prisoner refuses to give up any information on Spider-Man and tells Osborn to do whatever he wants, but Osborn stops as a sound catches his attention. Eyes glowing red, Osborn pounces at a rat scurrying across the floor, overturning several objects in the process. Clutching his prize, Osborn starts to use the rat as an analogy for his prisoner's predicament before partially transforming into Carnage and devouring it. Joking that he ruined the metaphor and that his prisoner should just imagine he sent it to a farm upstate, Osborn demands to know where Spider-Man is and how he can find him.

Four hours prior, Spider-Man comes across a purse snatcher in Chelsea while on his way to the Daily Bugle and snares one of his arms, suspending him from a street light. The snatcher complains that this is the fifth time Spider-Man has done this, resulting in a rotor cuff injury requiring weeks of therapy. Spider-Man apologizes to the thug - Jimmy - by name and promises to hit him in the back or use a web-net next time, then backtracks and says there had better not be a "next time" in the first place. Spider-Man tells Jimmy to apologize to the woman he tried to rob and return her purse, but she tells the would-be thief to shut up and that Spider-Man should have beaten him up. Spider-Man tells her to just go call the cops, while Jimmy adds that the last time Spider-Man apprehended him some kids stole his shoes and asks to have his feet webbed up. Spider-Man does so, snarking when Jimmy calls him a prince.

At the Bugle, Ben Urich complains that Robbie puts him in the spotlight every time his wayward nephew commits a crime by publishing a notice that the Goblin King is a relative of one of the Bugle's staff members. Robbie notes it's for the sake of transparency, but Urich snaps that by now the whole city should know. Noticing the argument, Peter laments having let Urich escape with the tritium and wonders if he should step in. As Ben states he hopes the authorities catch Phil so that he can speak to him and try to set him straight, Peter decides to offer a word of encouragement but is waylaid by Rubylyn, who tries to drag him away from the city beat over to the science section. As Peter's phone goes off, he tells her he has to take the call, causing Rubylyn to scowl and call him the worst. Answering the call, Peter listens to J. Jonah Jameson, who demands details for his blog and asks if Peter has hunted down the Goblin King yet. Peter remarks that this isn't a good time, but Jameson launches into a tirade until Peter hangs up.

In the present, Osborn speculates on a connection between Spider-Man and the Daily Bugle, looking over a web-chart of all the people and places connected to Spider-Man. Chuckling, he says that with his prisoner's help he'll unravel the mystery and then there will be Spider-Man no more.

At Alchemax, Flash Thompson arrives wondering why Liz Allan called him in, and is taken aback at the presence of Mark Raxton. Liz explains that her brother is the chief of security and that they wanted to thank him for his help, then scolds him for letting the Goblin King escape with some of the tritium. Liz remarks that if the Goblin King does anything with it the incident will be a PR nightmare, then tells Flash to suit up as Agent Anti-Venom and find it. Angered, Flash retorts that just because she knows his secret identity doesn't mean she can treat him as her errand boy, and as he storms off she calls out that he's her white knight. Raxton jokes that Flash wasn't just steamed at her, he was molten; causing Liz to tell him to let her enjoy bossing her high-school boyfriend around, having her ex-husband work for her and look after the kids, and running a multibillion-dollar company.

At Central Park, Harry Osborn talks to his son Normie, who complains about how much time his father is spending with Stanley before asking if he and Liz are getting back together. Harry replies that they need to talk about it before asking if Emma - his nanny - can take Stanley off him for a moment. Emma takes the toddler and nervously glances to where Norman Osborn is watching from the shade of a tree, replying that's what she's there for.

In the present, Osborn teases his prisoner with the implication that Emma is secretly working for him before gleefully refusing to outright confirm it. He stops abruptly and growls that he can hear more vermin skulking downstairs and breaking into his toy box. In the club's basement, the Goblin King rummages through a cache of razor bats, pumpkin bombs, and outdated Goblin Glider, wondering where Norman is keeping all the big toys. Norman cuts in and chides Urich, stating that beggars can't be choosers before deriding him as a loser. Startled, Urich stammers that he's not afraid of him before regaining composure and stating that he knows Osborn is powerless, calling him a nobody. Seemingly dismayed, Osborn chides Urich for his lack of gratitude, stating that he took him in when he was destitute and made him his Goblin Knight. Igniting his flame sword, Urich declares that he's no-one's knight anymore and that after Norman's downfall he took the best title for himself. Lunging at Osborn, Urich shouts that he's the Goblin King and sentences him to death, but Osborn casually grips his flaming sword with one hand. Smirking, Osborn states that Phil may have been the Goblin King, Hobgoblin, and Green Goblin, but never made a name for himself. Osborn asks if he wants to know why, then transforms his arm and pierces the incredulous Goblin King through the chest, quipping that Urich's heart was never in it. As he rips out Urich's heart, Osborn asks why he isn't laughing at his joke before cackling maniacally.

Osborn returns upstairs, his prisoner asking why he's covered in blood, but Osborn brushes aside the question and dons a Green Goblin costume. Osborn's prisoner incredulously asks if he thinks he can just put the stupid costume on and beat Spider-Man, and when Osborn affirms this his prisoner states that Osborn will never beat Spider-Man, especially not as the Green Goblin. Declaring that Spider-Man has beaten everything Osborn has thrown at him, Osborn's prisoner launches into a passionate tirade about all the things Osborn did to Spider-Man that failed to break him. Osborn is silent for a moment, bemusedly latching onto one event in particular - throwing Spider-Man's girlfriend off a bridge. Osborn remarks that for years he's felt like something important he'd forgotten and just couldn't remember, grinning maniacally as he comes to the epiphany that Spider-Man is Peter Parker. Jubilant, Osborn triumphantly declares that the greatest weapon he'd ever had against Spider-Man is his again, then tells his prisoner - J. Jonah Jameson - that he couldn't have remembered without him; leaving Jameson horrified at what he's done.

At the Daily Bugle office, Peter Parker explains to Ben Urich how he can reconfigure the office's doppler radar system to track the changes in barometric pressure caused by the tritium stolen by Phil Urich. Assuring Ben that they'll find his nephew, Peter thinks to himself how everything is finally starting to click now that he's back at the Bugle and using his knowledge of science to help people. Colin and Rubylyn pick up readings indicating the tritium is headed straight for them, but Peter assures his panicking colleagues that it's nothing - thinking he can say that with absolute certainty since his Spider-Sense isn't going off. Immediately afterwards, the Green Goblin crashes through the window, Robbie telling everyone to calm down until they find out what he wants. As the Goblin quips that he wants what he's always wanted - Spider-Man - Peter recognizes Norman Osborn's voice and tries to figure out how managed to regain his powers. The Green Goblin notes Peter is friends with Spider-Man and tells him to go get him if he doesn't want anyone to die, and Peter dashes out of the room to change into his costume.

At the Century Club, J. Jonah Jameson laments accidentally revealing Spider-Man's identity, fully aware that he's just put everyone Peter Parker cares about in grave danger. Recalling his despair at losing his own loved ones, Jameson resolves to not let Peter suffer through that as well and tries to break free from the ropes binding him.

At the Daily Bugle, the Green Goblin wonders what's taking Spider-Man so long, Robbie telling him that Spider-Man will show up soon. The Goblin wonders if Robbie knows who Spider-Man is under his mask, threatening him; but Betty Brant interrupts, offering to post news of the Goblin's attack on the Bugle's front page. The Green Goblin vetoes her suggestion, saying it will bring half the NYPD down on him, and asks if she wants to get thrown off a bridge. Ben Urich intervenes, saying that Osborn was never one to rest on his laurels and doubtless has some new tricks up his sleeve. The Green Goblin tosses a burlap sack at Ben, over-saturating his speech with puns and innuendos to drive home that he killed Phil. Betty expresses concern that the bag contains Phil's severed head, but Ben notes that while the shape is right the weight is wrong. He opens the sack to find the tritium sample stolen by Phil, wired to a bomb. The Green Goblin laughs maniacally as everyone panics, but Spider-Man arrives and immediately attacks him. Ben warns Spider-Man about the tritium bomb, the Goblin complaining that he stole his punchline and now he has nothing to banter about.

Outside the Goblin's lair, Flash Thompson notes that the tracer Alchemax gave him tracked the tritium signal to this location. Transforming into Agent Anti-Venom, he smashes through the door, wondering if doing this will get Liz to leave him alone and what he can do if it doesn't. He spots Phil Urich's corpse, but as he examines the body a thump from upstairs sets him on alert. Agent Anti-Venom finds J. Jonah Jameson still tied to the chair, which had toppled over. As Agent Anti-Venom introduces himself and frees Jameson, he warns Flash that the Green Goblin is back and that everyone connected to Spider-Man and the Osborns are in danger.

At Liz Allen's apartment, she, Harry Lyman, Mark Raxton, Normie Osborn, and Stanley Osborn sit in the living room as Emma prepares to serve them lemonade. Liz's smartphone rings and she answers it, noting Flash is the one calling. Harry notes Liz looks horrified, and she says his father has returned. As Normie gleefully celebrates the return of his "Pop Pop", Harry suggests they call the police, but Liz says Alchemax's security forces are better equipped. Saying that it's finally time, Emma says she's going to take Normie and Stanley. When Liz angrily confronts her, Emma pulls out a tranquilizer gun and shoots her, Harry, and Mark before grabbing Stanley and a horrified Normie, telling him to shut up and that now she's in charge.

At the Bugle, Robbie helps evacuate and makes sure everyone is accounted for. Rubylyn wonders at how prepared everyone is for this, and is horrified when Collin remarks that events like this are a regular occurrence. As Robbie double-checks that everyone made it out, Betty yells at him that if they don't leave now they'll die. The Green Goblin praises Spider-Man for keeping the bad guy occupied so his friends can get to safety at the cost of his own safety, but Spider-Man tells Osborn that he's not an omniscient narrator and that he's in the blast radius too. Punching the Green Goblin aside, Spider-Man wraps the tritium bomb in a thick cocoon of webbing, wrapping himself in a cocoon as the Green Goblin curses him.

The tritium bomb explodes, destroying the top several floors of the Daily Bugle building. Picking himself out of the rubble, Spider-Man notes that he kept the blast mostly contained but that he has to check that civilians weren't hurt by debris. Just as he notes he thinks he saved everyone, the Green Goblin calls out to him by his civilian name and Spider-Man turns to see his nemesis impaled by a girder and several shards of glass and metal. Spider-Man asks Osborn how long he's known his identity, but the Green Goblin notes it doesn't matter anymore. The Green Goblin tells Spider-Man he doesn't have much time left and thanks Peter for being his enemy; Spider-Man apologizing for being unable to save Osborn and wishing things could have been different. The Goblin abruptly bursts into maniacal laughter as his blood comes alive, sneering that Peter really does wish that he could've saved him. Quipping that Peter's wish has been granted, the Goblin rises as a red-and-black monster with an elongated head, fanged jaws, and a long tail; Peter recognizing the Carnage symbiote. On the verge of blindly panicking out of sheer terror, Spider-Man barely dodges the monster's attack, tagging Osborn with a spider-tracer and fleeing. Trying to calm down, Spider-Man assures himself he knows the symbiote's weak to fire and sonics and tries to come up with a plan based on that. Mockingly wondering why Spider-Man isn't cracking jokes, the Carnage/Goblin hybrid throws a trio of symbiote bombs that follow Spider-Man through the air. As Peter is horrified that these new weapons don't set off his Spider-Sense, Osborn speaks to him through one of them before it bites into his leg and explodes.

Spider-Man crashes through the window of a condemned building, the Carnage/Goblin hybrid arriving and saying he wants to end this here and now - no rain checks or round twos. Revealing he's aware of the spider-tracer through the symbiote, Osborn offers Peter a one-time deal: give up being Spider-Man and he'll let Peter live, no strings attached... but if he sees Peter use his powers even once, he'll take his time killing all of Spider-Man's loved ones, friends, and acquaintances as slowly and painfully as possible. Rebranding himself the Red Goblin, Osborn tells Peter to take it or leave it and give him a sign he understands; and Peter webs the shredded and burning remains of his Spider-Man costume's top to a flag-pole in surrender. As the Red Goblin laughs triumphantly, Peter sits in the darkness and takes stock of his injuries, noting that even if he couldn't handle the Red Goblin as Spider-Man he's determined to take Osborn down as Peter Parker.

Communicating with the Human Torch, Mary Jane Watson, Miles Morales, and Silk, Peter Parker has them keep an eye on his friends and loved ones - Johnny watching over MJ, Miles over Aunt May (himself surveyed by a trench coat-clad figure), and Silk over the Bugle employees. Silk asks Peter why he doesn't just gather everyone up or evacuate everyone out of the city, and Peter - hiding out at an old Oscorp facility - replies that would make them an even greater target. He tells Silk and the others that he's grateful to have friends like them, and the moment Osborn strikes they'll converge and work together to take him down. He warns them not to call him "Peter" since he's going to recruit some outside help who aren't in the know, calling Agent Anti-Venom. Agent Anti-Venom reveals he knows that Osborn is bonded to the Carnage symbiote and had Jameson tied up in one of his old hideouts, and Peter complements his work and asks him to keep an eye on Jameson... who quietly slips away while Flash is distracted. Peter then calls Clash, revealing he's been keeping tabs on him and knows he's not really a supervillain, asking him to step up and be a hero by looking after Harry Osborn and his family.

At Liz Allan's apartment, she, her brother, and Harry Osborn regain consciousness to discover that Emma has abducted Normie and Stanley. Liz tells a frantic Harry to calm down and calls Alchemax security, revealing she had their son chipped in case of a situation like this. Not noticing Norman Osborn is following them through the streets, the three of them follow Emma's trail, Harry and Liz bickering over her having the kids microchipped.

Jameson returns to his trashed apartment, remarking that at least he put up a fight against Osborn. Delighted to see his laptop is still working, he video-chat calls Peter. Peter tells Jameson that Osborn is back and knows who he is again, and Jameson shamefully admits that he slipped up when Osborn was interrogating him. Glaring at Jameson, Peter furiously hangs up and Jameson sorrowfully promises he'll make things right.

At the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Normie Osborn screams at Emma to return him to his mother. As Emma lectures him, Liz Allan furiously storms over to her and calls for security. Harry demands to know if she's working for his father, and Emma incredulously calls him stupid for thinking that and states she's trying to get the children as far away from Norman as possible, berating them for possibly leading him straight to them. As a man calls them out for bringing their family drama into the bus depot, Norman Osborn transforms into the Red Goblin and tosses him into the Alchemax security detail - terrifying his family. Emma reveals herself to be Emily Lyman-Osborn, stating that her ex-husband won't get her grandchildren; the Red Goblin calling Harry out on being more shocked that his mother is back from the dead than his father transforming into a nightmarish monster. Clash calls Peter and tells him that the Red Goblin has attacked Harry's family at the Port Authority, but protests he's way out of his league. Peter calls the other team members in, the Human Torch arriving seconds later and reassuring Clayton that symbiote's hate fire and sonics more than anything. The Human Torch and Clash attack, blasting the Red Goblin with a torrent of flames and sonic waves... which do absolutely nothing except make the Red Goblin angry. As an incredulous and horrified Peter tries to figure out what went wrong, Clayton turns to flee. Osborn reveals that the Goblin serum has rendered the Carnage symbiote immune to its traditional weaknesses, firing a barrage of spikes that incapacitate the Human Torch and Clash. Silk and Miles arrive on the scene, disregarding Peter's pleas to not engage. The Red Goblin effortlessly withstands Miles' Venom Blast and cuts both him and Silk down, telling Peter that he's going to kill them but as long as Peter himself doesn't suit up Mary Jane and Aunt May will be safe.

Before Osborn can finish Silk, Miles, the Human Torch, and Clash off, Agent Anti-Venom arrives, forcing the Red Goblin back with his anti-symbiote touch. When Flash reveals the Anti-Venom symbiote has healing properties superior to those of other symbiotes, the Red Goblin points out he could be using that to save the lives of Peter's other friends. Realizing the Red Goblin is right, Agent Anti-Venom disengages to heal Miles- and is promptly attacked from behind by the Red Goblin. Peter tells Flash to keep his head in the game and that he called 911, but Flash disregard's Peter's warning that he's playing right into Osborn's hands - saying he has the power and responsibility to save them. Suited up as Spider-Man and web-swinging across the city, Spider-Man hears Flash scream in pain as Osborn mauls him. Mocking Agent Anti-Venom for spreading himself too thin healing the others, the Red Goblin recognizes him as Flash Thompson and considers finishing him off in front of Harry... only to realize his family has used the distraction to escape. Berating himself for getting caught up in the battle, the Red Goblin departs to find them just before Spider-Man arrives. Cursing himself for arriving too late to save them and being unable to pull his weight with a mangled leg, Spider-Man notes that at least his friends are alive. Flash expends the last of his energy healing Spider-Man's leg.

Outside, Harry tells Liz and Mark to take Normie while he and Emma take Stanley, rebuking Normie for complaining that he favors his younger son. The Red Goblin interrupts and grabs Normie, knocking the others back with his tail. As Harry pleads with his father to take him instead, Norman sneers that Harry had his chance to join up with him and infects Normie with the Carnage symbiote, turning him into a miniature Red Goblin.

Kneeling amidst his allies at the Port Authority Terminal, Spider-Man asks them to sound off to see if they're alive. Agent Anti-Venom assures him that they'll live due to his healing powers, and Spider-Man tells the exhausted Flash to stand down when he volunteers to accompany him. Silk tells Spider-Man that J. Jonah Jameson is a good man and that he wants to help them, but Spider-Man bitterly retorts that Jonah has done enough and is the reason they're in this mess in the first place. Spider-Man asks Agent Anti-Venom to keep healing them and takes off, remarking that Flash showed him how he can beat the Red Goblin.

Outside, Spider-Man rendezvous with Harry and Liz, who inform him that Osborn infected Normie with the Carnage symbiote. Harry tells him that Osborn issued the ultimatum of signing over control of Alchemax in exchange for their son, and Spider-Man promises that he'll find a way to defeat Norman, rescue Normie, and help return him to normal. Spider-Man asks Mark Raxton if Alchemax still has the artificial Anti-Venom serum, and Mark replies that they stored some off-the-books at the old Horizon Laboratories facility. Spider-Man takes off, lamenting that the Red Goblin possesses all the powers of the Green Goblin and Carnage and none of their weaknesses, except for the Anti-Venom. Harry comes up with a plan, asking his mother to look after Stanley for them and get him as far away as she can until they can rescue Normie.

At Jameson's apartment, Jonah has the sudden epiphany of soliciting Venom's help to stop the Carnage-augmented Goblin. He puzzles over how he could get in contact with the monstrous anti-hero before spotting a copy of the Fact Sheet with articles and photos of Venom courtesy of a "Mr. Sym". Recalling that Peter had sold photos of himself as Spider-Man to the Daily Bugle, Jameson wonders if Eddie would try to pull off the same scam. Calling the Fact Sheet office, he asks to speak to "Mr. Sym", and immediately recognizes Eddie Brock's voice. Jubilant, Jameson mocks Eddie over how obvious his pseudonym is and then threatens to blow his cover unless he helps - assuring Eddie that it's for a good cause. Irritated, Eddie retorts that he and his symbiote are listening.

At the old Horizon Labs facility, Spider-Man reminisces about his time as an employee there, using Morbius' hidden tunnels to enter the building undetected. Spotting the corpses of several security personnel and the word "HA" repeatedly written in blood, he realizes that the Red Goblin is already there and rushes to the vault where the artificial Anti-Venom was being kept. The vault is torn open and he realizes that the serum has been destroyed, but spots movement inside. A Carnage-Bomb flies out and circles around him, the Red Goblin speaking through it to inform Peter that since he broke his part of their deal he'll be going after Mary Jane and Aunt May. Spider-Man protests that Osborn said he wouldn't hurt his friends and then went after Harry, Liz, and Normie. The Carnage-Bomb retorts that that was a family matter and then states that he'll be going after Mary Jane first. The bomb promptly explodes, smashing Spider-Man into a wall and knocking him unconscious.

At Stark Tower, Mary Jane Watson walks down a hall when a flurry of black tendrils smash a nearby window. Assuming it to be the Red Goblin, she activates anti-symbiote defence systems - flame and sonic projectors. Venom irately exclaims that he's here to protect her, and Mary Jane remarks that she'll take his help. The Red Goblin arrives seconds later and quips that MJ must not have gotten the memo about him being immune to fire and sonics. Venom snarls that he's not here to kill Mary Jane but protect her, backhanding the Red Goblin. Breathing a torrent of flames at Venom, the Red Goblin laughs that Spider-Man must really be terrified to solicit his help, and Venom asks MJ to turn off the anti-symbiote weaponry so that he can fight unhindered, which she reluctantly does.

At her apartment, May Reilly is washing dishes when she hears a knock at the door. Wondering why the doorman admitted a visitor without buzzing, she opens the door to see Normie Osborn, who tells her he got lost. She invites him inside, not noticing his teeth turn into fangs and tendrils emerging from his clothing. As May prepares to call Liz to let her know he's all right, Normie lunges at her only to be struck by a flurry of cybernetic tentacles and slammed into a wall. The Superior Doctor Octopus enters May's apartment; smashing Normie repeatedly into the wall and shouting at the symbiote-infected boy to not lay a hand on her, snapping that May Reilly is forever under his care. As Normie attempts a wounded gazelle gambit, May yells at Otto for attacking a child, and he responds that Normie is no longer a mere child. Transforming into a symbiote-Goblin hybrid, Normie dubs himself the Goblin Childe and begins ripping Otto's tentacles apart.

Across town, Spider-Man arrives at Stark Tower, hoping his ex-wife has found a way to stall Norman and is still alive. He finds the Red Goblin locked in combat with Venom, irately berating Eddie for disrupting his schedule and getting on his nerves. Spider-Man is incredulous to see his old nemesis, prompting MJ to ask Peter if he didn't send him. Spider-Man says that he didn't but that he's not going to question Venom's aid; but when he moves to evacuate MJ she refuses and dons an armored glove equipped with a repulsor ray. She remarks that Spider-Man can't hope to defeat the symbiote-augmented Goblin alone, but with her and Venom's help he might stand a chance. Venom, exhausted from the Red Goblin's beatdown, tells Spider-Man that they need to do this quickly. Spider-Man realizes that Osborn still needs to breathe and punches the Red Goblin's throat before attempting to strangle him, but the Red Goblin bites his arm. MJ blasts Osborn before he can bite Spider-Man's hand off, but the Red Goblin quips that she did more damage to Spider-Man and Venom than to him. He fires a barrage of spikes at her and then leaves to find Normie, mockingly informing Spider-Man that he sent his grandson to kill Aunt May. Spider-Man tries to fire a web at Osborn only to realize that he bit through his web-shooter's firing pin. Venom tells Spider-Man to stop and offers to lend him the Venom symbiote, and when Peter refuses out of hand Eddie remarks that he's exhausted from the battle and tapping out; but that he - a normal human - got some good blows him, noting that a mutate like Spider-Man should be able to do some real damage. When Peter is still reluctant, Venom states that Spider-Man needs a symbiote if he wants to fight evenly with the Red Goblin. MJ reluctantly agrees with Eddie, telling Spider-Man to do it for Aunt May's and Normie's sakes. As the Venom symbiote leaves Eddie and bonds to him, Spider-Man complains that he hates this plan but doesn't see a better alternative; Eddie telling Spider-Man to be good with and to take care of it. The symbiote taking on an altered Black Suit appearance with projecting eyes, underarm webbing and a different spider-emblem; Spider-Man takes off into the night, begrudgingly admitting that he and the symbiote make a good team and might be able to pull this off.

At the Columbia University Medical Center, Agent Anti-Venom tries to resuscitate Ultimate Spider-Man and calls for all available medical professionals to help him as he can only stabilize one at a time. As he demands the doctors respect the heroes' privacy and leave their masks on, Dr. Sha Shan Nguyen approaches, incredulous to see that her ex-husband is a superhero. Flash states he'll explain later, but is interrupted by Clash screaming in pain.

Elsewhere, Symbiote Spider-Man swings through the streets, trying to get in touch with Aunt May. Jameson - wearing the Spider-Slayer's helmet - calls him from Empire State University and says he already sent help to Mary Jane and that he's dug up something that will help him personally see to Aunt May's safety. Spider-Man berates him for getting Venom involved and then angrily hangs up on him. Jameson bitterly remarks that Peter thinks he doesn't know he screwed everything up, vowing to fix the fiasco he helped cause as he activates the helmet.

At May's apartment, the Superior Octopus struggles against the Goblin Childe, berating Normie for daring to even think about harming a woman as nice as May Reilly. The Goblin Childe sneers that killing May is the fastest way to hurt Spider-Man, and May angrily picks up a chair and smashes Normie with it, snapping that she used to babysit Normie and baked cookies for him. Unharmed, the Goblin Childe snarls that she deserves to die for putting raisins in them; and May prepares to join her late husbands in the afterlife. Before the Goblin Childe can attack, Jameson - controlling a Mark V Spider-Slayer - attacks both the Goblin Childe and Doctor Octopus, who berates him for assuming he is an enemy. The Red Goblin arrives and easily subdues the Superior Octopus, ripping the Spider-Slayer apart and declaring his intent to hunt them down and eat them. May confronts him, and the Red Goblin regains his composure, sarcastically apologizing for his symbiote-influenced outburst. Normie asks if he's going to kill May, and Norman mockingly asks May what message she wants him to write Spider-Man in her blood. May remarks that she doesn't care and won't give him the satisfaction, that she's lived a long life, and is neither afraid of him or what's to come.

Symbiote Spider-Man arrives just as the Red Goblin and Goblin Childe leave, Norman mocking him for taking so long and Normie asking if they can kill him now. When Spider-Man berates him for turning his grandson into a monster, Osborn tells him to look to his own family and that he has business to take care of first. Spider-Man is shocked to see a Spider-Slayer, Jameson apologizing through it and saying the tried his best to protect her but it wasn't enough. Livid, Spider-Man stomps on the machine's head; and Jameson removes the control helmet and picks up a loaded pistol. Spider-Man desperately searches for May, hearing a voice call out to him. He sees his aunt cradling a badly-wounded Superior Octopus, who had taken the brunt of the attack that had been meant for her. May asks Otto why he risked his life to save her, and he responds that despite all the evil he's done, he never stopped loving her since the day they first met. Spider-Man is incredulous, and May calls him out on that; stating that he taught her that anyone could be a hero, saving her time and again despite her irrational fear towards him. Spider-Man notes the last time he and Doctor Octopus had crossed paths had been as enemies and that he'd cost Otto everything; and Otto remarks that he still has Peter's memories and desire to do good from his time as the Superior Spider-Man, and could never let any harm befall their beloved aunt. Spider-Man remarks that saving his aunt's life has wiped the slate clean between them, and tells them both to get medical attention as quickly as possible. May asks Spider-Man to promise her to save Normie, who she states is an innocent being manipulated by his grandfather, and he swears he'll do so.

Spider-Man departs, angry and more determined than ever to take Norman down, and knowing exactly where the Red Goblin will strike next: Alchemax.

Arriving at Alchemax, the Red Goblin tells the Goblin Childe that Oscorp will be reborn and become their kingdom and empire. Osborn lectures that the company and Normie's father cast aside the Osborn name, but Normie is unenthusiastic until he offers to take him out for ice-cream and to kill people when they're done. Transforming their symbiotes into business suits, Norman and Normie enter the board room to find Liz Allan and Mark Raxton waiting with a stack of forms. Liz asks her son if he's alright, but Norman remarks that his grandson is better than fine and that it skips a generation. He notes that there's no security personnel, and Liz replies that's because he'd just kill them; Norman remarking that indiscriminate slaughter is fun and helps sell how serious he is. He notes that Harry isn't present, dismissing him as a weak little milksop; and Normie bitterly remarks that he's probably with Stanley. Liz gets right down to business, bluntly stating the terms of their transaction; to which Norman agrees, amused by her seriousness. She indicates the stack of paperwork in front of her and states that there is no legal way to hand the company over to him in any length of time, sarcastically taking a dig at Parker Industries. Norman shares a laugh over the joke before using the Carnage symbiote to briefly assume the form of Mason Banks, reminding her that he helped set Alchemax up and is aware of a beneficiary clause in Normie's name. Normie is surprised that his mother would do that for him, but Norman calls an end to the negotiations by picking up the boardroom table and smashing Raxton upside the head with it; telling Normie this is how an Osborn tables discussions.

Liz tells Normie that his grandpa has been planning to kill her and Harry all along, activating a signal as she declares that she's not going to let that happen. Perched on an old Goblin Glider, Harry Lyman enters the room accompanied by a swarm of Humanitron robots. Norman transforms into the Red Goblin, complaining that killing machines isn't any fun since they lack blood and guts. Harry grabs Normie and tries to pull him to safety, but his son transforms into the Goblin Childe and accuses Harry of abandoning him and never loving him. Harry states that he does love his firstborn son, and will never let go of him again - no matter what. Norman accuses Harry of coddling Normie and trying to make him weak and pathetic, firing a barrage of spikes that knocks Harry off his glider. As the Goblin Childe worriedly checks on his father; the Red Goblin grabs Liz by the throat and throws her out the window, fondly reminiscing about when he killed Gwen Stacy. Harry and the Goblin Childe are horrified, but Norman tells his grandson to get over it and grow up. Symbiote Spider-Man arrives, having caught Liz without accidentally breaking her neck, and furiously states that he'll never let Osborn win that way ever again. Realizing that Spider-Man is a hero, the Goblin Childe furiously attacks the Red Goblin to protect his parents. Enraged, the Red Goblin transforms his arm into a scythe, but Symbiote Spider-Man grabs his arm and states there's no way he's letting Osborn kill his godson. Harry rams the Red Goblin with his Goblin Glider, Norman griping about being impaled through the chest a third time as Spider-Man fondly recalls the Goblin's classic first death. Harry apologizes to Normie and hugs his son, who warns him to stay away as the symbiote lashes out and slashes at him. Transforming into his human form, Normie asks his parents what will happen to him, and Liz joins the hug and remarks they'll figure it out together.

Enraged at Spider-Man's continued interference, the Red Goblin rips the glider out of his chest and coats it with symbiote biomass to turn it into a Carnage Glider. Symbiote Spider-Man mocks Norman for constantly losing to the world's biggest screwup, causing the Red Goblin to smash him through the window and snarl that he's going to devour him.

As Spider-Man web-swings away, the Red Goblin mockingly states they've done this dozens of times before and he's well aware that Peter is trying to lead him away from his friends and loved ones. Symbiote Spider-Man retorts that despite having the power of the Carnage symbiote, Norman is at his least effective - having set out to kill everyone Peter Parker ever loved and failed miserably at doing so. Affecting a singsong tone, the Red Goblin tells Symbiote Spider-Man that the spikes he'd been firing at everyone are under his control, and all along he's been planning to use them to shred the brains of those he impaled with them - killing them in an agonizing manner. Horrified that Norman would do something like that to his own son, Symbiote Spider-Man lunges at his nemesis as the Red Goblin gloats that he'll kill everyone Spider-Man ever cared about and that this will teach Spider-Man to stop messing with his stuff. The Red Goblin snaps his fingers... and is surprised when nothing happens.

Flash Thompson - the Anti-Venom symbiote barely covering him - lands on the roof of a nearby apartment and explains that he used almost all of the Anti-Venom to extract the spikes the Red Goblin left in everyone and heal them. Symbiote Spider-Man celebrates, then realizes Flash addressed him by his real name and asks how he found out. Flash remarks that he pieced it together after overhearing Spider-Man talking to Silk, asking if they're even for the times he bullied him. Symbiote Spider-Man responds that he forgave Flash a long time ago; but the Red Goblin interrupts, his Carnage Glider chomping down on Spider-Man's arm and flying away with him. The Red Goblin furiously attacks Flash for ruining his revenge, tackling him off the roof of the apartment. As they fall, Flash mocks him and tries to use the last of the Anti-Venom symbiote to burn away the Carnage symbiote; but the Red Goblin sneers that Flash might have been able to beat him if he hadn't used up the Anti-Venom symbiote healing his allies. Revealing that he's wearing his Green Goblin outfit under the symbiote, the Red Goblin pins Flash to the ground and electrocutes him with his finger blasters. Symbiote Spider-Man lets out a scream of rage and sprouts a fanged maw and prehensile tongue, Venomizing as he rips the Carnage Glider apart. As the berserk Spider-Venom dives towards him, the Red Goblin quips that he likes Peter's bulky new look and that he must be working out. Cratering the pavement as he lands, Spider-Venom snarls that he's going to kill Osborn and punches him - sending the Red Goblin flying across the city and smashing through several high rises. As Spider-Venom roars that he's going to eat Osborn's brains, Flash calls out to Peter and urges him to calm down and not let his rage infect the symbiote; stating that he helped the symbiote become good and Peter risks undoing that. As Flash begs Peter to not be the reason the symbiote becomes a bloodthirsty monster again, Spider-Venom reverts to his slender form; Symbiote Spider-Man apologizing for losing control and remarking that they need to get Flash to a hospital. Flash replies that there's no time, telling Peter that he doesn't have enough Anti-Venom left to heal himself. When Peter offers to return the Venom symbiote to him, Flash refuses out of fear that it would die as well and deprive Peter of the edge he needs. Informing Peter that his berserk punch sent the Red Goblin into the heart of the city, Flash tells Spider-Man that people need him; calling Peter his hero and his friend before dying from his injuries.

Crashing down into the middle of Times Square, the Red Goblin finds himself surrounded by confused and curious civilians, some of whom crowd around him for selfies under the assumption that he's an actor. A man in a Spider-Man costume approaches, mistaking Osborn for a rival performer and berating him, and the Red Goblin promptly impales him. As the Red Goblin cackles gleefully, Symbiote Spider-Man arrives, the Red Goblin noting that Spider-Man has gone quiet and stopped cracking jokes. He has the sudden epiphany that Spider-Man values the people of New York as much as his loved ones; unleashing an omnidirectional barrage of Carnage Bombs. Spider-Man tries to save as many people as he can, but several are still injured and killed by the explosions. As Times Square goes up in flames, Symbiote Spider-Man tells the police to stay back. The Red Goblin tackles him into the midst of the inferno and begins throttling him, sneering that Spider-Man is weak because of his unwillingness to unleash the Venom Symbiote’s bloodlust. As the Red Goblin gloats that Norman Osborn is finally victorious and that this will be his greatest moment of triumph, Spider-Man suddenly realizes what Norman's greatest weakness is: his ego. Capitalizing on this, he tells Osborn that everyone will know the Green Goblin wasn't the one who killed Spider-Man, but the Carnage symbiote, and by extension, Cletus Kasady. Horrified, Osborn imagines Cletus Kasady jubilant at getting the credit for having killed Spider-Man, and staggers backwards - clawing at his head and screaming at the voices to shut up and that he's in control.

Spider-Man seperates from the Venom symbiote and tells it to return to Eddie, assuring it that he'll be alright and telling it to be careful of the flames. Back in his red-and-blues, Spider-Man continues to mock the Red Goblin's reliance on the Carnage symbiote, stating that it's Osborn's move if he wants to win for himself. Osborn snaps and tears the Carnage symbiote off himself, shouting that he never needed it and that the Green Goblin is his real self and all he ever needed to kill Spider-Man. A nearby car explodes, knocking Spider-Man to the ground; and the Green Goblin triumphantly delivers a brutal beatdown, remarking that Peter was right and that it feels much more satisfying; gloating that he's always been superior to Spider-Man due to not relying on anyone but himself. Picking himself up, Spider-Man returns the beatdown; recalling all the loved ones he lost throughout the years, the friends and allies counting on him to win, and the soldier who sacrificed himself. As the Green Goblin collapses, Spider-Man says that he's not going to kill Osborn to avenge Flash, but web him up with a note pinned to him like he would a common crook. Osborn calls out to the Carnage symbiote to save him, but as it moves to rebond to him Spider-Man realizes that it's lost its invulnerability to fire. Grabbing a gas tank, he smashes it open and pours the gas on the symbiote, immolating it just as it touches Osborn's hand. Spider-Man picks himself up and calls out for Osborn to show himself, but Osborn's only response is to mumble gibberish with a broken smile. Spider-Man guesses he felt the Carnage symbiote's agony as it burnt to death, destroying his mind. Surveying the ruins of Times Square, Spider-Man remarks that he can't mark the battle down as a win given how many people lost their lives, but that at least it's over.

J. Jonah Jameson arrives and pulls out his pistol, taking aim at the Green Goblin's head and saying that Osborn's not fooling anyone with the act. Spider-Man tells him to stand down, but Jonah replies that Osborn will keep coming back and killing their loved ones unless someone puts him down for good, and that since the debacle is his fault he's going to be the one who ends it. Jonah pulls the trigger, but Spider-Man dives in front of the Green Goblin and takes the bullet in his shoulder. Johah asks why Spider-Man would go out of his way to save his worst enemy, and Spider-Man replies that he had the power and responsibility to save everyone, even his enemies. Dropping the gun, Jonah runs off in shame as the Green Goblin mutters gibberish to himself.

At Ravencroft, Colonel John Jameson tells Spider-Man that he's breaking a lot of rules letting him in the Institute; asking what happened to his arm. Spider-Man remarks that Jameson's father shot him, then asks for a moment alone with Norman Osborn. Alone, Spider-Man demands to know if Osborn is planning on telling anyone who he is under his mask. Initially confused, Osborn states in a sing-song tone that he knows who Spider-Man is under his mask: the world's biggest screwup... Norman Osborn. Bemused, Spider-Man asks who he is speaking to, and Osborn retorts that he's Cletus Kasady before breaking out in a fit of maniacal laughter. Walking away, Spider-Man notes that if this is an act then Osborn deserves an Oscar; but it looks like he paid the ultimate price for his ego.

At Alchemax's R&D lab, Liz Allan and Harry Lyman watch as Dr. Steve uses a sonic cascade to separate Normie Osborn from his portion of the Carnage symbiote. When Harry asks if she's going to destroy it, Liz says that she wants it securely contained and studied in case of any complications. Once the procedure is finished, Normie hugs his mother, who tells Mark to take their latest acquisition and make sure it's stored securely in someplace private.

Harry reunites with his mother and Stanley, forgiving her for abandoning him when he was a baby. Reclaiming the Osborn name, Harry states that he's going to make it mean something good and be the kind of father Norman never was for him, for both his sons. As he embraces Normie and says he loves him no matter what, Normie ominously replies that's good to know, tendrils of the Carnage symbiote spreading across his eye.

At Flash Thompson's funeral, his friends and comrades stand in attendance as Betty Brant reads a eulogy before calling Peter Parker up. Peter pays his respects, reminiscing about their early enmity before Flash had found a hero to look up to in Spider-Man and joined the military to make something better of himself. Peter remarks that he himself can be a bully - referencing his behavior as Spider-Man - and says that he'll try to follow Flash's example to better himself, saying he's Flash's number-one fan.

Aunt May approaches Peter after the service and gently scolds him for being so hard on himself, saying that she's proud of the person he's become. She tells him to patch his relationship with Jonah, and Peter tells Jonah that the weight of making a mistake and seeing innocents and loved ones die because of it is one that he's felt since he was fifteen. Peter tells Jonah that if Flash were there he'd forgive him, and that he forgives Jonah too. Before Jonah can respond, a siren goes off and Jonah tells Peter to stop standing around wasting time talking when he's needed elsewhere. Peter teases Jonah for admitting Spider-Man's necessary before running off. Grumbling to himself, Jonah gathers and folds Peter's discarded clothes before they get wrinkled, remarking that Peter is helpless without him.

As he swings over the city, Spider-Man thinks to himself that everyone is special in one way or another, and that no matter how many times you fall, you pick yourself back up and keep fighting the good fight.

At the Horizon University in San Francisco, Otto Octavius introduces himself to Max Modell using the pseudonym Elliot Tolliver. Max gives Otto a tour of the facility, showing him Anna Maria Marconi's new "Living Brain-Bots" - small robots modelled after the Living Brain and Octobots. Anna Maria becomes suspicious of Otto, but he and Max walk away before she can confront him.

Max shows Otto to his new lab and remarks that Otto's recent breakthroughs have been extraordinary and that he's expecting great things from him. Otto replies that he will endeavor to exceed Max's expectations, quipping that he always strives to be superior.

REVIEW

And Dan Slott scores another amazing story for Spider-man.

During the Sinister Twelve saga, I complained that some writers were relying too much on nostalgia. Well, this one also does, but in a different way. It feels more like a continuation than a re-do. And to me, it works as a reboot of the Green Goblin (as he ends up where he was before he died the first time). What complicated things at the beginning of this story was the fact that Norman didn’t remember why he killed Gwen Stacy (thanks to Mephisto, I suppose). But even if you don’t know why, it doesn’t take away from the story.

Flash Thompson dies in this story, but to be honest, I know enough about comics to not care about characters dying at Marvel. It’s been a year since this story came out and he is still dead, but he’ll come back, surely.

To make things worse on Flash Thompson, the moment Peter told him he forgave him a long time ago, it was like the writer saying, “and now you die”.

Immonen is one of my favourite artists in comics, and he did an amazing job here. Issue #800 has a lot of other artists, and that tone mix doesn’t work that well. Mostly because each of them has a unique style.

In the end, this is one of those Spider-man stories you have to read.

I give the story a score of 9

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hellzyeahthewebwieldingavenger · 5 years

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I know dan Slott can’t write Spider-Man, but I have to admit there are like two lines from his run from Spidey that genuinely made me laugh. His reaction to Morlun having an older brother and immediately going ‘Everyone in the portal now!!’ Made me laugh. And his reaction to Red Goblin being ‘F&$k me’. also got a chuckle. But like you’ve said, even a broken clock strikes noon on rare occasion.

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thehonestreader · 5 years

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The Superior Spider-Man, Volume Two: A Troubled Mind by Dan Slott, Humberto Ramos, Ryan Stegman

Rating: A

Is Spider-Man’s time as an Avenger up? After his erratic behavior and violent actions against his enemies, the Avengers are thinking of revoking his membership. Meanwhile, a small part of the real Peter Parker still exists, trying desperately to get people to notice that he’s not himself. But all his effort only draws Otto’s attention. And Otto is going to fix his Parker problem, once and for all.

Yet another volume where I have to say that Doc Ock is a pretty damn good Spider-Man. I’m sorry Pete, but he’s just better at this.

I kind of did myself a disservice since I’m reading these series out of order. I vaguely know where this story is going to go, and obviously I know that Peter is going to come back since I read Amazing Spider-Man and that takes place after this. Now I wish I had started my Spidey adventures somewhere else so I didn’t spoil things for myself. Maybe the Big Time run, but hindsight, right?

This volume has a few more good chuckle moments. There’s a few cheap laughs but I love those parts. By far my favorite thing so far about this series is that it’s just plain fun. It’s goofy. It’s such an odd Spider-Man story. But it’s entertaining and it does a great job of it.

-Review by C.M.

#the superior spider-man #the superior spiderman #superior spider-man #superior spiderman #dan slott #humberto ramos #ryan stegman #marvel #marvel comics #comic #comics #graphic novel #fiction #book review #a #spider-man #spiderman

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car-crash-comics · 7 years

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This was a bumper size issue containing seven stories. This is gonna be a long one! Title: The Amazing Spider-Man Issue Number: 25 Publisher: Marvel Writer: Dan Slott, Christos Gage, Jacob Chabot, James Asmus, Hannah Blumenreich, Cale Atkinson Artist: Stuart Immnonen, Todd Nauck, Ray-Anthony Height, Tana Ford, Hannah Blumenreich, Cale Atkinson, Giuseppe Camuncoli. What I Liked: The Osborn Identity Part One: Bug Hunt: This story had it all; action, adventure, shock, romance and of course some Spidey humour. This part of the issue was packed full of special guests and supporting cast. A great start to Spider-Mans next big story. Police & Thieves: The return of Clash! I like Clash, he's a newish villain who reminds Spidey and the reader that the line between right and wrong isn't always clear. This was the lighter issue we needed after The Clone Conspiracy. Spider-Man Tsum-Up: It was good to see one of Spider-Mans C-List baddies in action and White Rabbit's Rabbittech Suit was good fun. Shanghai: This was a reminder of the state of Parker Industries that had Spidey go up against two lesser known villains (I had to google them!) A little slice of action. Mutts Ado About Nothing: It was nice to have another young Spidey story, grown up Spider-Mans been very grown up of late, and Peter rescuing a stray dog was cute, funny and heartwarming. The A-May-Zing Spider-Aunt: Some funny little comic strips. Good for a chuckle. Amazing Spider-Man Secret Empire Teaser: Otto in the protoclone showing off his new powers! Secret labs, hydra goons, classic villains and the reveal of The Superior Octopus! I loved every page of this story! What I Didn't Like: The Osborn Identity Part One: Bug Hunt: This story feels like it's going to be a very big, hard hitting story. Something a little more fun and light might have been a good break from all the drama of recent issues. Police & Thieves: This was a good story but it was a bit short. Spider-Man Tsum-Up: Although I like Tsum-Tsums I don't want to read a comic about them. This story felt like it was aimed at someone 20 years younger than me in a bad way. Basically a glorified advert. Shanghai: I didn't know the bad guys, I don't much care for the PI staff (They always seem grumpy and stand-offish) and I couldn't care less about Parker Industries. So I didn't really enjoy this story very much. Mutts Ado About Nothing: What happens to Sandwich the dog? Animal control take him away and then what? A very disappointing ending to what could have been a really nice story. The A-May-Zing Spider-Aunt: Nothing to dislike here really. Two pages of fun. Amazing Spider-Man Secret Empire Teaser: I'm not sure if I think that Doc Ock joining Hydra fits well. Unless he's in charge, he doesn't play well with others. Overall: A very expensive collection of hit and miss stories. Where it hits, it hits well, but where it misses it misses badly. Rating: 4/5

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gokinjeespot · 5 years

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off the rack #1259

Monday, April 29, 2019

I was at a birthday party for a 7-year-old on the weekend and while I was holding his baby brother I couldn't help but wonder what kind of world will they be living in when they are my age. I worry about their future. The flooding in the National Capital Region is predicted to be worse than it was only two years ago when we had the highest water levels in a century. It's going to exceed that when waters crest in the next couple of days. I can't imagine what property owners are going through trying to save their homes and cottages. I don't understand how some people can deny climate change when the evidence of the harm that we humans have had on the environment is smacking them right in the face. I'm afraid things are going to get worse without it getting any better.

War of the Realms #2 - Jason Aaron (writer) Russell Dauterman (art) Matthew Wilson (colours) VC's Joe Sabino (letters). This issue has the first major death of a character. Not an A-lister but I will still mourn their passing.

Spider-Man Life Story #2 The '70s - Chip Zdarsky (writer) Mark Bagley (pencils) Drew Hennessy (inks) Frank D'Armata (colours) VC's Travis Lanham (letters). Now I'm more than convinced that this is a series of what if stories. There are so many deviations from canon in this issue that it's inconceivable that these events are "real". I'm still going to keep reading because these changes are cool.

Naomi #4 - Brian Michael Bendis & David F. Walker (writers) Jamal Campbell (art) Wes Abbott (letters). Naomi's origin story begins at last. She's not an Earthling.

Daredevil #4 - Chip Zdarsky (writer) Marco Checchetto (art) Sunny Gho (colours) VC's Clayton Cowles (letters). The Punisher and Daredevil have a debate about vigilantism. I like Frank's arguments. Meanwhile, Mayor Kingpin tries to get his hooks into Detective North. I wonder if the bigger man will get to the big man. One thing that bothered me about this issue is that Matt left Frank tied up for the cops. Not very nice since Frank saved his ass from them.

Thor #12 - Jason Aaron (writer) Mike del Mundo (art) VC's Joe Sabino (letters). "The War of the Lokis" features Loki as he travels down the gullet of his father Laufey. Don't tell me you didn't read the last issue. Get thee hence and do so forthwith.

West Coast Avengers #10 - Kelly Thompson (writer) Moy R. (art) Triona Farrell (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). This is the last issue and that makes me have a sad face. I really liked this silly crazy team. If Kelly Thompson ever writes a Kid Omega/Quentin Quire and Gwenpool comic book I will definitely read it.

Avengers LGY #717: No Road Home #10 - Mark Waid, Jim Zub & Al Ewing (writers) Sean Izaakse (art) Marcio Menyz & Erick Arciniega (colours) VC's Joe Sabino (letters). When this 10-issue weekly started it looked like this was an adventure for Hercules's team of Avengers and it ultimately was. The end result is that the good guys win again and Nyx is defeated. Hercules wasn't the hero of this story and schmaltzy as the way the actual hero wins, it still made me cheer. So all this was so Marvel could revamp the Gods of Olympus and Hercules's costume. I chuckled when they revealed what that house was about. I thought that it was the House of Mystery but that belongs to the Distinguished Competition.

The Amazing Spider-Man #19.HU - Nick Spencer (writer) Chris Bachalo (pencils) Wayne Faucher, Livesay, Jaime Mendoza, Victor Olazaba, Tim Townsend & Al Vey (inks) Erick Arciniega (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). The Lizard is featured in this "Hunted" tie-in. It's nice to see Chris Bachalo's art back on the racks.

Action Comics #1010 - Brian Michael Bendis (writer) Steve Epting (art) Brad Anderson (colours) Josh Reed (letters). Leviathan Rises part 4. I like this spy story. Lois and Clark go undercover as Chaz and Andi to find out what Leviathan is. There's a great teaser for an old Checkmate story that had me going there. I would love to see that organisation again. Next issue promises Leviathan Revealed! I can't wait.

The Avant-Guards #4 - Carly Usdin (writer) Noah Hayes (art) Rebecca Nalty (colours) Ed Dukeshire (letters). I like this rom-com centered around an arts college basketball team. It reminds me of a lighter "The L Word".

Black Widow #4 - Jen & Sylvia Soska (writers) Flaviano (art) Veronica Gandini (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). There's a double-cross that surprised me and a cliffhanger ending that makes waiting for the next issue torture. Appropriate for a story where Nat takes down an extremely violent website.

Doctor Strange #13 - Mark Waid (writer) Barry Kitson (pencils) Scott Koblish & Scott Hanna (inks) Brian Reber (colours) VC's Cory Petit (letters). Herald Supreme part 2. I liked the surprise guest star.

Hulkverines #3 - Greg Pak (writer) Ario Anindito (art) Morry Hollowell (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). Okay, this Hulkverine, Hulk and Wolverine team-up was fun but the end made me roll my eyes and groan big time. Ugh.

Ironheart #5 - Eve L. Ewing (writer) Luciano Vecchio (art) Geoffo (layouts) Matt Milla (colours) VC's Clayton Cowles (letters). This issue finishes the first story arc involving the super villain Midnight's Fire. It was good enough that I enjoyed what I read but not good enough to make me keep this book on my "must read" list. I wish RiRi well. I was excited by an ad for a new Black Cat comic book coming out in June though.

Thanos #1 - Tini Howard (writer) Ariel Olivetti (art) Antonio Fabela (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). This 6-issue story will tell us how Gamora came to be adopted by Thanos. I only picked this up because I really like Ariel Olivetti's art. I don't care much for the two main characters so I might not continue with the rest. Fans of Thanos and Gamora will enjoy this I'm sure.

Runaways #20 - Rainbow Rowell (writer) Andres Genolet (art) Triona Farrell (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). I found this issue to be a big drag. The last page is too depressing for words. Plus the new artist didn't wow me. Something needs to happen next issue for me to want to keep reading.

War of the Realms: The Punisher #1 - Gerry Duggan (writer) Marcelo Ferreira (pencils) Roberto Poggi (inks) Rachelle Rosenberg (colours) VC's Cory Petit (letters). It's Frank versus Dark Elves and Frost Giants. They won't know what hit them. This is typical Punisher fare for those into explosive action. Frank leads a band of ex-cons armed with swords through the Lincoln Tunnel to help evacuate a hospital to safety. I miss reading a good Punisher story so this is a welcome sight on the racks.

War of the Realms: War Scrolls #1 - This anthology book has four short stories all lettered by VC's Joe Sabino.

"The God Without Fear part 1" by Jason Aaron (writer) Andrea Sorrentino (art) & Matthew Wilson (colours) features Daredevil fighting in Hell's Kitchen.

"The Warriors Three (Or Four)" by Josh Trujillo (writer) Ricardo Lopez Ortiz (art) Felipe Sobreiro (colours) features Fandral, Hogun and Hildegarde filling in for the unconscious Volstagg teaming up with Cloak and Dagger.

"Nice Shot, Frank" by Ram V (writer) Cafu (art) Brian Reber (colours) has the Punisher and Wolverine doing what they do best.

"Waugh of the Realms" by Chip Zdarsky (writer) Joe Quinones (art) Joe Rivera (ink assist) Rico Renzi (colours) has Howard "The Duck" Duckson hired to find a lost dog. This last one was gross.

This is for fans who want to collect ALL the War of the Realms comic books. Otherwise you can probably give it a pass.

Batman #69 - Tom King (writer) Yanick Paquette (art) Nathan Fairbairn (colours) Clayton Cowles (letters). Knightmares finale. This issue is called "The Last Dance" and I don't know what song Batman and Catwoman are dancing to but I am singing the Etta James ballad "At Last" in my head. After many issues of dream sequences Batman is going to finally awaken. I did appreciate the explanation of how he got into his predicament. Now it's time to deal with Bane and Bruce's "father".

Blossoms 666 #3 - Cullen Bunn (writer) Laura Braga (art) Matt Herms (colours) Jack Morelli (letters). One of the three Blossoms is going to become the anti-christ. Yeah, you heard me. Cheryl and Jason were born as triplets. Their older brother Julian was whisked away at birth by the Order of Abaddon. Ooo, scary.

Ascender #1 - Jeff Lemire (writer) Dustin Nguyen (art) Steve Wands (letters). I never did finish reading Descender so I don't know if this is a sequel but it really looked familiar. I didn't feel like I was missing anything in this new story and I liked the mix of magic and technology. The villain reminded me of Emperor Palpatine but her empire is all based on magic. The hero is a spunky girl named Mila and I want to see where she goes from here.

Guardians of the Galaxy #4 - Donny Cates (writer) Geoff Shaw (art) David Curiel (colours) VC's Cory Petit (letters). The good guys find Gamora, followed by the bad guys. Expect to see a big battle. The main reason I'm reading this book again is because Groot is talking in whole sentences now.

Detective Comics #1002 - Peter J. Tomasi (writer) Brad Walker (pencils) Andrew Hennessy (inks) Nathan Fairbairn (colours) Rob Leigh (letters). Don't believe the hype. It's not a "duel to the death with Arkham Knight" but it is a pretty good fight. I was happy to see Damian play a bigger role in this issue. I'm sticking around for the bad guy's origin story.

Fantastic Four #9 - Dan Slott (writer) Aaron Kuder, Stefano Caselli & Paco Medina (art) Erick Arciniega (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). The FF escape, Galactus is freed and Doctor Doom's power mad plans are thwarted. Boy that was fun. I hope they don't leave Aunt Petunia's before telling us about Franklin's new friend Wendy.

Dial H for Hero #2 - Sam Humphries (writer) Joe Quinones (art) Jordan Gibson (colours) Dave Sharpe (letters). Seems like the H-Dial is a drug with lots of addicts looking for a fix. The potential for zany super powers is huge. I liked how they introduced the good versus evil theme in this issue.

Avengers #18/LGY #718 - Jason Aaron (writer) Ed McGuinness (pencils) Mark Morales (inks) Justin Ponsor (colours) VC's Cory Petit (letters). Not an Avenger in sight this whole issue but you've got an Agent Coulson controlled Squadron Supreme instead. What made me groan a little was the big villain reveal at the end. I hope it's not a convenient deus ex machina.

Heroes in Crisis #8 - Tom King (writer) Mitch Gerads (art pages 1, 6-20) Ryan Sook (art pages 2-5) Mitch Gerads (colours) Clayton Cowles (letters). I still don't see the ;point of this story with one issue left. I think the killer confesses here but I'm not sure. I'm waiting for the consequences to hit the fan and hope something is resolved in the last issue.

The Amazing Spider-Man #20 - Nick Spencer (writer) Humberto Ramos (pencils) Victor Olazaba (inks) Edgar Delgado & Erick Arciniega (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). Hunted part 4. A surprise twist turns the tables giving Spider-Man even more incentive to confront Kraven. Meanwhile the son turns on the father as Kraven's son joins the hunt.

The Superior Spider-Man #5 - Christos Gage (writer) Mike Hawthorne (pencils) Wade von Grawbadger & Andy Owens (inks) Jordie Bellaire (colours) VC's Clayton Cowles (letters). I don't know who created the super villain Master Pandemonium but they must have been on crack. This guy has demons for arms and a hole in his stomach that's a gateway to hell. Time for Doctor Octopus to call in a consult. The team-up with Doctor Strange is a clash of science and magic. Let's see who's the better doctor.

Miles Morales: Spider-Man #5 - Saladin Ahmed (writer) Javier Garron (art) David Curiel (colours) VC's Cory Petit (letters). Speculator alert! It's the first appearance of a new super hero. Too bad they're named after unwelcome guests to our bird feeders. It's gang wars across Brooklyn and Miles is trying to prevent the death of innocent victims. The surprise appearance happens when Miles goes to confront Tombstone about his incursions into other gangs' territories. I noticed some changes in Miles this issue that didn't appeal to me. I think he's acting way too confident and macho now. His maturing has happened way too fast and might turn me off the character. If the art wasn't so impressive I might bench this book now.

Spider-Man City at War #2 - Dennis "Hopeless" Hallum (writer) Michele Bandini (art) David Curiel (colours) VC's Travis Lanham (letters). I get a kick from noting the differences between these Gamerverse versions and the MU versions. This issue features Miles Morales and I prefer this Miles to the one in the comic book that I just finished. Peter and Miles meet for the first time but it's not in a friendly neighbourhood.

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gokinjeespot · 6 years

Text

off the rack #1222

Monday, July 23, 2018

The rains finally came. I hope it's enough to save farmers' crops. Now we don't have to worry as much about wild fires like what's happening in northwest Ontario and parts of BC. We have friends living close to both fires and I'm worried they may be in danger.

Kick-Ass #6 - Mark Millar (writer) John Romita Jr. (pencils) Peter Steigerwald (digital inks & colours) John Workman (letters). An unbelievable getaway concludes this story. I was very happy with the way this ended. Mrs. Lee's story continues on September 19.

Runaways #11 - Rainbow Rowell (writer) Kris Anka (art) Matthew Wilson (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). This is a good issue to start with if you want a very good comic book about family. There's no big super villain threat or world shattering event, just the kids trying to live their odd lives and loving each other. I want to be Molly's granddad.

The Life of Captain Marvel #1 - Margaret Stohl (writer) Marguerite Sauvage (art flashbacks) Carlos Pacheco (pencils present day) Rafael Fonteriz (inks present day) Marcio Menyz (colours) VC's Clayton Cowles (letters). It's time to give Carol Danvers another crack at the racks with this new book. Marvel's Captain Marvel has come a long way since the Kree in the green costume first hit the racks in 1967. The original was named Mar-Vell and was a Kree soldier so the super hero name was a no brainer. It was a big deal for me when Mar-Vell died of cancer. That story by Jim Starlin was a milestone. Carol Danvers has had many transformations since she first appeared soon after Mar-Vell did. She went from being Ms. Marvel (1977) to Binary (1982) to Warbird (1998) and finally to Captain Marvel (2012). Lots of costume changes too. I vaguely remember Carol receiving her super powers and taking on the mantle of Captain Marvel and now she is even starring in her own Marvel movie hitting theatres next spring. There's a rich history if you want to go back and read those old stories but the creative team did a splendid job of starting this new series off with all you need to know to see what Captain Marvel and especially Carol Danvers is all about. I like the new costume. Still not a fan of the sash.

Batman #51 - Tom King (writer) Lee Weeks (art) Elizabeth Breitweiser (colours) Clayton Cowles (letters). Cold Days part 1. I laughed when I got to the final panel. Saw that coming when the jury started their deliberations. So forget the wedding that wasn't. This new story is the murder trial of Mr. Freeze. He is accused of killing three women and it was the Batman that had him arrested. Guess who got called in for jury duty? Two things tickled my fancy. Lee drew the prosecutor looking like a certain blind attorney and with Bruce Wayne sequestered someone has to keep Gotham City's criminal element fearful. Substitute Batman gave me a chuckle. Tom King solidifies his position as one of my favourite comic book writers right now.

The Magic Order #2 - Mark Millar (writer) Olivier Coipel (art) Dave Stewart (colours) Peter Doherty (letters). This issue starts off with the origin story of Cordelia Moonstone and it's a hoot. She's one of the good guys but only because of family. When we jump back to the present, the evil magicians continue to kill the good magicians. This war with magic is a treat to read. I hope there's a variant cover for #3 because the one printed in this issue is super sexy and would shock some people.

Old Man Hawkeye #7 - Ethan Sacks (writer) Ibraim Roberson (art pages 1 - 19) Marco Checchetto (art page 20) Andres Mossa (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). Flashback 45 years to find out why Clint has a vendetta against the Thunderbolts. This issue is a great example of the difference between a comic book with a "Parental Advisory" warning and one with a "Teen+" warning. Showing what the bad guys do to the good guys during this super hero versus super villains fight would upset delicate sensibilities. I can't wait to see Clint get bushwhacked.

Tony Stark Iron Man #2/602 - Dan Slott (writer) Valerio Schiti (art) Edgar Delgado (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). I don't know why Alexander Lozano (cover artist) swiped Steve Ditko's Amazing Spider-Man #33 cover for this issue since Iron Man doesn't even come close to being caught in this situation. There are a couple of mysteries that make me want to keep reading. One is something cryptic about Tony's resurrection and the other is an old character who shows up unexpectedly.

Thor #3/709 - Jason Aaron (writer) Mike del Mundo (art) Marco D'Alfonso (colour assists) VC's Joe Sabino (letters). If you're sad that the wedding of Batman and Catwoman was called off, come on over to this comic book to witness Hela and Balder's nuptials. The War of the Realms in Hel has turned out to be a lot of fun. When they get to the part of the wedding ceremony where they ask if anyone has any objections to the union, you won't believe who does. There's a lot going on in this story and I can't wait to find out what happens when Thor goes knock, knock, knocking on heaven's door.

The Immortal Hulk #3/720 - Al Ewing (writer) Joe Bennett (pencils framing sequence) Ruy Jose (inks framing sequence) Paul Mounts (colours except where indicated) VC's Cory Petit (letters except where indicated). I like this new creepy and eerie take on the big green galoot. This issue is called "Point of View" and is about four witnesses' accounts of what happened in a church during a hostage situation involving the Hulk. There's the cop's story with Leonardo Romero (art); the bartender's story with Paul Hornschemeier (art, colours & letters); the old lady's story with Marguerite Sauvage (art & colours) and the priest's story with Garry Brown (art). It's funny how attitude changes what people see. The issue ends in Vancouver, Canada (Hello, The Comicshop) with a call from Walter Langkowski AKA Alpha Flight's very own Sasquatch. Oh, and what a great cover eh?

Avengers #5/695 - Jason Aaron (writer) Paco Medina & Ed McGuinness (pencils) Juan Vlasco with Mark Morales and Karl Story (inks) David Curiel (colours) VC's Cory Petit (letters). Turns out this is "The Secret Origin of the Marvel Universe" so pay attention all you Marvel fans. This is so ridiculously over the top it's funny. Jason keeps ramping up the threats and the heroics with no end in sight. This reminds me of when Galactus first appeared. I want Jason Aaron to write a Ghost Rider book and a solo Loki book. If David Curiel doesn't win an award for Best Colorist of the year he will be robbed. As far as super hero comic books go, this issue gets a 10 out of 10.

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gokinjeespot · 6 years

Text

off the rack #1189

Monday, November 20, 2017

Ottawa ComicCon put on a special edition Holiday con this past weekend so I went to check it out because it was FREE admission. Still had to pay $8 to park at the EY Centre though. The main reason I went was to pick up the book D&D&D (D)ungeons & (D)ragons & (D)oodles The Tabletop Fantasy Art of Tom Fowler since Tom was there. Much to my surprise Craig Taillefer was sitting next to him on one side and Ronn Sutton was on the other. I spent a happy half hour geeking out and swapping stories with them. After Tom signed my copy and generously drew a sketch inside I walked around the venue checking out the booths. It's been years since I've attended a con and I was impressed by some of the set-ups. Still, the comic vendors looked like the ones that sold stuff 30 years ago. Same tables of long boxes and makeshift walls for the wall books. I saw a lot of old Snail customers that I haven't seen in years. Some I recognized and some that I didn't. They all knew me though. The reaction of some folks was "what is he doing here?" looks that made me grin. I ended my sojourn hanging out with my Jee-Riz partner Chris as he helped at a friends booth. I can't say that I'll go to another con but I'm glad I went to this one.

Action Comics #991 - Dan Jurgens (writer & breakdown art) Viktor Bogdanovic (pencils) Viktor Bogdanovic, Trevor Scott & Scott Hanna (inks) Mike Spicer (colours) Rob Leigh (letters). "The Oz Effect" concludes with the question of whether Mr. Oz was Jor-El or not left unanswered. Throw in a mysterious super powerful villain and it's more than enough to keep me reading. I liked Viktor's slimmer Superman. He looks more natural than the muscle bound version that Nick Bradshaw & Brad Anderson drew for the cover.

Runaways #3 - Rainbow Rowell (writer) Kris Anka (art) Matthew Wilson (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). It's time to catch up with Karolina Dean as Gert tries to get the team back together again. Karolina used to be one hot mess but she's a lot better now thanks to therapy. I am really looking forward to next issue when the gang goes to find Molly, my favourite Runaway.

Wildstorm: Michael Cray #2 - Bryan Hill (writer) N. Steven Harris (pencils) Dexter Vines (inks) Dearbhla Kelly (colours) Simon Bowland (letters). Michael's first assignment is to kill Oliver Queen. Yep, that Oliver Queen, the Green Arrow guy. His next assignment is to target another well known name. These characters are bad guys in the Wildstorm universe and I think that's cool.

Spider-Man Deadpool #23 - Robbie Thompson (writer) Chris Bachalo (pencils) Tim Townsend, Al Vey & Richard Friend (inks) Chris Bachalo (colours) VC's Joe Sabino (letters). Spider-Man tries to arrest Deadpool and mindless mayhem ensues. So a typical issue of Spider-Man Deadpool. But wait, what's with this lovely art that looks like the old Doctor Strange comic book? Why yes, it's Chris Bachalo. I am so happy and will be ogling the rest of "Arms Race" with glee.

Star Wars #38 - Kieron Gillen (writer) Salvador Larroca (art) Guru-eFX (colours) VC's Clayton Cowles (letters). "The Ashes of Jedha" starts here. We've got Luke, Leia and Han trying to contact fighters against the Empire on the planet Jedha. That's where the Empire wants to strip mine the planet's Kyber crystals. The partisans appear to not want to play nice though. We'll see how the gang gets out of this fine mess.

Not Brand Echh #14 - It was difficult finding every issue of the 13 issue run of the original series on the spinner racks back in the late sixties but I bought and read every one that I could. This title made fun of my favourite Marvel comic books back then and this latest issue doesn't spare the House of (sometimes bad) Ideas. It got a couple of genuine chuckles out of me so that's about $2.50 Canadian per chuckle. Here are the comedy sketches and their creative teams. Secret Empire Abridged: Nick Spencer (writer) Scott Koblish (art) Nick Filardi (colours). Better Than Canon: Katie Cook (writer& art). Gwenpool Absorbs the Marvel Universe: Christopher Hastings (writer) Gurihiru (art). Marvel Behind the Scenes: Nick Kocher (writer) Brian Churilla (art) Chris O'Halloran (colours). Love Can Be Nuts: Ryan North (writer) Erica Henderson (art). The Not Next Issue Page: Chip Zdarsky (writer & art). Forbush Man Returns parts 1 to 4: Jay Fosgitt (writer & art). The whole issue was lettered by VC's Clayton Cowles (letters).

Batman #35 - Tom King (writer) Joelle Jones (art) Jordie Bellaire (colours) Clayton Cowles (letters). "Rules of Engagement" concludes with a terrific sword fight between Catwoman/Selina and Talia, Batman's ex. The verbal repartee was great and just as great was the one between Damian and Dick. My question is "where the heck did Holly come from?". I hope that this family adventure theme continues because I really like having Selina, Damian, Dick and Alfred around.

Maestros #2 - Steve Skroce (writer & art) Dave Stewart (colours) Fonografiks (letters). This is a beautifully illustrated Game of Thrones and Wands with wizard warriors plotting against each other. There's a rekindled romance and a shocking twist that makes reading the next issue a must.

Champions #14 - Mark Waid (writer) Humberto Ramos (pencils) Victor Olazaba (inks) Edgar Delgado (colours) VC's Clayton Cowles (letters). Worlds Collide part 4. He's no Blue Fairy but the High Evolutionary pulls a Pinocchio on Viv Vision and all seems lost. The heroes fight through but there's still a ways to go to prevent total destruction. We'll find out what happens when Avengers #674 hits the racks on December 6.

Aquaman #30 - Dan Abnett (writer) Stjepan Sejic (art & colours) Steve Wands (letters). Atlantis Uprising. The revolution starts here. Orin joins the rebel forces and King Rath becomes more unhinged. Meanwhile, Mera is in deep water. I am enjoying this book again. You should give it a try.

Mech Cadet Yu #4 - Greg Pak (writer) Takeshi Miyazawa (art) Triona Farrell (colours) Simon Bowland (letters). It's all-out action as the four cadets and their robos fight against giant alien crabs and orders from their superiors. The General is not pleased. Let's see what happens to keep them in their mechs and not get kicked out of the program.

Deadpool vs. Old Man Logan #2 - Declan Shalvey (writer) Mike Henderson (art) Lee Loughridge (colours) VC's Joe Sabino (letters). This issue tells us why the two heroes are teaming up. Makes sense. I like these straightforward good guys versus bad guy stories with witty repartee that don't tax the brain pan too much.

Superman #35 - Patrick Gleason & Peter J. Tomasi (writers) Travis Moore, Stephen Segovia & Art Thibert (art) Danei Ribeiro (colours) Rob Leigh (letters). Hey, I thought Lex's armour was mostly green. The battle for the throne of Apokalips continues with Lois and Jon's lives still hanging in the balance. I still think that Lex will save the day in the end.

American Gods #9 - Neil Gaiman (writer) P. Craig Russell (script & layouts) Scott Hampton (art & colours) Rick Parker (letters). This is like reading the novel again but better. The art enhances the story so much.

Defenders #7 - Brian Michael Bendis (writer) David Marquez (art) Justin Ponsor & Paul Mounts (colours) VC's Cory Petit (letters). This is the funniest comic book on the racks for the week. Yes even funnier than Not Brand Echh #14. Brian has a great sense of humour. I'm wondering now if all the great artists that he works with are also going to work for DC. That would be ideal for me because he really clicks with David Marquez and Sara Pichelli. The five page fight scene between Elektra and Iron Fist is the best I've ever seen. Just as good as watching Bruce Lee in Enter the Dragon.

Wonder Woman Conan #3 - Gail Simone (writer) Aaron Lopresti (pencils) Matt Ryan (inks) Wendy Broome (colours) Saida Temofonte (letters). Some sorcery is added to the swords this issue.

Mighty Thor #701 - Jason Aaron (writer) James Harren (art) Dave Stewart (colours) VC's Joe Sabino (letters). I must have missed Mangog's origin story back when Jack Kirby first drew him but Jason recaps it very well here. Mangog isn't the only long unseen character to pop up. The Odinson's best buddy reappears too. This issue is one awesome battle. The visuals are so striking I could feel each punch. What a great fill-in by James Harren.

Super Sons #10 - Peter J. Tomasi (writer) Jose Luis (art) Scott Hanna (inks) Hi-Fi (colours) Rob Leigh (letters). I like the contrast between Jon's youthful enthusiasm and Damian's grim cynicism. The three year age gap feels like decades but each one is subtly influencing the other. This issue sets it up so that the two lads will be spending even more time together learning how to be heroes. This is one of my favourite comic books on the racks right now.

Amazing Spider-Man #791 - Dan Slott (writer) Stuart Immonen (pencils) Wade von Grawbadger (inks) Rain Beredo (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). I am enjoying this point in Peter Parker's life where things are going well for him. His relationship with Mockingbird is sweet and chaste. His new job is challenging. The super heroics aren't too over the top and he comes out a winner this issue. I know the good times won't last but I will feel good while it does. My fanboy crush on Bobbi Morse is even bigger now because of the way Stuart and Wade draw her. Sigh.

Incredible Hulk #710 - Greg Pak (writer) Greg Land (pencils) Jay Leisten (inks) Frank D'Armata (colours) VC's Cory Petit (letters). Return to Planet Hulk part 2. Hulk has to survive a gauntlet to save lives and he smashes admirably. It looks like next issue swipes scenes from the Thor Ragnarok movie. I am looking forward to that guest appearance.

Peter Parker: The Spectacular Spider-Man #297 - Chip Zdarsky (writer) Adam Kubert with Juan Frigeri (art) Jason Keith (colours) VC's Travis Lanham (letters). Totally different Peter Parker. Totally different life from Amazing. The two titles aren't even trying for continuity and that's okay. I just want to read a good story and this one where Peter and Spider-Man are being pursued by the authorities is a good one. Throw in recent revelations involving Jonah Jameson and this fan is anxious to see what happens next. According to the next issue tease T'Challa will come calling.

Star Wars: Darth Vader #8 - Charles Soule (writer) Giuseppe Camuncoli (pencils) Daniele Orlandini (inks) David Curiel (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). We are witness to some Jedi rage this issue along with finding out what the stakes are for the good guys. Wondering what Vader is going to do keeps me coming back.

Weapon X #11- Greg Pak & Fred Van Lente (writers) Marc Borstel & Ibraim Roberson (art) Frank D'Armata (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). The Hunt for Weapon H concludes. Will Hulkverine be a good guy or a bad guy? The jury is still out on that. I like this team and am enjoying their adventures so far.

Spider-Men II #4 - Brian Michael Bendis (writer) Sara Pichelli (art) Elisabetta D'Amico (inking assistant) Justin Ponsor (colours) VC's Cory Petit (letters). Miles's search for his evil twin takes a terrible turn but he's got the Amazing Spider-Man helping out now. The two webslingers should be able to figure things out but you never know.

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