***Book of the Week***
Mighty Avengers #30Writer: Dan Slott, Christos Gage / Artist: Sean Chen
I almost considered dropping this book. Funds are getting tight and this book doesn't really have much to do with the greater Marvel Universe. Thank goodness I kept it in my "buy pile." From the hilariously written opening recap page, I remembered why Mighty Avengers is one of the funnest books to read. Slott and Gage are quickly becoming some of my favorite writers, as they create an awesome story with plenty of action, character development, and humor (probably the 3 most vital parts to a successful comic book). I'm not even a big fan of Hank Pym, but the writing duo actually manages to make him a character worth reading about. The "call to arms" also was very exciting to read. Some fans might see this as a slap in the face to the title team, seeing as how they're a rag-tag group of heroes and needed the help of the A-listers. I, however, do not. The Mighty Avengers are the first to notice the global threat, the only ones who know how to defeat it, and will lead Marvel's greatest characters in battle. What's cooler than that? Sean Chen also manages to impress in this issue. I was a fan of Khoi Pham, but Chen recreates Pham's style, except better. His characters are more dynamic and detailed and his action is smooth and easier to follow. Unless this book drastically changes for the worse, I will gladly keep it in my "buy pile."IGN - 6.8/10
Amazing Spider-Man #609
Writer: Marc Guggenheim / Artist: Marco Checchetto, Luke Ross
Ultimately, this issue amounted to nothing more than filler. Not one significant thing happens. We don't find out why Kane is in town, what happened between Ben Reilly and Raptor, and the story story between Raptor and Spider-Man doesn't progress any. As a matter of fact the only action takes place in the first four pages (a pointless fight between Spider-Man and Kane). The only reason I can come up with for even having this issue is maybe so Marco Checchetto can show how slutty he can draw Peter's roommate, Michelle. Man, does she look like a porn star. As you can imagine, none of his art really fits with the comic. It's a little too dark and realistic for the tone of this book. At the end of the day, I wouldn't blame you for skipping this issue. Heck, I'd congratulate you.IGN - 6.8/10
Comics Bulletin - 3/5
Dark Avengers #10
Writer: Brian Bendis / Artist: Mike Deodato
Before reading this, I stumbled upon an interview with Brian Benids raving about how the issue was so great. Naturally, that got me excited for it. Boy was I fooled. Once again, nothing significant happens, except maybe at the end of the issue (and that's a stretch). The whole issue is just the team bickering with each other until an outlandish threat pops up. Now I know that I said I love the interaction between the team members, but I want results, not just talk. I want to see Bullseye attack Venom for being a wuss, or Moonstone manipulate a man into helping her and then punishing him for it. Venom's wuss act was mildly funny, but I don't read the book to see him be funny. I read it to see sociopaths pretending to be heroes explode (figuratively speaking...maybe literally too). The threat I spoke of earlier never really shows itself, but it does provide a potentially cool battle and puts Osborn in an interesting situation that could, if used properly, lead to the inevitable meltdown we've all been waiting for. No complaints can be made for Mike Deodato's art. As always, his characters are dynamic and cool, his shadows create an ominous atmosphere, and his action is pleasantly chaotic. Come to think of it, maybe I misread the aforementioned interview. Maybe Dark Avengers #11 is going to be the best book Bendis has ever written. It certainly looks to have a lot of potential.IGN - 8/10
Comic Book Resources - 2.5/5
Invincible Iron Man #19
Writer: Matt Fraction / Artist: Salvador Larroca
Here we go! A book that doesn't disappoint! It's hard to believe that this story has been building for a year, but I must say, it was worth it. During a time when Tony Stark could not have been more hated, Matt Fraction creates a plot that makes a hero of him to us (the fans) and Marvel's civilians. The battle between Iron Patriot and Iron Man was also impressive. From Osborn's arrogance to Stark's barbaric strength, every scene hit an emotional note that really had me rooting for the hero. I think I finally know what Maria Hill's mission was and hope it ends with the destruction of Iron Patriot, a lame concept from the get-go, let's face it. The ease of her escape, with Black Widow and Pepper, from HAMMER was a little disappointing, but then again, it was just Victoria Hand they were up against. Who is this girl anyway? She needs to get her ass beat. Larroca's art this issue is really hit or miss. His action and panels with Iron Man armors are amazing. His character work and facial expressions are not. Let's get back to the good stuff though. The best thing about this issue is its setup for the next. It seems like Tony has thought this plan through to the very end, managing to get even his old comrade and foe, Thor, involved. Will he help? Is he still furious? I really can't wait to see him in these pages. Invincible Iron Man is actually turning into the best Avengers book on the market, which is the highest of any praise I can give.IGN - 8.4/10
Comic Book Resources - 3.5/5
target="_blank" - 4.5/5
Spider-Woman #2
Writer: Brian Bendis / Artist: Alex Maleev
The mood and feel of this book really gives off a sense of danger and anxiety. I love the way Spider-Woman describes the pain of battle and strategy of a prison break. However, that's the only thing that happens. As a matter of fact, the events of Spider-Woman #2 take place within the span of minutes. This issue basically serves as an introduction to Spider-Woman's pheromone powers to new readers. Her narration of how the power works is extremely well written, but I feel the issue would have been better served if it was just supplementary material in the back of the book. That way we can get more story in the meat of the book. Once again, Alex Maleev's art is fantastic. He really does a great job depicting Spider-Woman's ambivalence and anxiety while also drawing some awesome venom blasts and action panels. I am a little worried about how dark the look is though. I wonder if his style will translate to a scene that actually takes place in daylight. This issue may not have been everything I was hoping for, but I what I got was a very well written character piece, which is always a good thing.IGN - 8.8/10
Comic Book Resources - 3.5/5
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