The Amazing Spider-Man 2 – Movie Review

It’s just one shock after another for Peter and Gwen… Welcome to our review of (500) Days of Summer, Part III! I kid, but barely. The last Amazing Spider-Man
was so enamored with the gentle, oddball romance of Peter Parker and Gwen Stacy that at times the superheroics felt like an unwelcome intrusion into the story. That doesn’t change in this second outing, even though we have twice—some might say thrice—the number of villains cackling for attention here.

[Major spoiler ahead! Read at your own risk!]

I can understand the desire to put so much focus on the Peter-Gwen relationship, since she is, as she always is, doomed to die by the end of the film. The inevitable, as loudly broadcasted as it is early on (her valedictorian speech concludes with a call to heroism: “Even if we fall short, what better way is there to live?”), still has enough weight to be devastating because we spend so much time enjoying their sincerely cheesy brand of chemistry. But even in this, the film’s strongest point, there’s some shoddy construction.

Amazing Spider-Man #598 (American Son Chapter 4) – Review

By Joe Kelly (Writer), Paulo Siqueira & Marco Chachetto (Pencils & Inks), Amilton Santos (Inks), and Jeremy Cox & Chris Chuckry (Colors)

The Story: As Peter tries to endure being tortured by Bullseye and Norman Osborn, he learns the true extent of Osborn’s plan for the American Son project. Harry, meanwhile, finds the cure for Lily and his baby; but he soon learns a horrible truth.

What’s Good: When Joe Kelly focuses on Peter’s situation (Bullseye is just the right character for Peter to interact with) and the relationship between Harry and his father, the fourth chapter of “American Son” borders on great. Why? Because Kelly’s character moments are top notch. They take full advantage of key dynamics whenever they are in play (between hero and villain or father and son, for instance). In addition, Kelly does a fine job of keeping the twists and turns coming at a pace that feels just right for a story that’s been succeeding largely because of the balance that he’s found between storytelling and character work.

What’s Not So Good: I have two complaints about Kelly’s work in Amazing Spider-Man #598. The first complaint is that it seems as though he has completely abandoned the smaller parts of the “American Son” story. There’s no mention of Aunt May (what’s with the robots?) and there’s not a whole lot of, well anything really, that doesn’t have to do with Peter or Harry. I realize they are the focus of the story, but why bother with the other stuff so much in the first two chapters then?

My second complaint is that some of the dialogue comes off as far too melodramatic. It’s especially noticeable when Harry and Lily interact, though some of the stuff between Harry and Norman is also worthy of a roll of the eyes or two.

The artwork by Paulo Siquiera and Marco Chachetto is fairly solid all around, but it earns a spot in the “Not So Good” section for two reasons: ridiculous facial expressions (seriously…what’s with Harry?!) and poorly executed action. I can handle the weird expressions, but the action is really frustrating to look at. There’s just something obviously off about it.

Conclusion: While it’s got some flaws, the penultimate chapter of “American Son” is still worth checking out. Kelly’s been on a roll lately and for the most part, “American Son” keeps that roll…uh…rolling.

Grade: B –

-Kyle Posluszny

Amazing Spider-Man #597 (American Son Chapter 3) – Review

By Joe Kelly (Writer), Marco Chachetto (Art), and Chris Chuckry (Colors)

Some Thoughts Before The Review: Since Joe Kelly’s been on a roll lately (Four Eyes), picking up his “American Son” story was something of a no-brainer for me. I enjoyed the first two issues quite a bit (Rob’s reviews are pretty much dead on) and I looked forward to seeing where Kelly takes the story next. One thing though…what’s the deal with having a different art team for each chapter?! It’s absolutely killing me…

The Story: The “American Son” project is revealed as Spidey infiltrates the Dark Avengers by disguising himself as Venom/Mac Gargan/Spider-Man. Harry, meanwhile, thinks of a plan that can eliminate Menace, save his child, and save his lover.

What’s Good: Joe Kelly continues to weave one hell of a Spider-Man tale that takes full advantage of the Dark Reign concept. Watching Spidey take the offensive against Norman and his Avengers is a lot of fun thanks to Kelly’s sharp, surprising dialogue (love Peter’s “Venom” talk) and compelling plot twists. And while chapter three of “American Son” puts most of the politics on hold in favor of some action, the story still manages to move forward at a nice -though slightly fast- pace, especially in regards to the titular American Son.

The moody color work by Chris Chuckry is definitely the highlight of the art package, which is something of a mixed-bag. That said, Marco Chachetto’s work proves to be a good fit for the story. His character designs are strong, his panel layouts are unique, and a few of his action panels are extremely well done.

What’s Not So Good: One complaint I have about The Amazing Spider-Man #597 is that it lacks the depth found in the first two “American Son” chapters. Most of Spidey’s cast is put on the back-burner in favor of action, as a result, I found myself a bit let down by the latest part of Kelly’s Dark Reign tie-in. And the worst part? The action I’m talking about isn’t executed all that well. A few scenes look very good, but Marco Chachetto litters some pages with so many panels that it becomes a chore to try and sort out the correct flow of action. Though I suppose that one could make a case that the panel layout is supposed to reflect Spider-Man’s confusion…

Conclusion: A strong ending keeps the third chapter of “American Son” on par with the rest of the arc. It’s not perfect, but it’s definitely worth reading.

Grade: B-

-Kyle Posluszny

Amazing Spider-Man #596 – Review

By Joe Kelly (writer), Paulo Siqueira (pencils), Amilton Santos (inks), Jeremy Cox (colors)

The Story: As Harry Osborn makes his move to the “Dark Side,” by accepting a job with his father, Norman and his Dark Avengers, Peter decides to proactively protect Harry while scoring some revenge points against Norman. Meanwhile, Norah infiltrates Avengers Tower while trying to uncover a story that will out Norman and his corrupt ways, while the older JJ further ingratiates himself to the Parker family through bonding with Peter.

What’s Good: The American Son arc keeps its momentum in this second installment. Kelly has a clear direction for this arc and some of the developments are quite interesting and daring. There have been many false promises through solicitations and editorial interviews that Spidey’s world would be affected substantially in previous installments of ASM, but I have a hunch that this arc will prove to be transformative.

I really like Kelly’s take on Peter as a bold yet thoughtful hero, rather than an perpetually whimpering and wise cracking protagonist. In this issue, Spidey goes full onto a dangerous situation with out a shred of fear. You can’t help but root for him and believe in his character.

Additionally, Kelly nails the bad guys here as well. Norman has become so overused in the Marvel U as of late, but Kelly utilizes the principle that “less is more” when writing him. There are no lengthy diatribes or overt actions that show Norman’s hand, Kelly simply relies on quick dialogue and precise revelations to portray Norman and his motivations.

What’s Not So Good: What is it with switching art teams so soon in this arc? The whole tone and flow of this book is thrown off with Phil Jimenez disappearing and Paulo Siqueira arriving to draw this book. Their styles are nothing alike and it doesn’t seem that Siqueira even attempted to keep the feel from the previous book. Also, there are these weird energy rays that are illustrated whenever someone does something dramatic with their hands that I found to be irritating and odd. However, it should be said that the Venom scenes were executed very well.

My other complaint is that this comic gets off to a slow start. I mean it is a yawner for half of the book and I found myself checking to see how many more pages I had to read. This is the comic book equivalent of checking your watch; which is never a good sign. Sure, the end of this read is exciting and surprising, but not enough to retroactively brighten the beginning.

Conclusion: One of those frustrating reads that has some great content built upon a flow of forgettable narrative. Nevertheless, this is a issue that retains the high-interest inherent in this arc. Kelly possibly pulled-off the impossible for me in the fact that I’m thoroughly enjoying Spidey’s supporting cast. I am really interested in how this arc will progress and what will transpire in the coming pages. However, Phil Jimenez’s absence thoroughly tempers this excitement.

Grade: B-

-Rob G.

Amazing Spider-Man #581 – Review

By Dan Slott (story), Mike McKone (pencils), Andy Lanning (inks), Jeremy Cox (colors)

The Story: Harry and Peter go on a road trip to New Jersey to pay a visit to Harry’s estranged wife, Liz Allan and their son, Normie. Also holed up in Liz’s house is Molten Man who just happens to have a bone to pick with Harry. With Brand New Day now nearly a year old, fans will be pleased to finally get some long awaited answers (to some glaring questions).

The Good? At long freaking last we get the answers regarding Harry Osborn’s alleged resurrection! These answers may not be to everyone’s liking but at least we’re given a logical explanation.

Like his previous story arc, New Ways to Die, Dan Slott packs the pages with lots of dialogue and a story that progresses rather quickly. In all honesty, I thought this was a double-sized issue because of its meaty story that almost never seemed to end. Quite a feat for 22 pages of story. Mike McKone’s art is delicious right from the start. His crisp style works well for this book but the pedestrian sequences seem a bit too bland at times. However, his layouts and panel choices are pure fun to the eyes.

What’s Not So Good? When Harry Osborn tells Peter where he’s been and how he’s still alive, well, it just sounds like Marvel editorial talking to us – not Harry Osborn. It’s like, “Here’s my reason and you’re going to take it.” Sorry, but I still don’t buy Harry’s resurrection and I still think his retcon stinks. Also, a genuine WTF moment happens when Carlie lectures Peter. Talk about feeling out of place and off kilter!

Bottom Line: Not one of Dan Slott’s best stories, but entertaining nonetheless. Peter’s new supporting cast is still not very likable and too full of themselves. I wouldn’t cry if someone like Menace killed them all.

Grade: C+

– J. Montes

Amazing Spider-Man #572 – Review

By Dan Slott (writer), John Romita Jr. (pencils), Klaus Janson (inks), and Dean White (colors)

If you haven’t been keeping up with “New Ways to Die,” now is not the time to follow behind the hearse. But for those fans who jumped on board from the start of Brand New Day, issue #572 is a treat. Dan Slott skillfully entangles new plot threads into the arc including some lovin’ and new takes on old villains.

So far, Spider-Man’s being hunted by old nemesis Norman Osborn and his hero-hunting Thunderbolts. While searching the city, Venom (Gargan) mistakes Eddie Brock for the wall-crawler. Recently cured of cancer by the miraculous powers of Martin Li (Mr. Negative), Brock transforms into the Anti-Venom and begins to suck the symbiont out of Gargan. Anti-Venom then tries curing Spider-Man of the symbiont in his blood, and decides to cure him of his irradiated blood, too. Spidey is saved, ironically, by the arrival of the Thunderbolts who take Gargan (and secretly Brock as well) back to base. Meanwhile, Osborn comes to face to face with the Menace, who reveals his plans of controlling New York City politics, which is being disrupted by Osborn presence in Manhattan.  Osborn is beaten, but discovers Spider-Man’s connection to Peter Parker: his Camera.

In this issue, Osborn sends the maniacal Bullseye to catch Spider-Man using the tracking technology in Peter’s camera while he devises a weapon to kill the Anti-Venom… and cure cancer! Beneath that grizzled, bare-knuckled old business man is a psychotic villain with no sense of decency! Spidey has his hands full, as usual, helping Aunt May rebuild the wrecked F.E.A.S.T. Center and trying to milk Harry for information on his dad.

The issue’s tone is a bit different from the previous as we see more of Peter’s life coming into play. Despite numerous baddies out to get him, Slott manages to slip in some sexual tension for Web-head. As Peter tries to figure out what Harry’s knows about Oscorp’s medical activities, he suddenly becomes the emotional crutch of Harry’s girlfriend, Lily Hollister. Possibly a combination of helplessness over her injured father and neglect by Harry, Lily confides in Peter and brings his hand to her lips. The dialogue doesn’t lend itself to a spur of the moment interest in Peter as he’s simply giving generic answers and busy trying to eavesdrop on Harry’s phone call with his dad. There has been something building over the past months between these two that has finally manifested itself when says: “I made a promise. That I’d never let something like that happen again… to anyone I love.” The out-pouring of sensitivity and control appealed to Lily and thus she is smitten. This revelation adds to the depth of their relationship, while emphasizing Peter’s natural attractiveness and his need to keep such feelings at a distance lest the other gets hurt.

We also get an new relationship between Eddie Brock and Spider-man. When Bullseye and his Osborn goons descend on Spider-Man in The Coffee Bean, Brock comes to the rescue. The two duo make an interesting team and its nice to see the hesitant loner side of Spider-Man again. His abrasive and reluctant acceptance of the new Brock makes the story genuinely convincing. “Fine, you wanna help? Take out the guns. Bullseye’s mine!” He’s willing to work with the Anti-Venom so far he does his job, and Spidey gets the big guys.

Lastly, the turn in Osborn also marks a defining point in this story arc.  The man who has been plotting and scheming for the past five issues goes goblin-$@#% crazy and suddenly the man with the plans is the most unpredictable guy in the room. Not to give any juicy bit away, but Romita Jr’s depiction of this change with a certain green and purple mask effectively transforms the cutthroat business man into the visual lunactic. The wide yellow eyes and permanent sadistic smile denotes the new threat to Spider-Man: his archnemesis is back!

With all this hitting the fan, how can you resist finding out “New Ways to Die”? (Grade: A)

-Steven M. Bari

Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane: Season 2 #1 – Review

By Terry Moore (writer), Craig Rousseau (art), Guillem Mari (colors)

If you read the subsequent Mary Jane series, this revamp might take a little getting used to. Liz no longer has blonde hair, Mary Jane’s dialogue is a bit more on the valley girl side, and Craig Rousseau’s art is nothing like Takeshi Miyazawa’s beautiful manga style.

I’m sure a lot of comic readers will welcome this artistic change, but I personally loved Miyazawa’s art. His attention to contemporary clothing styles and detailed (not to mention consistent) surroundings made Mary Jane’s world come to life. Rousseau seems to fumble around in this first issue as if he’s trying to find his footing. This is understandable, but you know – first impressions. Also the backgrounds and classrooms lack of any subtle details takes away a lot of the book’s personality.

I’ll not lie, the opening pages with Spider-Man as King Kong are pretty bad and had me worried. Terry Moore, who normally displays a lot of confidence in his writing seems to struggle to find the book’s voice during the first 10 pages.  Soon enough, however, he settles in and allows of the characters and humor begin to come through. By the end of the issue, I was pretty satisfied with what I’d read. If the Moore can keep the momentum going and Rousseau improve his art, this book can definitely go places.

Let’s be real: Terry Moore’s rendition of Mary Jane may not be perfect as Sean KcKeever’s, but I have faith that the book will work out under its new direction. Moore has a proven track record of writing young people and relationships so the potential is definitely there. It’s also Mary Jane’s sophomore year in high school – things change from one day to the next and I like how the characters have moved forward and progressed. Here’s hoping Moore and Rousseau can keep things fresh and entertaining. This series has been gone for too long. Welcome back! (Grade: B)

– J. Montes