Amazing Spider-Man #560 – Review

By Dan Slott (writer), Marcos Martin (art), Javier Rodriguez (colors)

Is it me, or does this issue have one of the best Spider-Man covers of all time?

As predicted in my last review, this issue features the return of a certain someone in Peter’s life – someone we’ve all been anticipating for a while now. The whole story leading up to her unveiling is hardly unique or special, but the plot twist Dan Slott tosses in makes the story much more engaging. I’m not exactly sure where this is leading, but Peter’s eventual crossing with this character could have been either cleverly orchestrated by a third party, or it may all just be traced to fate. Given the monkey wrench Slott throws into the story, I’m beginning to think there’s a more sinester element at work here – tracing a path for Peter to follow.

As for the two new characters introduced last issue, only one makes an appearance here. Paper Doll takes center stage as she works her way through Bobby Carr’s enemies with deadly reckoning. Slott keeps the story tightly focused on her, never straying into her origin or how her powers work.  Peter catches on after having a close brush with his “power and responsibility” mantra, and begins a vigil to catch this deadly girl. Once he finds her the obligatory fight ensues, but c’mon, do you really expect Peter to beat on a little girl (no matter how deadly she is)? Instead, we’re presented with a rare situation where Spider-Man actually can’t win. And for once, Peter’s blabbering mouth ends up saving him and his would be victim. Great stuff.

Once again, topping off the story is Marcos Martin’s art. From the opening page his art is a joy to behold. All the meticulous detail he puts into his pages ensure that readers won’t be skimming through the pages. From the movie posters in the theatre lobby to the pieces of Andy Warhol inspired art in the museum to the brilliant use of half tones, I was constantly reminded why this artist is a dream to have on this book. This is beautiful comic book art, folks. We’ve got one more issue left before he parts ways with this title and I’ll be savoring every moment of it. (Grade: A-)

– J. Montes

Amazing Spider-Man #559 – Review

By Dan Slott (writer), Marcos Martin (artist), and Javier Rodriguez (colors)

I’ll not mince words, I’m a big Mary Jane fan. She is the person most meant for Peter Parker. I know I’ll hear it from the Gwen fans out there, but that’s okay. No one’s been there more for Peter than MJ, and do I hope that we’ll eventually see the return of their marriage.

With that out of the way, I’ve got a strong suspicion that Amazing Spider-Man #559 sets the stage for Mary Jane’s return. The pretext for her return will most likely be linked to Peter’s new gig as paparazzi photographer for the Daily Bugle – a job he comes into with this issue. The job’s trashy, despicable, and shady – Peter knows this, but he also knows that his talents are perfect in this arena, and the money’s too good to pass up. With Peter stalking a high profile male celebrity, it’s almost too predictable that he’ll cross paths with MJ when it’s revealed that she’s dating said celebrity. But whatever, if it comes to that then so be it. Just bring her back already!

As for the rest of this issue, it’s incredibly strong. Dan Slott returns to the book again with a new story arc and artist (Marcos Martin) in tow. Slott does a brilliant job of packing the pages with story – moving the plot faster than perhaps the last two or three story arcs combined! We’re also introduced to two new female villains: Screwball and Paper Doll.

Like The Freak, Screwball is an interesting concept that just doesn’t work. She’s a woman with incredible agility who broadcasts her crime capers via live streaming on the Internet. This idea fails on several levels because it relies too much on defying realism. A girl this gifted – I don’t care who she is – should not be able to best Spider-Man in any way. Spidey’s got too much experience and tricks under his belt to be shaken up by a newbie. Also, why her idiotic accomplices aren’t arrested or pursued makes no sense. It just doesn’t work. Yes, I know I said this issue was strong, so why am I complaining? Because as stupid as the idea is, it still managed to entertain on some level. I’ll just admit it, Dan Slott knows how to make a bad concept seem fun.

As for Paper Doll, she is the complete opposite of Screwball. In fact, this villain seems more suited to Runaways than a Spidey book. She’s creepy, brooding, and supernatural. As odd of a fit she as she is to this title, of all the new Brand New Day villains introduced thus far, I think she’s got most potential. Slott and the other Spider-Man writers just need to keep her mysterious and twisted for as long as they can. I’m really digging this character.

Lastly, the art. Marcos Martin’s work here is unrivaled. It’s the best art we’ve seen since Brand New Day started – and yes, it’s better than Chris Bachalo and Steve McNiven’s stuff. Martin’s style may not appeal to everyone, but his storytelling, his action, and his panel work are out of this world. Dan Slott said Marcos Martin’s style is a cross between Steve Ditko and Tim Sale, and he’s absolutely right. This issue is outrageously gorgeous and a technical wonder to behold.

Despite my misgivings with some of the story elements, these imperfections ultimately end up as the contributing factors that make this issue so damn fun. Oh, and the Starbrand Coffee ad is a nice easter egg. Give me more, I say! (Grade: A-)

– J. Montes