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The Amazing Spider-Man #28 – Strength Within the Cracks

With Torment defeated, Spider-Man tries to reclaim some sense of peace within his life. But when that is cut short, a spiral of events engulfs him. Leaving him to feel hopeless that he will ever regain his old life…


Creative Team

Joe Kelly (Writer), Cory Smith / Francesco Manna (Artists),
Oren Junior / Roberto Poggi / Francesco Manna (Inkers), Marcio Menyz & Erick Arciniega (Colorist),
VC’s Joe Caramagna (Letterer)

Jay Bowen (Designer), Kaitlyn Lindtvedt (Assistant Editor), Tom Groneman (Associate Editor),
Nick Lowe (Editor), C.B. Cebulski (Editor-in-Chief)

Publisher: Marvel Comics


Strength Within the Cracks

Issue twenty-eight of The Amazing Spider- Man (ASM) by Joe Kelly takes readers on another web-slinging adventure into the never-ending hurricane of Peter Parker’s life. This issue ties in a previous Spider-Man story providing an eventful collaboration of the two. After the tornado of events within the Death Spiral mini-series, Peter is now back to focusing on piecing his life back together after being off planet for a lengthy time.

The Amazing Spider-Man #28, Credit Marvel Comics. Cover by Cory Smith & Marte Gracia


While Peter tries to get some much-deserved rest following the events of Death Spiral he is suddenly greeted by another iconic Marvel character! This is going to be a surprise to readers, especially when the reason for their appearance is shared. This causes Peter to enter yet another frenzy as he jumps into action in hopes of stopping what is to come.

Throughout the events of Spider-Man trying to save the day, he finds time to pay a quick visit to his friends who made the trip back to earth with him after his off-world sabbatical. Readers who have enjoyed the parody of these characters together will find comfort as they grace the panels of ASM once more. There is much humor to be found within this segment of story, a getting the band back together feel as well.

This issue also gives an updated look into the incident that happened with one of Peter’s co-workers. On the surface things are seemingly okay, but behind closed doors is where the truth lies. Joe Kelly is painting his next picture with this portion of the ASM story, and readers should prepare themselves for what is to come!

The ending of this issue provides the right about of “pick me up” that Peter is needing at this point in the story. A character from before the Death Spiral story makes a return! They find Spider-Man on a rooftop in a bad emotional state. It is in this moment that the character shares a “Spider-Man” story that affected their personal life. This story lifts the spirits of Spider-Man and also gives a life lesson to readers as well. There is strength within the cracks of your life, and those cracks make you stronger…


The Writing

Joe Kelly takes issue twenty-eight of ASM and ushers in a new story that brings in factors from events earlier within this series. The writing is powerful sending readers on yet an empathetic adventure through the life of Peter Parker. The plot for this series is ever changing which adds multiple avenues for various storylines. I am really looking forward to what Joe has in store for Spider-Man in all facets of this story.

The Artwork

The entire artistic team nailed this issue! The art panel by panel is so good that words are hard to explain it. The aura of Spider-Man runs rapid within the art, as it should. But it comes down to the minor details of the costume, and even the webbing that really grab at the reader’s attention. Splash pages contain so much for the reader to see and take in that you may get lost for a couple seconds just admiring the work that was put in. Absolutely beautiful!


Variant Covers


Final Thoughts

With this being the first issue of ASM after the Death Spiral cross-over event, Joe hit this out of the park! This issue gives the reader a chance to calm down with an attempt to return to a normal story. But this is Spider-Man, there is always trouble. This series continues to prove why it is an ongoing story, and readers should not sleep on the adventures and lessons that take place within this series. If you’re late to the game, go buy the trades. If you’re only a couple issues behind, go out today and get this newest issue and the few you’re missing!

Grade: 9/10


Links

Comic Book Reviews & Entertainment News: Nerd Initiative
Previous ASM Review: Amazing Spider-Man #27: Death Spiral Pt. 9 – A Means to an End
Travis’ Portfolio: TravisComicHaven – Nerd Initiative
Travis’ Personal Content: Travis’ Comic Haven


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Jubilee: Deadly Reunion #1 – Family is the Heart

Jubilation Lee has made quite a name for herself as a member of the X-Men. What happens, though, when an old voice from the past comes looking for her help? Jubilee, fresh off a trip into space with the X-Men, finds herself greeted by an old acquaintance who leads her not just on an adventure but an exploration of her culture.

Creative Team

Writer: Gene Leun Yang
Artist: Michael YG
Color Artist: Yen Nitro
Letterer: Joe Caramagna
Cover Artist: Fan Yang

Writing

Gene Leun Yang really knocked it out of the park with this issue. After his phenomenal work on Shang-Chi, I was sure this would be a hit, and it was. Yang not only explored more about Jubilee’s past but he gave readers a unique way of exploring her connection to her culture. Whether it’s treats, celebrations, or even the character acknowledging her Cantonese is really rusty, Yang managed to weave nods to Jubilee’s culture throughout the issue.

It felt like, in a short period of time, Yang took us on a pretty deep dive into Jubilee’s past and what has molded her into who she has become. I loved that various lore from previous X-Men stories were brought into this issue as well. Throughout the issue, Yang crafts a beautiful narrative not only about Jubilee’s story but about connection and culture.

Art

Jubilee: Deadly Reunion #1 cover by Fan Yang. Image from Marvel Comics

The art for this issue was beautiful. The way certain key aspects of this story were drawn felt like a unique refresh from how we’ve seen them in the post. Michael YG and Yen Nitro did a great job with Jubilee as well. She feels updated and distinct to their art style while also being the same Jubilee you recognize.

There’s a significant two-pager in this issue that really shows the ability of this team as we see Jubilee engage her powers. Everything from the colors to the lines in that art is absolutely beautiful. Joe Caramagna guides readers beautifully through the story carefully outlining when Cantonese is being spoken to add a richer connection to the focus on Jubilee and her culture.

Final Thoughts

This was a fun read. I really wish we were getting more than a one-shot out of this. You can feel the love of both the character and the culture that this creative team poured into this issue.

Overall Grade: 9/10

How are you liking this Deadpool series? Let me know in the comments

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BATMAN #9 – A Family Affair

Creative Team – Matt Fraction, Ryan Sook, Wade Von Grawbadger, Tomeu Morey, Clayton Cowles, Jorge Jiménez

Published by DC Comics

Catch up with Batman #8!

The Story

Everyone is on a mission, and no matter what side you’re on, your mission involves Batman. Commissioner Savage and his Tactical Urban Combat Officers, or TUCO, have one thing on their mind and it’s to bring in the Batman. Turns out Savage has the support of Mayor Isley, City Hall, and even the D.A.’s Office in his hunt for Batman, which is bad news for Bruce. Fortunately, Bruce isn’t alone. With members of his Bat-Family and Barbara Gordon, they have a plan in place to minimize the damage caused by the TUCO. Batgirl, The Signal, Damian, Barbara, and Bruce all get into position to put their plan into place.

Cover art by Jorge Jiménez and Tomeu Morey. Published by DC Comics

Matt Fraction does is again with creating a fantastic comic that makes you more and more invested in the overall story. There are so many moments to love in Batman #9, it’s difficult to narrow them down. One thing I love was how fast paced the story was, putting the reader in the same headspace as the characters who are carrying out their plans. Another thing I love was the growth we see between Bruce and Damian. The overall tone of the story is all gas and no breaks, but there are moments broken up by these instances of growth between the father and son. All perfectly balanced by Matt Fraction.

The Art

Ryan Sook, Wade Von Grawbadger, Tomeu Morey, and Clayton Cowles bring artwork to the comic that’s just as fantastic as the story itself. With the perspective changes between the Bat-Family members, the energy is kept at an all-time high.

The Signal and Batgirl were the standouts for me, as they were drawn in the most exciting points, especially with some great actions panels involving their bikes. The artists brought the excitement to life in a huge way, leaving the reader fully locked in to the comic. Clayton Cowles, who handles the lettering, did great work with matching the tones of the story to the dialogue. Cowles was able to take the reader to the same headspace as the characters with ease.

Final Thoughts

If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a million times. Matt Fraction’s Batman gets better and better with each issue, and there’s no sign of stopping.

Overall Grade – 10/10

Let me know in the comments what you thought of Batman #9!

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This review was written by Megan from the Vigilante Vibes Podcast! If you liked my review, be sure to check out my other reviews! Let me know what you think of Batman #9, or tell me what comics you’d recommend me trying out! Find me on my socials, and check out my Marvel podcast, Vigilante Vibes, by clicking here!

Star Wars: Rogue One – Cassian Andor #1

Cassian Andor’s final mission before leading into the fateful mission set during Rogue One has Cassian meeting an informant on the outpost Kafrene. He’s finding out he’s up against more than he bargained for with bounty hunters, Stormtroopers, and more in this Star Wars special!


Creative Team

Benjamin Percy (WRITER), Mike Atiyeh (COLORS), Luke Ross (ARTIST), Clayton Cowles (LETTERS), and David Marquez and Laura Martin (COVER).


Rogue Mission

Star Wars: Rogue One – Cassian Andor is an excellent adaptation of a Star Wars story! This issue is however a “one-shot” but remains part of a five-issue collection celebrating the ten-year anniversary of the Rogue One story. Benjamin Percy is the writer for this issue and does a monumental job at continuing the lore of Cassian Andor.

Rogue
Star Wars: Rogue One – Cassian Andor #1, Credit Marvel Comics. Cover by David Marquez & Laura Martin.


This issue takes readers on a mystery mission that only someone with Cassian’s background and reputation can solve. But it is because of his reputation that the individuals sending him are very skeptical. Sending someone who struggles with anger issues and a “shoot first, ask questions second” approach is not ideal. But another factor is that Cassian is requested for this mission.

This issue provides readers with beautiful artwork to amplify a stunning story capturing the everlasting aura of Star Wars. Readers will read this and instantly find themselves transported to a galaxy far far away! The various details within the art will make true Star Wars fans smile and find comfort in how authentic this issue is to the Star Wars brand.

As stated earlier, this is listed as a “one-shot” issue but is part of a five issue collaboration series with other character named titles. The way in which this story is written and left wide open at the end will make readers hope that this limited series finds its way to becoming a secondary limited series where all five of these titles come together to generate a larger story.


The Writing

Travis:

Benjamin Percy is one of the best Star Wars writers of our current generation. His mastery of getting readers lost in the story as well as keeping with true Star Wars lore is astonishing. This story brings a character who has two seasons of a tv adaptation to comic book panels in a way that is so enjoyable. His writing provides readers with an escape to their imagination. I genuinely hope that he will someday get the chance to write an ongoing Star Wars series!

Matt:

Benjamin Percy absolutely captures the tone and pace of this spy thriller series. Cassian is angrier than usual, and we see him and K2 bond a bit more. Andor is one of my favorite characters in this universe, and Percy is adding even more depth and lore to a character I honestly did not expect to see again. There were hilarious moments, of course, as K2 swoops in to save the day, and his sarcastic tone and humor are nailed to perfection. I love anytime we get to go to a new planet and a new setting within this universe, and it was intriguing how this outpost is set on a random moon. There was a rugged vibe to Kafrene, and there was even intense action. At this point, Cassian is willing to do anything and everything to survive and succeed, which we see as he battles a bounty hunter. This issue even packs in Krennic, and we get a Ghorman name drop, tying everything in so wonderfully.

The Artwork

Travis:

Luke Ross and Mike Atiyeh assist this story in bringing authentic visuals to the script. The art has a rough and faded texture to it that adds to the overall feel of this story. The attention to detail is incredible within the art. Which sends readers into a deeper trance of the lore of Star Wars. Ships, blasters and characters carry the true look of what readers have seen within the Star Wars franchise, which is an utter joy to see!

Clayton Cowles provides the lettering for this issue and does an outstanding job! The font selection and sizing is perfectly balanced for each panel. Another great aspect of the lettering for this issue is the placement of the narration/dialogue bubbles. Clayton places these bubbles systematically within the panels for easy reading and not taking away from the amazing art within the panels/pages.

Matt:

Mike and Luke have some incredible shots throughout this issue that will take your breath away. My favorite ship is the U-Wing, and they nail the details of this ship with the colors and even manage to capture how dirty the outside feels at times. Seeing it open up in space and the stark contrast of the white and blue against the vast darkness of space was beautiful. There are moments with K2, and despite his dark robotic body, they make him pop out against an even darker background in the panel. The setting is set in a small planet, at this point in the Empire’s reign, the duo shows how run-down some areas and outposts can be in this universe. It stands out against the base of Yavin, where we start, which is lush greens and browns. Clayton’s lettering brings these voices we have come to know and love to life. Throughout this whole issue, I heard their voices and tones as he did an excellent job of lettering this issue.


Variant Covers


Final Thoughts

Travis:

Cassian Andor is a beautifully crafted story with amazing art to complement. Benjamin Percy and team transport readers to a faraway galaxy providing shortened backstory and intriguing mystery. This initial issue of a five-issue collaboration to celebrate the ten-year anniversary of Star Wars: Rogue One is a phenomenal start. Star Wars fans will not want to miss out on this story or the other four to come this summer.

Grade: 10/10

Matt:

I could live in a spy-thriller setting of Star Wars forever, as it is beyond intriguing and heart-pounding. Star Wars Rogue One: Cassian Andor #1 drops us right before the doomed mission and transports us back into this intense world where the Empire rules all. The voices, the tones, and settings were captured perfectly as the team brought so much love into this issue. Do not miss out on this issue!

Grade: 10/10

Overall Grade: 10/10


Links

Comic Book Reviews & Entertainment News: Nerd Initiative
Previous Star Wars Review: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – Echoes of the Empire #1 – Brawl at Black Spire
Travis’ Portfolio: TravisComicHaven – Nerd Initiative
Matt’s Portfolio: Hops Geek News


PLEASE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW!

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CYCLOPS #4 – Into the Trap

Creative Team – Alex Paknadel, Rogê Antônio, Fer Sifuentes-Sujo, VC’s Joe Caramagna, Federico Vicentini, Marcio Menyz

Published by Marvel Comics

Catch up with Cyclops #3!

The Story

This issue perfectly shows just how big of a problem Donald Pierce is. Cyclops #4 starts with Mei back in the clutches of Pierce as his mutant slave whose whole purpose is to find the what he calls “the metal of the gods”. Pierce is aggressive, abusive, and more than happy to hurt who he wants to get what he wants. However, he doesn’t know that Mei has more control of her powers and knows that it’s up to her and the other young mutants to get them out of the hands of Pierce.

Cover art by Federico Vicentini and Marcio Menyz. Published by Marvel Comics

Meanwhile, Scott has taken one of the Reavers to use how he sees fit. Scott is in no condition to go against Pierce himself, but that won’t stop him. The Reaver, Tearjerker, is not someone to feel empathy for, and Scott knows that very clearly. Using Tearjerker as bait, Scott sets a trap for the other Reavers.

Alex Paknadel continues the exciting story of Scott Summers and Mei, and there’s really no way of knowing how this will end. The next issue is the last issue, and if the finale is anything like the rest of this run, it’ll be one to remember. Paknadel perfectly balances the stories between Scott and Mei, showing the vast difference in the emotions of the characters. I really like how Mei is progressing as a character. She started off as a scared young mutant who had no control over her powers to someone who takes matters into her own hands. This was perfectly paced by Paknadel and makes me very excited to see where Mei goes from here.

The Art

Rogê Antônio, Fer Sifuentes-Sujo, and Joe Caramagna bring a lot of beautiful art in Cyclops #4, art that really captures the excitement of the story. Antônio delivers highly detailed panels with the characters being the focal point. Each character has their own energy that shows clearly on the page, even Tearjerker who’s gets more broken down each time we see him.

Sifuentes-Sujo handles the colors and does an astounding job, which isn’t surprising given how talented he is. With a great contrast of vibrancy and darker details, Sifuentes-Sujo makes each page more beautiful than the last. Caramanga handles the lettering and there really isn’t anyone better to letter this story. Caramanga brings new depths to the story with his excellent use of sound effects. Along with that, he captures the tones of the comic perfectly well with the characters.

Final Thoughts

Cyclops is doing an exceptional job at keeping the excitement high and the story compelling. While I’m disappointed to see the miniseries end in the next issue, I am very excited to see how it ends. The creative team continues to knock it out of the park and there’s no doubt in my mind that the finale will be fantastic. If you’re a Cyclops fan like myself, then this series is made for you!

Overall Grade – 9/10

Let me know what you thought of Cyclops #4!

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This review was written by Megan from the Vigilante Vibes Podcast! If you liked my review, be sure to check out my other reviews! Let me know what you think of Cyclops #4, or tell me what comics you’d recommend me trying out! Find me on my socials, and check out my Marvel podcast, Vigilante Vibes, by clicking here!

JSA #19: The Spectre

After the fallout of the Just Society’s battle with the Injustice Gang, they struggle to pick up the pieces. But, before they can, The Spectre has made its return with only one goal in mind, VENGEANCE!

JSA #19. Credit DC Comics. Cover by Diego Olortegui.

Creative Team: Jeff Lemire, Diego Olortegui, Luis Guerrero, and Steve Wands.

SPOILERS AHEAD

The Story:

What I truly love about what Lemire is doing in this run is incorporating so many different characters that haven’t had much time to shine elsewhere. Stargirl, Wildcat, Dr. Fate, etc., all work so well with Lemire’s storytelling and what he is doing. Kid Eternity has drawn the attention of The Spectre, and it’s now a race against time to save her from his wrath. I don’t know how you can defeat Spectre, as the powers are far beyond anything any of our characters have. Jeff Lemire has such a great mind and talent for taking the heroes to their brink and finding the light, and I cannot wait to see what he has conjured up for this event.

The Art and Letters:

There is some absolutely incredible scaling done in the panels of this issue with The Spectre. Diego and Luis do a fantastic job at making The Spectre seem so much larger than life and dwarfing the background or characters laid out in the picture. There’s a scene where Spectre is overlooking the city, and it was powerful and so well drawn. The silver age feel of this book keeps me on the hook with the costume designs and the lettering making this a slept on run.

Final Thoughts:

JSA #19 brings about the powerful wrath and rage of The Spectre, making our heroes feel powerless to stop it. This event is going to be incredible, and I am set ready to go!

Overall Grade: 9.3/10

Be sure to let us know your thoughts below and check out more reviews by Matt!

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DOG TAG #1: War Is Fictional.

Tom Fuller was a Private hoping to cover the very real war happening in Europe and instead found himself playing pretend. While he wrote fake stories about a fictional ghost army, the real war was being fought on the shores of Normandy. But what happens when the war suddenly becomes real, and Private Fuller finds himself in the middle of it all?

Dog Tag #1. Credit Mad Cave Studios. Cover by P.J. Holden and J.P. Jordan.

Creative Team: Mark Russell, P.J. Holden, J.P. Jordan, and Buddy Beaudoin.

SPOILERS AHEAD

The Story:

Mark captures something that I have some personal experience with, and that is seeing the young guys wanting to experience war and the realness of war. There is often an over-romanticized view people have of war built up by heroes in the media, and Tom Fuller is no different. In this story, his job is to mislead the Germans with a false narrative, and to him, it is boring and not a real war. What he doesn’t know is that this job is the most crucial and allows the Allies victory on the beaches of Normandy.

I love how slowly, throughout the book, the war becomes a little more real as Tom is collecting the dog tags from those who have arrived at his location wounded from D-Day. A line that stuck with me is how Tom thinks they lost, the Doctor says that no, this is what victory looks like. Victory has a price, and it can often come at a costly price. As a Veteran, I never took bullet fire or things like that. I have been deployed, and there isn’t much romance about anything. Seeing the glass shatter for Tom was eye-opening, and Mark did an incredible job with this first issue.

The Art and Letters:

Holden and Jordan bring World War 2 to life in this issue. The inflatable tanks and the false war are a story not told enough, and the way they managed to bring a sense of realism to them was thought-provoking. The amount of blood and the hat full of dog tags hit home, and capturing the look on Tom’s face, you could almost see him age across the panels. Buddy’s lettering brings a rugged emotion, and what starts as a bored Fuller transitions to something more, in part to his lettering. Something was haunting and beautiful about the panel where Fuller is walking on the empty beach in Normandy that struck home with me and was so well done by the team.

Final Thoughts:

Dog Tag #1 is a powerful tale of the realities of war. There is a romantic view of something that is ugly and primal, and the team at Mad Cave Studios does an incredible job of bringing that to life in this first issue. I very much cannot wait to read more!

Overall Grade: 10/10

Be sure to let us know your thoughts below and check out more reviews by Matt!

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GODZILLA INFINITY ROAR #4: The Symbiotic Relationship.

Knull has poisoned the universe, causing his precious symbiotes to take over and claim all of its inhabitants, even The Watcher! With Godzilla running rampant still and the universe’s mightiest heroes out of commission, we must now rely on Doom to save everyone.

Godzilla Infinity Roar #4. Credit Marvel Comics. Cover by Ken Lashley and Val Staples.

Creative Team: Gerry Duggan, Roman Rosanas, Javier Garron, Stefano Nesi, David Curiel, Travis Lanham, Ken Lashley, and Val Staples.

The Story:

This story has gone from cosmic adventure and now enters the cosmic horror stage of things. Gerry has done an excellent job of transitioning this run into something truly frightening as Knull enacts his plan to bring his horrors to the galaxy. When Magneto showed up and was teaming with Iceman, Cyclops, and Jean, I could instantly hear the X-Men theme song in my head, as it was a triumphant moment. However, that moment did not last long, and Gerry pulled the rug out from under our feet, no sooner than which caught me off guard. There are still funny moments, such as Storm telling Thing it’s Clobberin’ Time and then Doom being his arrogant self. However, the issue ends with something truly unsuspecting, with Doom finding Mecha Godzilla, and I cannot even begin to describe my levels of excitement!

The Art and Letters:

The art team captures the horrifying reality of the symbiotic takeover so perfectly in this issue. The way we have these heroic moments and then instantly there is the black disease oozing from our heroes’ mouths was unsettling. They did a wonderful job showing the fear in their eyes as it overtook their bodies, and Lanham’s letters hammered home the uncertainty and fear of what was unfolding. Seeing moments where even The Watcher fell victim brought out the reality of what they all face. And of course, seeing Doom standing face to face with Mecha Godzilla is a truly insane moment brought to life that my inner child could not believe.

Final Thoughts:

Godzilla Infinity Roar #4 takes things into cosmic horror territory as Knull has poisoned the universe and all of its heroes. The team nails the tone as we switch into this territory while giving us hope and even epic moments we cannot help but cheer for!

Overall Grade: 9.7/10

Be sure to let us know your thoughts below and check out more reviews by Matt!

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All-New Spider-Gwen: Ghost-Spider #10 – End Scene

Gwen transforms from Ghost-Spider into something that will make readers tremble. Within this newly discovered form, Gwen is on the hunt for Mysterio to finish what he started…


Creative Team

Stephanie Phillips (Writer), Paolo Villanelli (Artist), Matt Milla (Colorist), VC’s Ariana Maher (Letterer),
David Marquez & Federico Blee (Cover Artists)

Kat Walkington (Designer), Martin Biro (Associate Editor), Emerald Bensadoun (Assistant Editor),
Jordan D. White (Editor), C.B. Cebulski (Editor-in-Chief)

Publisher: Marvel Comics


End Scene

Issue ten of All-New Spider-Gwen: Ghost-Spider is the conclusion of an amazing mini-series by Stephanie Phillips. Readers have gone on an emotional adventure following Gwen through these past nine issues. But this last chapter of this story brings everything to a heartwarming end.

Gwen
All-New Spider-Gwen: Ghost-Spider #10, Credit Marvel Comics. Cover by David Marquez & Federico Blee


Within this issue readers will get the feeling of an unhinged Gwen. Which would make an amazing story by itself! But there is a method to her “madness”. Gwen is ultimately going after the villain of this portion of the series, Mysterio. The way that Stephanie writes this issue will make readers feel that they know what is going to happen next. We are here to tell readers, strap in because this issue is one bumpy ride!

Within this issue readers will witness levels of character development from Gwen that are astounding! The changes that Gwen undergoes throughout this issue will surprise you. With that, readers will see newly discovered relationships established leading to further storytelling if ever given the opportunity to continue. The last bit of character growth comes within the final pages of this issue. Gwen comes to an internal realization about herself and Ghost-Spider. Personally, these final pages will leave reader’s hearts so full but also broken because this is the end of this amazingly written story.



The Writing

Travis:

The storytelling talents of Stephanie Phillips are some of the best that I have had the opportunity to read. The methodical way her writing takes readers on journeys without their control is mesmerizing. The smoldering build up to pivotal events will leave readers gasping and wanting more! And the change of pace of actually spending time to focus on the everyday life of Gwen and her struggles is very nice to see. It brings a different visual to the character adding depth to Gwen’s story. Amazing writing which produces a phenomenal read!

Megan: Stephanie Phillips brings the exciting story to a satisfying close while tying all the loose ends together very nicely. I love all that Stephanie has done with Spider-Gwen, in this run and the previous run. Gwen has reached new heights and truly found who she is outside of what she’s been through. She’s found confidence in her superhero life, in her friendships, and in herself. We’ve seen Gwen fight battles with various villains and even herself, in which she always comes out the other side.

In every issue that Stephanie has released, it’s been thrilling, compelling, and keeps you anxiously waiting for the next issue. Spider-Gwen is an underrated character, she’s a relatable character, and for lack of a better word, she’s a cool character. I’m really glad Stephanie was able to put that on full display in this run.

The Artwork

Travis:

Paolo Villanelli and Matt Milla together produce mind blowing panels and splash pages! The intricate details within this issue are so enjoyable to the eye. The sharp and vivid pencil work creates the images, and the coloration brings the images to life! The raw emotion that is put on display within the art of this issue is something readers will have to see to fully appreciate!

More well-deserved credit for their talented work goes to Ariana Maher and her lettering for this issue. The various styles and use of bold text gives added emotion and delivery to the narration/dialogue. Ariana’s work continues to amaze me as I continue to see it weekly. Such talent deserves to be recognized, and this is my standing ovation to you, Ariana!

Megan: As usual, the creative team has knocked it out of the park once again in All-New Spider-Gwen: Ghost-Spider. Paolo Villanelli, Matt Milla, and Ariana Maher bring something so unique to the pages of the comic, taking the story to new heights. Paolo creates drawings that are powerful and dramatic, really leaning into the action of the story. Matt brings a lot of vibrancy that juxtaposes the darker colors, making each panel feel as though it’s going to pop off the page. Ariana is an expert in the sound effects, making the reader experience the story in a more upfront way. Together, along with some incredible cover artwork by David Marquez and Federico Blee, the artists really made this a lasting impression.


Variant Cover

All-New Spider-Gwen: Ghost-Spider #10, Credit Marvel Comics. Variant Cover by Federico Vicentini.

Final Thoughts

Travis:

This is a conclusion that readers would not even think would take place! This issue brings this entire series to a fantastic (but potential continuation) conclusion. I urge comic book readers, and Spider-Verse fans to pick up this series and embark on multiple adventures that add to the lore of Spider-Gwen.

Grade: 10/10

Megan: This was an excellent end to what’s been a fantastic run. I would love nothing more than if this team returned to create more stories for Spider-Gwen!

Grade: 10/10

Overall Grade: 10/10


Links

Comic Book Reviews & Entertainment News: Nerd Initiative
Previous Spider-Gwen Review:All-New Spider-Gwen: Ghost-Spider #9
Travis’ Portfolio: TravisComicHaven – Nerd Initiative
Megan’s Portfolio: Vigilante Vibes Podcast


PLEASE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW!

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Fantastic Four #10 – Earth Versus The Invincible Woman

Malice has been unleashed. The Fantastic Four have encountered a near impervious version of Sue Richards. Dubbed the Invincible Woman who destroyed her own universe, she seeks to force this universe’s Sue to unleash her full potential and realize her power as the strongest member of the Fantastic Four. As the Sue that feels no pain battles the Sue of this universe, New York has come under alien attack with Franklin and Valeria Richards leading the charge!

This review is brought to you by Nerd Initiative’s Shawn!

Creative Team

Writer: Ryan North
Penciler: Humberto Ramos
Inker: Victor Olazaba
Color Artist: Edgar Delgado
Letterer: Joe Caramagna
Cover Artists: Humberto Ramos and Edgar Delgado

Writing

One thing I continue to enjoy about Ryan North’s run on Fantastic Four is his ability to blend the old and the new. “Earth is under attack” feels like just such a classic Fantastic Four line and I love that it serves as an opening salvo to this final issue in the Invincible Woman arc. I appreciate that North continues to give the Richards kids a moment to shine. The tie in to Will of Doom was a nice touch and helped the narrative of the story. As powerful as Valeria and Franklin are, North continues to remind us that they’re still growing and still learning alongside their famous parents. Valeria’s brilliant plan was a good example of that.

This entire Invincible Woman arc has been really enjoyable. Sue is such a special part of the Fantastic Four and I’ve really enjoyed North highlighting not only her power, but what it could look like if she lacked restraint. “With great power comes great responsibility” may be from Spider-Man but North is showing why that is true for all of our heroes in the Marvel Universe not just ole Peter Parker. For those who know me, it’s no secret that Ben Grimm is my favorite member of the Fantastic Four and he genuine affection for “Susie” has been front and center for this arc. With the end of this arc, North continues to remind us why his name will be in the lexicon among other greats in Fantastic Four history.

Art

Fantastic Four #10 cover by Humberto Ramos and Edgar Delgado. Image from Marvel Comics

I was really excited when I saw the creative team of Humberto Ramo, Victor Olazaba, Edgar Delgado taking on this iteration of North’s Fantastic Four run. What I never expected was that we would be treated to an arc featuring killer body horror art. That’s really been the highlight of the art in this arc. We see some truly mind blowing and at times grotesque alterations of hero’s bodies through the powers of this alternate universe Sue.

It starts with just beautiful line work from Ramos. We are only ten issues in, and Ramos is already crafting some of the best line work we’ve see in a Fantastic Four comic book.Utilizing Sue’s Malice form for her alternate universe version has let Olazaba do some crazy work with shading and inks.

Edgar Delgado brings it all together with an awesome color palette that gives us being moments. Joe Caramagna gets a chance to shine on the VFW work and makes the art and writing blend effortlessly.

Final Thoughts

The Invincible Woman arc is honestly one of the most enjoyable arcs I’ve read in a while but definitely one of the top Fantastic Four arcs I’ve read. Using Earth’s other heroes in meaningful ways to battle alternate universe Sue was brilliant. This series has shown Sue’s true power is not her cosmic provided power but her ability to show restraint. This is a satisfying and fun series with a great creative team.

Overall Grade: 10/10

Did you enjoy the Invincible Woman story arc? Let me know in the comments below

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