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Hulk is on the run (when is that not the case?), but in the latest issue, he’s running from something he doesn’t have the slightest bit of understanding how to fight. Smashing won’t solve his problems in this ninth issue of the excellent series.
So what’s it about?
Read our preview.
Why does this matter?
This issue has been excellent from the start and may just get more interesting with Absorbing Man (recently written exceptionally by Saladin Ahmed) added to the series. The character is getting a new purpose in the Marvel universe and he gets supercharged literally in this issue. Hulk also gets a bit closer to figuring out what is tormenting him internally and no, it’s not the usual.
Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?
This can’t end well.
Credit: Marvel Comics
This issue takes a bit of a step back as it attempts to loop in Absorbing Man and how he fits into the narrative. That’s okay though since writer Al Ewing draws you into his impossible situation. How he was written in Black Bolt appears to be carried forward here since he’s still being victimized for his talents. The issue also continues Hulk’s journey from where we left off but cuts back to previous moments to reveal how Absorbing Man has been waiting on the bench for just the right moment to strike at Hulk. Absorbing Man has beef with Hulk though, which sets up a great monster vs. monster narrative here. It’s another great issue in a series that continues to break from expectations, freak you out with its visuals, and draw you into the character development.
Joe Bennett continues to dazzle with his art and he’s aided by the softer, more dreamlike style of Martin Simmonds. Simmonds draws the scenes with Absorbing Man and the change in art styles isn’t distracting since it makes a logical jump in time and later a jump into a metaphysical realm. This is possibly the prettiest issue in the series yet due to Simmonds’ art and the styles contrast well with Bennet’s angular Hulk and Simmonds’ more relatable Absorbing Man.
The issue also does not hold back be it action or body horror. There are some freakish moments in this one that will stick with you. It appears the magic of Gamma Rays and what Absorbing Man is turned into make for some crazy moments. Seriously, you are going to be amazed at what Absorbing Man can do to Hulk. The narrative gets a bit closer as to what is tormenting Hulk too and I can’t wait to read the next issue.
Absorbing Man continues to be a relatable character.
Credit: Marvel Comics
It can’t be perfect can it?
If you haven’t been following along you’ll be lost, but really, whose fault is that?
Is it good?
The best comic book on the stands today. The character drama is excellent and the book seems to be pushing the medium in new directions all the time.
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