This week in Amazing Spider-Man, Ryan Ottley is back, the “Lifetime Achievement” storyline begins, and J. Jonah Jameson finally gets his big break. Well, that is if that pesky Spider-Man, who Jameson recently befriended, doesn’t muck it up!
So what’s it about?
Read the preview.
Why does this matter?
It’s Christmas time and Spidey is swinging away, but like with everyone else this holiday brings many new stresses. You know, like old villains and annoying new friends.
Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?
It’s Christmas time and Spidey’s gift is a big fat mouth of Jameson. Well, and the fact that he’s back with MJ. This issue is very much a blast from the past as it not only revisits Peter’s relationship with the loud mouth that is Jameson, but also brings back a classic villain group he fought early on in his career. This issue also develops the brewing Kingpin confrontation and lays out a new villain in the shadows. This, all while we’re still waiting for Kraven to show up! Spencer has a full deck and he continues to play his cards well.
One of the highlights of the issue is a scene where Spidey must break up a battle for the hottest toy of the season. It’s a clever toy idea that fits well in the Marvel universe and it brings a good laugh. Spencer never ceases to add funny in-universe elements that have clever touches of reality thrown in.
Ryan Ottley is back on the book and his style works very well. His Spider-Man is very angular, from the bridge of his nose to the shoulders. It makes him seem strong and cut out of stone, further establishing his superhero persona. By my count there are six scene changes, which increases the difficulty on an artist. Ottley’s style is suited to this series, from Jameson’s screams to giant hippo villains getting tossed.
It can’t be perfect, can it?
The cliffhanger left me wanting. I understand what is going on, but who the person is on the screens and why I should
Pacing wise this book is a bit all over the place. Random cutaways to villains in dark rooms, an opening setting up Christmas, but the issue never really exploring it beyond that one great scene. There’s a presumption Kingpin will play a big part but never really does.
Is it good?
A good issue that begins to revisit and possibly even change Jameson and Peter Parker’s only recent friendship.
Join the AIPT Patreon
Want to take our relationship to the next level? Become a patron today to gain access to exclusive perks, such as:
- ❌ Remove all ads on the website
- 💬 Join our Discord community, where we chat about the latest news and releases from everything we cover on AIPT
- 📗 Access to our monthly book club
- 📦 Get a physical trade paperback shipped to you every month
- 💥 And more!
You must be logged in to post a comment.