You could say it’s a brand new day for Spider-Man, but if you’ve read the story with the same name you’d probably start breaking things so let’s not. But it is a brand new day, because the last issue thoroughly changed the Doc Ock Spider-Man in more ways than one. Is this new direction on an already new direction going to work out and more importantly, is it good?
Superior Spider-Man #10 (Marvel Comics)
Last issue the (highlight for spoilers) blue Peter Parker ghost sharing a body with SpOck was completely erased. SpOck is now no longer impeded with the goodwill of his predecessor. This issue opens the morning after and boy is SpOck a happy camper.
That robot creeps me out.
One of writer Dan Slott’s strengths is his ability to drop small details in every issue that end up paying off later. A couple of issues ago it was revealed that Green Goblin is back in town, but hasn’t had much happening besides that reveal ever since. He makes an appearance this issue, yet still isn’t the main enchilada…yet. No, instead this issue spends most of its time showing how SpOck has succeeded as Peter Parker, although many folks will take umbrage with his definition of success.
Green Goblin decals. Subtle.
This issue shows how demented and deluded SpOck is when it comes to family and a good life. The man thinks it’s all aces, but his arrogance and unfamiliarity with family is clouding things. Just because he has the time to share dinner with Aunt May doesn’t mean he’s a success as Peter. A lot of his fixes appear to be creating new problems elsewhere, which only goes to show the original Peter Parker did his best and that may have been “superior” to what SpOck is doing now.
Is this Norman Osborn?
Even though SpOck killed Peter I still see Dan Slott writing about the old Peter Parker. We can see the character whenver SpOck does something wrong or immoral. The fact that he brutalizes his enemies can’t end well for him. It makes you think about how Peter’s joking manner and compassionate ways maybe saved him brutal beatings from his enemies as well. It’s made ever more obvious when we get a screaming match from J. Jonah Jameson and his father. J.J. thinks Spider-Man is better than ever, but is he when he’s running a fascist state?
It’s only “partially” crushed. See, he has morality!
The art by Ryan Stegman keeps things moving and when you consider how many balls are in the air every single issue you have to commend his ability to keep things clear. Instead of an action-packed superhero book we’re really getting a toothy serial soap opera and it helps when the art is this clear and concise.
It’s moments like these you realize you’re getting a quality comic.
8.0
- Enjoyable ongoing for the ongoing reader
- Rewarding story for those who pay attention
- You gotta pay the “Superior toll” to get it
Yet another solid issue from this series. It’s consistently entertaining and consistently rewards the reader who’s been following along. In the same sense, anyone just joining us will have plenty of things fly over their head. In that sense, this series sets itself apart from most comics these days. Most issues recap thoroughly or can be enjoyable even if you’re not following along. It’s a double edged sword then, that this is so good, but not for everyone.
Is It Good?
Yes. Consistently good reading.
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