Here ends the penultimate arc of Dan Slott’s surprisingly fantastic “Superior Spider-Man.” This may be Spidey’s “Darkest Hour,” but there’s hardly been a better time to be reading a Spider-Man book.
Written by Dan Slott and Christos Gage
Illustrated by Humberto RamosSpecial super-sized 25th issue!
• Otto Octavius, the Superior Spider-Man, in a life-or-death struggle against the original Superior Venom!
• Plus: With one last goblin on his side, the Goblin King’s court is now complete!
• Guest starring: The Avengers!
“Superior Spider-Man” #25 is the kind of comic you never want to end, the book in which you feel genuine dismay when you reach the final page. Even with the increased page count, the issue never feels stale, or dull, or laggy. Slott and Gage weave plots and sub-plots like an intricate tapestry, a piece of art depicting epic clashes between titans and backroom deals between the foulest of creatures. To put it simply; this is a good comic.
This issue has a two-fold purpose; first to wrap up the pesky Venom problem, second to adequately set up for the upcoming ‘Goblin Nation’ arc. Frankly, it accomplishes both goals splendidly.
Last issue, Mary Jane called in the Avengers to deal with the “Superior Venom,” severely upping the ante for the arc. Spidey has been on increasingly thin ice with the Avengers throughout “Superior Spider-Man,” and Slott and Gage bring that conflict to a satisfying head. Iron Man’s return from space (quite the convenient use of continuity there, Mr. Slott) begins the slow unraveling the tangled web Otto has wove for himself. Much of Slott’s run on “Superior” has been cerebrally driven, centered on intellect rather than brawn, so it makes sense that Tony would be the perfect foil for Otto. As always, Otto, ever the brilliant manipulator under Slott’s pen, tries to turn the situation to his favor. However, his pride may have finally overstepped its bounds.
As a small side note, it seems strange that Tony is unaware of Peter’s secret identity. Several other Avengers are in the know, it seems somewhat out of character that Tony would remain outside of that group.
Oh, and of course there’s THAT moment. While Slott has pulled this very stunt several times already, it somehow has yet to lose its impact. Especially in light of recent announcements of a spoilery sort, this issue is sure to leave many a Spider-fan rather giddy.
However, as good as the Otto A-plot is, the slowly escalating Goblin conflict is a true show-stealer. Threads from way back in Slott’s run begin to come together, in the manner fans have come to expect. It’s incredible to watch the various pieces on the board move into their various places. One of those pieces, Ms. Carlie Cooper, who was previously captured and tortured by the Goblins, adds a tragic element to the proceedings. “Superior Spider-Man” is no longer just a struggle for the soul of Peter Parker, but for Carlie as well.
Tying everything together in a beautifully wrapped package is Humberto Ramos. It’s arguable that, though he has shared the spotlight with other artists, Ramos is as integral to the spirit of Slott’s run as Slott himself. While his sharp, cartoony style may be divisive, the artist brings an incredible level of energy to the title. The fight between Venom and the Avengers, with godly lightning bolts crashing and symbiotic tentacles thrashing is a terrific sight to behold. It hearkens all the way back to Slott’s opening ‘Big Time’ arc, in which a very similar team of Avengers battled Doc Ock’s robots.
Sure, Ramos, characters might not always look perfect, Tony in his Iron Man suit looks oddly lanky, for instance. However, Ramos’ exaggerated, almost caricature-esque expressions give his characters a dynamic “life” that is rarely seen. Every page is packed with movement. Even the scenes with bed-ridden Cardiac and Flash Thompson feels terribly urgent, thanks to Ramos’ ability to sell his characters. Of course, equal credit goes to inker Victor Olazaba and the book’s army of colorist, for embellishing Ramos pencils, bringing the incredible final product to the page.
In the words of Norman Osbourne, “Consider it a gauntlet thrown.” The stakes are unbelievably high, Otto’s claim to Peter’s life and livelihood has never been more precarious, and the drums of war beat increasingly louder. It may sound like dramatic hyperbole, but it’s hard not to get excited when, after careful planning much craft, a long gestating, well written story draws near its climax. Bring on ‘Goblin Nation.’
Final Verdict: 9.2 – Buy. You don’t want to miss this.
