Peter Parker – Page 2 – Author Carlo Carrasco

A Look Back at Spectacular Spider-Man #87 (1984)

August 2, 2024July 13, 2024carlocarrasco

Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from reading the comic book and doing personal research. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.

Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1980s arts and culture enthusiasts, Marvel Comics fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1984 to examine a small part of the Marvel Comics shared universe through a tale of the Spectacular Spider-Man monthly series.

For this particular review, we will explore a major development in the life of the iconic Spider-Man that was told outside of the Amazing Spider-Man series.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Spectacular Spider-Man #87, published in 1984 by Marvel Comics with a story written by Bill Mantlo and drawn by Al Milgrom.

Early story

The story begins in New York City as Spider-Man and Black Cat (his romantic partner at the time) spend quality time together. Spider-Man tells her that it is time him to show her where he lives. Together, they swing across the city and even played along a few times.

They finally arrive at the rooftop of the building where Peter Parker (Spider-Man) lives and enter via the skylight. Black Cat is shocked to see how cheap the quality of the apartment is and asks him how can a famous hero like him live in such a place.

Spider-Man begins explaining that as a civilian he works as a photo journalist and he did not become a hero to be prosperous. As he keeps on revealing threads of his past, he slowly makes his move to reveal his secret identity to Black Cat…

Quality

*The relationship of Spider-Man and Black Cat develops even more.*

As the cover art revealed, this tale authored by Bill Mantlo is about Spider-Man revealing his secret identity to Black Cat who was his romantic partner at this point in Marvel Comics shared universe history. The revelation served as a key turning point in the life of the iconic webslinger as well as Peter Parker’s personal handling of his interactions with the women he loved. Mantlo’s writing of the dialogue between Spidey and Black Cat is really rich and there is also this sentimental touch with how the writer handled the hero’s emotions, especially with regards to the lady’s loving him more as the costumed hero than the civilian he is. I should also state that the impact of knowing Spider-Man’s true identity has subtle emotional effects on the part of Black Cat which must be seen.

While the cover showed what happened, this comic book is still worth reading because the creative duo of Mantlo and Milgrom carefully crafted scenes that gradually led to the big revelation backed with flashbacks of Peter Parker’s private life (as portrayed in Amazing Fantasy #15) and the build-up from his past romances with Black Cat. The pacing is very good and the pay-off to the build-up was worth every moment.

The conflict with the city thugs that took place near the end of the tale served as an additive to the new development of Black Cat and Spidey’s relationship.

Conclusion

*Black Cat’s first-ever visit at Spider-Man residence.*

Spectacular Spider-Man #87 (1984) is a very worthy read and the creators made daring moves to move the romantic link between Spider-Man and Black Cat forward while adding variety into Peter Parker’s personality. This is a character-driven story that must be read from start to finish.

Overall, Spectacular Spider-Man #87 (1984) is highly recommended.

+++++

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A Look Back at Amazing Spider-Man #320 (1989)

July 26, 2024July 11, 2024carlocarrasco

Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1980s arts and culture enthusiasts, Marvel Comics fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1985 to examine a small part of the Marvel Comics shared universe through a tale of the Amazing Spider-Man monthly series.

For this particular review, we will explore the first chapter of The Assassin Nation Plot storyline that took place within the Amazing Spider-Man series.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Amazing Spider-Man #320, published in 1989 by Marvel Comics with a story written by David Michelinie and drawn by Todd McFarlane.

Early story

The story begins inside Empire State University where Peter Parker – working as an assistant in the science lab – takes advantage of the free time and resources to create web fluid using a new formula. He notices that the acetylene torch does not even leave a smudge on the new web he made.

To his surprise, his boss doctor Evan Sloan catches him doing an interesting experiment. Parker comes up with a convincing excuse for the experiment which spares him from getting into trouble. After promising doctor Sloan he will get on the neutron project first thing in the morning of Thursday, Parker leaves, secretly changes into Spider-Man and equipped his brand new web. He then leaves the university and moves deep into the city…

Quality

*Peter Parker and Mary Jane having a discussion.*

I really like the story David Micheline came up with as the start of The Assassin Nation Plot storyline. This is clearly not your typical good-versus-evil superhero tale starring the webslinger. Instead, there are layers of secrecy, suspense and intrigue that involves a powerful private organization, private armies and diplomats.

Instead of facing off with super villains, Spider-Man finds himself in the middle of something very big brewing behind the scenes, and that puts him in deep danger. That being said, Michelinie’s approach on building up the details of the plot moved very smoothly and the payoff for each buildup was executed on a timely manner. The buildup of details was never boring nor too slow to absorb, and Todd McFarlane excelled with visualizing the plot while still delivering dynamic superhero action.

I should mention that the character Paladin has a strong presence in the story and there were moments when he outweighed Spider-Man in terms of importance.

Conclusion

*Spider-Man and Paladin targeted by armed guards.*

Amazing Spider-Man #320 (1989) is indeed a very solid story to read and a powerful start of The Assassin Nation Plot storyline. With the way the core concept was presented, this comic book symbolically showed that there are high stakes and other matters that are clearly too overwhelming for Spider-Man to deal with. The story is nicely paced and the creative team knew when and how to execute worthy payoffs for each buildup. By the time I reached the end of the comic book, I became convinced to read the next chapter of this storyline.

Overall, Amazing Spider-Man #320 (1989) is highly recommended.

+++++

A Look Back at Amazing Spider-Man #262 (1985)

July 19, 2024July 5, 2024carlocarrasco

Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1980s arts and culture enthusiasts, Marvel Comics fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1985 to examine a small part of the Marvel Comics universe through a tale of the Amazing Spider-Man monthly series.

For this particular review, the Amazing Spider-Man comic book does not involve Tom DeFalco and Ron Frenz. Instead, we will see the creative contribution of Bob Layton who already established himself within Marvel Comics on the Iron Man monthly series. Layton is the same guy who co-founded Valiant Comics with former Marvel Comics editor-in-chief Jim Shooter.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Amazing Spider-Man #262, published in 1985 by Marvel Comics with a story written and illustrated by Bob Layton.

Early story

The story begins as Spider-Man arrives at the Newark International Airport in New Jersey distracting a few air traffic control operators. As he makes his way into a deserted baggage room, Peter Parker intends to change clothes as he has a journalistic assignment from the Daily Bugle to photograph President Ronald Reagan who is set to arrive soon. For Peter Parker, the assignment is crucial as he needs to earn money.

Elsewhere within the airport, the sleazy tabloid news photographer D.J. Jones makes his way through and he intends to photograph something unusual or embarrassing about Reagan. He accidentally bumps into a lady whose items fall down. Jones pretends to be kind to her as he secretly takes her wallet while helping her collect her belongings.

As Jones decides to take the lady’s money, he goes into one of the baggage rooms to get rid of the wallet. Inside, he accidentally spots Peter Parker (still wearing the upper half of his Spider-Man costume) changing clothes and quickly photographs him. Jones starts to run away compelling Parker to chase him knowing that his secret identity will get exposed if he fails…

Quality

*This is what happens when you carry very valuable information with you which the mob wants.*

I really like this Spider-Man tale crafted by Bob Layton. For one thing, it tackles the concept of having your secret identity being discovered by someone who has a record of unethical behavior as well as the opportunity of using the acquired confidential information (the secret identity) for financial gain (at the expense of the affected person). Layton’s story also reconnected Spider-Man to a significant part of his legacy (the death of his Uncle Ben and the identity of the man who killed him) which opens up moral and ethical challenges on his part.

Character development of Spider-Man in this story is short yet substantial to read. As he recalls the painful lesson he learned about his uncle’s death, he remembers how guilt (by previously allowing a crook to get away who later turns out to be the same person responsible for the death of Uncle Ben) overwhelmed his early desire for revenge and this compels him to re-evaluate the responsibility he carries with his superhuman abilities.

Instead of utilizing a super villain, Layton presented D.J. Jones as the antagonist that Spider-Man has to overcome somehow. Jones is not exactly evil, he’s just unethical and sleazy. As a human being, Jones is a turn-off but he is not murderer nor a bank robber. The sleazy photographer is an ordinary man who, like Peter Parker, is trying to survive with his occupation which in turn makes him determined to get the big scoop to rise high.

Conclusion

*Spider-Man ended up having to save the lives of many innocent people resulting in losing track of the man he was chasing.*

Amazing Spider-Man #262 (1985) is a very inspired work by Bob Layton who clearly researched the history of Spider-Man and tackled the crucial themes (note: power, responsibility, morality and ethics) through the story. The plot is simple yet engaging to follow and the character development is really solid. This is great writing by Layton and his approach on superhero spectacle (the action scenes) works well within the narrative.

Overall, Amazing Spider-Man #262 (1985) is highly recommended.

+++++

A Look Back at Amazing Spider-Man #258 (1984)

July 5, 2024July 3, 2024carlocarrasco

Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1980s arts and culture enthusiasts, Marvel Comics fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1984 to examine a small part of the Marvel Comics universe through a tale of the Amazing Spider-Man monthly series.

In my previous retro review, Puma had encountered Spider-Man not once but twice. During the first encounter, Black Cat got in the way to defend her beloved webslinger. A short time later, Mary Jane Watson gets involved unexpectedly and the story ended with something that struck Peter Parker very deep inside.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Amazing Spider-Man #258, published in 1984 by Marvel Comics with a story written by Tom DeFalco and drawn by Ron Frenz.

Early story

The story begins inside Peter Parker’s apartment in New York City. He is struggling deep inside as he is shocked by Mary Jane’s revelation that she knows he and Spider-Man are one and the same person. She tells him that she knew his secret for years. Peter then begins to think that this is all Puma’s fault.

As Mary Jane begins to leave, Peter tries to talk with her. She tells him that he will deny everything and that she cares about him. She added that knowing his secret identity is why she originally left New York. She had to get away from him (and Spider-Man).

Suddenly, Black Cat arrives through the window. Her presence causes Mary Jane to realize something about them…

Quality

*Very clearly the alien costume has its own intelligence and is the main reason why Peter Parker remained exhausted and sleeping too long.*

I really like the writing of this comic book. Tom DeFalco showed strong consistency with developing the newcomer (and a formidable foe) Puma and his rivalry with Spider-Man, while also leaving sufficient room to develop Peter Parker who is now in deeper stress dealing with the complexities of his connections with Mary Jane and Black Cat.

What is most notable about the plot is the finally crafted resolution to Peter Parker’s use of the alien costume (the symbiote from Secret Wars that would later bond with Eddie Brock to form the murderous Venom) by having the Reed Richards and Johnny Storm of the Fantastic Four involved in a captivating manner. I won’t reveal what happened but I can assure you readers that this particular plot element alone makes this comic book very worthy of your time and attention. That being said, Spider-Man’s saga took a serious turn from here.

As with the previous issues, Ron Frenz’s fine art really brought DeFalco’s script into life here and this includes Spider-Man’s crossover with the mentioned Fantastic Four members, dynamic shots of the webslinger and fine dramatic expressions on characters’ faces.

Conclusion

*With Black Cat and Mary Jane both present with Peter Parker, the tension and uncertainty grew only stronger.*

Amazing Spider-Man #258 (1984) is yet another great read from the DeFalco-Frenz duo. The stakes were raised higher and the pay-offs were really solid in this comic book. As mentioned earlier, this story marked the resolution of Spider-Man’s bond with the alien costume, and also paved a new path for future tales of the webslinger. Spider-Man’s crossover with Reed Richards and the Human Torch (which lasted several pages) is easily one of most crucial scenes of entire Marvel Comics stories of the year 1984 and its significance would be realized in relation to the origin and further tales of Venom.

Overall, Amazing Spider-Man #258 (1984) is highly recommended.

+++++

A Look Back at Amazing Spider-Man #257 (1984)

June 21, 2024July 3, 2024carlocarrasco

Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1980s arts and culture enthusiasts, Marvel Comics fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1984 to examine a small part of the Marvel Comics universe through a tale of the Amazing Spider-Man monthly series.

In my previous retro review, Puma was introduced and quickly made an impact on the plot that connects the Rose with Spider-Man (who foiled the Rose’s criminal operation with the help of Black Cat). Puma is not a one-dimensional villain as he is quite principled. Ultimately, issue #256 served as an entertaining build-up of the conflict between Spider-Man and Puma.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Amazing Spider-Man #257, published in 1984 by Marvel Comics with a story written by Tom DeFalco and drawn by Ron Frenz.

Early story

The story begins on top of a building in New York City. Puma grabs the head of the helpless Spider-Man (who just suffered the dislocation of his arm and endured the pain of shoving it back into place before eventually succumbing to the intense pain). He does not strike immediately as he finds the act of eliminating the webslinger almost too easy and he remembers the Rose promised him of a worthy foe.

Just as Puma starts his move to kill Spidey, Black Cat suddenly strikes him out of nowhere. Puma quickly recovers his balance and tells Black Cat to go away. Suddenly, Puma notices something in her. Using his heightened senses, he sees Black Cat’s aura then jumps at her. He quickly realizes he miscalculated with his movement and finds himself overshooting her. In a desperate attempt, Puma grabs a pipe but it quickly broke and causes him to slide on the rooftop and hit the edge.

As Puma picks himself up, the roof beneath him gives in and he falls down…

Quality

*Spider-Man’s 2nd encounter with Puma is action-packed and fun to read. Pay close attention to the details.*

There is no doubt that the story of this comic book is pretty much a big pay-off to the build-up of the previous issue. Not only that, the creative team continued to gradually develop Puma not only as a formidable foe of Spider-Man but also as a sensible and believable new addition to the Marvel Comics universe of the time.

Here, you will see Spider-Man in a truly vulnerable state which symbolically shows that wearing the alien costume has its limits when it comes to protecting and enhancing him. As seen in the final pages of issue #256, Spider-Man struggles a lot physically and, for the first time ever, struggles to command the symbiote (not realizing it is organic and has its own intelligence). With Spidey in a serious physical disadvantage, you will see Black Cat getting a nice share of the spotlight. Not only does she bravely face off with Puma, her concern for Spidey (note: she knows he is Peter Parker) intensifies in a very believable way. She still loves him but could not figure out why Peter prefers to live like a normal person when he could dedicate himself on being a hero every day as Spider-Man.

As for Puma, the creative team developed him even further both in his animalistic form and in his civilian identity as the head of Fireheart Enterprises. As the man Thomas Fireheart, he is a really intelligent man who analyzes a lot of details before making his next move. You will see more of his intellectual side as he deals with both his corporate affairs as well as his contracted service for the Rose (who in turn is serving the Kingpin).

The plot in this comic book is deeper and more elaborate. Without spoiling much, you will get to see the Puma-Rose-Kingpin connection and, more notably, you will see how complex and intense the situation becomes for Peter Parker when he encounters Puma for the 2^nd time. The story is very good, you just have to read it.

Conclusion

*Spider-Man, Black Cat and the alien costume.*

Like the previous issue, Amazing Spider-Man #257 (1984) is a great read but in the form of a great pay-off to the build-up that preceded it. The DeFalco-Frenz duo succeeded in developing the newcomer Puma into a significant Marvel Comics universe addition and their portrayal of an injured Spider-Man is very captivating. That being said, I encourage you all to pay close attention to the literary details revealed during the banter between Spidey and Puma which will resonate with you when you read the next issue.

Overall, Amazing Spider-Man #257 (1984) is highly recommended.

+++++

A Look Back at Amazing Spider-Man #256 (1984)

June 14, 2024July 3, 2024carlocarrasco

Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1980s arts and culture enthusiasts, Marvel Comics fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1984 to examine a small part of the Marvel Comics universe through a tale of the Amazing Spider-Man monthly series.

The era when Spider-Man came back from deep space (refer to Secret Wars) with a new black costume (the symbiote that would later help form Venom) that itself had special abilities was indeed a very notable time in superhero comics history. As if Spidey’s troubled personal life was not enough, he had to deal with new villains that were formidable and tough to deal with.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Amazing Spider-Man #256, published in 1984 by Marvel Comics with a story written by Tom DeFalco and drawn by Ron Frenz.

Early story

The story begins inside a warehouse when Spider-Man suddenly catches a lot of men by surprise. The men turned out to be doing something illegal with lots of stolen good contained in boxes. Quite fearlessly, the webslinger knocks out many of them while Black Cat takes pictures (assistance for Peter Parker) from a distance above. Black Cat eventually gets involved in the physical struggle and the bad guys all got defeated afterwards.

After the struggle, Spider-Man and Black Cat (who know each other personally) have a short sentimental talk before parting ways. As soon as he arrives home, Peter Parker starts developing the pictures in preparation for much-needed income from the Daily Bugle.

Elsewhere in New York (the next morning), the warehouse raid caused by Spider-Man and Black Cat makes immediate impact on the secret operations of the Rose who in turn wants the hero dead. The Rose (who reports to the Kingpin) then sends a message to New Mexico to contact the one person capable of killing Spider-Man…the Puma.

Quality

*Puma in his animalistic form deep within the harsh wilderness of New Mexico.*

I can state that within the age of Spider-Man wearing the alien costume, this particular tale has a strong debut of a new foe and the plot itself is quite intriguing. Tom DeFalco cleverly paced the introduction of Puma whose civilian personality is that of a very focused business executive. The creative team took the inspired approach of defining Puma with the harshness of the New Mexico wilderness contrasted with that of his civilian identity spending time in the bustling urban environment of New York City.

Not only is Puma very powerful and focused, he also has a high standard when it comes to accomplishing tasks showing no fear nor hesitation with regards to potential obstacles ahead of him. Clearly, Puma is not your typical super villain but a very principled and very capable figure. When compared to Wolverine, Puma shares some common animalistic elements with him but he consistently maintains control of himself. This makes him a dangerous force of opposition towards Spider-Man.

Spider-Man here is usual self. His personal problems and lack of a stable life are taking their toll on him just as he continues to keep doing good (example: fighting crime). It should be said that when Puma first strikes at him, the creative monotony with the webslinger suddenly got snapped causing a new series of unfortunate developments that test him. It is also revealed here that using the alien costume does not spare him from serious physical injury.

Conclusion

*These panels show how vulnerable Peter Parker really is as the alien costume comes to him willingly.*

Amazing Spider-Man #256 (1984) is a great read. The build-up with Puma is very powerful and his presence really made a huge impact on the reading experience. By the time the story ended, I was very convinced to read the next issue.

Overall, Amazing Spider-Man #256 (1984) is highly recommended.

+++++

A Look Back at Amazing Spider-Man #255 (1984)

June 7, 2024July 3, 2024carlocarrasco

Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1980s arts and culture enthusiasts, Marvel Comics fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1984 to examine a small part of the Marvel Comics universe through a tale of the Amazing Spider-Man monthly series.

Between the developments of 1980s Secret Wars limited series and the debut of Venom was the time when Peter Parker wore a black new costume as Spider-Man which happens to be the alien costume he gained while spending time with other superheroes in deep space (refer to Secret Wars #8). There was this gradual approach done by the creators to tell new tales of Spider-Man who has the symbiote attached to him most of the time.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Amazing Spider-Man #255, published in 1984 by Marvel Comics with a story written by Tom DeFalco and drawn by Ron Frenz.

Early story

The story begins when a black costumed figure arrives at the balcony of a tall building during night time in New York City. He carefully makes an unlawful entry into the place to steal something. The figure was the Black Fox who intends to take valuables not to feed his greed but to properly subsidize his retirement. When he touches an exquisite-looking vase, it disappears and suddenly a monstrous ape appears from nowhere surprising him. Soon enough, he finds himself surrounded by more apes and faces their human leader (one who referred to the apes as pets).

Meanwhile at his apartment, a very tired Peter Parker washes his black costume (the symbiote), reflects on recent events he went through and then goes to bed. During the night, the black costume comes to life and slowly slithers its way into the bedroom wrapping itself on the sleeping Peter…

Quality

*The sneaky Black Fox has no chance of escaping Spider-Man (wearing the alien costume that would later lead to the start of Venom).*

I want to start with the force of opposition the creative team came up with. This is about the powerful villain the Red Ghost who has super-apes under his control and vast wealth and resources to organize criminal activities. Red Ghost here is not your typical villain as he is actually strategic, smart and even philosophical clearly knowing what he is doing and what he needs to keep on doing crime. The retiring old thief Black Fox happens to be the very criminal that Red Ghost needs for a special task involving the machine called the Cosmicizer which is essential to his need of vastly increasing his cosmic-ray induced powers.

The Red Ghost is struggling with certain limits which are related to his need of the Black Fox to accomplish something for him with the assistance of the super apes. That being said, the presentation of evil awaiting Spider-Man in this tale is a clever move by DeFalco and Frenz.

As for the iconic webslinger, you will see more of Peter Parker’s personal struggles balancing his life between real-world living and performing as Spider-Man to help people and solve problems. In this tale, his personal life is at a low point and it does not help that his has a strained link with his Aunt May. Even though he has the alien costume that is capable of aiding him a lot, there are still problems that the superhero simply cannot solve. The dramatization here is pretty good and the way the final conflict with the main villain turned out was a pretty nice pay-off.

Conclusion

*Peter Parker’s sleep has been disorderly since he brought home with him the symbiote.*

Amazing Spider-Man #255 (1984) is an entertaining and intriguing read. The creative team’s decision to have the established Fantastic Four foe Red Ghost as the definitive villain for Spider-Man turned out to be a smart move and what they did was fun to read. The presence of Black Fox (note: this comic book is his debut) added a layer of depth to the plot and his declared desire to retire from the life of crime made him an intriguing addition to the Spider-Man list of villains.

Overall, Amazing Spider-Man #255 (1984) is recommended.

+++++

A Look Back at Amazing Spider-Man #252 (1984)

May 29, 2024July 3, 2024carlocarrasco

Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1980s arts and culture enthusiasts, Marvel Comics fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1984 to examine a small part of the Marvel Comics universe through a tale of the Amazing Spider-Man monthly series.

By now, you readers should be aware that I reviewed a lot of comic books about Spider-Man and his deadliest enemy Venom. It is already established through comic book history that the iconic webslinger is responsible for the establishment of Venom as he brought into the world the alien costume (the symbiote) coming from deep space (as told in the Secret Wars limited series), and he also became responsible for the destruction of Eddie Brock’s career in journalism. Of course, Venom did not debut immediately after Spider-Man’s return from Secret Wars and there was a lot more about the symbiote when it was with Peter Parker.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Amazing Spider-Man #252, published in 1984 by Marvel Comics with a story written by Roger Stern and Tom DeFalco, and drawn by Ron Frenz. This comic book marked the first appearance of the alien costume.

Early story

The story begins inside the New York headquarters of the Daily Bugle. It has been observed that several superheroes such as Captain America, Thor, Spider-Man, Iron Man, the X-Men and the Avengers have been missing this resulted in a rise of crime. Publisher J. Jonah Jameson and editor-in-chief Joe Robertson discuss the newest edition of their newspaper.

Meanwhile over at Central Park where police officers and others stand by an area that was closed off, a physical structure suddenly appears spreading bright light to onlookers. Suddenly Spider-Man (wearing a new dominant black costume) leaps out of the structure carrying Dr. Connor (the Lizard) surprising the people.

After realizing they have returned home at last after spending lots of time and struggle in deep space (Secret Wars), Spider-Man could not help but feel jubilant to be home. As the police officers don’t realize that they are talking with the same webslinger due to the new costume, one of them was about to draw his gun which prompted the superhero to use his web on him.

Suddenly, the Avengers, Captain America, Thor and Iron Man emerge from the physical structure which provided Spider-Man relief as he thought that only he and Dr. Connors made it home. With the people focusing on the other superheroes, Spider-Man and Dr. Connors slowly exited. Connors asked him what are they going to tell the world about all they have seen and experienced in deep space…

Quality

*Spider-Man’s first night in New York wearing the alien costume .*

I really like this story. I first read this a long time ago and I re-read it all over again for this retro review, and still this story engaged me a lot. There is a lot of richness in the script and you will get to see Peter Parker transitioning into a series of major changes that await him. Without spoiling the plot, there is no hero-versus-villain element here at all. It is all about Spider-Man who just arrived home from a major conflict (and also one of the most significant comic events ever published by Marvel Comics) and the alien costume saga truly began right here. The Venom debut did not happen until a few years later in reality.

In accordance to what was established in Secret Wars (not to be confused with the 2015 series of the same name) and the standards of then editor-in-chief Jim Shooter, the creative came up with a tale that not only showed a different Spider-Man but also portrayed him in ways that defied the tropes and creative ideas the preceded this comic book.

For one thing, Peter Parker is literally like a fish out of water here. As far as the whole world is concerned, only days passed when the superheroes went to deep space. But for the webslinger, a lot more time passed as so many battles, discoveries and intriguing events took place for him along with the others. That being said, Peter Parker’s perception of reality and track of time really got messed up and the weight of Secret War’s events really turned out overwhelming on him. This was well dramatized in the scene wherein Peter – who realized that so much time had passed – he had to call his aunt May fearing that she must be worried sick over him. There was also the moment when by walking down the street, he realized how much he missed not only his home but also the local surroundings.

It was also in this comic book when Peter started getting more oriented with the alien costume he first got in Secret Wars #8 (which was actually published after this comic book) and started to enjoy the benefits with the way it responds to his thinking. Of course, at this stage, he has yet to realize the unfortunate truth about the living costume he brought home and this story really kicked off a new and profound stage in the comic book history of Spider-Man

Conclusion

*When Spider-Man finally arrived home after spending so much time during Secret Wars.*

Amazing Spider-Man #252 (1984) is still a great comic book to read all over again. This was released during the time when Secret Wars (1984) was still being published and years before Venom’s big debut in the series’ 300^th issue. In my view, the alien costume saga was a big turning point in the literary history of Spider-Man and the creators who got involved in this comic book really sowed the seeds of compelling and intriguing events that followed. What is intriguing is that all of these significant developments started when a Marvel Comics reader from Illinois came up with the idea of a new costume for Spider-Man, wrote to them and the publisher responded to acquire his idea for over $200 (click here).

This comic book is also a reminder of how significant Jim Shooter’s rule at Marvel Comics really was and I can say that the Marvel’s literary universe of the 1980s should not be ignored.

Overall, Amazing Spider-Man #252 (1984) is highly recommended!

+++++

A Look Back at Amazing Spider-Man #375 (1993)

May 15, 2024May 5, 2024carlocarrasco

Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1990s arts and culture enthusiasts, Marvel Comics fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1993 and examine a small part of the Marvel Comics universe through a tale of the Amazing Spider-Man monthly series.

In my previous retro comic book review, the insane murderer Venom returned to antagonize Spider-Man by targeting his parents. While it was a fact that Venom – who knew Spider-Man’s true identity – got into close contact with Aunt May (symbolizing the danger he poses on the Peter Parker’s family) a few years prior, going after the mother and father of Peter really raised the stakes.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Amazing Spider-Man #375, published in 1993 by Marvel Comics with a story written by David Michelinie and drawn by Mark Bagley. This comic book marked the 30^th anniversary of Amazing Spider-Man #1 (1963).

Early story

The story begins inside one of the facilities of the closed amusement park in Brooklyn. In his vicious form, Venom tells Richard and Mary Parker (both restrained) that they belong to him and declares that he would protect them from Spider-Man.

When Richard Parker asked why would he think that they would have anything to do with Spider-Man, Venom realizes that the couple does not even know their son is the webslinger. Venom tells the couple that their innocence is what he is sworn to preserve.

Over at Manhattan, Spider-Man swings back to the Daily Bugle building and discreetly changes his clothes before moving in as photographer Peter Parker. Inside one of the offices, J. Jonah Jameson reaches out to Silver Sable by telephone…

Quality

*Peter Parker had to commit a crime by trespassing into Anne Weying’s residence. His disguise as Spider-Man does not protect him from the law.*

I have mixed feelings about this follow-up to the great story of the previous issue. For one thing, David Michelinie’s script had a completely different tone and direction even though he intended this comic book to conclude what issue #374 started. Another thing is that this story has even more characters added in which clearly diluted the intensity of the Venom-Spider-Man rivalry that was so intense in the previous issue.

There are two sub-plots – one of which deals with someone from Eddie Brock’s past – that were emphasized with sufficient details and the creative team integrated them into the main story. It seems that the creators intended to make the main story look grander in scope while sacrificing the very elements that made issue #374 a great and intense reading experience.

Remember the suspense and danger that came with Venom targeting the older Parker couple? Those elements are almost totally absent in this comic book even though this story concluded the previous issue’s conflict build-up. Richard and Mary Parker are both present as captives of Venom but there really is no tension nor any sense of danger here due to the drastic change of tone and direction in the script.

I should also stress that the introduction of Anne Weying (previously Anne Brock) as Eddie Brock’s ex-wife looked and felt like an afterthought inserted into the story. While Anne’s presence brought out some traces of humanity and sanity from Venom during the 2^nd half of the story, it did not add much impact on the conflict between the webslinger and the symbiote-wearer murderer. Ultimately, the creative team had to do something to explain the story build-up on Venom’s part leading into the Lethal Protector limited series which is set in the city of San Francisco.

And then there was the presence of Silver Sable’s team called the Wild Pack. The Wild Pack is the result of J. Jonah Jameson’s agreement with Silver Sable with the objective of achieving a journalistic exclusive for the Daily Bugle. This particular sub-plot is really lousy and not even the dynamic looking action sequences involving the Wild Pack could hide lousiness.

If there is anything symbolic about the script, it is the emphasis on family as well as the impact that comes with elements of the past emerging unexpectedly. In this very comic book, you will get to see Eddie Brock/Venom react like a sane person in response to the sudden re-appearance of his former wife. No matter what the creative team did here, I can say that the Spidey/Venom conflict did not really intensify (note: the dynamic action scenes did not solve the shortcomings) and there was no reason to worry about the captive Parker couple.

Conclusion

*The insane murderer Venom with the parents of Peter Parker.*

Considering the great stuff and raised stakes that made issue #374 a very compelling read, Amazing Spider-Man #375 (1993) is clearly a disappointing conclusion. This is not a terrible comic book as it has some good stuff for fans to enjoy but the overall presentation of the creators here is not too great due to their approach with the storytelling (with two sub-plots that did not add much). Overall, I am glad I never bought this comic book (with flashy cover and more pages) at full price in 1993.

Overall, Amazing Spider-Man #375 (1993) is satisfactory.

+++++

A Look Back at Amazing Spider-Man #374 (1993)

April 24, 2024April 11, 2024carlocarrasco

In early 1993, the supervillain and murderer Venom was in very high demand among Marvel readers and comic collectors. The Venom: Lethal Protector mini-series launched with issue #1 selling a lot of copies and it portrayed Spider-Man’s greatest enemy as a very twisted and violent makeshift hero who dedicated himself to protecting what he (Eddie Brock specifically) to innocent people. As Venom was one of the few supervillains who knew Spider-Man’s true identity, the creative team behind the Amazing Spider-Man series decided to raise the stakes temporarily by having him encounter Peter Parker’s parents (the ones that appeared in Amazing Spider-Man #365).

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Amazing Spider-Man #374, published in 1993 by Marvel Comics with a story written by David Michelinie and drawn by Mark Bagley.

Early story

The story begins inside the bunker beneath the grounds of the deserted Brooklyn amusement park. As Eddie Brock struggles to lift a very heavy piece of equipment, the symbiote forms over his body helping him lift it up above the head. Venom is obsessed with killing Spider-Man and Eddie Brock remains totally bitter over the webslinger’s responsibility on destroying his career. Eddie sees a page of the Daily Bugle on the wall and it contains a news photo of Peter Parker with his mother and father.

At New York’s famous Central Park, Peter, wife Mary Jane and his parents enjoy quality time skating on ice. Aunt May is standing on a wooden platform watching them…

Quality

*Lots of intense action scenes in this comic book for fans and readers to be entertained with. The action scenes are not mindless as they serve as reflections of Venom’s powerful quest for revenge.*

To begin with, I can say that this tale by David Michelinie is a very intense and dramatic read and it added a new layer of depth into the enduring rivalry between Spider-Man and Venom. At this point in Marvel Comics’ shared universe history, the two icons have encountered each other so many times, the time was right for Michelinie to raise the stakes and have the elderly Parkers (note: Aunt May excluded) as the new targets of Venom (already made obvious on the cover which in turn added tremendous stress on the part of Spider-Man and his wife.

For the newcomers reading this, Eddie Brock’s journalistic career was destroyed over the Sin-Eater story as a result of Spider-Man’s public revelation of Stanley Carter as the said figure (note: Brock’s Sin-Eater article series was based on interviews with Emil Gregg who actually turned out to be a delusional neighbor of Carter’s).

As Brock’s life went way downhill with his reputation destroyed, his hatred of Spider-Man grew and so did his quest for revenge. That being said, what happened in this particular comic book was a very reflective extension of what happened years prior. Anyone who has basic knowledge of the origin of Venom and early appearances of Brock in comics will be able to understand the intensified rivalry in this tale.

Apart from the great story, this comic book has lots of superhero spectacle for readers to enjoy. That being said, the smashing action of the fight between Spider-Man and Venom was clearly made to be more violent which suitably reflected the supervillain’s lust for revenge. Spidey, meanwhile, had no choice but to avoid causing any more damage or harm as Venom goes after him in public surrounded with lots of bystanders. Along the way, you will see a key moment of the insanity of Venom which served as a useful pause of the fight. Finally, when it comes to the art, this comic book has some of the finest artworks I have seen from Mark Bagley.

Conclusion

At the time of this comic book’s publication, Venom was one of the few supervillains who knew Spider-Man and Peter Parker are one and the same person. The inclusion of Peter’s parents only added to the raising of the stakes.

Amazing Spider-Man #374 (1993) is undeniably a great read complete with intense action scenes, lots of intrigue and, most notably, a rock solid development of the Spider-Man-Venom rivalry. This is the kind of story that will compel long-time Spider-Man fans to revisit Venom’s origin as well as Spider-Man’s involvement with the Sin-Eater. At the same time, this tale will help readers understand the insanity and murderous mind of Venom that took place not only in the Venom: Lethal Protector mini-series in also other mini-series about the symbiotic killer that Marvel published throughout the 1990s.

Overall, Amazing Spider-Man #374 (1993) is highly recommended!

+++++

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