By Zeb Wells (writer), Chris Bachalo (pencils, colors), Townsend, Irwin, Faucher, Mendoza, and Vey (inks), Antonio Fabela (colors)
Just when I’ve hit my comfort zone with Chris Bachalo drawing Spider-Man he leaves. It’s just not fair, I tell ya! He and writer, Zeb Wells have arguably constructed the best Brand New Day story arc yet. As much as I’ve enjoyed this series since its reboot, what’s been accomplished in the past three issues doesn’t feel as fragmented as previous arcs. It’s a complete story with a satisfying ending. Yes, the on-going subplots are still going, but this story with Mayan gods and sacrifices was entertaining, fulfilling, and even suspenseful at times.
Wells continues to do a good job with Spidey and his dialog. The climax of the story was unexpected, and actually pretty cool! The way things come full circle at the end will also bring a smile to your face. I dug seeing Carlie in this book, it’s just too bad she was forced to play the damsel in distress. It would have been nice to see her character grow some more. I also could have done without Dr. Rabin’s constant expository dialog which quickly became redundant. But hey, no one’s perfect.
Hats of to Chris Bachalo for his Mayan God design. It’s undecipherable at times, looking like pieces of husk, bone, and straw all tossed onto a skeletal structure, but when we get a pull back on the camera and see this thing for what it is, I gotta say, it’d make one heck of a cool statue! His art here is probably the best of the three issues. I know I’ve said this before, but the borderless pages, the white panels, and the coloring are exceptional. Great package, all around. (Grade: A-)
- J. Montes
Filed under: Marvel Comics, Reviews Tagged: | Amazing Spider-Man 557, Antonio Fabela, Brand New Day, Chris Bachalo, Gods, Marvel Comics, Mayans, monsters, Spider-Man, Spider-Man, Zeb Wells
