By Dan Slott (Writer), Marcos Martin (Art), and Javier Rodriguez (Colors)
Being a huge fan of the marriage and therefore a significantly “less than huge” fan of the reboot, I have to say that this is potentially the best issue of Brand New Day yet. We finally get the back story on Paper Doll, and though her insane fangirl crush on Bobby Carr is still annoying, it is more forgivable given her entire story. Also included is the inevitable ultimate showdown between her, Spider-Man, Bobby Carr, and his “mystery girl.” (I’m assuming by now you’ve heard who she is, if not, read no further.)
While MJ’s affections for Carr may send shudders down the spine of hardcore marriage fans like myself, we get a quick redemption as we are reminded what a complex character Mary Jane is. And believe me, there are some definite hints that prove things may not be as they seem with her. Without spoiling, it certainly looks as if the two different rumors regarding MJ (floating around the Net) are indeed true! As the fight concludes, we learn that even Bobby Carr is a deeper character than he once seemed and is certainly not the brainless celebrity that the media has portrayed him to be.
Though the fight is definitely tense (it certainly had me in suspense more than once), the highlight of the issue is undoubtedly when Peter finally displays his much missed sense of responsibility when confronting Dexter Bennett about his paparazzi work. This is the Peter Parker I’ve come to know and love (though sadly still missing his other half). And speaking of his other half, the final scene seems to throw yet another wrench in the mystery of Jackpot (though her identity is still obvious), and I am eager to read the full story when it is finally written.
One final note: take a close look at the boxes, you’ll find more than one Easter Egg. That’s all I’m saying. (Grade: B)
-M. Staples
A Second Opinion
I’m not sure if this is the best issue of Brand New Day yet, but it definitely is the best story arc. Masterfully plotted and scripted, this marks the beginning of what I hope will be a more engaging string of storylines. Furthermore, I’m hoping for some more answers to the questions that have plagued readers of this book for the last six months. But as far as this issue’s concerned, it’s brilliant. Not only do we get answers to some lingering questions, we get to see a nice little team-up between Spidey and MJ. Perhaps the only glaring problem I had was Peter inability to recognize MJ’s voice through the intercom. And yes, I know Dan Slott had an explanation for this, but I’m not buying it!
I really can’t say enough about Dan Slott’s writing. It seems like every supporting cast member displayed here is utilized to some degree. Slott also goes a long way in solidifying Bobby Carr’s persona while also exposing Dexter Bennet as the scumbag he is. Marcos Martin’s art, once again, is lively and kinetic. The action, mannerisms, and expressions portrayed throughout the book (once again) prove why he’s the perfect Spider-Man artist. He’s got the technical skills of a veteran, a classical style that’s universally loved, and storytelling that’s almost unmatched. If you haven’t done so yet, pick up this issue along with the past two. This is a classic Spidey story at its finest. (Grade: A+)
Filed under: Marvel Comics, Reviews Tagged: | Amazing Spider-Man, Amazing Spider-Man #561, Brand New Day, Comic Book Reviews, comic books, Dan Slott, Javier Rodriguez, Marcos Martin, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Spider-Man, Spider-Man
