The creators are on the right track here, really delving into the alien and creepy nature of the Venom character. Jenkins has transformed him into something akin to a serial killer (well, a serial "assaulter," with a vampire flair), rather than just an opposite number to the webslinging title character. Ramos's exaggerated artwork gets in the way of the story at times, though. His style suits the villain of the piece quite well, but when it comes to the human characters, his work is a bit over the top.
Apparently more dangerous than ever, Venom manages to elude Spider-Man after their latest encounter. Meanwhile, New York Police Department detective Neil Garrett continues his investigation of the mysterious attacks that have left victims comatose and drained of adrenaline, and he's learned of a connection among those who were struck down. Learning of Garrett's investigation, Spidey touches base so they can compare notes. Meanwhile, Venom has recruited an ally, albeit a reluctant one, of his own: Eddie Brock, its one-time host.
Ramos's angular, wide-eyed style is perfect when it comes to a number of elements in this story. It emphasized the animalistic and alien nature of the Venom creature, and he conveys the desperation and intense fear that has a strange-hold on Eddie Brock. Ramos also captures the title character's litheness and agility. The non-costumed members of the cast, though, don't fare so well. The catatonic Flash Thompson looks silly as opposed to tragic, and Garrett's police captain and Aunt May are almost indistinguishable. The blackness of some characters' eyes -- such as Garrett and his partner, Charlie -- is distracting as well, and it makes them appear evil or subhuman.
The May/Liz/Flash subplot is one of the stronger scenes in the book. Liz's agony over the fact that she just can't care for Flash rings incredibly true, and it presents an opportunity for May to reassume a nurturing role. Of all the plotlines in this issue, this was the one that piqued my curiosity the most. I look forward to where Jenkins leads it.
It's a pleasure to see Venom portrayed as something other than a guy with an irrational beef with Peter Parker or an anti-hero. He's truly a monster here, and his activities, fortunately not focused on the hero, are chilling. He's making for an interesting villain. The plot isn't exactly cutting-edge, but it is entertaining.
