After reading this issue, I find I'm really torn. The writers explores some interesting concepts here, not the least of which is how sometimes, the penal system actually works from time to time. Still, Ezekiel's regular appearances in the title again bring with them some problems, not the least of which is accessibility in what should be one of Marvel's flagship titles when it comes to attracting new readers. Fans of Straczynski's run on the book should be pleased, but those with misgivings about the Ezekiel character may want to steer clear.
Peter Parker's efforts to look out for one of his biology students has turned into a 'round-the-clock affair. As he spends his days guiding her through her education, he spends his nights keeping her out of trouble as she searches the dark corners of the city for her older brother, who's gone missing since his release from prison. When Peter Parker (and Spider-Man) finally get a chance to investigate on his own what happened to Joshua, the answer provides to be nothing like what he expected.
Romita's artwork is as strong as ever, and his dark, shadowy and gritty approach works well within the context of the the mature elements in the story. He and Hanna create an interesting mix of detail and simplicity, and the colors go a long way to reinforce the more sophisticated, reflective tone of the script.
The writers address an interesting notion about criminal behavior, one that's not usually addressed in the super-hero genre. Spider-Man is challenged here, by his student and by his would-be mentor, to look at the consequences of his actions, at what happens to criminals when he webs them up, what happens to their families. Ezekiel suggests that it's not enough to protect the world from the bad guys, but to look at those "bad guys" as part of the world, as elements to be molded and improved as opposed to just beaten up. These are broad issues that can't be dealt with easily in just 22 pages or so. I'll be disappointed if Straczynski doesn't continue to explore this theme and how it impacts on the title character's thinking.
Ezekiel... what can I say? Straczynski and Avery try to paint him as an enigmatic figure, as someone with an unusual but important perspective to share. But I find the ambiguity of his words and actions to be frustrating, even pompous. He's been a rather difficult character to accept from the start, and his involvement here is just too coincidentally tied into Spider-Man's life for my liking. Furthermore, he doesn't even seem to be the same character as he was before. There's a slightly sinister edge to him here. His appreciation of Peter and his desire to guide him almost seem supplanted by irritation and superiority.
