This is the beginning of a new arc for this creative team, and it starts out with the same uneven strengths and weaknesses that I've found in the past stories. However, that included the "Coming Home" story that earned an Eisner-nod in the end, so I've learned not to judge the entire story based on a weak opening. In amidst some flubbed color, corny jokes and questionable characterization, there are some funny jokes, some beautiful artwork, a neat re-invention of a classic Spidey villain. And while I'm enjoying the newfound relationship between Aunt May and Peter Parker, I can't deny that my highest anticipation is reserved for Spider-Man slugging it out with this new foe.
Corporate crime is in the news these days, and Straczysnki has clearly been keeping track of that news for a while, as this issue introduces a corporate raider type of villain who seems perfectly at home in the post-dot.com, post-Enron world. His background is used largely as just that, background to establish character, and the result is a villain who hearkens back to some of Stan Lee's classic creations, where their personality and motivations are as important as their powers. Romita Jr. also does a great job on the visuals for this new villain, a little gaudy but not inappropriately so, and a nice update of a classic look.
Actually, though Romita Jr., Hanna and Kemp are generally as strong this issue as in the last few, there were some odd problems with the art this issue. The breakout sequence at the end is great, full of power and solid background detail, and I love the contrast between old and young that Romita Jr. gives the old and new versions of the villain. I was not so impressed with Mary Jane or her receptionist, both of whom are unbelievably skinny and small, even for supermodels. In addition, there's an unfortunate color flub that turns wood walls into what looks like red glass, especially unfortunate as that undercuts an important story point.
Straczynski has his weak moments moments as well, although they are more minor and very subjective complaints. The new honesty between Peter and Aunt May provides an effective character builder for both of them, as well as some fun comedy bits as the two of them try to board an airplane. On the other hand, making light of sneaking weapons through security still seems a tad bit in bad taste even this far away from 9-11, and Peter comes off as a bit of a dimwit for leaving his web shooters in his bag anyway. By far the most distracting element for me, however, was Mary Jane's characterization, as she comes off not as justifiably angry or afraid but instead just spiteful. I'm hopeful, however, that Straczynski will be able to make me believe this with the next issue.
While I have my complaints, this remains probably the best mainstream take on Spidey available, and probably the best book for long-time fans of the character. The quality of writing and artwork is solid, the ideas are fresh but grounded in the classic Spidey formula and the book has a sense of humor without being an outright gag book.
