Written by J.M. DeMatteis
Art by Don Perlin; Mike Esposito; Shelly Leferman; & George Roussos
Cover Art by (Credit Not Provided)
SUMMARY:
Published by Marvel Comics for August 1982, this standard-length issue showcasing Devil-Slayer is entitled “Hunger …” In the Negative Zone, Devil-Slayer (Eric Simon Payne) is tormented by a drug-addicted hippy’s tragic death that occurred in Defenders # 104.
Dubbed ‘Sunshine,’ the hippy’s ghost accompanies Devil-Slayer back to Earth where he returns the favor by challenging a confused Payne’s need for alcohol. Payne’s vengeful self-loathing sends him to California after his mobster ex-boss, Carl Boccino. Again delaying suicide, Payne next visits his old friend Brian Kingston’s family. Sunshine’s spirit guides Payne to Jerusalem to bring his personal journey full-circle. Months later, Dr. Strange learns of the ex-Defender’s fate.
Meanwhile, Nighthawk’s (Kyle Richmond) nurse, Luann Bloom, defiantly recoils from word of her client’s mysterious death (in Defenders # 106). Another brief snippet glimpses Richmond’s still-living Squadron Supreme counterpart on an alternate Earth.
REVIEW:
While writer J.M. DeMatteis’ last page (in the form of a handwritten letter) is a solid finale, the tale of Devil-Slayer’s inner demons is otherwise a melancholic bore. Specifically, intermingling a gradual path to redemption within this deluded character’s self-involvement isn’t an entertaining read.
For instance, a brief sequence of domestic battery between Devil-Slayer and his estranged wife, Cory, is disturbingly glossed over. Per her religious faith, Cory is scripted as instantly forgiving her husband for a harsh facial slap without even a hint of remorse from Payne. While Cory’s selflessness to help Payne is commendable, it also reiterates why anti-hero Devil-Slayer is an unlikable presence. The art team’s work is okay for its time, but decent visuals won’t hide Defenders # 110 as a filler issue that doesn’t age well.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
In addition to a “Defenders Dialogue” letters-and-answers column, there is Jim Shooter’s “Bullpen Bulletins” column.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 3 Stars
