Written by Len Kaminski
Art by Tom Morgan; Phil Felix; & Ariane Lenshoek
Cover Art by Tom Morgan
SUMMARY:
Entitled “Old Soldiers,” Marvel Comics published this Force Works-affiliated issue for April 1995. Upon averting a Cal Poly-Tech core breach meltdown, Tony Stark is left with no choice, but to report his suspicions that collegiate mentor, Dr. Ted Slaght may be experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Tony then brings along Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow on a Russian business trip. Despite his outdated armor, Titanium Man publicly attacks Tony’s public relations event to re-ignite a Cold War feud with Iron Man. Tony may well regret underestimating his long-time rival this time.
REVIEW:
In terms of capable plotting, writer Len Kaminski is on his game, including Black Widow’s guest star presence in a civilian capacity. For long-time fans, the passage of time is well-played, as Kaminski revisits a vintage Iron Man feud. As standard as this story really is, Kaminski ensures that it’s still entertaining enough.
The art squad also provides above-average visuals. Of note, Tony Stark appears with a jacked pro wrestler-like physique; it’s as if Rob Liefeld were drawing him. Also, the visual similarity re: redhead Bethany Cabe’s cameo is slightly distracting with Natasha/Black Widow in the same sequence – since Cabe could also readily pass for an absent Pepper Potts. Iron Man # 315, in the end, delivers the character’s familiar adventure style, making it a worthwhile read.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
There’s an unnamed news-and-notes column, as well as a single-page “Printed Circuits” letters-and-answers column.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars
