Written by (See Below)
Art by (See Below)
Cover Art by Salvador Larroca & Liquid!
SUMMARY:
Showcasing talents new to the Spider-Man mythos, Marvel Comics released this issue for January 2006. The two Spider-tales are “Amends” and “Private Conversation.”
“Amends.” Writer: Christos N. Gage, with Art by: Mike McKone, Larry Stucker, Sotocolor’s J. Brown, & Dave Sharpe. Digging deep into Spider-Man’s collection of dubious foes, a remorseful Big Wheel seeks to become his new crime-fighting partner. Against Stilt Man and then the Shocker, Spider-Man bemusedly finds that some back-up can be a migraine just waiting to happen.
“Private Conversation.” Writer: Tom Beland, with Art by: Sean Phillips, Avalon Studios, & Dave Sharpe. High school teacher Peter Parker finds outs that a favorite student, Paul Sidorsky, has experienced a sudden tragedy that he readily empathizes with. Spider-Man responds by arranging a confidential meeting for Paul to meet with some special counselors. Guest stars include Captain America, Luke Cage, Iron Man, Daredevil, the X-Men’s Kitty Pryde, the Young Avengers’ Cassie Lang/Stature, and three representatives of the Fantastic Four.
REVIEW:
In terms of storytelling, both Spider-tales are decent reads. “Amends” has some comedic bits, as Big Wheel’s absurdity (not to mention, a self-help group for hapless super-crooks) is nicely played. Spider-Man’s embarrassment in battle is also amusing enough. If anything, an extra boost comes from this first tale’s visuals. They are this issue’s next-best element following the catchy cover image.
In a change-of-pace, “Private Conversation” has a poignant premise, including Peter and young Paul’s mutual interest in various aspects of science. Writer Tom Beland’s scripting means well, but a question mark is unaddressed. Specifically, why wouldn’t Spider-Man and his pals be actively hunting down a thief, who has committed a double-homicide?
Indicating the random crime happened too fast (and that the unknown culprit still hasn’t been caught) is meant to be realistic, but it’s also a plotting cop-out. Considering their vast resources for detective work, Spider-Man and his super-friends could frankly be doing more than an exclusive counseling session for an orphaned teen. Hence, as the case is evidently left to the police, then one might construe finding the killer isn’t on the heroes’ priority list. The artwork is fine for this story, but the visuals don’t compensate much for an otherwise unsatisfying resolution.
Spider-Man Unlimited # 12, as a whole, should appeal to Spider-fans of all ages. However, it isn’t a must-have.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
The first page supplies credits, including quick bios for Christos Gage, Tom Beland, and Sean Phillips. The Daily Bugle’s “Pulse” column offers three Issue # 1 cover reveals for these mini-series: Ultimate Wolverine vs. Hulk; Spider-Woman: Origin; and Son of M.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6 Stars
