Written by Reginald Hudlin
Art by Billy Tan; Jon Sibal; Avalon’s Ian Hannin; & VC’s Cory Petit
Cover Art by Steve McNiven
SUMMARY:
Entitled “Wild Blue Yonder, Part V of VI,” Marvel Comics released this issue for October 2005. At The Daily Bugle, Peter Parker is advised by Reed “Mr. Fantastic” Richards the truth re: Ethan Edwards’ vast super-powers. Confronting a confused Ethan, Spider-Man is no position to pursue him, let alone subdue someone reminiscent of a certain red-caped Kryptonian. Fleeing to his adoptive home of Hicksville, Iowa, an emotionally distraught Ethan faces off vs. the Fantastic Four.
Meanwhile, Spidey must contain super-powered drug users experiencing the illicit concoction the Owl is now peddling. This designer street drug is in fact the Absorbing Man’s own residue. Seeking vengeance on his opportunistic ex-boss, “Crusher” Creel (aka Absorbing Man) is yet another bloodthirsty threat on the loose. The question is: who finds the Owl and his razor-sharp claws first?
REVIEW:
Aside from the loathsome Absorbing Man drug-related angle, writer Reginald Hudlin’s scripting is still remarkably good. Not only does he coherently juggle a Superman homage, a solid Fantastic Four guest spot, and two feuding villains, Hudlin keeps Spider-Man squarely in the middle of “Wild Blue Yonder.”
Though faltering a bit from prior issues in this storyline, the art squad’s visuals are still sufficient. Hence, Marvel Knight Spider-Man # 17 delivers a satisfying read for adult fans.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Including the last issue’s cover image, the first page summarizes “Wild Blue Yonder” to date. Included are cover reveals for both Black Panther # 7 and Marvel Knights Spider-Man # 18.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars
