Comics / Comic Reviews / Marvel Comics

Spider-Men Mini-Series Review

By Alexander Jones
September 20, 2012 - 13:02

With The 50th Anniversary of Spider-Man on the horizon, Marvel Comics had to do something big. Spider-Men was the revitalization the franchise needed. Miles Morales, the brand new African-American Spider-Man, and star of Ultimate Spider-Man, has been a rising star ever since the title relaunched. A new Spider-Man meeting the classic Peter Parker is is a good story premise. When you consider how the supporting cast of Ultimate Spider-Man features characters that are still alive in one universe, yet dead in another, you have a great premise. Peter Parker lacks a lover, yet has the job of his dreams at Horizon Labs.

Spider-Men opens with the beloved and well-known menace Mysterio, who is up to no good in both the Ultimate and Regular Marvel Universe. The revelation in the first issue is that Mysterio is the same character in both universes.  This is very important because in the 12 years of the Ultimate universe and the Regular universe coexisting, a crossover has never been attempted. After the revelation, Peter is introduced as swinging through the comic book spouting writer Brian Micheal Bendis's signature dialogue. Towards the end of the issue, while battling Mysterio, Peter is transported to the Ultimate Universe.

In the first issue of the series, more grounded approach is taken this wildly ambitious story. When Peter and Miles first lay eyes on each other sparks fly. This is fantastically illustrated by the spectacular Sarah Pichelli. Her pencils are more cerebral, which is perfect for the story at hand. The colorist Justin Ponsor is nothing short of incredible as well. The creative team seems to be in perfect harmony. When the inevitable battle between Peter and Miles occurs, of course Peter leaves the fight victorious. Towards the end of the third issue though, common ground is reached between our two heroes.

The true magic of Spider-Men comes into play in the series' fourth issue. The dead romantic flames between Peter and  Gwen Stacy are reignited. Witnessing the two interact is heartbreaking. Watching Peter interact with a former lover, one whom has been dead for decades, will reduce even the most cynical Marvel Comics' fan to tears. Writer Brian Michael Bendis has stated this issue was the purpose of the story being written. In the final issue of Spider-Men, a seminal moment occurs that could change the Regular Marvel Universe. However and for now, this development serves as a mere teaser of stories to come. A moment like this, where the very core of the character is celebrated and remembered, is why fans are so loyal to Marvel Comics. This comic book is important. It will leave an impression on the Ultimate and regular Marvel universe for a long time. More importantly though, you won't ever forget it.

Rating: 9 /10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12