Select language, opens an overlay

Comment

Mark_Daly
Feb 22, 2013Mark_Daly rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
Bendis' second revamping of Spider-Man throws caution to the winds by completely overhauling the setting and various cosmetic externals. This drew all the media attention and some fan ire. But the truly radical aspect of this book is that Bendis has given the classic engine of the story a brisk tune-up. This Spider-Man is younger and more secure in his friendships and family. Instead of being crippled by teenage self-doubt, he finds himself challenged to navigate a daunting passage from childhood to manhood and is forced by circumstance to re-examine his values and make his own choices. He doesn't act from guilt, as was true for the original Spider-Man over the death of Uncle Ben. This hero must do as all teenagers do and figure out how to be his own person. This makes him instantly relatable in ways far more profound than the oft-morose Peter Parker. The only drawback to this volume is the lack of an outstanding villain -- but, really, in this world, fisticuffs are kind of beside the point. The art is sunny and cheery, but slick where it needs to be (such as the rad Spider-costume). Top-notch entertainment.