Strict but fair...
THE GOOD
The art is unlike anything I have seen (outside this series, of course). It is WAY more lifelike than all the other comics I read. I haven't quite decided if I like it or not... for now, I will leave it in the "good" category.
I liked the introduction of the "Contingency" plans the government has to offer. I have to wonder why they sent heroes susceptible to the symbiote in the first place?!? Either way, it is very interesting to see these characters introduced along with their unique capabilities (even though the "show and tell" of it all was a bit over the top).
In true fashion for a second issue, the story picks up from the cliffhanger, something amazing happens, hope is injected - in the form of backup for the main character(s), and while the plot continues from the perspective of both "good" and "evil", we are left with yet another cliffhanger. Solid story and plot progression.
THE BAD
Nothing major, just a few "artistic choices" I had a problem with...
As I stated above... why didn't the government use these "Contingency" options BEFORE the Avengers got themselves "stuck"? Also, just a minor gripe... am I supposed to believe that an electric fence is really keeping these people safe? Oh, and finally, where did Cletus get the "Spider-Pet" for Cole? Does he keep a spare Spidey suit laying around in case he has to entertain children?
THE VERDICT
Recommended. If this mini-series is anything like the Carnage mini from last year, this issue will be difficult to find in a few months. Issue two keeps up with the insane content Carnage fans have grown to love, with a little dash of hope thrown in for good measure. The ending will likely be a shock, both in the fact that "they went there" and provoking "where are they going to go from here". I look forward to the next issue, wondering how they are going to wrap all this up in just three more issues.
