Two Down...Two to Go
Doom's symposium begins in proper and the War of The Four Cities sees its first skirmish.
The Good
I've got some good news and some bad news. The bad news is Steve Epting's not doing the pencils this issue. The Good news,
Barry Kitson is!!! Steve's probably my favorite artist to have ever drawn a FF run, but Barry really gives him a run for his money here.
The moment with Sue and Spidey that open the issue are really nice and give the book that family feel. Spidey acts Sue if she's worried about so many villains being under her roof and her answer is humorous and badass. Sue's quickly become one of my favorite women in comics due to Hickman's characterization as a strong, independent, intelligent, powerful woman who's still a sensitive, nurturing mother. Sue's the heart and soul of the FF and the glue that holds it all together and it really in this moment and throughout the issue.
I love Valeria, but I must admit she's a bit of a brat and get's away with murder. I like that Reed actually chided her a bit.
Reed's usually very calm and logical, even when in dire straights. Him showing fear and begin so emotional during the meeting was a nice touch and really made me feel just how high the stakes are.
The interaction between all the villains is excellent. There's one particular exchange I loved between Doom and Diablo. Every villain really got their time to shine this issue.
Bentley and Ben have a conversation that really leaves him shaken up. I though this was a great follow up to his conversation with Sue in #2.
Sue, Spidey, and Alex head off to Atlantis to put an end to the Chordai and Mala assault upon the Uhari. There's lots of action during these sequences with the usual Spidey banter. When they go into combat Sue and Spidey's costume's change, I hadn't seen this since the first issue and am glad to see that function of the suits being put to use again.
The Bad
Ben looks like he needs more fiber in his diet on the cover.
Waiting for the next issue.
Kitson draws facial expressions on Dooms mask...I found it humorous. Some of you may find this...disturbing.
The Verdict
Hickman continues to take Marvel's first family in a bold, new direction and I couldn't love it more. Just when I think he's got nothin' left to hit me with he nails me with a new combination. It's all coming together and this title's now moving away from the lab to the battle field. Things are about to get heavy and I can't wait to see what Hickman whips up next.
