FANTASTIC FOUR #12 (MARVEL COMICS)

Aliens seem to never learn: Invade planet Earth and deal with the Fantastic Four!

Or have they?

When a group of outer world visitors attempt to head back in time to take over, they think they outsmarted Reed Richards. Good luck with that!

FANTASTIC FOUR #12 by Ryan North, Pat Boutin, Serge Lapointe, Edgar Delgado & Joe Caramagna presents an all new time-tripping tale!

Let’s take a look at what hijinx ensue this go-around!

FANTASTIC FOUR #12 by Ryan North, Pat Boutin, Serge Lapointe, Edgar Delgado & Joe Caramagna (Marvel Comics)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

North takes a small break form the heaver drama for a fun throwback tale. The opening shows Reed and company react to the time travel scheme. Some don’t make it. Johnny and Reed are the two survivors of the initial attack. Their banter is classic FF. The writing plays into the science aspects of this attack. There’s also a unique use of Reed’s powers concerning his eyes (again). It serves as a pause moment before moving the pair forward in the story.

The “fish out of water” approach leads to more heroics. North having Johnny say “Flame On” In Latin is a nice touch as they team with the Roman Empire. Readers watch as they handle the crew with ease. Once the true problem arises, the mood changes. The conversation covers many areas until the eventual plan is put forth. It results in a quirky finish fitting for the blending of time and knowledge. The aftermath ties up loose ends on a wink and smile moment. Another enjoyable trek with Marvel’s first family.

READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!

The art team open with a busy front page. As the attack moves forward, panels show the immediate impact. This leads Reed and Johnny to the source via full page image. Panels bring out the inner weird with Reed’s eyes. It’s become a part of the series than is just there (like Johnny’s mustache). Reed’s facial change is a cool trick to watch. The panels reveal this notion as the pair escalates events.

The alien attack leads to fast action. Johnny’s smile through it all echoes the stance of the story. It leads to a major dilemma at their doorstep. The pair’s reactions to brainstorming hit the key areas. As their plan goes into effect, there’s a sense of curiosity in the panels. It leads to a solid full page image. The following pages tease the tricky aftermath at hand. Once in the present, readers see the rest of the gang address the pair. Frustration and amusement flood these pages. It caps off with a subtle nod on the final panel to the readers along for the ride. Great close.

FINAL GRADE: 8.5

Reed and Johnny head to the past to stop an alien invasion. Just another day at the office, right? North brings out the humor in the dialogue for the trouble at hand. The art team balance out the laughs with the brief action scenes. A classic themed day at the office for the World’s Greatest Super-Hero team!

Let me know your thoughts on Fantastic Four #12 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!