SPIDER-MAN/HULK: FIRE AND BRIMSTONE #1 (Marvel Comics)
An Easter Sunday service in Central Park goes awry.
Peter Parker is there taking photos but some familiar faces crash the mass. The odds are overwhelming. Luckily, Spidey gets an assist from The HULK!
However, it’s what happens after that causes more danger than expected..
SPIDER-MAN/HULK: FIRE AND BRIMSTONE #1 by Kevin Smith, Andy McElfresh, R. B. Silva, Federico Blee & Ariana Maher (MARVEL COMICS) begin an all new tale of starring the wall crawler and Green Goliath.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening here.
SPIDER-MAN/HULK: FIRE AND BRIMSTONE #1 by Kevin Smith, Andy McElfresh, R. B. Silva, Federico Blee & Ariana Maher (MARVEL COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
The writing takes this story into some unique spots. It’s traditional in set-up with Spidey being in the right place at the wrong time. “The Manosphere” is a who’s who of lower tier villains. Readers watch as the quips come fast and often as Spidey handles some returning rogues. The banter doesn’t stop even when the numbers game grows. Hulk’s arrival switches up the tone as the fight is wrapped up quickly.
Once in the aftermath, Hulk’s recent whereabouts lead to some shocking places. The writing showcases Banner’s discovery of faith as a possible lead to controlling the Hulk. The conversation with Parker and Matt Murdock allows Banner to lay out this concept. This is a new take that shows some strength underneath it. This pushes the story into dealing with the Park aftermath and eventual finish. Banner’s words haunt the pages as a possible remedy to his ailments may be within grasp.
HOW ABOUT THE INFERNAL HULK!
Silva and Blee dive into the action early. A fantastic two page spread shows “The Manosphere” in full havoc mode. Panels speed through the initial attack to allow Spidey his entrance via full page. The same courtesy is shown towards Hulk. Readers watch the action take hold as the threat is handled quicker than expected.
In its wake, the quieter side of Hulk comes through (as crazy as that sounds). Panels of him sitting and watching a hawk lead to a calm transition. The hospital sequence covers many emotions as Banner processes everything that went down. The half page shots never let readers escape from the reminder of who he is. This spills into much smaller looks driving home the thoughts of a Cardinal Priest. The reactions to his words leads to a fun page of repeat panels. Banner’s reaction is noteworthy on where this all leads. The final full page is a great parting shot to keep readers attention on.
Overall Grade: 8.7
A question of faith sparks a conflict that Peter Parker may not be ready for in this debut issue. The writing proposes a wild concept in dealing with Bruce Banner’s anger issues. Silva and Blee shine when they let loose on the action. This is definitely not your average team-up tale!
