Peter Parker: Spider-Man #44 synopsis
the plot:
The Green Goblin releases video footage of Spider-Man's ill-fated attempt to save the life of Gwen Stacy, causing many to suspect Spider-Man of being a villain, including J. Jonah Jameson and the Daily Bugle. Peter goes after Norman Osborn, but Osborn gets away, and then gets Peter's friend Flash Thompson drunk out of his mind. Flash is sent off in an Osborn Industries truck that crashes into Midtown High, and Flash suffers brain damage as a result. Peter swears revenge on Osborn.
the review: I have mixed feelings towards this issue. I like the continual build-up towards what can surely be one of the greatest fights yet between Spider-Man and the Green Goblin. What makes the fight even more thrilling, is that Norman Osborn is fully prepared to die during the fight, and will go to any lengths to ravage Peter Parker's life. Not only that, but Spidey's oft-neglected supporting cast is finally getting some regular screen time in this storyline. Aunt May, J. Jonah Jameson, Mary Jane, Flash Thompson and even Liz Allen have shown up so far, much to my enjoyment. And for the first time in a long while in this title, there's finally some forward progression in terms of storylines and such, since this issue stems directly out of issue 25 of this title.
My mixed feelings come from the fact that while most of Paul Jenkins' storylines in Peter Parker have had gripping intros, they tend to fall short of what they promise. They're all still exciting, don't get me wrong, but the pay-off seems a bit underwhelming. Issues 32 and 41 come to mind. Hopefully this arc will blow those out of the water.
Like last issue, the artwork by Humberto Ramos for fans of exaggerated pencils. The characters are angular and cartoony almost, so this may not be for all tastes, but Ramos captures the mood well, and provides detailed work, complimented perfectly by Wayne Faucher.
This storyarc has gotten off to a good start. I just hope the final chapters live up to the expectations set up so far, since this has been one heck of a lead in. If you haven't picked up this issue, or the last one, I'd suggest you do while you still can.
Peter Parker: Spider-Man #45 gets ***1/2 out of *****.
continued in Peter Parker: Spider-Man #46
