|
|
Post by Calidore on Nov 20, 2022 13:49:45 GMT -5
Great write ups, Myke Gee . Really enjoying reading them. Second this. I'm also trying to read more of the older stuff, especially the issues around those frequently compiled, and your reviews will be invaluable in helping choose the next series (currently Batman/Detective post-Dick leaving for college, then Daredevil per recommendations here when I asked recently, but after that will be up in the air).
So thanks for doing this!
Oh, and props for the new Jim Kelly avatar.
|
|
|
|
Post by kirby101 on Nov 20, 2022 14:18:11 GMT -5
At this point, I read all of these off the newstand. My memories of enjoyment are better than the way Mike sees them now, especially for books like Conan, which were all 10s to me. But that is a teenager who just recently became an avid fan.
I wonder what my reaction would be if I read them now for the first time?
|
|
|
|
Post by EdoBosnar on Nov 20, 2022 15:19:32 GMT -5
At this point, I read all of these off the newstand. My memories of enjoyment are better than the way Mike sees them now, especially for books like Conan, which were all 10s to me. But that is a teenager who just recently became an avid fan. I wonder what my reaction would be if I read them now for the first time?If it's any help, and on the topic of Conan in particular, when I read the first two Savage Sword phonebooks about 10 years ago it was the first time I had read any of those stories (except for Red Nails), I really liked them quite a bit. Now, I'm sure that if I had somehow gotten a hold of those when I was in my early teens and *really* into Conan because - among other things - I'd just read through a bunch of Conan prose books, they probably would have knocked my socks off, but still... |
|
|
|
Post by kirby101 on Nov 20, 2022 15:23:48 GMT -5
I did re-read the B Smith Conans recently through the Omnibus. Loved them, but there is so much nostalgia there, hard to say how I am judging them.
|
|
|
|
Post by Myke Gee on Nov 27, 2022 17:26:43 GMT -5
*** ORIGINALLY POSTED ON FACEBOOK ON NOVEMBER 30, 2019 ***
AUGUST 1971 (Cover Date: November 1971/January 1972)
Hey, guys! I’m back with more thoughts on these classic and not-so-classic Marvel comics! During this journey, I’ve been noting small or minutiae moments in Marvel’s history like when the Scarlet Witch and the Black Widow changed their hair color or when the Vision’s speech bubble became a rounded-rectangular box. This month, a short-lived change and a long-term one. This is the month that Marvel started framing the covers of their books. If I’m not mistaken, this only stayed around for a little more than a year. The other change to the covers is the sign that I’m quickly approaching MY era of Marvel Comics. This is the first month of the banner across the top of the books that read “MARVEL COMICS GROUP”. Seeing that makes me so nostalgic, lol!!! Anyway, here are my thoughts on the books for August 1971.
On sale the first week of August 1971 DAREDEVIL #81. Fresh from her not-so-stellar stint in AMAZING ADVENTURES, the Black Widow has arrived. When CAPTAIN AMERICA fell into repetitive doldrums, the powers-that-be gave him a partner and the book has been steadily becoming one of Marvel’s best. Well, this didn’t happen here; at least, not yet. I mean, the villain is still the Owl, so good luck kicking away the doldrums with him. This month, we did learn more about the mysterious “Mr. Kline” and...let’s just say that I wasn’t ready, lol!!! The revelation of what he really is came from way out of left field. Still, there is more mystery surrounding him as his mysterious benefactor has yet to be revealed. Oh, and Daredevil was actually in the book, in case you think that I forgot, lol. He and the Widow teamed up and beat up the Owl. Nothing special. Kinda like this issue. Luckily, better days are ahead for DD & BW. Grade: C
THOR #193. Still engaged in battle with Durok the Demolisher, Thor gets unexpected help from the Silver Surfer who was summoned By Balder the Brave to help his friend. At first, thinking that Balder was merely human, the Surfer was reluctant to get involved because of his mistrust of and past betrayals by humans. Finally agreeing to help after witnessing Karnilla lose it against Balder, the Surfer and Thor battle Durok in Washington, DC, then decide to try a different strategy. The Surfer would remain on Earth to fight Durok while Thor traveled back to Asgard to confront Loki. The battle between the Surfer and Durok was epic as the Demolisher, actually, broke the Surfer’s board!!! While it didn’t stay broken but for a hot minute, it still demonstrated how formidable a foe Durok is. Fortunately, the Surfer devised a way to defeat him that me made wonder why he never used it to escape Galactus’ barrier. Meanwhile, in Asgard, Thor returns to find that Loki, now the ruler of Asgard thanks to the Odin-Ring, has turned nearly all against him; reluctantly including Heimdall. After a brief battle with his long-time friend, Thor arrives at the palace in time to see the Lady Sif in a wedding gown and about to marry Loki. Of course, this is continued next issue! Great stuff, here!! As always, Thor’s adventures happen on a grand scale, as they should. They make for great stories. Grade: A
IRON MAN #43. This issue, Mikas aka Soulfather, reveals that he works for Mr. Kline. Much like the Owl in DAREDEVIL, Mikas decides that, despite Kline’s carefully laid out plans, he wants to demonstrate that he has the power to kill Iron Man. Mr. Kline, via some sort of projection, intervenes and reminds Mikas who is the boss. Yet, he continues to overpower Iron Man. All of this leads to a huge showdown between Iron Man and Mikas, as well as a giant snake called Doomprayer. Yet another Iron Man story that doesn’t really move the needle for me. However, one of the coolest moments in the book is when Kevin O’Brien dons the Guardsman armor for the first time. That was fun to see. Grade: C
On sale the second week of August 1971 AVENGERS #93. Part 1 of the Kree-Skrull War. Just as good as I remember it when I read it back in 1983. One quick bit of minutiae: a couple of weeks ago, I noted that the speech bubble for the Vision was now rectangular. This issue is when they made it yellow. Thus, the Vision of my childhood is now complete, lol!!! Okay, back to the story. Like most of the books this month, this contains a double-sized story in which Hank Pym, as Ant-Man, must repair a damaged Vision by going inside his android body. A mini-adventure beautifully rendered by Neal Adams and Tom Palmer. Once repaired, the Vision informed the “Big Three” of how the government was after the team and was accused of being Kree sympathizers. Further, he told them about how they attempted to rendezvous with Mar-Vell and Carol Danvers but ended up battling Skrulls disguised as the Fantastic Four. After losing control of his android body, the Skrulls took Quicksilver and the Scarlet Witch back to their ship while the Vision regained enough control to return to the Mansion. Aboard the Skrull ship are Mar-Vell and Danvers who are left alone as the remaining Avengers arrive to free Wanda and Pietro. Mar-Vell decides to build an Omni-Wave Projector to communicate with the Kree, but destroys it when he realizes that Carol is, actually, not only a Skrull but the Super-Skrull! A brief battle aboard the ship ends with Mar-Vell’s defeat and the Super-Skrull makes off with Mar-Vell and the two Avengers. Again, just as epic as I remembered....at least, part one was. Can’t wait to read the next issue! Grade: A
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #102. Last issue, the amazing six-armed Spider-Man had his hands full already fighting Morbius the Living Vampire. Now, the Lizard has arrived and he and Morbius end up fighting over who gets to destroy Spider-Man. When Morbius kicks the Lizard into some kind of electrical doohickey, he bites him and something in Morbius’ bloodstream causes the Lizard to partially revert back into Curt Connors. He soon changes back into the Lizard, but with Connors’ mind. Realizing, that enzymes in Morbius’ blood may hold a cure for them both, Spidey and Connors try to find Morbius who fled after he bit the Lizard. The rest of the issue is the two in pursuit of Morbius, plus an origin story for the Living Vampire and a brief subplot about financial troubles at the Daily Bugle. The main story is enjoyably resolved by the end, and Spidey and Connors are both returned to normal. Grade: A-
INCREDIBLE HULK #145. Now that Stan is no longer writing, new writers are beginning to arrive. We’ve already seen the debut of Roy Thomas, Gary Friedrich, Archie Goodwin, and Gerry Conway. This month, Len Wein debuts (as far as I can remember, anyway. This is the first time that I can recall seeing his name). His debut on INCREDIBLE HULK is a strange one. The story starts with ancient Egyptian-looking aliens arriving on Earth centuries ago to plant the “seed of the future”. Skip ahead to the present day and we find the Hulk bounding from city to city as he’s leaving Latveria. He, eventually, finds the ocean and, instead of jumping from plane to plane as he did once before, this time, he swims. As he swims across the ocean, he is attacked by (presumably) a Russian battleship which he sinks all hands on deck; essentially, *sigh* he murdered the entire crew as no lifeboats were depicted in the scene. (Strange, but nothing we haven’t seen before) Once that was over, he continues to swim and the sheer force of his arms hitting the water caused tidal waves as he got closer to the shore; probably, killing even more people. (Stranger) Next, he hits land and is in the Sahara Desert where he sees a young woman being chased by what looks like Roman gladiators on horses and chariots. As the Hulk goes to rescue her, it turns out that he’s interrupting a movie shoot. As the young actress makes nice-nice with the brute, the director has the “genius” idea to use the Hulk in the movie (really strange), only he turns back into Banner just as his scene was about to shoot. Re-enter the Egyptian aliens from centuries before as Banner, later, discovers them on the set. They kidnap Banner, who is now becoming a professional hostage at this point, and probe his mind to learn how he became the Hulk. So, now we have another retelling of the Hulk’s origin which ticks Banner off for making him relive those memories. This is the second retelling of an origin this month and, unlike Morbius who was making his first appearance in a story, it feels like filler to flesh out a double-sized story. Anyway, they explain their origins and how they’ve abolished war on their planet and resolved their issues by having gigantic warriors fighting on other planets and that two were planted on Earth centuries ago (err...not, necessarily, strange, but curious). Dismissing Banner to watch the fight of the awakened warriors, Banner manages to grab the monitoring alien’s somna-gun and subdue his captor. Seeing the giant aliens battle on Earth upsets Banner and he, once again, becomes the Hulk. The other aliens beam the Hulk back to Earth rather than having to deal with him. Whew!! What a crazy debut, Mr. Wein!! It all made for an...interesting story, but, fell flat in some areas. Grade: C+
CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE FALCON #143. CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE FALCON has been a really good book, lately. Ever since the Falcon became the co-star in issue #133, there’s been a steady, gradual improvement in the quality of this book. So, how does Marvel top the last four-issue Grey Gargoyle story? Well, they don’t, actually, but that’s not to say that this issue wasn’t enjoyable. It was, very much so. What took it down a notch, for me, was the similarity to the Sons of the Serpent story from AVENGERS #73 & 74. In case you don’t remember or haven’t read that tale, there’s a mysterious masked man riling up the African-American community to the point of nearly starting a race war. When Sam Wilson goes to a rally to see what this is all about, he doesn’t like the fact that some masked man is initiating this, and the people are just following him blindly. When he tries to make that point to the crowd, he’s attacked, beaten and dumped on the streets of New York where, coincidentally, Steve Rogers and Sharon Carter just happened to be out taking an evening stroll. After Sam explains what’s happening, Steve suits up and goes to investigate. He’s later joined by the Falcon and the two takes on the ersatz Sons and revealed their leader to be an old familiar foe. For spoilers’ sake, I’m going to leave that right there, lol!!! Really good story dampened, somewhat, by the aforementioned similarity to the Avengers story and the cheesy, stereotypical ghetto slang, lol!!! Otherwise, it was a fun read. One more interesting thing of note: although the Falcon wore his original green costume throughout the book, the cover corner box debuted his iconic red and white costume. Thought that was a little odd. Grade: B+
SUB-MARINER #42. Still on his quest for his long-lost father, Namor finds himself on the shores of the New England coast. Inside a lighthouse, he meets an old man who was beaten by a group of sailors that were dumping atomic waste into the ocean. Once he defeated them, he witnesses the strange death of the old man who began to glow, then turns to dust. Before his death, he mentions the name “Tuval” who, actually, debuted a few issues ago during the People of the Black Sea story. Namor meets and fights Tuval, later, in the city of Boston. Much like Turalla the Mad, Rock, and Aunt Serr, Tuval is just another uninteresting, highly forgettable villain of the month. The most interesting thing about this story is the ending which makes me wonder if Namor’s quest is over. Grade: C-
On sale the third week of August 1971 AMAZING ADVENTURES #9. Gone are the Black Widow and the split book concept. Much like MARVEL PREMIERE, ASTONISHING TALES, and other Marvel books of that ilk, AA now focuses on one character or group of characters. I always thought of these as “tryout books”; books that test the waters to see if there is any fan interest. So, now it’s AA: featuring Black Bolt and the Inhumans. I must admit, I was eagerly awaiting this issue because I’m a big fan. Funny thing is that I knew that they took over this issue, but, obviously I never really paid much attention to the cover because I never realized that Magneto would be returning. Cool!! ...or was it cool? See, despite having one of my favorite groups and my all-time favorite villain, the story doesn’t quite live up to the star power. Magneto kidnaps a still amnesiac Black Bolt believing that he and the Inhumans are mutants and plans on using them in his crusade against humans. Not a bad story. It’s just a bit dry at times. I was hoping for so much more. Fortunately, this was not a double-sized book like most of the other books this month. Grade: C
CONAN THE BARBARIAN #11. A double-sized tale that starts with Conan in chains in a Corinthian dungeon; betrayed by Jenna and Burgun’s former partner-in-crime, Igon. Enter Murilo, a young nobleman who has a claim to the throne that Nabonidus, the Red Priest, holds. He proposes to set Conan free if he would kill Nabonidus. Once back in his quarters, Murilo’s servant, Sivraj (which I couldn’t help but notice is “Jarvis” spelled backward. 😂), informs him that the guard loyal to Murilo and who was supposed to free Conan was arrested. Hearing this news, Murilo goes off to kill Nabonidus himself. Meanwhile, Murilo’s guard did manage to free Conan from his chains before he was arrested, but Conan sets out to find Jenna and Igon first. He quickly kills Igon and exacts a....strange sort of “revenge” on Jenna. For some reason, I don’t think we’ve seen the last of her. The second part of the story focuses on Conan and Murilo, as well as Nabonidus, trying to survive the Red Priest’s monstrous and somewhat intelligent pet ape, Thak. This chapter of the story I found highly entertaining. And you can see Nabonidus’ treachery coming a mile away, but it’s still very enjoyable. Grade: B+
On sale the fourth week of August 1971. FANTASTIC FOUR #116. The Over-Mind is still on the loose and he has enthralled Reed Richards and turned him against his family. As the three remaining members of the team battle Over-Mind and Reed, Sue realizes how futile a job it is. She leaves the battle scene and seeks help at Avengers Mansion, but, they’ve apparently left to take part in the Kree-Skrull War. After exhausting every attempt to find help from anyone from Daredevil to the Hulk, Agatha Harkness mentally suggests Dr. Doom. Sue puts aside her bias and fears and responds to the Latverian Embassy. Once there, Doom agrees to help. However, even with Doom, the Over-Mind is just too much to handle! Then, the deus ex machina moment happens. For the sake of spoilers for the other nine members who’ve never read this 😏, I won’t mention who shows up to save the day. I’ve gotta admit, I didn’t see this coming because at no time in the entire story was there a clue that he was coming. But, since I dig the character, I didn’t mind. This was a really great story featuring a character that I’ve always liked. Over-Mind was vicious and awe-inspiring!!! Again, a great story that I may revisit soon. Grade: A
One of the things that I failed to stress is that, for the most part, this month’s stories were double-sized. As I mentioned last week, the books went from 15 cents to 25, but only for this month. I guess they figured that, if they were going to hike up the price, there should be more book for that money. The good thing is that the stories didn’t feel like they contained filler to stretch it out to 34 pages. Some high marks this month and nothing earn a “D” or an “F”. SUB-MARINER was the only book that I even considered giving a low mark, but, it really didn’t deserve it. We also got Annuals this month from DAREDEVIL, SUB-MARINER, THE AVENGERS, CAPTAIN AMERICA, INCREDIBLE HULK, and CHAMBER OF DARKNESS which is odd because it has been renamed MONSTERS ON THE PROWL for a few months, now. All of these books were just reprints of older books. So, as always, thank you for your support. Let me know what you liked and didn’t like. Until next week, take care.
Top 5 Books of the Month:
1. FANTASTIC FOUR #116
2. AVENGERS #93
3. THOR #193
4. AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #102
5. (Tie) CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE FALCON #143/CONAN THE BARBARIAN #11
Top 5 Covers of the Month:
1. FANTASTIC FOUR #116
2. DAREDEVIL #81
3. WESTERN GUNFIGHTERS #7
4. CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE FALCON #143
5. AVENGERS #93 |
|
|
|
Post by Myke Gee on Nov 28, 2022 21:17:59 GMT -5
*** ORIGINALLY POSTED ON FACEBOOK ON DECEMBER 8, 2019 ***
SEPTEMBER 1971 (Cover Date: December 1971/February 1972)
I don’t know if any of you noticed, but I, generally, try to post these reviews on Saturdays. At one point, I was four months ahead of the game with my reviews. However, my surgery and recovery have cost me that cushion. A busy week now has me slightly behind. So, my apologies for being late. Now, on with the reviews. The first thing that I took note of was that there’s no IRON MAN this month. Hmm…okay. Moving right along, lol!! Marvel is now in its new 20 cents era, framed covers and all. First appearance of the Werewolf by Night this month in MARVEL SPOTLIGHT. The character has never been my cup of tea, but who knows? So, with that, here are my thoughts on the books for September 1971.
On sale the first week of September 1971 DAREDEVIL #82. The Black Widow receives a call of distress from Ivan. She finds him with the tracker that they both wear only to be ambushed by the Scorpion and knocked unconscious. Later, a barely conscious Ivan shows up at Matt Murdock’s brownstone and collapses. Beside him, Matt finds a note challenging him as Daredevil to save the Widow. Once at the location, like the Widow, DD is ambushed by the Scorpion, as well. Daredevil and the Scorpion fight, but just as the Scorpion was gaining the upper hand, he, suddenly, stares off into space and leaves. Tangled up in vines, DD is unable to prevent his escape, but something feels odd to the hero. The Scorpion isn’t known for using high-tech equipment like the gun he was using. Meanwhile, Foggy meets Mr. Kline. Since he couldn’t raise the $100k, he brings a gun and plans on killing Mr. Kline. Only, Kline makes him drop the weapon and Foggy is shocked to see that Kline is an Android! Finally, DD tracks the Scorpion to the World Trade Center. High above, the Scorpion has the Widow and DD must rescue her. A tad bit better than last month’s story. The “Mr. Kline” story is slowly...and I emphasize “slowly”...unraveling. The only issue is, it’s not very interesting. Hopefully, the next issue will bring a close to this tedium. Grade: C+
THOR #194. This issue concludes the “Loki: Lord of Asgard” storyline. (That’s what I call it, anyway, lol) While still a good book, the stories are starting to feel formulaic and redundant. There is an all-powerful being and/or object that threatens Asgard and, in turn, Earth. Thor battles said being and/or object and is nearly overpowered to the point of near death until something comes along to intervene; usually, that something/someone is Odin. No difference here. Loki has Thor about to be killed by giants because he doesn’t have his hammer and is about to revert back to Don Blake. Needless to say, that threat is overcome, but, meanwhile, Loki is about to wed Lady Sif until Thor interrupts and issues Loki one final challenge. At this point, the Warriors Three have seen enough and go to awaken Odin from the Odin-Sleep. That’s when we learn that Odin has had a plan all along. *Sigh* Okay. Fine. If you say so. But, Odin will never win Father of the Year! 😂 Also, in true THOR fashion, as one crisis ends, another is looming. Good ending, but not great. Grade: B-
• FEAR #6
• MARVEL TRIPLE ACTION #1
• MILLIE THE MODEL #193
On sale the second week of September 1971 AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #103. No longer with six arms, Spider-Man continues his crusade against crime by busting up a protection racket while trying to come up with a plausible reason for Gwen as to why he’s been AWOL for a few days. Cut to the Daily Bugle and J. Jonah Jameson in a staff meeting to come up with ideas to save the Bugle from financial ruin. On the TV set (which Jonah blames for the Bugle’s problems), he hears a man being interviewed by Dick Cavett (we’re all old enough to remember him, right? 😏). He tells of a creature that is not a dinosaur that attacked him while he was acting as a guide for two scientists while on a geological survey in the Savage Land. That’s when Jonah gets the “genius” idea to go to the Savage Land to do a story on the creature and he’s heading the expedition, himself. He, also, decides that he wants Peter Parker on the trip, who has decided to go with the “I wish I could tell you, but I can’t” route with his explanation to Gwen. Robbing calls Peter to the Bugle and he takes Gwen with him. That’s when Jonah has the second “genius” idea to take Gwen, as well. Once there, the group is met with the usual S.L. attractions: dinosaurs, tropical weather, primitive tribes, and, of course, Ka-Zar and Zabu. On the not-so-typical side is the creature that they came to find and Kraven the Hunter! When the creature, called Gog, kidnaps Gwen, Peter tries to stop it, but is swatted away and lands in a river. Jonah decides to grow a pair and go after Gwen to save her...and get his story, of course. Fortunately, for him, he runs into Ka-Zar and Zabu. After telling Ka-Zar what happened, the jungle lord goes after Gwen. Meanwhile, Peter switches Spider-Man (secret identity be damned) and continues his search for Gwen Spider-style. But, this is the Savage Land. So, there will be...obstacles! Continued next issue. Very good beginning. Looking forward to the next chapter. Grade: A-
AVENGERS #94. The Kree-Skrull War continues as the Avengers deal with the captured Skrulls from FF #2. The Vision steals aboard the Super-Skrull’s ship in an attempt to rescue the Scarlet Witch, Quicksilver and Captain Marvel. Onboard, he tries to stop the Skrull from destroying Attilan, the home of the Inhumans. After a brief confrontation with the Super-Skrull, the Vision’s android logic dictates that this wasn’t a fight that he could win alone and, so, he fled to get help from his fellow Avengers. Meanwhile, the Super-Skrull and his captives arrive on the Skrull Homeworld to a less-than-friendly greeting. After the SS is captured, the Skrull Emperor takes Mar-Vell and imprisons the mutants in a bizarre trap so that Mar-Vell will give up the secret of the Omni-Wave Projector. Back on Earth, the Vision arrives at Avengers Mansion just in time to help his teammates against the Mandroids!!! The story continues to build into the epic that I remember. Great stuff. Grade: A
CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE FALCON #144. First, let me say that this issue was a visual treat. The book is broken into two parts: the first, illustrated by John Romita, and the second by Gray Morrow. The first story features Cap, Nick Fury, and SHIELD kicking the crap out of a group of “Hydra” agents who turned out to be LMDs. Also debuting is SHIELD’s Femme Force, headed by Sharon Carter and the Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. This was all a show for President Richard Nixon to demonstrate why the Government should bankroll SHIELD and the LMD program. The second story features the Falcon’s bid to go it alone. The events of the last issue impacted him so much, he feels that it’s his obligation to be a hero for his people and community. And to separate himself from the “Captain America and....” label, he dons his iconic red and white colors for the first time. Yet, this costume is slightly different from the one he would go on to wear with his wings. I love the bird motif near the waistline and the red semi-circles under the eyes. Really nice design and better, in my opinion, than the one with the wings. As for the rest of the story, he saves a young drug addict from some White dealers. Lots of “stickin’ it to ‘the man’” undertones in these last two issues. Kudos to Marvel for at least trying to do stories about racial inequality back in those days. They still ring true today. Grade: B+
INCREDIBLE HULK #146. This month, it’s Gerry Conway writing as the Hulk is wandering some, as yet, unnamed desert and is caught in a sandstorm. Confused and frustrated, he gives one monstrous clap and the way is temporarily clear. Meanwhile, an oddly behaving Gen. Ross is preparing for a visit from the President and Vice-President, and Jim Wilson is ready to leave the military base. Gen. Ross gets him a car and a driver; however, the driver is acting as strangely as Ross; stiff and cold. As Jim is cautioning the driver about his speed, the cold driver, suddenly, pulls a gun and tries to kill Jim. Jim quickly uses a briefcase to, astoundingly, block the bullet!! The ricochet hits the driver in his head and Jim manages to jump from the car just before it goes over a cliff. Jim goes down to see if he can save the driver, who turns out to be a robot. As this is happening, we find out that the unnamed desert is Israel as that’s the latest army he finds himself fighting. Because the Israeli military has women, the Hulk has no desire to fight women, so he flees. Back in America, Jim Wilson returns to the base to tell Gen. Ross what happened only to find robotic versions of the President, Vice-President, and Gen. Ross, himself. These revelations bring us to the villain of the story. Let’s just say that we’ve seen him before. I found the Jim Wilson half of this issue much more interesting than the Hulk half. Still, a very good first installment. Grade: A-
SUB-MARINER #44. Now, this is what I’m talking about!!! I know that it flies in the face of every complaint I’ve had about fighting the same villains repeatedly, but after Tuval, Rock, Aunt Serr, and all the other lamoids Namor has been fighting lately, seeing Llyra and Tiger Shark is a sight for sore eyes!!! Still on his quest for his father, Namor learns via the news that the President has issued a warrant for his arrest, dead or alive. Infuriated, as usual, Namor leaves his hotel incognito to continue his search. Meanwhile, closer than Namor realizes, his father (seen at the very end of the last issue) is in a building just a few blocks away reminiscing over Princess Fen. Apparently suffering from a form of Alzheimer’s, the memory fades as his caretaker, Sara, attends to him. Meanwhile, Johnny Storm arrives in Boston on a vacation. When Llyra and Tiger Shark raise a humongous sea creature to draw Namor out, the authorities and the Torch assume that it’s Namor on the attack. After a brief battle, the Torch realizes that Namor was trying to stop the creature and attempts to help. As I mentioned, it’s always good to see Tiger Shark and one of my new favorites, Llyra. A great first part that continues next issue. Grade: A-
On sale the third week of September 1971 ASTONISHING TALES #9. So, I’m thinking that the next part of the story that began last issue continues here, but, instead, we get an inventory story about a beautiful sorceress named Iranda. She meets Ka-Zar in the jungle while he’s out searching for his people who were kidnapped by the lizard men. She invites Ka-Zar and Zabu (who seems quite taken by the woman) back to her home where he learns that she controls the lizard men and she kidnaps his people. As inventory stores go, this isn’t bad at all. Grade: B-
CONAN THE BARBARIAN #12. I was never even close to being a regular reader of CONAN THE BARBARIAN, but I have owned an issue or two. Here’s what caught my eye first:
“KNOW, O PRINCE, THAT BETWEEN THE YEARS WHEN THE OCEANS DRANK ATLANTIS AND THE GLEAMING CITIES, AND THE RISE OF THE SONS OF ARYAS, THERE WAS AN AGE UNDREAMED OF, WHEN SHINING KINGDOMS LAY SPREAD ACROSS THE WORLD LIKE BLUE MANTLES BENEATH THE STARS.
HITHER CAME CONAN, THE CIMMERIAN, BLACK-HAIRED, SULLEN-EYED, SWORD IN HAND, A THIEF, A REAVER, A SLAYER, WITH GIGANTIC MELANCHOLIES AND GIGANTIC MIRTH, TO TREAD THE JEWELED THRONES OF THE EARTH UNDER HIS SANDALED FEET”
As I’ve been reading the Marvel books from the beginning, I’ve tried to keep track of odd little firsts like when the covers became framed or when the words “MARVEL COMICS GROUP” first were spread across the top of the books. This issue of CONAN marks the very first use of the character intro that became a staple of 70s Marvel Comics. However, it wasn’t really used in that manner in this issue. Those words were the opening narration to the story, but I know that they were used later in every CONAN THE BARBARIAN book. As for this issue, Conan finds himself in the city of Zahmahn. He is arrested by the palace guard for drinking from a fountain without first paying tribute to Queen Fatima. During the arrest, Conan kills the captain of the guards and is, eventually, overwhelmed and taken to the queen. Since the captain was the queen’s lover, instead of killing Conan, she has him take the captain’s position as head of the guard and her lover. As Conan grows bored with both, he attempts to leave Zahmahn, but meets resistance from his own guards; effectively making him a prisoner of the castle. When Conan goes to confront Fatima, he instead walks in on the queen’s chambermaid, Yaila, who is using the Royal Bath Chamber. Of course, Fatima walks in on this and sentences both to die in the dungeon of the Dweller in the Dark. Once in the dungeon, I found myself smiling as Conan was in all of his badass glory! The Dweller, which is a....but that would be telling, lol!!! Rest assured, the battle between the two was great. Another really good story. Grade: B+
Tales of the Hyborean Age: There is a second short story in this issue, literally, told by Roy Thomas and Gil Kane as both were, actually, in the book. Gil tells Roy a tale about an opportunistic warrior named Kalligor. He has plans of marrying the Baron’s daughter, but only when it serves his purposes. After the Baron’s son goes off to fight the deadly Hydragon, news comes back that the Baron’s son has fallen. Kalligor uses this moment to curry favor and offers to avenge his son’s death, knowing that the Baron will be indebted to him. Kalligor meets the Hydragon and defeats it, but the creature’s secret is the real treat of the story. Another one that I liked more than I thought I would. Grade: B
• OUTLAW KID #9
• RAWHIDE KID #94
• X-MEN #73
On sale the fourth week of September 1971 FANTASTIC FOUR #117. One of the things that I love about Marvel Comics is the shared universe. There is no one hero for Metropolis, one hero for Gotham, one hero for Central City, etc, etc. Although, the FF was “Central City” residents in the beginning. 😉 Anyhoo, things are interconnected here and not always on a grand scale. Little things like Johnny....um...storming off at the end of the last issue to turn up in this month’s SUB-MARINER and, subsequently, back here in this issue at the border of the Attilan looking for Crystal. Any reader of AMAZING ADVENTURES knows that Maximus has taken over the Great Refuge and that the Royal Family are now exiles. What did escape me in that book is that Crystal wasn’t with them. It turns out that Lockjaw teleported them to Central America where she and her pet fell under the spell of Diablo who is looking for vengeance against Dr. Doom for the events in MARVEL SUPERHEROES #20. The rest of the team is at Whisper Hill visiting little Franklin and his nanny, Agatha Harkness. That’s when an exhausted Johnny lands there seeking Harkness to help find Crystal. A couple of looks into a....*ahem*....crystal ball 🙄😂 and Johnny is off to Central America. Good story, but after the Over-Mind epic, a little mundane. Maybe it’ll turn epic next issue. Grade: B
MARVEL SPOTLIGHT #2. Honestly? This was way better than I thought it would be!! Besides Black Bolt, I’m not a big fan of characters that don’t speak. My exposure to the Werewolf by Night is very limited as is my exposure to Mike Ploog. So, this issue features the debut of WBN. My first concern was removed by having the character narrate the story. As a fan of MASTER OF KUNG FU, of course, this type of storytelling appealed to me. This story is the tale of an 18-year-old Jack Russell (I never knew that JR was that young) coming into his nightmarish inheritance; namely, the curse of the werewolf. His dying mother explains this curse and why she left his father and married the cruel Philip Russell. The story definitely kept me interested far more than I expected. As for Ploog, he’s one of the legendary artists of the business, however, I’m not blown away by what I’ve seen, so far. I’m going to chalk this up to it being early in his career much like Barry Windsor Smith. Unlike BWS, I have no future artwork to compare this to as this was my first time seeing an entire issue of Ploog art. Still, it was far from horrible. Looking forward to the series and seeing how Ploog progresses. Great start! Grade B+
• MARVEL TALES #33
• MONSTERS ON THE PROWL #14
• OUR LOVE #14
• SPECIAL MARVEL EDITION #4
• LIL’ KIDS #4
Yet another very solid month. A couple of pleasant surprises this month with MARVEL SPOTLIGHT and CONAN THE BARBARIAN. Next month, the second appearance of the Defenders. Really looking forward to that. As always, thanks for the support. Let me know what you like and what you don’t. Until next week, take care.
Top 5 Books of the Month:
1. AVENGERS #94
2. AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #103
3. SUB-MARINER #44
4. INCREDIBLE HULK #146
5. CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE FALCON #144
Top 5 Covers of the Month:
1. CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE FALCON #144
2. DAREDEVIL #82
3. AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #103
4. SUB-MARINER #44
5. ASTONISHING TALES #9 |
|
|
|
Post by Myke Gee on Dec 1, 2022 20:34:00 GMT -5
*** ORIGINALLY POSTED ON FACEBOOK ON DECEMBER 30, 2019 ***
OCTOBER 1971 (Cover Date: December 1971/January 1972)
It’s been a couple of weeks since I last posted one of these. For various reasons that I won’t get into, I went from being 4 weeks ahead to falling behind. So, much going on that I haven’t had time to read and write. At any rate, here are my thoughts on the books on sale in the month of October 1971. All but AVENGERS #95 were read for the first time.
On sale the first week of October 1971 DAREDEVIL #83. Last issue, the Scorpion fell from high atop a building under construction and an eyewitness accused the Black Widow of murdering him in cold blood. As the police tried to place her under arrest, she manages to escape with Daredevil going after her. After a brief tussle, DD convinces her to surrender to the authorities with the promise to help her by speaking to the D.A., Foggy Nelson. As this is happening, the paramedics transporting the Scorpion’s body are, suddenly, attacked by Mr. Hyde. Matt goes to Foggy to enlist his aid with Natasha’s case, but, when Foggy informs him that he’ll be prosecuting, a ticked-off Matt tells his friend that he’ll be representing the Widow. Of course, all of this, so far, has been orchestrated by the mysterious android, Mr. Kline, who still has Foggy under his thumb. Two weeks later, the trial has begun. After an intense first round, Matt (as DD) goes to the morgue to check out a hunch about the Scorpion’s body where he encounters Mr. Hyde. This was a pretty good chapter in the “Mr. Kline Story” despite the Widow acting very paranoid and pouty. Grade: B+
IRON MAN #44. The Guardsman and Marianne Rodgers arrive at Avengers Mansion with an injured Iron Man while Captain America is on monitor duty. Next we get the “let’s give you an idea how tough the new guy is by having him fight a well-established character” trope as Cap mistakenly thinks that the Guardsman attacked Iron Man and took him to the Mansion to gloat. (Um....reaching a bit there, Cap, but any excuse to get the trope going 😅) After a solid showing by the Guardsman, we continue on with the story. As the Guardsman is trying to save Iron Man’s life, he can’t but feel good about going toe-to-toe with Captain America. Meanwhile, Mr. Kline aka the Assassin projects images of the Night Phantom into Tony Stark’s mind. As Stark recovers in his penthouse, Michael O’Brien (the Guardsman) is developing feelings for Marianne and Mr. Kline has sent a Night Phantom robot to confront Iron Man. *Sigh* This “Mr. Kline” story is really dragging along; in two books, no less. It’s not a bad issue by any means, but, this really needs to be wrapped up and soon. Grade: C+
Ant-Man: There’s an all-new second story this issue featuring Ant-Man and the Wasp set in the earlier days of their career judging by the costumes. Not sure. At any rate, it features the return of the Scarlet Beetle!!! 😐 Anyone remember him? No? Don’t worry, I read the issue he was in and I didn’t remember him either, lol!!! Sure to be in my Obscure Marvel Characters list. Oh, and if anyone is thinking “some guy chose a really stupid name”, it’s not a guy. It’s an actual beetle! 😂🤣 Anyway, our heroes stop a mutated beetle from taking over the world. End of story. Grade: F
THOR #195. The Asgardians are reveling in their latest defeat of Loki, when Thor notices that Odin seems...less than excited. When he asks his father what is troubling him, Odin reveals that he has a task for his son; one that he may not return from. Odin sends Thor and the Warriors Three to World’s End to learn the secret of the Twilight Well from Kartag the Keeper. The Lady Sif voices her protest of this and Odin summons Hildegarde and sends them on an unknown mission to Blackworld. Meanwhile, Odin meets with the eldest warriors of Asgard (who remind me of “We Who Sit in Shadow” from the X-Men/Alpha Flight/New Mutants epic of the 80s) to express his fears about Loki’s banishment. Odin’s fears come true when Loki realizes that he was banished to the world that holds Mangog. Loki frees Mangog, but Mangog is not grateful. He seals Loki inside dark amber and makes his way to Asgard. Another really good Thor adventure, but one thing that bothers me: it seems like since Stan stopped writing the book, the pseudo-Shakespearean speech has been laid on pretty thick. That speech pattern is one of the reasons why I was never into Thor’s solo adventures. I hope that they tone it down a bit. Grade: B+
• KID COLT: OUTLAW #157
• MIGHTY MARVEL WESTERN #16
On sale the second week of October 1971 AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #104. Last issue, J. Jonah Jameson decides to go to the Savage Land for a story that will save the Daily Bugle from financial ruin. He takes Peter, Gwen, and Mr. Calkin; a guide for two scientists that previously visited the Savage Land. Once there, Gwen is kidnapped by the subject of the story; an alien behemoth called Gog who is under the control of Kraven the Hunter. Peter tried to stop it but is swatted away to his presumed death by the creature. This gives him a chance to switch to Spidey and go save Gwen despite the risk to his secret identity. Of course, Jameson and Calkin run into Ka-Zar and Zabu and explain the situation. While Ka-Zar is off to rescue Gwen, Spidey found himself stuck in quicksand. If you think about it, the solution to his escape is pretty obvious, but it doesn’t quite work out as it should. Luckily, Ka-Zar finds him and rescues him. The two compared notes and devised a plan to save Gwen which pits Ka-Zar against Kraven and Spidey to lead Gog away from everyone. More Spidey fun in the tradition of as-yet-debuted MARVEL TEAM-UP. Stories like this lead me to believe that this is why MTU was created. Spider-Man always seems to have great chemistry with most guest stars. A truly enjoyable tale. Grade: A-
AVENGERS #95. This issue, basically, serves as the conclusion to the Inhumans series from AMAZING ADVENTURES. When I first read the Kree-Skrull War reprint back in 1983, I wasn’t sure how this fits in with the story and now having read AA, I feel like this was a little forced as the Inhumans were booted from that book to make way for the Beast. The story starts with the iconic Neal Adams splash page featuring Triton (who hasn’t been seen since AMAZING ADVENTURES #7) arriving at the New York docks. (Let’s not think about the last time he was seen, which was when he was creating a diversion on a California beach, or the fact that he knows how to drive a truck, lol!!!) Anyway, he came to New York to enlist the aid of the Fantastic Four, who were busy helping another Inhuman, Crystal, in Central America. As fate would have it, he stumbles upon the Avengers fighting SHIELD’s Mandroids. When he asks for help, they inform him that they were about to embark on a rescue of Wanda, Pietro, and Mar-Vell who were kidnapped by Skrulls. To resolve both issues, the team splits into two: one helps the Inhumans, and the other goes after the kidnapped teammates. We, also, get some backstory on Black Bolt and Maximus to boot. The Vision, who picked the two teams, has a change of heart and decides to take his team to the Great Refuge to help the Inhumans. While the Inhumans were, somewhat, peripherally a part of the Kree-Skrull War, it feels like their AA storyline was shoehorned into this one to wrap it up. In the end, however, it’s a pretty good chapter in the KSW; even if it does feel a little forced. Grade: B
INCREDIBLE HULK #147. Two stories in this month’s issue of THE INCREDIBLE HULK. The first concludes last month’s story which had the Leader replace Gen. Ross and many other soldiers with androids. His plan was to have the android Ross use the Mark 13 Sonic Depressor to kill the Hulk. The Hulk, meanwhile, is arriving back in America by riding the wing of an airplane after fleeing from the Israeli military last issue. I guess that’s better than jumping from plane to plane as he once did. 😏 Upon his arrival, android Ross turns the weapon on him (with President Nixon and Spiro Agnew present, no less). When Betty is outraged by what could potentially happen to Bruce, she confronts her “father” only to realize that he’s an imposter. The Hulk flees from the Sonic Depressor to confront “Ross” and arrives just as he strikes Betty. That’s when Hulk smashes the “General” because he should have done that a long time ago. (If that wasn’t an android, the Hulk would have murdered Ross in front of his daughter. 😯) Outside, the Leader sends hundreds of robots to the base which merged into one gigantic robot and bombarded the Hulk with gamma rays. Doc Samson intercepts the beam to save the Hulk but pays a price for his actions. The second story finds the Hulk wandering in the desert; presumably, after leaving the military base from the previous story. He finds himself in an idyllic town where everyone is friendly and no one is trying to harm him. However, no one speaks and nothing makes a sound. You can probably piece together what’s happening, but it still made for a good short story. I’ll grade both stories together as the second story feels like an epilogue to the first. Grade: B
CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE FALCON #145. The story starts with the return of Hydra who is monitoring Steve Rogers at home via close circuit monitors which they claim to have paid quite a bit to have secretly installed. At that moment, Nick Fury calls Cap, Sharon Carter, and the rest of the Femme Force to the SHIELD Helicarrier to inform them that Hydra has returned and he sends them on a mission to invade their Las Vegas headquarters. Little do they know that Hydra is also monitoring the Helicarrier through CCTV smuggled aboard by a traitor. As the team is on their way to Vegas, Hydra attacks their plane in midair. What I find interesting about this book is that, lately, none of the stories’ plot lines have been all that intricate. Yet, they’ve been highly entertaining. This issue is another example. An old arch-enemy shows up wanting revenge. That’s it! Good enough, lol!!! Really good start. Grade: B+
SUB-MARINER #45. Still in Boston in search of his father, Namor finds himself, once again, in battle with Tiger Shark and Llyra. During the battle, Tiger Shark shoots Namor with a ray that causes him to become temporarily deaf. Meanwhile, Diane Arliss convinces the Human Torch to help Namor with his quest and against Tiger Shark and Llyra. The Torch arrives just before Namor is shot, but Namor doesn’t want the Torch to interfere. After Namor is shot, T.S. and Llyra escape, which Namor blames the Torch. The Torch tries to explain, but Namor can’t hear him and the two engage in a needless battle. While the two are fighting, Diane is captured by the villains and, through the use of a device called the Mind Vortex, they learn of Namor’s quest and the location of his father. As Namor defeats the Torch, Diane is released with the message for Namor that the Shark and Llyra have kidnapped his father. Part two of this story didn’t have me as giddy as the first. It was still a good story, though. Grade: B-
On sale the third week of October 1971 AMAZING ADVENTURES #10. Well, Black Bolt and the Inhumans’ tenure as a headliner in AA was short-lived; two whole issues!! Continued from the last issue, Magneto uses a machine that enhances the powers of one of his mutants. This power gives the mutant the ability to enslave Black Bolt so that Magneto can control him and use him as an ally to attack a government facility that is developing a new cosmic power source. I’ve always been a fan of the Inhumans and it wasn’t until I was much older that I formed my opinion about why these guys never really caught on. I feel like this team never caught on because all of the writers treated them like the standard superhero team. They aren’t superheroes despite how they dress. This brief series failed, in my opinion, because they took that approach. As for this issue, Magneto is doing the big bad super-villain thing and Black Bolt is the hero. I don’t know. It just doesn’t work for me; like much in this series. The Inhumans’ story continues in AVENGERS #95. Next issue: The Beast! Grade: C+
CONAN THE BARBARIAN #13. Before I share my thoughts on this issue, I want to share something that hit me before I started reading this book. I always talk about how hard it is for me to get into the whole sword and sorcery-type books. How it’s just not my thing, which it isn’t, really. Yet, one more thing occurred to me as I was about to read this and it’s how these books are so far away from my usual...my favorite stuff: super-heroics. It’s like listening to The Police’s album, Synchronicity, and the song “Mother” comes on and nearly kills the whole vibe of the album, lol!!! That’s what reading this series is like (but, nowhere near as bad as “Mother” 😂). Anyway, Conan is attacked by marauders near an oasis. Surprisingly, Conan is defeated and knocked unconscious and they take his sword and horse. When he awakens, he stumbles through the desert sands for some time; having visions of a giant spider and fending off hovering buzzards. He arrives at an oasis and is helped by an elderly desert dweller, Thanix. The old man tells Conan about Omm, the spider-god worshipped in the Zamoran city of Yezud, and that the priests have kidnapped his daughter to be sacrificed. In return for saving his life, Conan travels with Thanix to Yezud and quickly runs afoul of Yezud's soldiers. Conan and Thanix are tossed into the dungeon where all the sacrifices are kept. Conan causes a distraction to allow Tork, a spy from Shadizar, to escape. Tork has a plan to destroy the city by creating a rockslide in the caverns underneath the town. Conan is brought to Modar, the high priest of Omm, for sacrifice, and sees the gigantic spider the town worships. Conan breaks free and throws the frail priest into the spider's web where he is killed. Conan is pushed into the web, himself, and comes face to face with the gigantic spider. By this time, I’ve seen Conan defeat a giant bat, a giant gorilla, a giant Gila monster...you name it. If it has “giant” as a description, it’s toast, lol!!! Still, repetition aside, a really quick read is a sign that I really enjoyed this story. Grade: B+
MARVEL FEATURE #2. The first thing that I noticed about this issue was that Ross Andru and Sal Buscema made for a much better art team than Andru and Bill Everette. As for the story, on Bald Mountain, worshipers of Dormammu summon their master. Dormammu demands that a sacrifice must be made on Halloween in order to facilitate his entry into the Earthly dimension and Dormammu demands that Dr. Strange be the sacrifice. In his Sanctum Sanctorum in New York, Strange is tricked into leaving his corporeal form by a bogus Ancient One astral projection. He quickly realizes the deception and, in spite of the best efforts of Strange, Clea, and Wong, Dr. Strange’s corporeal body is subdued and captured by Dormammu's followers. Wong and Clea, with the aid of Strange's astral form, gather Namor and the Hulk to help save Strange's mortal body. Traveling to Bald Mountain where it's their annual Halloween parade, the group battles Dormammu and his legions. Still not completely blown away by the fledgling Defenders team and their adventures, but, fortunately, I still find them entertaining. Grade: B-
• RAWHIDE KID #95
• WHERE MONSTERS DWELL #13
• CREATURES ON THE LOOSE #15
On sale the fourth week of October 1971 FANTASTIC FOUR #118. Johnny arrives in the Central American country of Terra Verde to find Crystal under the spell of Diablo, who has her believing that she’s the goddess Ixchel. While under this spell, she has no recollection of Johnny or her real name. While Johnny is busy fighting Terra Verdan(?) fighter planes who are firing on innocents and trying to convince Crystal that she’s no goddess, Diablo has Lockjaw teleport them to the Terra Verde palace where he info he informs the current dictator, Gen. Robles, that he intends to take Terra Verde for himself. He, once again, has Lockjaw teleport the three of them back to the temple of Ixchel, but, once there, he realizes that the potion that he used on Crystal is wearing off. As Johnny battles Diablo, Diablo changes tactics and tries to return to the temple to create another potion. When the entrance is blocked by an unseen barrier, he realizes that the rest of the FF has arrived. This story remained pretty even from the first part to its conclusion. Again, a good story, but not a great one. Grade: B
Like IRON MAN this month, there is a second story featuring the Thing and Lockjaw (foreshadowing of MARVEL TWO-IN-ONE??). In the previous story, Ben was inside the temple with Diablo and Lockjaw just before...well, no spoilers from me, lol!!! Let’s just say that Lockjaw teleports himself and Ben away from the temple into an alternate dimension (foreshadowing of WHAT IF..?! 🤔) where Lockjaw is shot by Sherlock Holmes’ enemy, Moriarty. Only, this “Moriarty” is a robot with Reed’s face. Next, he meets the Sheriff of Nottingham and the Clantons of Tombstone; all robots with Reed’s face. After getting through the Murderworld-like gauntlet, Ben meets the architect of this strange adventure, and, honestly, I didn’t see this coming. Very good story; better than the main feature. Grade: B+
• MARVEL’S GREATEST COMICS #34
• MY LOVE #15
• SGT. FURY #94
• TWO-GUN KID #104
Another very good, but not great month. Only one book earned an “A” this month. Even still, it was a really solid month with only AMAZING ADVENTURES and IRON MAN earning less than a “B”. Next month, the Beast starts his run in AMAZING ADVENTURES and the debut of TOMB OF DRACULA and MARVEL PREMIERE featuring the return of Him as Adam Warlock! I’ve been eagerly awaiting that one! As always, thanks for the support. Let me know what you liked and what you didn’t. Until next time, take care.
Top 5 Books of the Month:
1. AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #104
2. CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE FALCON #145
3. CONAN THE BARBARIAN #13
4. THOR #195
5. DAREDEVIL #83
Top 5 Covers of the Month:
1. AVENGERS #95
2. FANTASTIC FOUR #118
3. AMAZING ADVENTURES #10
4. DAREDEVIL #83
5. SGT. FURY #94 |
|
|
|
Post by chaykinstevens on Dec 5, 2022 17:04:40 GMT -5
INCREDIBLE HULK #145. Now that Stan is no longer writing, new writers are beginning to arrive. We’ve already seen the debut of Roy Thomas, Gary Friedrich, Archie Goodwin, and Gerry Conway. This month, Len Wein debuts (as far as I can remember, anyway. This is the first time that I can recall seeing his name).Len Wein had earlier credits for Marvel in Tower of Shadows #3, Chamber of Darkness #6, Spoof #1, Creatures on the Loose #11 & 13, Western Gunfighters #5 & 6 and Astonishing Tales #8. He was also the uncredited scripter of two thirds of Daredevil #71, and uncredited co-plotter of Avengers #85 & 86. |
|
|
|
Post by Myke Gee on Dec 8, 2022 18:59:27 GMT -5
INCREDIBLE HULK #145. Now that Stan is no longer writing, new writers are beginning to arrive. We’ve already seen the debut of Roy Thomas, Gary Friedrich, Archie Goodwin, and Gerry Conway. This month, Len Wein debuts (as far as I can remember, anyway. This is the first time that I can recall seeing his name).Len Wein had earlier credits for Marvel in Tower of Shadows #3, Chamber of Darkness #6, Spoof #1, Creatures on the Loose #11 & 13, Western Gunfighters #5 & 6 and Astonishing Tales #8. He was also the uncredited scripter of two thirds of Daredevil #71, and uncredited co-plotter of Avengers #85 & 86. Thanks for the support and the cool info!!! |
|
|
|
Post by Myke Gee on Dec 8, 2022 19:23:30 GMT -5
Great write ups, Myke Gee . Really enjoying reading them. Second this. I'm also trying to read more of the older stuff, especially the issues around those frequently compiled, and your reviews will be invaluable in helping choose the next series (currently Batman/Detective post-Dick leaving for college, then Daredevil per recommendations here when I asked recently, but after that will be up in the air).
So thanks for doing this!
Oh, and props for the new Jim Kelly avatar.
Thanks, guys!!! I appreciate the kind words! |
|
|
|
Post by Myke Gee on Dec 8, 2022 20:06:00 GMT -5
*** ORIGINALLY POSTED ON FACEBOOK ON JANUARY 18, 2020 ***
NOVEMBER 1971 (Cover Date: January/February 1972)
I am SO behind on these reviews. The December 1971on review was supposed to be posted on the last Saturday of December 2019. However, my recovery from surgery left me with not much energy to do anything, however trivial. This month was supposed to be the month that I take off after completing another calendar year of reviews. Ah well, better late than never, as the saying goes. So, 1971 is nearly over. This month, we have no IRON MAN or CONAN THE BARBARIAN, but we do get two new series: MARVEL PREMIERE and THE TOMB OF DRACULA. The former has been highly anticipated while the latter is going to be...interesting, for me. I was never a fan of the series (what few issues that I read of it) and I’m hoping to be pleasantly surprised like I was with the one issue that I’ve read of MARVEL SPOTLIGHT featuring the Werewolf by Night.
On sale the first week of November 1971 DAREDEVIL #84. So, the Mr. Kline/Assassin/MK-9 story is over. This is a tale that crossed two books for most of the year and it comes to a, somewhat, unspectacular end. The Black Widow is spending time in Switzerland when she meets with Dr. Emil Borgdsky (who is really Mr. Kline/the Assassin/MK-9 android in a new disguise). He informs her that he has perfected a treatment to restore the sight of the blind. While in New York, Daredevil stops some thugs and is informed by Foggy that his opposition against the Black Widow (last issue) was due to Mr. Kline blackmailing him, and after all was said and done, Kline had left the country. Getting a call from Black Widow, DD as Matt Murdock travels to Switzerland at Natasha’s request. But when Matt meets Borgdsky he realizes there is something wrong. The two heroes eventually fall into the trap of Mr. Kline who reveals himself as the robot MK-9 who has been sent from a distant future by a being known as Baal. Battling Daredevil MK-9 reveals that it is trying to stop Daredevil and Black Widow in order to prevent future events that would bring about the end of humanity. So, that’s what this was all about, huh? Well, as a major story arc, I want to say that it was full of highs and lows, but it was more like mediums and lows with a couple of highs to break up the monotony. For the last six or seven months, this grand scheme was unfolding in this book and in IRON MAN, but the juice was hardly worth the squeeze. But, that’s typical with this series. Add Mr. Kline aka the Assassin aka MK-9 to the list of forgettable DD foes. Grade C
THOR #196. This issue’s story is told on three different fronts. On Blackworld, Sif and Hildegarde come upon a town, and people are in blind terror of someone that is coming. They only refer to it as "he". Meanwhile, in Asgard, the war with Mangog is becoming costly as Hela has arrived to claim many fallen Asgardians. As always, Odin has an Ace up his sleeve, but unfortunately, we’ll have to wait until later to see what it is. Finally, at World’s End, Thor and the Warriors Three continue their quest for Kartag and the Twilight Well. En route, they meet the seductive and treacherous Satrina who puts the group through various deadly trials before bringing them face to face with Kartag the Keeper. Gerry Conway is doing his best to maintain the Stan Lee formula of making Thor’s adventures grand in scale and with “End of Days”-level consequences. The problem is that the story feels formulaic and unoriginal. Not to say that I’m not enjoying it. I really am, but it just has a “close, but no cigar” sort of feeling about it. Grade: B-
• MILLIE THE MODEL #194
• WESTERN GUNFIGHTERS #8
• THE WESTERN KID #2
On sale the second week of November 1971 AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #105. Fresh off his adventures in the Savage Land, Peter Parker decides to suit up and get back to patrolling for crime in more familiar stomping grounds. While patrolling, he sees a protest in front of the Daily Bugle and ol’ JJJ about to get his butt kicked. Spidey intervenes, but ol’ Jonah is his usual jolly and grateful self. As Spidey swings away, Jonah vows to get him for hanging him high up on what looks like a flagpole. Spidey heads back to his apartment to welcome Harry home from the hospital. Also, Flash Thompson arrives home permanently from the military. True to his word, Jonah goes to Prof. Spencer Smythe for a new, improved Spider-Slayer. Now, usually when I hear “Spider-Slayer”, my boredom sense kicks into overdrive. However, this time Smythe has his own agenda which will leave Spider-Man in a very compromising position in the end. Great first chapter! Grade: A-
AVENGERS #96. The penultimate chapter of the Kree-Skrull War starts with the Avengers aboard a SHIELD space station as Nick Fury gives the team a space shuttle to travel to the Andromeda Galaxy to rescue Wanda, Pietro, and Mar-Vell from the Skrulls. En route to that galaxy, the team encounters a Skrull armada. Cap, Thor, Iron Man and the Vision attack the lead ship. After a brief “just to show you that we mean business” tussle, the four board the ship and demand the location of their friends. The Skrull Emperor, who was monitoring everything from the Throneworld, orders the team to stand down or risk the lives of their friends. Then, when Mar-Vell reveals that he tricked the Skrulls into thinking that he was working on a weapon for them, the Vision opens up a serious can of whoop-ass on the Skrull captain to learn the location of Wanda and the others (but, mostly Wanda 😏). Iron Man stops the Vision just short of him killing the Skrull who reveals that a ship carrying an incredible nuclear warhead was heading to Earth. Cap orders Clint Barton, whose Goliath powers are fading, to intercept it even if it means his life. Meanwhile, Rick Jones, who was captured last issue by a Kree soldier, is taken to the Kree homeworld where Ronan the Accuser imprisons him in the same chamber as the Supreme Intelligence. There, the Supremor reveals that all has been going according to his plans. This story is extremely grand in scale; akin to one of the many godly, universe-shattering situations that Thor finds himself involved. Having read the reprint years ago, I already knew that. Only those stories and “The Coming of Galactus” can compare to this ambitious project. I’m going to finish up these thoughts after the conclusion of this story because I don’t want to jump the gun on my final analysis. For now, I’ll just grade this issue and move on. Grade: B+
CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE FALCON #146. It’s not every issue that opens with the reader seeing Captain America, literally, choking the life out of a man, but the death of Sharon Carter will make him do it. Well, at least, he thought that she was dead. Shot last issue by a Hydra agent, Cap is out for revenge until the Contessa de la Fontaine, literally, slaps some sense into him. After he regains his composure, Cap and the Femme Force make short work of the Hydra agents and regain control of the hijacked plane. The Supreme Hydra blames the failure on his agents and assures a mysterious figure that there is still a way to salvage the demise of Captain America. Meanwhile, Nick Fury tries in vain to convince the Falcon to rejoin Cap as his partner. Next, in an odd scene, Cap (as Steve Rogers) is having dinner with the Contessa while Sharon is in the hospital. While there, Hydra agents overcome the SHIELD guards, kidnap the injured Sharon and leave a note for Cap to come to rescue her. Decent enough conclusion to the last issue but missing something that I couldn’t quite put my finger on. Grade: C+
INCREDIBLE HULK #148. Now, here’s a name that you all might have heard of getting a credit for a plotting assist, Chris Claremont. I don’t know if this is his first Marvel work/credit, but it’s the first time I recall seeing his name. Also, kinda fitting that Dr. Peter Corbeau debuts this issue as he was often used by Claremont in the early days of the new X-Men. As for this story, the Hulk is, once again, captured by the army with tranquilizer bombs and taken to Dr. Corbeau. The scientist cures Banner of being the Hulk by using a device that manipulates the sun's energy; thus, neutralizing the gamma rays in Hulk. Meanwhile, Jarella is sent to Earth by her wizards in search for her love, the Hulk, so that he can return to her world to help her defeat the tyrant Lord Visis. Somehow, Corbeau's process and Jarella's appearance caused an adverse effect in the sun; threatening its very existence and life on Earth. Instead of sending the princess back to her microscopic world, which will reverse the effects, the army contacts SHIELD for an LMD. But before they send it, Visis sends Fialan the assassin to Earth to kill Jarella. Of course, despite being cured, Banner finds a way to reverse it and becomes the Hulk again. This one was okay, I enjoyed seeing Jarella again and found myself rooting for those two. Unfortunately, it just doesn’t seem to be in the cards for them. Grade: B-
SUB-MARINER #46. The conclusion of Namor’s quest for his father. Last issue, Llyra and Tiger Shark kidnapped Namor’s father, Leonard McKenzie and Namor went rescue him. Aboard Llyra’s ship, Namor desperately attacks Tiger Shark while Llyra keeps an eye on Namor's father. Llyra tires of their battle and ejects them both into the sea where she knew Tiger Shark would lose because his powers are fading. Growing bored with their battle, Llyra uses a weapon from her ship that rendered both combatants unconscious. While Llyra was using Dr. Dorcas’ equipment to restore Tiger Shark, Sting-Ray comes to Namor's rescue and they confront they would villains. Like Mr. Kline story in DAREDEVIL and IRON MAN, Namor’s search for his father went on for most of 1971. Unlike the other multi-part storyline, this one had a better ending. Not an epic ending, but still, a pretty good one. Although, what Namor did in the very last panel was a bit perplexing to me. For the sake of spoilers, I won’t go into it, but his last action was a little strange. Grade: B-
On sale the third week of November 1971 ASTONISHING TALES #10. Last issue, we got a good inventory story instead of the conclusion to the bizarre story that began in issue #8. In that issue, Ka-Zar was off to rescue Bobbie Morse (later known as the Huntress and Mockingbird) and her friend Paul as the two got separated after she parachuted from a crashing plane. Bobbie found a group of British soldiers who were still engaged in war with the Germans since World War II!! In this issue, Ka-Zar finds Paul, and the Germans find them. The “soldiers” were, basically, the offspring of the soldiers that landed there in WW II; a few of them were still alive and the leaders of their respective camps. While I found the first part kind of interesting, this conclusion was okay, at best, for me. Ka-Zar has always worked best for me as a guest star. Much like CONAN THE BARBARIAN, this book...or rather the Ka-Zar stories in this book have been a hit-or-miss mix, in my opinion. I felt like this one falls somewhere in the middle. Grade: C+
TOMB OF DRACULA #1. Well...I’ll say this: of the two horror-based series set within the Marvel Universe, Werewolf by Night’s debut was better, in my opinion. This issue seems to drag a bit as we got to know Frank Drake; a descendant of Count Dracula who has fallen on hard financial times and wants to turn the inherited Castle Dracula into a tourist attraction. This one has all the horror movie tropes like villagers who warn the stupid Americans to stay away from the castle. Naturally, the stupid Americans don’t listen as Drake, his girlfriend Jean, and her ex-boyfriend(??), Clifton, go to the castle to set up shop. Of course, the ex-boyfriend still has the hots for Jean and has plans on eliminating his competition the first chance he gets. While exploring the castle, he finds the coffin of Dracula with the impaled skeleton of the vampire still in it. Clifton stupidly removes the wooden stake and you know what happens next. Dracula lives!!! He attacks Clifton, but he doesn’t kill him. Instead, he throws him in a dungeon for later. Next, comes the confrontation with his descendant and that is how the war with the Lord of Vampires starts. While not as interesting to me as MARVEL SPOTLIGHT #2, I’m once again very curious as to where this goes. Grade: B-
• RAWHIDE KID #96
• X-MEN #74
On sale the fourth week of November 1971 FANTASTIC FOUR #119. The issue opens with Ben and Johnny doing their juvenile schtick of fighting over some perceived slight when Reed breaks it up so that they can hear a video call from one of T’Challa’s chief advisers, Taku. He asks the FF’s help in rescuing his king from a prison in the neighboring South African-like nation of Rudyarda. (The first thing that that name made me think of was Rudyard Kipling. Is there some sort of in-joke that I’m missing? Let me know) Reed sends Ben and Johnny to Rudyarda and immediately the South African (and civil rights America, for that matter) parallels are apparent. After confronting one of the men that Taku said was responsible for luring T’Challa to Rudyarda, the two eventually find the king and free him. Donning the familiar black costume, T’Challa is ready to fight as the Black LEOPARD?!?!! Yes, this is the issue where he changes his name because of the Black Panther Party that was active at the time. In the end, you know that Klaw is going to be involved and that the trio would put the kibosh on his plans. A very good self-contained issue with plenty of timely allegories. Grade: B
MARVEL PREMIERE #1. Another highly anticipated book on my list!!! I’ve been wanting to read this for years!!! And now that I have, I.....liked it. I liked it a lot. But, that’s it. I found the first half, basically a retelling of FANTASTIC FOUR #66 & 67, THOR #134 & 135, and TALES OF SUSPENSE #94-96 (all of which, I only vaguely recall, now), a bit more interesting than the second half. Probably because the Biblical allegory was a bit too thick, for my tastes. Even still, it was fun to see the High Evolutionary and the Man-Beast again. Even more fun to how Warlock got his first costume and Soul Gem. Still, I’m looking forward to getting into this series as Warlock transitions into his own book and the upcoming return of Dr. Strange to a regular spot. Grade: B-
• MONSTERS ON THE PROWL #15
• OUR LOVE STORY #15
• RINGO KID #13
• SGT. FURY #95
Well, there you have it. Another month of good to very good, but nothing great. For the second straight month, AMAZING SPIDER-MAN was the only book to earn an “A” and while I’m sticking with the A- grade, it wasn’t an overwhelming “A” by any means. Note: there was, actually, a fifth week this month with five or six more books on sale on November 30th. Since DAREDEVIL, THOR and IRON MAN were among those books, I will be reviewing those with the December 1971 issues. It made more sense to me than having two reviews for DD and Thor this month; especially since those two books have no December releases. Next month: The Beast takes over AMAZING ADVENTURES, the conclusion to the Kree-Skrull War, Werewolf by Night returns, and the debut of one of my all-time favorites, MARVEL TEAM-UP! Until then, take care, everyone.
Books of the Month
1. AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #105
2. AVENGERS #96
3. FANTASTIC FOUR #119
4. INCREDIBLE HULK #148
5. MARVEL PREMIERE #1
Covers of the Month
1. AVENGERS #96
2. MARVEL PREMIERE #1
3. DAREDEVIL #84
4. SUB-MARINER #46
5. TOMB OF DRACULA #1
 |
|
|
|
Post by Myke Gee on Dec 11, 2022 10:50:43 GMT -5
*** ORIGINALLY POSTED ON FACEBOOK ON JANUARY 26, 2020 ***
DECEMBER 1971 (Cover Date: March/May 1972)
Finally, I’m at the end of the 1971 books; a task I should have completed three weeks ago. As I mentioned in the last review, there were books on sale on November 30th, but it didn’t make sense to me to have two reviews for THOR and DAREDEVIL in November; especially since it would have meant no reviews for those books for this month. So, without further ado, here are my thoughts on Marvel’s December 1971 issues. All issues except AVENGERS #97 and AMAZING ADVENTURES #11 were read for the first time.
On sale November 30, 1971 DAREDEVIL #85. While Matt, Natasha, and Ivan fly back to the U.S. from Switzerland, Matt's senses identify somebody familiar, but Matt cannot place who it is. However, the person is soon revealed to be Melvin Potter, aka the Gladiator, who hijacks the airplane. Matt manages to get away and change into his Daredevil costume and with the help of the Black Widow, manages to defeat the Gladiator and his fellow hijackers. Meanwhile, Foggy resigns as the D.A. in shame over his blackmail and manipulation by Mr. Klein, and Karen Paige and her agent Phil prepare to return to California. As luck would have it, Matt, Natasha, Karen, and Phil run into each other at the airport with....interesting results. With the Gladiator appearing this month, I was hoping for a bit more. However, we get a pretty run-of-the-mill issue. Grade: C+
IRON MAN #45. So, I’m guessing that mediocre stories led to mediocre sales and, as a result, the book is now bi-monthly. Well, stories like this aren’t going to help. This issue, Iron Man continues his fight with the Night Phantom robot and destroys it. Meanwhile, Simon Gilbert addresses the Stark Industries board of directors criticizing Tony Stark's recent actions. Gilbert leads them in a vote of no confidence as he schemes to become their new corporate president. Unknown to them all, Mr. Kline delightedly monitors the board from afar. The problem with this is that the threat of Mr. Kline/the Assassin has been dealt with In Daredevil’s book. Just a brief editorial note to explain this and it’s never mentioned again. After nearly a year, that subplot comes to an unceremonious ending. Anyway, Kevin finds himself wishing he could have Marianne and even briefly considers murdering Tony before coming to his senses. Tony learns of the no confidence vote and, as Marianne comforts him, Kevin accidentally walks in on the two as she accepts Tony's marriage proposal. Crushed by this news, the Guardsman crashes the board of directors' meeting, telling them he is against Tony Stark and Iron Man. When students begin demonstrating outside the plant, the Guardsman, following Gilbert's orders, launches a blast of repulsor rays killing four, and then retreats back inside. The demonstrators stormed the building but when the Guardsman emerges they flee. Iron Man arrives and confronts Gilbert, but the Guardsman defends him. The two friends fight, but Iron Man activates a safety valve to shut down the Guardsman’s armor. Venturing outside, Iron Man finds that the demonstrators have returned, more violent and angry than ever. The problem with this book is that, like DAREDEVIL, the stories aren’t bad enough to cancel, but they’re not consistently good enough to make this one of Marvel’s flagship titles. I’ve always looked at Iron Man and Daredevil as two of Marvel’s heavyweights, but these two books are, up to this point, not even close to what they will become in the late 70s/early 80s. Grade: C
THOR #197. Thor and the Warriors Three continue their journey to the Twilight Well at World’s End. Finally, Thor comes face to face with Kartag the Keeper but is defeated in combat. However, the Norns intervene and grant Thor his request for water from the Well. They command Kartag to accompany the Asgardians back to Asgard to fight Mangog. They arrive just in time, as Mangog is about to kill Odin. Meanwhile, Lady Sif and Hildegard fight off a monster on Blackworld before meeting a mysterious man named Silas Grant; a very Earthly looking man who promises to tell them who is responsible for the mysterious changes all around them. So far, I’m calling this story a “wannabe epic”. Please understand, it’s a very good story, in my opinion, but it just feels like it’s trying to live up to past Thor epics like the Infinity Saga. Still, very enjoyable. Grade: B-
• FEAR #7
• KID COLT: OUTLAW #157
• MARVEL TRIPLE ACTION #2
On sale December 7, 1971 AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #106. At the end of the last issue, Spidey discovers that he was recorded changing from Spider-Man to Peter Parker. Interestingly enough, his spider-sense tingled after he had taken off his mask. Interesting because of how inconsistently that power was written back then. Anyway, initially, he assumes that it was the work of Spencer Smythe and that whoever was at the other end of that device has seen his face. Then, he noticed the words “Property of the N.Y.P.D.” written on it, which didn’t make him feel any better. One of the things that I’ve always liked about this character is his ability to think on the fly; to adapt and overcome. Without revealing how he put that genie back in the bottle, let’s just say he got by with a little help from his friends, namely Dr. Curt Connors. The solution was so simple, lol!! As for the cameras, he was still correct in assuming that Smythe had a hand in it as they were designed by Smythe for NYPD. However, Smythe has stolen the master scanner system from the police and trying to use it to make money from organized crime bosses. When they all see Spidey on camera, basically, “putting the genie back in the bottle”, Smythe tells the bosses that it’s no big deal, then shows them his new, bigger Spider-Slayer. Meanwhile, Pete and Gwen visit Flash Thompson who is acting very strange, J. Jonah Jameson leads a protest this time and Smythe attacks Spider-Man in his new Spider-Slayer. Pretty good second part. Not quite an “A” for me this month. Grade: B+
AVENGERS #97. The conclusion to The Kree-Skrull War! Before I get into this, one of the things I neglected to mention in last issue’s review was the introduction of the classic, iconic Avengers logo. Once again, nostalgia kicks in just from seeing that along with the “MARVEL COMICS GROUP” banner across the top. I’m now 7 or 8 years old again discovering comics for the first time. 😀 So....the conclusion. When I first (and last) read this back in 1983, I was struck by the beauty of the artwork and the scale of the story. As I said in the last review, only “The Coming of Galactus” and many of Thor’s storylines are as ambitious as this story was. At 18, I had never read anything like it, and I was awestruck! Now, that I have read those other stories (including the Mangog story, the Over-Mind story, the Infinity saga, and others), I’m still impressed with this, but not as much as when I was 18 years old. For those that haven’t read this, basically, the Kree and the Skrulls have been at war with each other for centuries. It’s ramped up lately because....well, that wasn’t quite clear, but Earth plays a strategic role in both sides’ success. The key moment comes when the Supreme Intelligence reveals that both races were at an evolutionary dead end and that the human race has yet to reach its potential. Plus, the Supremor uses Rick Jones to further drive home that point by unlocking latent mental powers that all humans supposedly have. In the end, both sides return to their “Cold War” status and Rick, once again, finds himself merged with Mar-Vell. Not quite as epic to me at 54 years old as it was when I was 18, but still pretty damn good!! One last very minor note: this book has a cover date of May 1971 when it should say March. The next issue is April, then the next May again. No biggie. Just thought I’d mention it. Grade: A-
CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE FALCON #147. “Decent enough conclusion to last issue but missing something that I couldn’t quite put my finger on.” That’s what I wrote at the end of last month’s review of last issue. Well, what was missing was my reading comprehension because that was not the conclusion. The last panel shows a mysterious figure about to push a button that would blow away heroes and villains alike. As that scene continues this issue, it is interrupted by a familiar woman, Vanessa Fisk. Wife of the Kingpin. So, it turns out that he’s that man pulling the Supreme Hydra’s strings. As Cap was close to capturing the Supreme Hydra, he unmasks him, and he’s revealed to be Richard Fisk, formerly the Schemer and son of the Kingpin. A fact that was unknown to the Kingpin, himself, but known to Vanessa. Richard manages to escape as Cap is distracted by Sharon’s awakening from her coma. Once Cap makes sure that she’s okay, he pursues him to downtown Vegas where he confronts both Fisks. The battle between Cap and Kingpin was fantastic!! This is going to sound...odd, I guess, but what made me like that fight, even more, is that I never knew that the two ever met, let alone fought!! Like many, Cap is taken by surprise by the strength and agility of the extremely large man. Just as the Kingpin is gaining the upper hand, the Falcon and Redwing arrive, only to have all actions cut short by another mysterious figure. Without having seen his face, I’m sure that everyone can guess who. 😏 Whew!!! This one was nonstop and it still isn’t finished. This is, easily, the best era of this book, so far!!! Another spectacular issue! Grade: A
INCREDIBLE HULK #149. This one I kept putting down and returning to it later. (Not a good sign. 😏) So, for the umpteenth time, the Hulk has been captured by Gen. Ross and whatever big brain he’s brought in this time to end the threat of the Hulk. Last issue, that brain was Dr. Peter Corbeau; a likable character that I remember from the X-Men book. As Corbeau and Banner construct a device that monitors any sign of a change to the Hulk, the Earth is, once again, threatened by an “It Came from Beyond the Stars”-type creature. This time it’s the Inheritor. He claims to come from a race of beings that visited Earth 300 million years ago. Yet later, he states that the High Evolutionary created him. 🤔 Hmmm.....I’m confused. Doesn’t matter, this tale is doing little for me anyway. So, naturally, his agenda to rid the Earth of humans and regain his memory leads him to the base where Banner is. Not hard to figure out what happens next: Hulk smashed!!!! 😂 As I said earlier, I struggled to get through this one. Maybe because of the generic plot that’s been done over and over in this book. Side note: speaking of X-Men, I cannot wait for the next issue!!! As for this one....? Grade: D
SUB-MARINER #47. After watching his father die in his arms, Namor is, once again, an amnesiac. Traveling via freight train with no memory and suffering from injuries from his fight with Tiger Shark, he is attacked by two hobos. While he has no memory of who he is, he does remember that he’s very strong and makes short work of the bums. This attracts the attention of a police officer who realizes whom he’s trying to arrest. When Namor lifts the freight car, a shadowed figure destroys it. Namor flees and, in his weakened state, is helped by a woman named Cindy Jones. She takes him to her apartment where she patches him up and gives him something hot to drink. At this point, there’s a knock at her door, and, sensing that it is for him, Namor answers to see Dr. Doom standing on the other side. Namor suddenly attacks Doom, but Doom barely fights back in hopes of an alliance with the sea prince. Once the battle has ended, all three head to the Latverian Embassy. Believing MODOK to be dead, Doom tricks Namor into an alliance and convinces him to help him attack an A.I.M. base so that he gets the Cosmic Cube. Good issue. Doom is always at his best as the villain and not headlining a rudderless ship of a series as he did in ASTONISHING TALES. Looking forward to the next issue. Grade: B-
On sale December 14, 1971 AMAZING ADVENTURES #11. This one I read so long ago, I may as well consider this a first-time read. There are some things that I vaguely remember, but nothing where I could give a synopsis before now. So, let me start by saying that, since the X-Men series was turned into a reprint book, not much has been seen of the X-Men collectively or individually. An Angel backup story in MARVEL TALES and an Iceman guest appearance in AMAZING SPIDER-MAN were about it. Now, it seems, the powers-that-be are blowing the dust off the merry mutants. Havok makes a guest appearance in the INCREDIBLE HULK next month and the Beast is now the star of AA. This is the origin story of how Hank McCoy went to work for the Brand Corporation and mutated himself further to stop an evil spy of some sort who intends on stealing his research on genetic mutations. Hank overhears him talking to an “Agent 9” as they were discussing the theft. Believing that his X-Men costume isn’t enough to hide the identity of a man with his build, he decides to temporarily mutate himself to stop the theft. He manages to stop the theft, but he stayed mutated too long, and now the effects are permanent. Maybe it’s me, but, to me, it seemed like they were trying to reinvent him as a horror-based hero, but that fell a little flat in this issue. Decent story, but a little disappointing. Grade: C+
CONAN THE BARBARIAN #14. I cannot say this enough: the sword and sorcery genre is completely outside of my wheelhouse. It’s just something that I’ve never really been able to get into. Reading this series has been an experience of highs and lows, but mostly, somewhere in between. This issue I am introduced to Elric. I’ve never read any of Michael Moorcock’s stories nor did I read any of the graphic novels that would come much later from Marvel. So ignorant was I to who Elric was, I thought that “Elric” was a place and not a person. 🙄😏🤪 So, a group of hooded killers stalks a fleeing woman on horseback, but as luck would have it, Conan is nearby and comes to her rescue. The girl turns out to be Zephra, the daughter of the wizard Zukala, whom Conan met before in issue #5. The wizard himself, without the power of his mask, has become a frail old man and seeks Conan's help in defeating the evil of Kulan-Gath and his henchwoman Xiombarg. (As an UNCANNY X-MEN fan and one who counts MARVEL TEAM-UP #79 as one of the greatest stand-alone issues ever, it brought a big smile to see the name Kulan Gath.) Zukala enchants Conan's sword and Zephra guides the barbarian to the city of Yagala, which has been transported from another dimension. The wizard then turns his attention to the seeress Xiombarg, who is preparing to send her captain, Gaynor, after Conan. The woman senses Zukala's spying and breaks the connection. Sometime later, Conan and Zephra encounter a traveler from Yagala's dimension - Elric of Melniboné. Conan assumes the pale rider is his enemy and attacks, but Conan is unable to best the magically enhanced and armored Elric. Both warriors stop fighting when they realize neither is working for Xiombarg, then suddenly, the undead forces of Gaynor attack. So far, Conan stories have been single, stand-alone issues, but it appears that I’m about to read my first multi-part Conan epic with Elric alongside, no less. As I read this issue, I really liked Elric and I’m looking forward to the next chapter of this tale. Hmmm... maybe I’m slowly getting converted, lol!!! Grade: A-
• MARVEL TALES #34
• MY LOVE #16
• RAWHIDE KID #97
• WHERE MONSTERS DWELL #14
On sale December 21, 1971 CREATURES ON THE LOOSE #16. Without having ever read JOHN CARTER: WARLORD OF MARS, I couldn’t help but to wonder why we needed Gulivar Jones: WARRIOR of Mars. And, yes, I understand that Gulivar Jones debuts before John Carter’s Marvel Comics debut, yet here we have my first review of CREATURES since King Kull debuted in issue #10 and we start with a John Carter rip-off?? Again, while I never read the series, I know a little bit about it and, it seems that some of the elements are definitely here. So, we start with Jones leaving an Officer’s Club only to have Lu-Pov, a dying, golden-skinned humanoid appears before him and hand him a lantern and power ring. No wait....that’s not right. He gives him a medallion which transports him to Mars amidst a war between more gold-skinned humanoids called the Hither People and the barbaric reptile-like Ar-Hap. The Ar-Hap representatives are taking the Hither princess, Heru, to wed their leader. Gulivar sees this and intervenes. He finds that he is now much stronger and handles the reptile men with ease. After the fight, they ride off together, and she gives the obligatory explanation of “what’s going on here”, he starts to fall for the princess, and they are attacked once again by the Wingmen in an attempt to get her back. All of this happens in 10 pages!!! I don’t know who and how much exactly was ripped off from John Carter, but it was still an enjoyable read. The rest of the book features old 1950s sci-fi stories that I care nothing about. Grade: B
FANTASTIC FOUR #120. Yet another book that I’ve wanted to read, this one features the debut of Gabriel the Air-Walker; a fan favorite that I know very little about. The story starts as many FF tales do: with Reed conducting an experiment in his lab. This time, his experiments are cut short by the Condition Red alarm which warns of armed gunmen, of all things, breaking into the Baxter Building to steal Reed’s discoveries and sell them. Feeling like the FF were overrated, they learn quickly just wrong they were. After that situation is wrapped up and a brief confrontation with their landlord, Agatha Harkness mystically appears before them to warn the team of impending danger to the entire planet. Enter Gabriel whose ability to walk on air seems to have the attention of people all around the world. The team sees him and rushes out to investigate. Reed wants to lure him back to their HQ by having Ben and Johnny perform feats that keep his attention. Of course, the military attacks him and he easily repels their efforts. Remaining silent the majority of the time, Gabriel finally speaks and announces that, because of their “sick and savage” ways, mankind is doomed. Hearing his words confirm that he is the danger that Harkness was talking about, the FF attack only to be just as easily repelled. Gabriel then pulls from his waist sash a glowing, growing horn that he begins to blow and bring about the destruction of mankind. Pretty cool character and a great beginning to a new story arc. This one looks like it will be a lot of fun. Grade: A-
MARVEL SPOTLIGHT #3. After a night as the Werewolf saving his sister from a biker gang, Jack is picked up by a helpful man named Nathan Timly who was acting as a psychologist to Jack's stepfather. Nathan takes Jack back to the home of his wife, Agatha (who is initially called “Andrea” twice by Nathan). It turns out Agatha is looking to get her hands on the Darkhold, an important mysterious book that was last in the hands of Jack's father (also, the first time that it has been mentioned in the Marvel Universe). Jack doesn't know anything about it, but they don't believe him, so they lock him up in their dungeon. Jack is menaced by Agatha's deformed and metal-handed servant called Kraig, who thinks Jack has the means to get his real hand back. Jack's transformations and Nathan's discipline keep Kraig at bay until one of Kraig's outbursts ends up killing Nathan. Jack uses the distraction to escape, but he can't help wondering what's so special about the book. He looks around his home without success until the next night's moon makes him transform again. Agatha senses it and sends Kraig after the Werewolf. The two fight and, after giving up in the Darkhold, Agatha attempts to try to cast the spells she wants without the Darkhold. Both incidents have unexpected results. While not as good as the debut, I still enjoy this quite a bit. I must admit, I truly did not expect this to be such a good read. Grade: B-
MARVEL TEAM-UP #1. For years, my MTU collection ran from issue #39 to the final issue. About 15 years ago or so, I tried to complete the series. I managed to get #5 - 38, but not the first four and I read those only once. I mention this because I’m so excited to read the first issue of one of my all-time favorite Marvel series; a Top 10-er, to be sure. Those first 38 issues will feel like first-time reads, for sure. So, what did I think? It was fun! Spidey and the Torch always had great chemistry and that was no different in this issue. The Sandman has returned and it’s Christmas Eve. He arrives on a beach where the group called the Polar Bears decided to take a winter dip in the ocean. Peter Parker has an assignment to get photos of them, but that’s when Sandy shows up. A quick tussle with Spidey ends abruptly when he realizes what day it is. He turns completely into sand and is lost in the beach. Spider-Man, then, confirms something that I thought about just before I read it. Sandman isn’t really a Spidey at this point. So, realizing that, he figures to sick the FF on him, but only the Torch is home. The two team up to find him. They stop a mugging of (depending on whom you believe) Misty Knight and eventually find the Sandman. However, it’s not the slugfest you’d expect. Fun start to the series, but not classic, and that’s okay. Grade: B-
• SGT. FURY #96
• TWO-GUN KID #103
• LIL KIDS #5
So, 1971 comes to a close and it was a very good year. Some epic tales this year (Thor’s Infinity saga, the FF’s Over-Mind storyline and, of course, the Kree-Skrull War). Some great introductions to some classic series (MARVEL SPOTLIGHT, MARVEL PREMIERE, TOMB OF DRACULA, MARVEL TEAM-UP). The return and new direction of two fan favorites (Warlock in MARVEL PREMIERE and the Beast in AMAZING ADVENTURES). Finally, another legendary super-team debuts this year (The Defenders in MARVEL FEATURE). I’m going to take another break from posting these so I can try to the four-month cushion back as I had before. Same with my Obscure Marvel Characters feature. I’ll be back in March with my thoughts on the January 1972 issues. Until then, take care, everyone.
Top 5 Books of the Month:
1. CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE FALCON #147
2. FANTASTIC FOUR #120
3. AVENGERS #97
4. CONAN THE BARBARIAN #14
5. AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #106
Top 5 Covers of the Month:
1. AVENGERS #97
2. AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #106
3. AMAZING ADVENTURES #11
4. FANTASTIC FOUR #120
5. CONAN THE BARBARIAN #14 |
|
|
|
Post by Jeddak on Dec 11, 2022 20:22:44 GMT -5
Enjoying the thread, as I was reading most of these books when they first came out. And I really like your Jim Kelly avatar. Just wanted to point something out, which may already have been brought up over on Facebook.
Gulliver Jones didn't just beat John Carter to a Marvel debut. Lieutenant Gullivar Jones: His Vacation by Edwin Lester Arnold came out in 1905, while the first John Carter story, 'Under the Moons of Mars,' wasn't published until 1912. So if there's any ripping off going on here, it's in the other direction. And I say that as a big fan of the Barsoom books.
|
|
|
|
Post by Roquefort Raider on Dec 11, 2022 20:36:22 GMT -5
Remembering those comics and making a parallel with today's, I can't help thinking that back then Marvel was building on its mythology (for better of worse). Eventually, this forward-looking attitude would turn to nostalgia and a rehash/reinterpretation of things past.
I wonder to what extent that is due to young Marvel readers becoming, in turn, Marvel creators.
|
|
|
|
Post by MWGallaher on Dec 12, 2022 7:10:21 GMT -5
This is about when I started adding Marvel comics to my purchases, as I documented in my Golden Anniversary thread last year. Marvel was really enforcing a uniform dress code around then with the cover designs, but somehow Gil Kane managed to break the pattern with his Gullivar Jones cover, with that Martian invading the bottom caption space, but maybe whoever wrote those blurbs needed the break, because they were really off their game with "Dum Dum Sees It Thru!" Not exactly the kind of tag that would have grabbed me, even if I had been into the war comics at that time! I picked up Creatures #18, my first "first issue" of a Marvel series, Where Monsters Dwell #14, Avengers #97, and Marvel Spotlight #3. For such a small sample, I went for a lot of variety: a superhero team, science fantasy, a horror hero, and monster reprint. None of them wowed me enough to get me hooked yet, but Gullivar Jones seemed like a much bigger deal than he turned out to be, and I liked the Mike Ploog art on Werewolf By Night a lot. |
|
