I think it's best for the long-term to preserve the flexibility of Spider-Man's alter ego. This means that the character probably shouldn't get married. And it means that his current age according to the editors (mid-twenties) is ideal. It allows the writers to alternate between uncertain young adulthood and a fixed career path.

I was listening to a recent episode of the Spider-Man Crawl Space podcast, and the hosts mocked part of Joe Quesada's rationale for getting rid of the Spider-Man marriage by noting recent scenes in Amazing Spider-Man #679 which they felt contradicted some of the reasons given for OMD.

From the 169th episode (about 42 1/2 minutes in)...

George Berryman: This does lose a grade for completely getting Silver Sable wrong. Even when she's worked with Spider-Man in the past, there's been a respectable tension between them, like, "I wonder if there's anything more about him" or anything. It's never really gone further with him or anything like say with him and Jean Dewolfe. 

Brad Douglas: Like the Assassin Nation Plot. Remember they were at a dinner, and he was in a tux and she was in a dress. 

George Berryman: Right, and they were still professional. She's all about being professional. I like seeing Silver Sable back, but not if she's going to be misrepresented, if the writer's going to go out of his way to prove that he doesn't know much more about the character to begin with. 

Brad Douglas: That's two women in two issues that have been misrepresented. 

George Berryman: Right, because it's relateable to me. This makes the character more relateable to me being kissed by this ultra-hot head of state in an alley. I couldn't relate to the character when he was married to a supermodel he had known since he was a teenager, but I could relate to him being the guy who kisses a foreign national who happens to be a supermodel level hottie in an alleyway. That I get totally. I think we can all say that, right?

A few days ago, I considered if Joe Quesada was hypocritical for pushing One More Day after all the other stuff that happened to the character under his watch. Now it's time to look at whether his reasoning for those developments could be reconciled with subsequent events in the Spider-Man comics, or related projects in other media.

I don't think there was any inconsistency with the Silver Sable scene. While the average reader does not know what it's like to get a peck on the cheek from a gorgeous internationally recognized woman, the scene did not violate any of the reasoning behind One More Day. The peck on the cheek represented a brief acknowledgement of all that Spider-Man does from one person. It's not something that he can brag about to most of his peers.

One of the numerous problems with Peter Parker being married to a loving supermodel was that it was a big consistent "win" for the character. And everyone knew it. One can think that it was a bad idea, but that the character should occasionally have smaller victories. The President will shake his hand. Some of the people he rescues will thank him. It fits the secret identity motif, as Peter Parker won't be able to communicate any of this to most of his friends and family. And it's often balanced by small losses, as civilians he saves accuse him of grandstanding, or his duties as Spider-Man conflict with his job as Peter Parker.

Horizon Labs

That segues into the most controversial element of the status quo, in the context of the understanding of Quesada's guidelines for the Spider-Man books: Peter Parker's job at Horizon Labs. The argument goes that if Peter Parker shouldn't be married to a gorgeous woman, he shouldn't have a great job, either.

A difference here is that there's no reason to assume that Horizon Labs is going to stick around forever. There are many ways a writer could take away all the things that Peter Parker currently enjoys. He could get fired. He could lose everything upon discovering that Max Modell is a bad guy. He could lose everything when Max Modell is forced to make a difficult sacrifice. It's easier for writers to change Peter's job than his marital status.

Mayor Jameson

I admit that it's a bit ridiculous for Peter Parker to be on friendly terms with the Mayor of New York City. But there's a point to Jonah's new job that makes up for that drawback. One of the problems with the Daily Bugle as a setting is that the newspaper industry is really volatile at the moment. We don't know if it's going to exist a decade from now, in a way that's similar to what it was in silver age comics. Jonah becoming hizzoner sidesteps that issue, as we can all be pretty sure that New York City will still have a mayor in fifty years, when Spider-Man's adventure may still be ongoing.

Given their history, Jonah's not going to be all that interested in helping out Peter Parker. And putting him in the mayor's office doesn't exactly make things easier for Spider-Man.

Aunt May's Second Husband

There were some questions about why the writers were so keen to marry off Aunt May, shortly after erasing Peter's marriage. May did well for herself, marrying a nice successful guy. Considering her lack of history with Jonah Sr, you could argue that it's unlikelier than Peter marrying MJ, as he had known her before she went to go into show-biz.

A major distinction is that Aunt May isn't the lead of the book, so her romantic adventures weren't a big part of the series. The tradeoff is worth is to get Jonah Sr to become a member of the supporting cast, considering what he brings to the series. It also meant that Jonah would remain in Peter Parker's circle, even after Peter no longer had a job in his administration or the press. If the writers feel that Jonah Sr hinders the stories that they want to tell, they're not as restricted as they would be with Spider-Man's marriage. They can kill him off, or even do a divorce storyline. While Aunt May has traditionally complicated Peter Parker's life, the writers could always come up with other supporting characters for that role.

Spider-Man the Avenger

For many readers, part of Spider-Man's appeal was that he was a hero who acted alone. Some older comics pros have suggested that launching Marvel Team-Up back in 1972 was a bad idea, because it forced Spider-Man to interact with other Marvel superheroes and become familiar with those guys. So for these readers, a big mistake occurred under Quesada's tenure, when Spider-Man joined the Avengers.

If there's a constant in the Avengers membership, it's change. Spider-Man won't always be an Avenger, and while he may be more familiar with his former teammates, any writer who wants to tell a story about Spider-Man teaming up with an unfriendly superhero can do so, with one of the many Marvel characters who hasn't been on the Avengers or the Future Foundation with Spider-Man.

The New Spider-Man Cartoon

In a later edition of the Crawl Space podcast, 43 minutes into the 174th episode, J.R. Fettinger criticized the new Ultimate Spider-Man cartoon by this criteria.

J.R. Fettinger: I don't want to rag on a cartoon meant for ten year olds, but one of the reasons Spider-Man has always been popular is he kinda has a youthful rebellion about him. He didn't fit in with the other superheroes because he was young and hot-tempered, and he wasn't a glamour boy. Captain America is the high school quarterback; Spider-Man is not. For Spider-Man to kinda join the system, it just doesn't seem right. This is not a knock on the cartoon, this is just a knock on Marvel's disingenuousness. We have to hear about Tom Brevoort and Joe Quesada saying that Spider-Man can't be married because that takes away from his core base, his core popularity, the core of what makes Spider-Man. But having him join the Avengers and in the cartoon, having him join Nick Fury's program and call Nick Fury "Sir" with the super-buddies and having SHIELD provide him with high-tech toys, well, that's not Spider-Man either, you know?
BD: Yeah.
J.R. Fettinger: So it's that disingenuousness that I absolutely loathe. 

The Ultimate Spider-Man cartoon is a departure from what we're used to with Spider-Man. And JR is correct to note the financial incentives for featuring other heroes in supporting roles (it makes it much easier to sell action figures.) It almost seems like a Harry Potter version of Spider-Man, with the young orphan hero hero joining a school for those with super-powers. By duplicating some of the things that are appealing about that sales juggernaut, it's possible that Marvel will lose what worked with their successful franchise.

It's worth noting that this is the eighth Spider-Man cartoon to date, which does allow Marvel and Disney more license to deviate from the norm. There will be other animated series in the future, some of which will be closer to what we would normally associate with the character. But what goes on in this series isn't as important in the long-term as decisions made in Amazing Spider-Man. Plus, if you think that the cartoon's direction was a bad idea, as is the case with Mr. Fettinger, that hardly presents an argument for further deviations from the core of the series.

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With Red Hulk down, it falls to the unlikely duo of Spider-Man and J. Jonah Jameson to save the moloids from certain enslavement!  That's right, a Spidey/JJ team up written by Zeb Wells and illustrated by Joe Madureira.  You should have bought this already, unless you have a paralyzing fear of being entertained.  But I'll review it anyway, bulletproofsponge isn't paying me to not review comics.  Come to think of it, he's not paying me at all...

The Story

Spider-Man and Jameson manage to escape Rak'tar and the molons by riding what JJ refers to as a "mole-mule."  When they get back to Subterranea, they quickly begin to argue.  JJ wants to go back to the surface but Spider-Man wants to stay, not wanting to leave Red Hulk and the moloids behind.

Their argument is cut short when Rak'tar and his molons barge in with intent of slaughtering the moloids.  As JJ heads for the surface, Rak'tar offers Spider-Man the chance to leave but Spidey refuses, challenging Rak'tar to fight. 

Needless to say, Spidey gets his butt handed to him.  Just as Rak'tar is about to finish him off, Spider-Man grabs a sharp diamond with his webbing and uses it to slice off Rak'tar's pants.  Turns out molons don't wear underwear.  This shames Rak'tar in front of his molons, which according to molon law means that Spidey won the fight.  Recognizing Spider-Man as their superior, he and the molons are able to work out a peace treaty with the moloids.  When Red Hulk comes to, he's amazed at what's transpired.  Spidey and Rulk travel back to the surface where Spider-Man explains what happened to JJ and the Avengers.

Meanwhile, back underground, the Mole Man begins making new plans for conquest.

Thoughts

This was a great finish to what has been an amazing first arc.  Both the story and artwork were top notch.  Joe Mad's artwork is bright, loud and fun.  You can feel the energy and enthusiasm leap off each page.  And let me add that it is very refreshing to have an A-list artist deliver consistently great work on time without having to bring in other artists for assistance.  Kudos to Mad and the editors for that! 

Avenging Spider-Man isn't just a pleasure to look at; Wells delivered a very funny script that was also able to highlight why Spider-Man is such a great and effective superhero despite not being the strongest or even smartest one around.  In the end, his sense of humour won the day, which is always nice to see.

This first arc of Avenging Spider-Man was a resounding success and I'm eager to see what Wells has up his sleeve next.  Even though the next few issues won't have Mad on art duties, the future for this title looks bright!
   

With Spidey and Red Hulk getting eaten last issue, it falls on none other than J. Jonah Jameson to save the moloids from enslavement... uh oh.
   

The Story

The moloids rescue Spider-Man and Red Hulk by getting the subterranean monster that ate them last issue to spit them out, but not before the toxins in its belly rendered them unconscious!

Meanwhile, J. Jonah Jameson confronts the leader of the molons, Ra'ktar, with his usual bluster.  When Jonah refuses to bow to Ra'ktar, he inadvertently challenges him to a duel for this throne.

Spidey wakes up to find himself and the Red Hulk being pulled from behind by the moloids.  Spidey realizes that the moloids need help and vows to help them, despite Red Hulk's protests.

As the molons equip J.J. with gladiator armour, the Mole Man reveals that when the molons conquered Subterranea, his moloids fled to the surface to find the rulers of the surface world for help, and subsequently brought back Jameson.  As Jameson is lined up to face Ra'ktar in combat, Red Hulk and Spidey arrive on the scene.  Red Hulk quickly engages Ra'ktar, who quickly defeats the Hulk and stabs him in the chest!

Thoughts

The artwork in Avenging Spider-Man looks amazing.  Joe Mad's pages are big and explosive, and the bright colour palette provided by Ferran Daniel compliments Mad's artwork beautifully.  Meanwhile, Zeb Wells delivers a fun plot and a ton of great exchanges between all the characters.  His Jameson in particular, is spot on and is worth the price of admission alone.  Avenging Spider-Man is a fun, expertly done superhero comic; a great choice for young and old fans alike! 

While I have not read Venom # 7, or Spider-Woman's tie in to Spider-Island, I shall warn readers out there beforehand that this issue can contain spoilers for the above mentioned Spider-Island tie-ins.

The Story
The issue begins in Horizon Labs as preparation to launch the Spider-sense jammers is being made. News of the mutation entering the third stage ( Humans turning into giant spiders) is also getting out. In the Bugle, Randy and many others are also turning into spiders. Even Hawkeye from the Avengers begins to mutate.


Meanwhile, Spider-Man has just witnessed the Shocker, Carlie and many other citizens transform into Spiders. Naturally, he loses track of which one is Carlie.

The scene changes to The Queen. All the spiders appear to be gathering around her. In a completely unnecessary and unrealistic scene ( but useful to us readers), The Queen narrates her back story, even explaining how Steve Rogers was caught. We also learn that Spider-Island is taking place somewhere before Fear Itself since he is still in his old uniform.

I'll just post the scan here :


Venom has also done a great job of pretending to be the Spider-King aka Steve Rogers. Anti-Venom is also shown to be extremely busy, healing the infected, who are now willingly coming to him, seeing that they are morphing into actual spiders.

Over at Horizon Labs, the Mayor is starting to get pretty upset that there is still no cure. He stomps out of the building and is driven to find "the package." In the car, Jameson is attacked by spiders. Spider-Man comes to help him, but Jameson refuses to be helped. He then embraces his Spider powers and fights alongside Spidey.

Elsewhere, The Queen receives word that Anti-Venom is busy curing the infected. Venom ( as Spider-King) volunteers to kill him with intention of bringing him to Reed Richards to develop a cure.

To cut this short:

•  Venom catches Anti-Venom and brings him to Reed ( read more in Venom # 7 I suppose)
• Spider-Man and Jameson find the package who is none other than the Spider Slayer
• The Queen begins controlling Jameson's thoughts leading him to kill the Spider-Slayer
• MJ is finally seen with Spider powers

The cover of this issue immediately tells us that Spidey is going to appear with a new black suit. To sum it all, this issue focuses on Spider-Man, without his Spider-sense. A few issues ago, Spider-Man lost his Spider-sense while attempting to stop the Spider Slayer.

The Story
It starts where the last issue ended, with some psycho - Massacre, killing innocents. The police are dumbfounded as they are unable to reason with the psychotic killer. Just in the nick of time, Spidey appears. Strangely enough however, Spidey shoots his webs on some plaster instead of a solid part of the building. Being unable to support his weight, the plaster broke off the wall causing Spider-Man to fall from the sky straight unto the police car.

He concludes that his spider sense must have stopped him from making silly mistakes like that in the past. Spider-Man gets to his feet and tries to negotiate terms with the killer. His plan doesn't turn out so well as it results in gunfire. Unable to properly dodge the bullets without his spider sense, Spidey gets shot.

Spider-Man tells the cops to give in to Massacre's demands and let him go as he had thrown a Spidey tracer on the killer just before being shot. Massacre's eventually lets the hostages go and flee's the scene. It is only later however that Spider-Man realizes he needs his spider sense for the spidey tracer to work.

Spider-Man later goes to the Night nurse ( Nurse for super guys ), whom, just like the police, found it very strange that Spider-Man got shot. At the Bugle, Massacre is the biggest story there is, so much so that even Jameson's request for another tribute to his wife is unable to make the headlines. Jameson makes a decision that Massacre will be punished by death, along with any other murderer in the city.

Back at Horizon Labs, his colleagues notice something wrong with Peter as well. Peter begins working on a new suit to help him fight Massacre without his spider-sense. He later learns that Massacre used to go by the name Marcus. He and his wife were caught in an explosion. As a result, a shrapnel from the explosion was embedded in his head. Strangely enough, he survived. The shrapnel lodged in his head however did something to his brain so that he lost all emotion, morality an value for life.

Peter overhear's the radio channel from Captain Wantannabe regarding Massacre's position. He disappears and is next seen as Spider-Man, with a new suit approaching his killer. Spider-Man webs the hostages together as soon as he gets into the room where they are being held. We find out that his new webbing is magnetic and jams all radio frequency signals so the explosives they are wrapped in do not go off.



We also find out that Spidey's new suit is bullet proof. Massacre is eventually caught. He is almost killed by the police, as that was the order from the mayer. Fortunately for him, Spidey saves him, not wanting anyone to die. The scene below is probably my favorite of all. Read it for yourself.



Thoughts


This issue was pretty decent. The art was not the best in the world in my opinion. I also dislike Spider-Man's new suit. Honestly, I did not expect Spider-Man's spider sense to be gone for this long. I assumed that they would return after a day or two. A bullet proof costumes is no where near as cool as a Spider-Man who can dodge bullets.

Personally, I thought this issue was pretty decent. From reading other reviews and discussion boards, it seems that not everyone really liked the issue too much.

The Story
It starts with the Space shuttle landing on the Horizon Orbital, as according to Dr. Ock's plan. ( See Amazing Spider-Man 653 ) Upon landing, the little octobots get off, along with John Jameson, to go do their things, ( we're still not sure what ) John is now safe and wants to return to earth to help his father but is unable to due to the damage caused to the Space Shuttle.

Meanwhile, Max Modell has concluded that Peter Parker secretly provides tech for Spider-Man to battle his enemies. Peter admits to this lame secret he has been holding all these years. The two then work together to create a 'spider sense disrupter. Max then tell Peter to warn Spider-Man that he musn't be anywhere near the device when it detonates, else he too will lose his Spider-sense.


Back at the Spa, Be Grimm and some Avengers are busy protecting Marla Jameson, who has found some use for herself - using the spider-slayer robot knowledge to slow their enemies. We also see that Jameson Sr. has been wounded, but is now safe with his son - the mayer, and is speeding to the Spa.

Back at the Bugle however, things are not so good. Norah escapes to safety with Phil Urich ( hobgoblin) Randy however is trapped under some rubble, thanks to the jealous Phil Urich. As these events occur Robbie realizes that the bugs are here because he is a friend of Jameson. He then tells the Avengers to take him out of the building. He is flown out with the bugs following after him.

Coming back to the main character - Spider-Man, he is still swinging his way to a high spot to detonate the anti spider sense device. Unfortunately he is stopped by Scorpion, just as he finds the right spot. In the midst of fighting, Scorpion destroys the remote detonator, leaving Spidey no choice but to detonate it manually. As a result Spidey is also affected by the blast. Scorpion is then webbed up as Spidey makes a run for it ( without his senses)

With the bugs no longer having spider sense, the Avengers take them out with ease. In an explosion, Spider-Man gets hit by some debris and has a concussion. ( No spider sense ) Unfortunately, while he was out, the Spider-slayer, who was not affected by the anti spider sense device, kills Marla Jameson.

The issue ends with Jameson, for once, not blaming Spider-Man for any of this. Instead, he blames himself.

Thoughts


Like I said at the start, I thought this issue was rather decent. Marla dies, unfortunately. However, this could probably change Jameson's perception of life once and for all. There is a second mini story in the issue, which I will leave to Michael Deery to review, as he will be reviewing the new Venom series that will be released soon.

This has to be the single best issue I've read in a long long time. To start, the story here is fantastic. It's a really long issue, featuring a Spider-girl story as well. Anyway, as if the story, which is obviously building up to something bigger for coming issues, isn't good enough, the art in this issue is spectacular.

After reading a few issues with weird art, this is heaven. Even Carlie doesn't look too bad.


The Story
The issue starts with Spidey leading the Avengers to take on some giant Octo-Bots ( Dr. Octavius's Robots) All the avengers are pretty much taking orders and advice from Spidey since he know Octavius best.


In another seen, we see Major Jameson being watched from afar by a Metahuman dude, obviously wanting to harm Jameson. Jameson is busy trying to control the situation in the city, claiming the Octo-bots are really Spider-robots. Jameson claims, contrary to what his wife thinks, that Spider-Man is a menace, not a hero. His son, John Jameson is who he considers a true hero.

The scene jumps to his son, who was a handpicked pilot for Capt. America. Captain America is seen at the scene where John Jameson, relieving some officers of their duties. From the awesome art, its quite obvious that something is wrong with Capt.

Back at NYC, Spider-Man continues to fight the Octo-bots when one of the robots start self destructing. He later finds out that his ex-fling chic girl - Black Cat was behind it. Felicia sees that Spidey is impressed and asks him to put in a word to Capt America about her to see if she can join them. As an added 'bonus' she asks Spidey to try to imagine what working together would be like.

Spidey quickly swings away from his temptress remembering that he now has a girlfriend - Carlie. Spidey thinks and reminds himself why he does what he does.

In the next scene, Electro is seen complaining about how he was designated a task by Octavius, far below his abilities. He is met by the Chameleon, who posed as Capt America. Apparently Octavius had recruited a number of Spider-Mans enemies to achieve his goals. Dr. Ock explains how the entire attack in the city was just a distraction to learn from the Avengers. A much bigger plan is in store. As such, he orders all his robots to self destruct.

Sandman is furious upon hearing this, knowing the danger it poses to all the lives in the city, including his daughter's. Dr. Ock however assures him that Spider-Man is a genius and will find a way to stop it.

In the city, the Avenger's suddenly see time bombs ticking away on the giant Robots. Immediately Mr. Fantastic and Iron man, being the smartest, work on diffusing the bombs. Mr Fantastic conclude that stopping one will stop all the bombs. Just as the two begin running out of options however, Spidey gets a brilliant idea as to how to delay the bombs from exploding. He succeeds, impressing Iron Man and Mr Fantastic.

At the Front line, Peter Parker as found a job, moving furniture, boxes, luggage and computers around the office. Peter learns that Norah is being given a case about the new "Goblin Culture" filled with Goblin tatoos, goblin signs and etc all over the streets.

Working with Peter, is Ben Urich's nephew, who I suppose was not as fortunate in life and landed a job moving things at his uncle's office. Norah, without thinking gives him a hard time about his condition. He overhears however about the new case Norah is on and thinks to himself what she would do if she knew he was one of those in the goblin culture.

These are the same kinda tatoos that Vin had and showed to Harry in Amazing Spider-Man 647

Major Jameson is next seen approaching the Frontline office. He has repurchased the shares from the DB, former Daily Bugle. He then gives all documentations necessary to Robbie, (also in the office), making him the new owner of the Bugle. In case you are wondering, this was all Marla ( Jameson's wife) plan.

Peter, unable to get an advance for his work, heads back to his apartment, where he finds, a beautifully drawn Michelle, locking up. She has cleared the apartment stating that her brother will be coming back. Peter obviously can't stay there anymore since he hasn't paid his rent for a while now.

Peter takes his things and webs them up somewhere while he looks for a place to stay. Basically he calls up his former roomate, who said no. He then visits Carlie, who doesn't want to rush things between them too fast.  Betty doesn't answer her phone, and Flash doesn't take to the idea either. We later find out that he was busy screwing Betty over at his place. Finally Peter goes to MJ, who just bursts out laughing thinking about it.

In the meantime, good old wife of Jameson, came to visit Aunt May and her husband ( Jameson Sr). Marla comes with her son - John Jameson, grandson of Jameson Sr. As the grandfather and grandson chat, Marla asks Aunt May about Peter, hoping he has some skills that could help her find him a job.

Unable to find a place, Peter returns to Aunt May, embarrassed to ask if he could move in with her again. As he approaches the door, Marla greets him, telling him that they are about to meet his high school idol - Max Modell. As they enter the car, Peter senses that someone is watching him. Twelve blocks away, the same metahuman who was spying and Jameson earlier was spying on Pete as well. He clearly has something against Jameson, and wants to recruit Mac Gargan to help him take down the Mayor.


To cut it short, Peter lands a job with Max Modell as a scientist, who is free to come and go as he wishes. He also gets paid for studying the material and receives his first cheque on the day itself. (Unbelievable)

Venom/ Mac Gargan is seen being held captive in a private sector. In a final scene, Spidey sleeps out in the open for a night, studying his books. King Pin is seen, being told that the attempt to create Vibranium (material from space that absorbs impact/ vibration) at Modell's lab went wrong. Peter pretty much landed the job because he prevented an absolute destruction of the lab due to the failed attempt to create Vibranium.

Anyway, the King Pin states that he still wants this imperfect Vibranium. He also hires a new Hobgoblin to work for him.

Thoughts
This issue provides the foundation for another 100 stories to come. I really took a long time doing this review, wanting to add as many images as possible to show off the great art. I can definitely say I enjoyed this issue thoroughly.We have a number of bad guys planning a hard life for Spidey, while Spidey, unaware of it all is having the best day of his life in a long while. Look out for the part 2 review featuring the new Spider-Girl soon.

Alright folks,
Sorry this place has not been updated in the last couple of days. Anyways, here is the review for the issue in which our dear Peter Parker gets fired, most likely never to have a photography job again.

The Story
So, in the preview, we see Spider-Man has changed tactics and decides to spray Vulture with webbing. His plan works out absolutely fine for him until he runs out of web fluids. In the midst of it all, Spider-Man blurts out that the old vulture, Adrian Toomes, said it was the mobsters who made him.

The red vulture then takes off, obviously to return to the mobsters. Fortunately, Spidey throws a Spidey tracer on the vulture.

Elsewhere, Jameson is in turmoil, knowing that his security guard gave his life for his employer. In case you did not know, this is the same security guard who Spidey thought was Jameson at the end of Amazing Spider-Man 623.

The slight problem arises as Jameson is now even more connected to the creation of the Vulture since the Vulture actually came to hunt him. There is also no evidence that Jameson actually fought the Vulture, thus resulting in a possibility of Jameson being charged for the death of the security guard... I think.  Unfortunately, I;m not entirely sure what the deal was, but at the end of the day, proof was needed that Jameson was fighting the Vulture.

Peter then "photoshops" an image of Jameson fighting the Vulture, and releases it to the press. Jameson however, knows that the image is a fake. He thus publicly announces what Peter has done, and warns other organizations to stay away from him.

Anyway, in a scene before Peter get publicly humiliated, the Vulture learns that he was indeed created by the same machine used to create scorpion. It was his own idea to create a Vulture... just with another man. The mobsters shot Jimmy in the leg and used him to become their Vulture.

This is really a sad issue that ends with Peter, in his Spidey costume sitting where the Daily Bugle used to be. As he sits there he wonders what his friends and family must be thinking of him.





Personal Thoughts


With Aunt May still partially psycho due to her negative touch, Peter is probably gonna get a big mouthful from her. Probably the only person Peter can talk to would be Mary Jane, since she knows his identity, and could possibly understand his reason for doing what he did. Other than that, he could talk to all the other Avengers as well, not that they'd really care though.

I was also wondering, could it be possible that Jameson is not so innocent after all. Perhaps the security guard died in vain, or was manipulated into getting in the vultures way. There were no witnesses, and all of the sudden Jameson has become soft and honest.

Overall, this was an okay issue, with not so okay art. Look out for the next issue - Amazing Spider-Man 625, in which the Rhinos collide.

Another late review, due to some other life things that have occurred. This issue essentially concluded Electro's short term reign as an actual threat to the Spidey-verse. In this conclusion, Electro actually makes a mark in history that will not be easily forgotten - destroying the Daily Bugle.

The story



The preview leaves with Spider-man awoken from the blast by Electro is Amazing Spider-Man 613, only to run back into the fire to look for some clue of some sort that just might help him take down Electro.


In the next scene we see Dexter Bennet, yelling at the top of his voice to all his employees to evacuate the DB. Upon trying to get out however, the employees find out that the whole building its electrified. As such, none of them can get out and are all trapped inside the building. Similarly, no one is allowed from the outside to go in either.



On the outside, J. Jonah Jameson, former owner of the Daily Bugle / DB, and current mayor of New York City, is complaining to himself and everyone around him about the situation with no conclusion as to what should be done.


Just then, Spider-man appears with the perfect plan, that is not revealed. He does however require the assistance of the Jameson's Anti Spidey squad.



Inside the building, Electro is searching for Dexter, still furious about him stealing from the public. As is very much expected, Spider-man comes in the nick of time to save Bennet.



As the two battle, the scene is shifted underground where the Anti Spider-squad is cutting off the electrical power supply for the whole building. I must say, I saw this coming from mile away. Everything that happens from this point on was absolutely not expected.

From outside the building Jameson watches as his building is being torn apart by Electrical blows fired at Spider-man. Some very cool scenes throughout the fight include Electro disappearing into a power plug supply and appearing elsewhere, and Spider-man revealing that he had upgraded his webbing so Electro could no longer conduct himself along the webbing.


In the meantime, Jameson is making his way into his beloved building, somehow intending to stop the fight before his building gets destroyed. Bennet is more than happy to lead Jameson to the fight, hoping for the mayor to die in it.



As the first of a number of unexpected things to happen next, the ceiling above Bennet falls, just as Jameson has moved out of the way. Bennet is crushed under the rubble as Spider-man and Electro fight above him.

With no time to loose, Spider-man carries Bennet as he and Jameson make a run out the building. The entire DB is then reduced to rubble in a matter of seconds, and for a moment, it appears as though Jameson is caught in a trance.

The story ends with Electro, being led to him cell by a guard, who turns out to be the Chameleon. Inside, the prison, we see Sasha Kraven inviting Electro to join their hunt against Spider-man.


Personal Thoughts

Overall an average issue, which in my opinion is fantastic compared to the last couple of issues. The story is filled with the unexpected, which contributes to a better story. The art however, still remains constant and is not to my liking. With the Daily Bugle destroyed, and Dexter Bennet probably out of the picture for some time, it is possible that Jameson may step down as mayor some time soon, and return to his newspaper business.

Two things could happen as a result of the destruction of the DB.

1. Jameson rebuilds it and becomes as cocky as ever
2. Jameson changes his attitude towards everyone, and becomes a new man

These are just my personal opinions which may not happen at all. Nonetheless, it would be interesting to see what the outcome of this issue will be for J. Jonah Jameson Jr.

This story, is the third story in Web of Spider-man 2. The first story, involved Electro, and provided some background to what has been taking place in Amazing Spider-man 612 and Amazing Spider-Man 613 so far.




This third story, as the title suggest is about Jonah Jameson Jr. It starts with in a scene where JJ. Jr is irritated with the press, constantly bugging him since he has become Mayor.

As he finally manages to find some rest in the car, he comes to learn that his driver has been replaced with somebody else. A sleeping gas can then opens and JJ. Jr wakes up hours later, tied to a chair in some dark place.

He awakens to learn that his kidnapper is actually his biggest fan, not to mention he dislikes Spider-man as well. Apparently this fan - Emil Nason, does not like Jonah Jameson as a mayor. He wants him to return to his editorial job and put a stop to Spider-man. His plan is to fight him, not only with the press, but physically as well.





Emil Nason apparently got a hold of one of the beetles gloves. Aparently the beetle was a villain who fought Spider-man on several occasions. Jonah, being the double crosser he is, pretends to have a heart attack and falls down. Emil Nason, then tries to help his idol up. Jonah grabs hold of the 'Bettle's suction glove' and beats his kidnapper.

After a long speech on how he now hates reporters, he asks Emil if he owned the whole suit? The next day, Emil is seen brought into Jonah Jameson's office.



Personal thoughts

This story could, and most probably will be the beginning of a rand new set of problems for Spider-man. In my opinion, Jonah Jameson will never be able to survive for very much longer as the Mayor. He will either, resign of his own will - possibly to return to the press and hammer Spider-man, or he could be voted out in the next election against his will.

Nonetheless, he cannot stay as Mayor much longer. What are the possibilities of Emil Nason, wearing the whole 'Beetle suit,' becoming a hero recognized by the press, ending up fighting Spider-man, and ultimately turning evil after that so Spider-man becomes the good guy again?

Any thoughts?

Also read:

• Web of Spider-Man 2: Electro Origins

The story is divided in two stories. In my opinion, the comic makes the reader feel that he is back in the 1960's ( At least the first story does). Reason for this being that the art in the comic is very much like the art in the 1960's Spider-man cartoon. Others have commented that the art is very 'Vertigo' Styled.

It is implied that the first story takes place soon after Spider-man has spent some time with the Avengers. This could possibly be in New Avengers 59 , or Ms Marvel 47.
Before continuing, you may want to catch the preview for this issue here.



First story
At the beginning, focus is mainly on Electro and what he has been going through in more recent times. Such include a dysfunction in his powers, searching for a cure, and being treated like a freak by everyone else. Thankfully he is seen in this comic, mostly without his 'mask.'

In the meantime we find that Dexter Bennet, owner of the DB ( former Daily bugle ) is requesting a bail out for his dying company. Electro, tired of being accused a criminal is set on exposing to the public the real criminal - big shots like Dexter Bennet who is using the taxpayers money to bail out the DB.

Coming back to Peter, we learn that Peter never got drunk in Amazing Spider-Man 600, yet, he had a hangover the day after and was unable to remember what happened - i.e. his one night stand with Michelle. He was unknowingly drinking apple ginger ale the whole time, not champagne.

Anyhow, Peter finds out eventually from Michelle that Electro has gained the trust of the people and is protesting against Bennet. Spider-man obviously is not about to let the villain wonder around New York and attempts to stop him. Surprisingly, Electro seems to be able to counter attack all of Spider-man's moves. Spider-man is thrown down into the angry mob, who think Spider-man is Bennet's hired gun against Electro.



Second Story
The second story features Mary Jane, Black Cat, and Norah. Unfortunately, the art for this story has to be gross. This story focuses on Spider-man and the Black Cat. Peter wonder's where his relationship with Felicia is going as she does not really care about anything he does "out of the suit."

While trying to make some conversation with Felicia, Spider-man mentions that he bumped into his ex that morning. His Parker luck did not help him too much there though. As much as Spider-man fans would want to see Mary Jane in a comic, the art simply throws you off. I must highlight the terrible art.

Check out the ugly Peter Parker and Mary Jane below



This second story could be so much better if the art was good. It ends with Peter meeting someone in the office that sounds and smells like the Black Cat, but goes by the name Ashley Moon. Not to mention causes him to have some 'Bad Luck.'

The only real relationship that is visible between the Black Cat and this Ashley Moon are the green eyes. It is highly possible that Felicia is simply wearing a wig. Nonetheless, as I have pointed out before, Felicia, normally has blue eyes.Read this article I wrote a while back.


Image below: Ashley Moon



Ever since Amazing Spider-Man 606, the Black Cat has suddenly had blue eyes, which bothers me particularly because the green eyes are supposed to be one of the ways to differentiate Mary Jane when she is drawn by different artists. For eg, no one would ever know that it was Mary Jane in the panel above if it were not for her green eyes.

Now apparently the green eyes are what connects Ashley Moon to Felicia. Apart from this, Norah is also featured in this story, almost hiding none of her mixed feelings toward Peter.

Personal Thoughts
As in the review for Amazing Spider-Man 611, I am lacking any personal insight to this comic as the art is just too distracting. Overall, very disappointing in my opinion. Very poor story and art. I need to read some old Spider-man comics.

The first story was reasonably fine. The story was nothing special, nonetheless it is building the foundation for a good story that we are not yet seeing. Electro's character is magnified here, providing a refreshing new view on his character.

As far as the second story is concerned, if you want to read a good story with the Black Cat, do not read this. If there is anything to like about this comic is that we can pretty much confirm Spidey still has not let go of Mary Jane. Unfortunately enough, the sudden appearance of this Ashley Moon has once again blank out all hopes of Peter getting back with Mary Jane anytime soon.

Could it be possible that this is Mephisto's idea of giving Peter a 'chance at happiness?' After all, he is the devil, and I am certain that the devil would not want a happy clean marriage ahead for Peter Parker. So instead, he decides to keep putting sluts in Peter's way to keep him temporarily "happy." Any thoughts?



Other than that - rated 3.5/10 by bulletproofsponge

With the release of Dark Reign: The List - Amazing Spider-man today, it was only sensible to review the last Norman Osborn/ Spider-man confrontation which took place in Amazing Spider-man 595 - 599 in a series called American Son.

Dark Reign: The list -Spider-man is essentially a spin off from the American Son series. Prior to this series, Harry was dating a girl called Lily, whose father was running for Mayor.

It was later learned that Lily was in fact the unknown goblin resembling villain known as Menace. Peter, already working for the Front Line at the time, wanted to nail Osborn with the press, as will most probably be the plan in The List.








Due to the lack of available legal proof against Osborn, Spider-man resorts to a physical battle and consults Wolverine before doing so. In the meantime, Peter is also having problems with his new 'brother-in-law' to be, Jonah Jameson - the mayor.



Norman Osborn was trying to recruit his son - Harry to join his Dark Avengers. Peter obviously took this opportunity to beat the hell out of Norman, threatening him to leave Harry alone. In the meantime Lily, in her goblin form appears at Harry's apartment and explains that she is pregnant with his son. In order to help find a cure, Harry agrees to join his fathers Avengers.



Without knowledge of Lily being pregnant, Peter approaches his friend trying to convince him not to join the Dark Avengers. Norah, in the meantime has been trying to investigate whatever she can on Norman Osborn and manages to get access to the Avengers tower.

After beating and capturing Mac Gargan, the new venom who has been posing as the Dark Avenger's Spider-man, Spidey uses a special suit designed by the Fantastic Four and guises himself as Venom.

Spider-man learns that Norman plans on making Harry the new Captain America for his Dark Avengers. Eventually Daken smells Spider-man out and the two battle. The fight ends with Harry appearing. Spider-man is then exposed and tortured. Lily in the meantime is permanently turning into the menace, being unable to change back to her normal form, which further stresses Harry.

While Spider-man is not having the best luck, Norah is doing a good job of making her was around the tower.

The Dark Avengers have a hard time getting the costume off of Spider-man - another feature of the suit. However, using some of Tony Stark's technology, Norman was able to solve the problem. At this point, while waiting for the molecules of the suit to 'stabilize,' Norman explains how Lily was pregnant, with his own son. She was simply a tool to get Harry to join the Avengers. At the same time, Harry, who has finally got a cure for Lily, finds out the news himself. (With Norah spying on them).

Full of hate, Spider-man breaks loose and starts a fight. Without his energy however, he begins to fade out quickly. Before Norman can remove Spider-man's mask, he is hit hard by what we later find out is Harry, in the Captain America costume.



The entire issue following features the intense battle between the two. Harry ends it, but is convinced by Peter not to kill him. Killing him would result in finally becoming the son that he always wanted.

Norah returns extremely happy and enthusiastic about writing the story. She then receives an email that changes her decision about writing the story.




There has been no mention of Lily in the ASM comics since the American Son series finished. Dark Reign: The list-Spider-man will continue where this left off in the final battle, for now, between Norman Osborn and Spider-man.