The premise of Spider-Island is something you'd probably see from a 50's science fiction film. And that's a good thing. The event itself has been pretty good, an excellent prologue, and Part one was very good. Part two was only okay, scoring a 7/10 for me. While this series has never been TOO serious, the last issue was way too goofy for my taste. Spidey seems like a downgrade from the pre-Brand New Day era. So, what will I say about this issue? Read on.
The plot continues as the spider virus engulfs New York. Humans are now transforming into Man-Spiders, and things get worse as the one behind all of this shows her true self.
This issue was bigger than I thought it would be. A lot of surprising twists here. For four dollars, you get a lot of good stuff, it feels like a two-in-one issue.
I continue to dislike the overly cheerful Peter Parker. Back in the day, he was a well-respected hero. The Avengers Academy consider him to be their "friend" rather than a mentor. (As seen many issues before.) Isn't that just sad? So, I am glad to see him taking a little charge of the situation in this issue. I love the scene near the beginning where he let the three villains have it.
Carlie I'm not sure what to think right now. If she doesn't know by the end of Spider-Island that Spidey and Pete are the same, I'm going to proclaim her not smart. It's pretty much obvious. And Spidey himself can't be too smart to think that she can't figure it out by now. Something better payoff at the end of this event.
JJJ.....I just don't understand why people tolerate this guy. This issue should be proof enough that he isn't fit to be mayor. Can't people see that? Seeing the Avengers were nice, it's good to know that this series is connected with the Marvel world, something pre-Big Time was lacking. Madame Web gets a short, but very interesting role. It was unexpected, and I am intrigued where it will go.
Jackal continues to be a fun character. It's really fun (and a little nerve-racking for the fans) when he references some of The Clone Saga. Tarantula is interesting. Apparently he's Kaine, who died during Grim Hunt. He doesn't seem to be doing much at all, so it seems like a waste. The Spider-King I like a lot, but doesn't do really much of anything. These characters are getting wasted I feel.
The art is hit or miss. I for one think it's way too cartoony. It does, however, bring out the menacing look of Anti-Venom, Tarantula, and the Spider-King. Of course, since those guys barely appear, it doesn't really matter.
In closing, this issue was good. The big reveal at the end was great, and something I didn't see coming. Some fun little moments, like Venom saying "The last thing we want is Spider-Island: The Sequel!" I wonder if that was an in-joke, cause I know I wouldn't want a sequel to this.
I give this issue an 8/10.
