Funerals for characters in both Amazing Spider-Man and Fantastic Four were depicted in wordless stories in this week. While it's hard to get too worked up...these are characters in superhero comics...there were a couple of things that hit me. In Spidey, the idea that villains always return while good people stay dead was an interesting one...as was, good or evil, everyone ends up in the same place. The Spidey issue was much more affecting due to the incredible art of Marcos Martin...I just can't say enough good things about his work. The movement between scenes featuring JJJ, Peter, and Robbie on the morning of the funeral in those first few pages was nothing less than stunning. Simple things like the titles of books on a nightstand gave it so much gravity and a feeling of real life. Peter's nightmare and vow at the end...I had a bit harder time with. Peter has gone through a lot and this response to death seems a step back in characterization for him. Of course, a very emotionally stable character can be boring to read about...save for Superman in Morrison's All-Star. The FF issue wasn't as successful. Again, the FF have gone through this time after time...they've even stormed (ha) heaven and talked to God (Jack Kirby) in the past to bring back members. So the mini-breakdowns of the members seemed a little out of character. Peter seemed much more centered in this one. Bruce Banner has a shining moment here, though...being a true friend to Ben at a time of need.
Anyway...Marcos Martin, man...Marcos Martin...
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Marla Jameson, JJJ's wife. You can see the first few pages here...they were released by Marvel a few days ago as a preview.
http://www.buzzcomics.net/showthread.php?t=39646