Sunday, January 8, 2012

The Defenders #2

See, this is what being a Marvel Comic is all about.

You gather a team of heroes, set them up against a formidable opponent, throw in some interesting additional characters, add some humor, a bit of drama, some outstanding artwork, great action sequences - who could ask for more?

You'll find all that in this second issue of The Defenders, as the team (consisting of Dr. Strange, Namor, Silver Surfer, Red She-Hulk and Iron Fist) travel to Wundagore Mountain to try to stop Nul, the Breaker of Worlds (and the last remaining member of the Serpent's hammer-wielding demons from Fear Itself).

Of course, if you travel to Wundagore you're going to run into at least one of its inhabitants - in this case, the Knights of Wundagore (animals evolved into human form).

Naturally, mayhem ensues - and while you might think the Defenders would make short work of the Knights, the home team has the assistance of Prester John, a little-seen character who first appeared long ago in the Fantastic Four, carrying the powerful Evil Eye.

The story is great fun, the art by the Dodsons - Terry and Rachel - is terrific, with great layouts, strong designs, beautiful women, handsome men, and a good humorous touch when needed.

I also want to mention one of my favorite bits - the use of random sentences at the bottom of the page, something Marvel did for a short time in the '70s (or was it the '80s?). Here they form kind of a split-personality rambling commentary on the story, on Marvel Comics in general, or offer teasers for upcoming events. Clever and funny!

If you're not reading this comic, you're missing a good one!

Grade: A

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