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Spider-Man #1 (2022)
- Writer:
- Dan Slott
- Artist:
- Mark Bagley, John Dell
- Letterer:
- VC's Joe Caramagna
- Cover Artist:
- Mark Bagley, Alejandro Sánchez
- Publisher:
- Marvel
- Price:
- $4.99
- Release Date:
- 2022-10-05
- Colorist:
- Edgar Delgado
This week, Marvel is introducing yet another new Spider-Man title to its already impressive roster of Spider-themed series. Spider-Man #1 -- written by Dan Slott, penciled by Mark Bagley, inked by John Dell, lettered by Vc Joe Carmagna, and colored by Edgar Delgado -- explores the end of the Spider-Verse. Some of the biggest Spider heroes in the multiverse, including Peter Parker, Cindy Moon, and Miles Morales, come together to save the day. This is unlike any other threat the Spider-Verse has ever encountered, and the heroes will truly be put to the test.
Spider-Man #1 kicks off with a quick rundown of what's going on with Peter Parker in this continuity. A few details need explaining since they would be hard to believe for new readers just jumping in. While a recap is not the most fun way to start the first issue, it doesn't take too much time, and it quickly establishes Peter Parker's job working for a reformed Norman Osborn.
After some effective exposition, Slott serves up some classic Spider-Man action. The entire first action sequence feels like an homage to several Spider-Man staples, including a slew of snarky quips and an audience of enthusiastic New Yorkers. Slott knows what makes Spider-Man work, and he delivers exactly that in the first few pages. This is a more tech-heavy Spider-Man, and while his bot is cute, it would be great to see Peter in action without all the Osborn gadgets.
While the first action sequence is as accessible as it is entertaining, Spider-Man #1 is clearly written for long-time fans. Several of the characters who play a role in this series have long-established histories that influence some of their choices and behaviors, and new readers might not be familiar with all of the Spider-Verse characters. On top of that, the rules of the Spider-Verse and the significance of one of the villains might not be common knowledge. Despite being the first issue, this is not the best starting point. However, long-time webheads will enjoy how this book dives straight into the Spider-Verse and its many characters. The central conflict promises to deliver new versions of classic characters. Slott seems intent on testing relationships and pushing characters out of their comfort zone.
Bagley is no stranger to Spider-Man. His artwork is classic Marvel. The movement is easy to follow and delivers on the punches. As for the characters, their expressions lean on the angry side. While this is a high-stakes fight, and there are moments where anger works, the lack of variety can be frustrating. Bagley's keen eye for body language allows Spider-Man to be remarkably expressive, even while wearing a mask. Bagley has a fun challenge ahead of him, as the series calls for a huge cast of spider heroes, but he seems to be up to the task.
Spider-Man #1 is the start of something exciting. This is for the webheads out there, as the creative team clearly loves Spider-Man and his cohorts. This first issue feels classic and fresh, and the stakes are already intimidatingly high. It might not be an ideal starting point for new readers, but it ends on a note that will have fans curious about what lies ahead for their favorite Spider-based heroes.