Miles Morales: Spider-Man #25
- WRITER
- Saladin Ahmed
- Artist
- Carmen Carnero
- Letterer
- VC's Cory Petit
- Cover Artist
- Taurin Clarke
- Publisher
- Marvel Comics
- Price
- 4.99
- Release Date
- 2021-04-28
- Colorist
- David Curiel
Miles Morales' Clone Saga has officially started with the arrival of Miles Morales: Spider-Man #25. The issue, in true Spidey fashion, expertly sets up a number of different complications in Miles' life on top of his responsibilities as Spider-Man that promise seriously entertaining drama and action to come. Written by Saladin Ahmed and illustrated by Carmen Carnero, Miles Morales: Spider-Man #25 is an excellent start to Miles' own "Clone Saga" and sets the stage for a story that can more than live up to the original
Mysterious and dangerous Spidey clones may be the conflict featured on the cover, but Miles Morales: Spider-Man #25 sets up plenty more than just a thrilling sci-fi adventure. The emotional turmoil and complexity at the heart of Miles' personal life, including his relationship with Ganke and his recent outbursts of intense frustration, will hopefully prove to be just as compelling as the "Clone Saga" action ahead. Spider-Man stories have always been at their best when Spidey faces down larger-than-life villains while working through deeply personal dilemmas, and so far, Miles' "Clone Saga" looks primed to deliver on both.
Miles Morales: Spider-Man #25 is a phenomenally written issue. The pace of the action is comfortable and propelled forward by the character's interactions rather than for the sake of plot progression. Even on its wordier pages, Ahmed's script does not overwrite or crowd any scene. Each interaction is carefully written, and in quieter moments, what's not said can express just as much as what is. Peter's inclusion so early in Miles' "Clone Saga" was a surprise, but a welcome one. The relationship between Peter and Miles is irresistible, and Ahmed ensures that Miles' isn't outshone by the original by giving Miles' plenty of time to shine.
Carnero's art is similarly excellent. Given the subtle and controlled nature of Ahmed's script, Carnero steps up and fills every panel with the emotion required to express what each character is feeling. The portrayal of Ganke was particularly well done, and the arc between Miles and Ganke will certainly prove to have lasting effects on their relationship going forward, especially if the rest of the "Clone Saga" delivers on the level with which it has opened. The designs of the clones are eye-catching and sinister, giving just a glimpse at the differences between Peter's "Clone Saga" and Miles'. David Curiel's colors on this issue pass the high bar already set by the author and the artist. Darkening for the more emotional moments and brightening into some exciting fight scenes, Curiel keeps the intention of each page in mind within the larger story and delivers vibrant action alongside thoughtful drama.
Miles Morales: Spider-Man #25 is an immensely promising introduction to the new "Clone Saga." Miles' personal life and his life as Spider-Man seem poised to collide in fresh and interesting ways. And with all of the emotional potential set up in the introductory issue, watching Miles' champion his way through his own "Clone Saga" should be a joy. Miles' relationship with Peter and with Ganke seem to be positioned front and center for this arc, only further increasing the stakes and the excitement attached to how the plot will unfold.
Miles Morales: Spider-Man #25 is recommended for any and all Spider-Man fans. While some catch-up may be required for those just jumping into the title, the first issue of Miles' "Clone Saga" represents the perfect opportunity to hop aboard.