J. Michael Strakinski’s return to Marvel Comics saw him write six one-shots featuring some of the most unique combinations in the Idea House. He organized Ghost Rider against Galactus, Nick Fury with Fin Fang Foom, and even Rocket Raccoon and Doctor Doom. Most of these pairings work not only because they are unexpected, but also how you use Straczynski’s gifts for character work. Along with Spider-Man vs. The Sinister Sixteen, Straczynski takes things to a new level.
Peter Parker dates Mary Jane Watson to a respected French restaurant thanks to an unusual stroke of luck (and clever manipulation on his side). But he is not the only person in attendance. Thor and Sheh Hulk are on a date, as are Peter’s old enemies, Doctor Octopus and Venom. Add Magneto, Mystique and Destiny, Doctor Strange and his wife Clea, Leader, Kingpin and even Squirrel girls.
This setup allows Straczynski to layer a lot of humor into his scripts. Twice, Peter has to pull OCK and Venom aside, reminding him that they both live outside of trying to kill Spider-Man. There are also some hilarious moments where Thor almost blows away Peter’s secret identity as Spidey, let alone a complete blow-off fight. But in true Straczynski fashion there is also a deeper story about Marvel universe heroes and villains who aren’t always needed in each other’s throats, even if it’s overnight.
Amazing
Straczynski can also work with top-tier artists, as Phil Noto shows the whole of Spider-Man vs. The Sinister Sixteen. Noto’s artwork is legendary. Not only does he draw great runs in Star Wars, X-Men and Black Widow, he also has the gift to showcase Marvel heroes at its best. It extends to Spider-Man. Peter is perfect for the back half of the story, but Noto draws him towards him with all the arachno-batic grace you expect. Another outstanding moment is when Peter and MJ sit on the edge of the roof and enjoy a quiet moment, with warm sunlight bathing throughout New York.
Noto can also bring out a brutal brawl among all the residents of the restaurant. This is hilarious and intense. The intense part comes from the fact that people like Bullseye, Mr. Hyde and Venom are causing all sorts of violence, but the hilarious part comes from the background dialogue, not to mention some of the images. A proper case: Mysticity and Destiny are the only patrons not fighting, Bullseye bears fruit in Luke Cage and runs a waiter running from Magneto.
Spider-Man vs. The Sinister Sixteen rounds out J. Michael Stracynzski’s Marvel team-up style, featuring a story that combines humor, meditation on the human condition and Phil Noto’s gorgeous art with a unique experience. If you’re a fan of Straczynski’s Amazing Spider-Man films, this is a problem for you. And Straczynski suggests that this may not be the last people in these pairings.
‘Spider-Man vs. The Sinister Sixteen’ #1 Cap
Spider-Man vs. Sinister 16 #1
Spider-Man vs. The Sinister Sixteen rounds out J. Michael Stracynzski’s Marvel team-up style, featuring a story that combines humor, meditation on the human condition and Phil Noto’s gorgeous art with a unique experience. If you’re a fan of Straczynski’s Amazing Spider-Man films, this is a problem for you. And Straczynski suggests that this may not be the last people in these pairings.
Straczynski offers a story full of humor and thoughtful mediation about humanity.
Noto’s artwork is eye-catching.
A suitable end to a unique set of Marvel Team Up.
Perfect for fans who love Straczynski’s Amazing Spider-Man work.
