Some comic books are like a car wreck - something awful just happened, but if you're driving past it's almost impossible to resist slowing down to take a look at the carnage.That's what it's like to read an issue of the 12-issue Avengers / Invaders comic.
The series seems like a terrific platform for a fun story of misunderstandings and superhero fights - or perhaps a meaningful one about the difference between the "Greatest Generation" and today's generation - or perhaps a personal one about time gone past and things you'd change if you could.
Instead, it's just a mess, with characters fighting for no reason, different teams of Avengers working at cross purposes, all based on storylines that are now months old. It's strange to see the Skrull Spider-Woman fighting alongside the good guys - or the now-deceased Wasp joking around with Tony Stark.
The problem is not the art Steve Sadowski and Patrick Berkenkotter. It's dark and some of the layouts are a bit off, but largely it's a solid, professional effort.
The problem is with the writing of Jim Krueger and Alex Ross. The story keeps taking turns into left field - for example, the Cosmic Cube turns up in this issue, along with an obscure villain - both with no explanation.
Another villain menaces the Invaders, but the writers or editors seem to forget that the same villain appeared just months ago in The Mighty Avengers.
There are so many odd plot points, so many characters to deal with, so many missed opportunities that it's just painful to read.
But the cover art is great!
Grade: D+
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