Friday, October 19, 2012

The New Avengers #31

Writer Brian Bendis has apparently decided to bring this run on The New Avengers full circle.

He started this incarnation of the series with a story that pitted the team against a mystic menace - and now another one is attacking the world's sorcerers.

As a Dr. Strange fan who wasn't crazy about the way he was de-powered (and de-sorcerer supreme'd) in that story, I'm hopeful that this one will set things to right.

The issue definitely has the feel of the end of an era, as two key members of the team decide to leave - and it may mean the end of the team.

The art is by Michael Gaydos, whose dark, realistic style seems an odd mix for a super-team. I like it, with one bone to pick - I don't care for his version of The Thing at all.

I have to admit, I'm sorry to see Bendis stepping down from the Avengers line. He was a controversial choice to take over the series, and I don't agree with everything he did (see: Dr. Strange, breaking up Hank Pym and the Wasp, killing Hawkeye), but his batting average was very high, and he's left a distinct mark on the series, which has become the hottest "family" of titles at Marvel.

Looking forward to seeing what he tackles next.

Grade: A-

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