Friday, August 23, 2013

The Avengers #18

      So I was at lunch yesterday with an old friend and he asked, "Do you really understand The Avengers?"

    I had to think about it for a moment, because there's a lot going on in this series, and it's a huge story unfolding - so it's easy to get overwhelmed by the story.

   I do understand the story, but give writer Jonathan Hickman credit - he's creating a deep, multi-layered story that - like his work on Fantastic Four and Secret Warriors - is challenging for the reader, but pays off in wonderful dividends.

   With this issue the majority of the team travels into deep space to join forces with an array of galactic empires facing destruction at the hands of the mysterious Builders.

   The story gives us a glimpse of some of the alien races that have been part of the Marvel Universe for a long time. An interesting element of the story is the idea that Earth is a special place - a planet that has managed to resist numerous world-crushing menaces (including Galactus).

   It's an old science fiction conceit - and a personal favorite of mine. It's nice to think that we have a special place in this big ol' universe.

   But in this battle the Avengers are faced with overwhelming odds and it's tough to see how 18 heroes - however mighty - will be able to make a difference.

   The art is by Leinil Francis Yu, who has a unique style that I enjoy. It contains elements of Ernie Colon and Gene Colan, but with an original, dynamic take.

   They're creating a powerful story here -  not always easy to follow, but it's carving a unique and thoughtful space of its own. Highly recommended!

Grade: A

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