SPIDEY #10, released in September 2016, was a monumental addition to Robbie Thompson’s take on Spider-Man. His initial issues focused on establishing Peter Parker as a hero, but this story added another challenge—convincing everyone else he was. It’s a task that seems impossible to surmount. But when Peter learns someone important knows him, things will start to change for our hero.
Story
Peter finds himself continually rejected by the people he attempts to save. It happens to him almost daily. In fact, the ungratefulness would be enough for any kid to consider giving up, but we find our hero is made of sterner stuff. Still, he resorts to (comically) shouting his good intentions from the rooftops.
He then finds his own personal hero, Captain America, standing behind him. And, to his great surprise, the star-spangled Avenger reveals he’s heard of Spider-Man. But does he know Peter is a hero?
Thompson’s script proceeds to follow them through the city as Peter learns what it’s like to be praised for saving the day. Readers get inside Peter’s head as he desperately looks for the reason everyone loves Cap. And, just when the answer seems out of reach, the veteran hero shows how much he respects Peter with encouraging words and an invitation to take on a group of villains together.
As so, through the medium of Cap, Thompson creates the perfect environment for Peter to more fully embrace his status as a hero.
Artwork
Nathan Stockman’s penciling and ink work, Jim Campbell’s coloring, and VC’s Travis Lantham’s lettering were a thrill in this issue. Stockman contrasts the wiry frame of Peter with Captain America’s muscular build, giving readers a subjective look at how our hero views himself when compared to his idol. What’s more, each character’s colors are full and vibrant, giving them the center spot of readers’ attentions. The letter boxes add to the dynamic qualities of the issue as well, following the movements of our heroes as they leap from rooftops.
Conclusion
SPIDEY #10 was the perfect turning for Peter in this retelling of his early exploits. Working together with Cap was an important milestone in the struggling teen’s story.
Did you enjoy the retold meeting of these two heroes? Let us know in the comments below!
