Amazing Spider-Man #17 is published by Marvel Comics, written by Zeb Wells, pencils by Ed McGuinness, inks by Cliff Rathburn, colors by Marcio Menyz, and letters by Joe Caramgana. Ben Reilly has trapped Spider-Man, Jonah, and Robbie Robertson in Limbo, stuck in a demonic version of New York. This is part of the Dark Web crossover.
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The ridiculous fun of Dark Web continues in this issue. The plot is less of a fast-paced adventure around New York, slowing down to torment many characters with twisted versions of their lives. Every page has a moment of hilarity as classic Spider-Man comics get transformed into Beetlejuice. Ben’s manipulation is one of temptation, offering a way out with a price. There are many callbacks to earlier issues with story devices, both within Dark Web and Amazing Spider-Man. The end of the issue is exciting and quirky, with a brilliant concept and fight that is a perfect culmination of what this issue was attempting.
The characters are fascinating. Spider-Man himself is possibly the least interesting figure within this Amazing Spider-Man #17. He is quite humorless inside much of this, possibly due to the danger innocents have been placed in. But also, he is still in shock at the whole situation, including what’s happening with Ben. Reilly is extraordinarily vengeful in this crossover, determined to enact revenge on Peter and all who wronged him. He has a glee in what he does that makes him terrifying, powerful, and intelligent. But there are signs of conflict within the ranks of the villains, with the terms of Chasm and Goblin Queen’s agreement being revealed and strained. The authentic delights of this comic are the demons, with hysterical and creative ideas thrown into the next part of the story.
The art continues to be incredible. There has been a switch from transformed objects to pure demons. They are superbly designed, with commonality in their general species but an individuality to each one. The humans also look fantastic. Spider-Man is out of costume for much of the issue. The inking is varied, with heavier line weights on uniforms. There are still transformations. A combination of animals and demons leads to some epic creations (literally) with hilarious names to go with them. They are part homages and part completely new but entirely chaotic and terrific.
The colors are so powerful. The shades are gorgeous to look at, and Myz blends them together beautifully. In Limbo, the sky can be either deep red or unnatural yellow, which doesn’t get overbearing or boring as the location changes. When the Spider-Man suit makes an appearance, it is exceptionally bright and rich. The lettering is large and easy to read.
Amazing Spider-Man #17 is a blast. The plot has a long thread and energy in the short term. This is an extremely funny comic, silly at some points but in the most complimentary way possible. That is what works so well with Dark Web, not taking itself seriously and just having fun with demons and superheroes. The art is so exuberant and enjoyable that it is impossible not to smile while reading this issue.
Amazing Spider-Man #17 is available now wherever comics are sold.
Amazing Spider-Man #17
TL;DR
Amazing Spider-Man #17 is a blast. The plot has a long thread and energy in the short term. This is an extremely funny comic, silly at some points but in the most complimentary way possible. That is what works so well with Dark Web, not taking itself seriously and just having fun with demons and superheroes. The art is so exuberant and enjoyable that it is impossible not to smile while reading this issue.
