REVIEW: ‘Avengers’ Issue #12

Avengers #12 is published by Marvel Comics. Written by Jed Mackay, illustrated by Francesco Mortarino, colored by Federico Blee, and lettered by Cory Petit, it takes the Avengers on a thrilling raid of the global Orchis headquarters, marking a significant event in the Marvel Universe.

The comic takes as little time as possible to get to the action. The Avengers have been held back from intervening for a while, and this is them being let off the leash. The pacing is rapid and exhilarating, travelling across the globe. There is also a terrific structure. The fight scenes are interspersed with the main villains tucked away in their headquarters. It breaks up the action and ties the whole comic together brilliantly. The villains are members of Orchis but specifically tied into the Avengers, making it appear like their own battle instead of latching on to the X-Men.
Avengers #12 significantly impacts Orchis’ power structure. However, Orchis is a worthy adversary, unveiling a surprising twist that matches the Avengers’ audacity. This display of strength and strategic prowess is sure to inspire and awe fans of the Marvel Universe.

Avengers #12 works wonders with its characters. Much of the dialogue is actually about the Avengers, not from them. They are busy and moving fast, using shock and awe tactics to tear through Orchis. The conversations from the villains compliment the Avengers, cementing their reputations. The two characters within Orchis’ core could be considered ridiculous, yet MacKay adds a level of menace to their voices. There are also some deep cuts into Marvel’s history, creating justification and motive for the villain’s actions. The comic also catches many of the characters up to date with what is happening in their individual series, adding much more depth and continuity.

The dialogue between the Avengers is fantastic. Much of it is quick and snappy, matching the speed of the comic. It’s mainly tactical, centered around planning and moving around one another. Black Panther is still snippy with many of the others, hinting at some of the tension within the group. But largely, the conversations highlight the team’s experience and togetherness after so many years of fighting alongside each other.

The art is excellent. The action captured by Mortarino is terrific. Split into two teams, There is a glorious amount of destruction and carnage as the heroes fight against Stark Sentinels and Orchis soldiers. The movement can be fluid and powerful at the same time. The Orchis goons are like A.I.M., but with a few adjustments. The level of detail and upgrades to many of the Avengers costumes is also fascinating. Black Panther was the most notable example of that. Countless new additions have made his armour look dynamic and symbolic at the same time.

The colors in Avengers #12 are a visual treat skillfully balanced by Blee to avoid overwhelming the reader. The issue is awash with red, from the Orchis outfits to the Stark Sentinels to the many Avengers who don that shade. Yet, this intense color is tempered with other tones, creating a harmonious visual experience. The lettering is clear and easy to follow, enhancing the reader’s story comprehension. The SFX is used judiciously, adding impact to the most significant explosions rather than cluttering the panels with every attack.

Avengers #12 forces the Earth’s Mightiest Heroes to help their friends. The relationship between the core teams of the Marvel Universe has always been worth exploring. Creators keep them out of each others’ way most of the time to simplify the storytelling. The heroes will wait until the best moment to step in. When they are at their worst, the mutual respect leads them to help. How MacKay has dealt with the Orchis situation in the Avengers series makes this issue, in particular, far more effective and impactful. It shows the power of the group and the damage they can cause when they get involved. Even though it ties into Fall of The House of X, Avengers #12 feels entirely like an Avengers comic.

Avengers #12 is available where comics are sold.