REVIEW: ‘The Amazing Spider-Man’ Issue 1

The Amazing Spider-Man Issue 1 (2025) is published by Marvel Comics. Written by Joe Kelly, art by Pepe Larraz, colors by Marte Gracia, and letters by Joe Caramagna. There is a backup story, written by Kelly, pencils by John Romita Jr, inks by Scott Hanna, colors by Marcio Menyz, and letters by Caramagna.

As Peter Parker tries to find a job, the Rhino goes on an unexpected rampage.

The story begins quickly and is full of hustle and bustle. Going into this issue, there is an expectation that people are moderately aware of recent events. This isn’t a total hard reset, but it’s close to one. As Peter goes through many job interviews, there are snippets of his origin story and famous moments. This opening montage exemplifies the energy that will embody The Amazing Spider-Man issue 1 (2025) and the forthcoming storyline.

It’s funny, energetic, and bouncy, jumping from one situation to another. The issue shows the chaos of Spider-Man’s life and the danger that comes with it. It’s manic and yet enthralling. So many aspects of Peter Parker’s world are explored briefly: his friends, lifestyle, and superhero career. So much of this issue is fun, but as he hurtles into battle against an old enemy, there is a reminder of how quickly a Spider-Man comic can turn into danger and intense drama. The end of the fight is a big shock and the perfect shock for the opening chapter.

There is a terrific blend of old and new figures within The Amazing Spider-Man Issue 1. It has the feel of a new era to the character, shedding many classic figures and faces in favor of newer names. Aunt May is there, as is the Rhino. In recent stories, Randy Robertson is a key figure and Peter’s best friend.

Shay is his new girlfriend. Readers jumping on after some time away may be confused by some faces, but their personalities are easy to grasp. The newer cast of characters feels refreshing. And Spider-Man’s own personality is a constant delight. Kelly captures both Peter and Spidey superbly. Peter is awkward and consistently trying to find excuses to scrape his way out of trouble. Meanwhile, Spider-Man is confident and firing quips.

The action is fast-paced, with an unresponsive Rhino, unable to answer Spider-Man’s questions. The fight against a classic villain draws readers in, especially when it takes an unexpected turn. This first issue highlights just how great a human Spider-Man is. Even when someone bad gets in trouble, he’ll do whatever it takes to keep them safe. He is as true a hero as it gets.

Larraz is the perfect artist for a run at Spider-Man. He brings the energy and the cartoonish exuberance that gives The Amazing Spider-Man Issue 1 a thrilling edge. The first few pages are job interviews and snapshots of Spidey’s life. But it’s lively and exuberant and brimming with personality on each panel. The first issue has a lot of physical comedy and slapstick. The moments where we spend time with Peter Parker are full of life and generate just as much interest as the scenes with Spider-Man. The action is incredible when Parker puts on the red and blue costume. There’s a fantastic sense of movement and strength, and both characters’ power display is terrific.

The colors are gorgeous. The lighting and shades are dark and muted when Peter is around. But then the comic gets bright and vibrant, particularly when Spidey steps into the frame. It makes Spidey the most intense part of the book, adding more exhilaration to a scene already teeming with movement and momentum. Caramagna has lettered more Spider-Man comics than anyone else in history, and the consistency is phenomenal.

The backup story focuses on a man who was once the most villainous character in Spider-Man’s world. Norman Osborn’s mind has been changed, and he has been trying to reform his image. But the damage he did still remains and can’t be undone so easily. This side of The Amazing Spider-Man Issue 1 highlights the pain Osborn caused and the consequences he now faces, all illustrated by legendary Romita Jr. art. Osborn’s facial expressions always look like he is just seconds away from slipping back into the Green Goblin.

The Amazing Spider-Man Issue 1 is excellently energetic. The liveliness of the issue makes it infectious and instantly enjoyable, with a lovable sense of humor. The supporting cast can be tough to get your head around, especially if readers have taken time away from Spider-Man comics in recent years. But Peter Parker and Spider-Man is easy to latch on to in any story. Kelly refreshes and recharges the atmosphere around the wallcrawler again, aided by a sensational art team.

The Amazing Spider-Man Issue 1 (2025) is available where comics are sold.