Prowler takes the lead.
Amazing Spider-Man #17 continues the build-up to the Clone Conspiracy crossover, and this new chapter certainly doesn't disappoint. The fact that Spidey is barely a guest star in his own series isn't a drawback here. If anything, it on;y helps shine a light on the other side of this brewing conflict.
The Peter-light focus is useful, if for no other reason, than because it finally put the spotlight back on Hobie Brown. Hobie hasn't been a major focus of the series since the initial reveal that he's moonlighting as a decoy Spider-Man. Here we get to see Hobie settle into the role a bit more and struggle with the many challenges that come with being Spider-Man, from mastering the art of the quip to maintaining an ironclad secret identity. The issue starts out on a nicely comical note before transitioning into more dramatic fare as Hobie is dispatched to learn more about the inner workings of New U. There's a sort of inevitability to this story given what readers already know about New U and its creator. If Hobie were actually successful in this little bout of industrial espionage, there wouldn't be a Clone Conspiracy to deal with, right? But that knowledge only enhances the drama and tragedy in Hobie's ill-fated mission.
Alongside showcasing an entertaining leading man, this issue also succeeds in adding more depth to Jackal and his growing band of minions. I was wary of the idea of Jackal headlining another of Slott's major Spider-Man events, but this issue solidifies the notion that we're seeing a much different take on the character compared to Spider-Island. Crucially, this is a character who firmly believes what he's doing is right and for the betterment of mankind. He's not motivated by a simple love of mad science and a desire to torment Peter (though both are probably still fringe benefits). Slott also fleshes out the old Electro while simultaneously introducing a new version of the villain. It's always fun to see a writer reach back several years to pick up a loose thread and run with it again. And frankly, this new Electro seems to hold more potential than simply restoring Max Dillon to his usual status quo would have offered.
RB Silva fills in for regular artist Giuseppe Camuncoli on this issue. Luckily, this issue still matches the book's familiar aesthetic. That's thanks in large part to colorist Marte Gracia. Gracia's vibrant colors really shine here, whether it comes to depicting Electro's massive displays of power or the technological glow of Jackal's laboratory. For his part, Silva brings a dynamic, action-packed quality to the book that makes him a natural fit to succeed Camuncoli. However, his facial work is a little inconsistent, and at times it can be difficult to distinguish between the two female characters.
The Verdict
This issue goes a long way towards building a strong foundation for Dan Slott's next Spider-Man epic. It gives Hobie Brown some much-needed attention, while at the same time offering readers a closer glimpse of the Jackal and his plans for the Marvel Universe. The art isn't quite as strong without Giuseppe Camuncoli at the helm, but this issue has plenty of strong storytelling moments regardless.
Editors' Choice
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