Every week, I’ll be bringing you a comic book cover that I feel eclipses others out there—to the point I might just have to own it!
The BadAss Comic Book Cover for this week is for Avenging Spider-Man #1. Over the years, there have only been a handful of #1 issues for the Spider-Man family of comic books. The most famous, The Amazing Spider-Man, published in March 1963 and has become of of the most important and collectible superhero books of all time. The story of Peter Parker—geek turned responsible super-powered human—makes it so, one filled with many of the real-life problems we all face. Therefore, there is always interest in the comic book field when Spidey gets a new Issue #1.
Why do I love this cover though? For several reasons. First, it’s a prime example of Joe Quesada. Joe is the editor in chief at Marvel Comics now but once upon a time he was a monthly penciller with an avid fan base. He’s always had a liquid, fluid style, one that suits Spider-Man well. You can see it here. What I like most about this cover though is how it ties into the new title. Spider-Man has never been about revenge, at least not in the dark way we all use the word, and “avenging” is a darker word still, “to inflict harm in return for (an injury or wrong done to oneself or another.” Not very noble, not a higher calling. Sounds like Spider-Man is out to make amends no matter the cost to his soul?
And that is reflected in Joe’s artwork. All of the blacks he used along the knees and the shoulders. The setting appears to be at sunset, more darkness coming, but what I like is the intensity seen in Spider-Man’s mask. He’s out on a mission. He’s kicking some ass and in your face about it.
Here is a bit more about Avenging Spider-Man #1:
Writer: Zeb Wells
Penciller: JOE MADURIERA
Penciller (cover): Joe Quesada
Inker: Danny Miki
Colorist: Ferran Daniel, Richard Isanove
Letterer: Joe Caramagna
Editor: Stephen Wacker
Orig. Published: November 09, 2011
Format: Comic
UPC: 5960607643-00121
Price: $3.99The Story: GET MAD! This is what you’ve been waiting for! The return of legendary artist Joe Madureira (X-Men, Battle Chasers) and fan-favorite Spidey writer Zeb Wells in a brand new, highly anticipated, monthly Spider-series that teams the wall-crawler up with some of the greatest heroes in the Marvel Universe. In our first issue, Spider-Man and Red Hulk take on a Moloid army during the New York Marathon! Stay safe until November because you’ll want to be here!
Avenging Spider-Man #1 is in fine comic book stores now!
More next Saturday! In the meantime, go visit your local comic book store…
Joe Quesada is no longer EIC of Marvel Comics it’s Axel Alonso now.
DId not know that Joe left the position earlier this year. Surprised I didn’t see this. Thanks for the heads up!
Excellent cover.