Comic Review: Fantastic Four: Antithesis #1

Fantastic Four: Antithesis #1

Marvel Comics

Writer: Mark Waid

Artists: Neal Adams, Mark Farmer, Laura Martin

Mark Waid and Mike Wieringo’s Fantastic Four is one of my favorite comic runs of all time. It’s one of the only FF books that even comes close to matching the feel of the Kirby run, but it does so while progressing every character. Needless to say, I’ve been incredibly excited for Mark Waid’s return to the title, but of course, there’s a twinge of sadness that the late-great Wieringo isn’t here to join in on the reunion. That said, pairing Neal Adams with Waid for the mini is a stroke of genius. Fantastic Four: Antithesis #1 is a remarkable display of heartfelt spectacle.

Seeing Neal Adams’ work on the shelves’ next to the many artists of the modern-day has made it clear to me what makes him so great, and also a bit of what comic book art has lost. Adams’ dynamism, exaggeration, the weight behind movement, are all things that were the standard and are now often sidelined in favor of realism. 

One panel early on comes to mind, in which The Thing whacks Annihilus with a support beam. We see the entire arc of motion, the collision indicated by a cartoonish flash, and Annihilus’ following path. It’s all one panel, and it’s gorgeous. Adams makes use of the characters’ unique powers and designs to conjure up unique and exciting action sequences that span the entire issue. 

This dominating action is accompanied by Mark Waid’s excellent Stan Lee-esque banter. The dialogue reveals Waid’s deep knowledge of the characters’ voices, as well as the hidden depth behind them. This isn’t a deep dive on their personal journeys or their psyches, but those things are the icing that add heart to this wild romp. It’s a spice, and its application is that of a master chef. 

I can’t speak much for the overall plot, as it only begins at the end of the issue. However, as a single issue, it works perfectly. Yes, the cliffhanger sets up a more specific plot, but this one issue is a compelling “Fantastic Four” save the day story. It’s simple, it’s effective, and it’s fun. More of this, Marvel, please. 

Fantastic Four: Antithesis #1 is some of the most fun I’ve had reading comics in recent years. It isn’t overly-complex or thought-provoking, it’s just a thrilling adventure. It feels like a lost Kirby chapter, and that’s the highest praise I can give a superhero book. If you’re a fan of the Silver Age, Kirby, Waid, Adams, superheroes, or just fine comics, do yourself a favor and give this a try.