Ms. Marvel #32
Marvel Comics
Writer: G. Willow Wilson
Artist: Nico Leon
G. Willow Wilson is going back to the start now that Ms. Marvel has reached its fiftieth issue. Sort of. Bruno is back in the school lab trying to figure out how Kamala’s powers work. Kamala is back to being her optimistic self just enjoying being a hero. That is until Bruno tries to run a simple experiment and Kamala’s powers begin to malfunction.
The idea of the hero being incapable of controlling or using their powers is a bit cliché. I was not sure I would be able to overlook that plot point. I underestimated Wilson though. She is able to have enough fun in writing the characters that the story becomes more about how each character handles the situation. Bruno and Kamla’s concern for one another is very touching.
I was a bit surprised to see Spider-Man villain the Shocker in this issue only because it was hinted that he was going to get his life together. Rogue pleaded for him to get another chance when she showed up at his trial during Uncanny Avengers #30. He helped protect Manhattan from demons during the Secret Empire event so Rogue asked the court to help him rehabilitate. There are plenty of reasons why Shocker would be robbing banks again so it is nothing to get hung up on. I just had that in mind while I was chuckling about the way he reacted to Ms. Marvel being unable to control her powers.
I believe that this story is Wilson’s comment on the comparisons that are made between Kamala and early Peter Parker by readers. The story plays homage to Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man 2 in some scenes. A movie where Parker lost his Spider-Man abilities based on the classic Spider-Man No More story arc. The inclusion of a Spider-Man villain in the book is no coincidence. It just goes to show how Wilson made this character such a fan-favorite. Wilson shows her own fandom while writing her stories.
Nico Leon is again providing lines for the issue. There are heavy details in the more intimate moments that make the scenes look great. Most of the action and hectic moments are less detailed and focus more on the characters. The character designs look great. Ian Herring’s colors really stand out. The panels are easy to interpret.
This issue starts a new story arc that Wilson is using to just have some fun with the characters. It is a great start and a lot of fun. This arc is more comedy after coming off the more dramatic previous story arc. I would recommend this book for sure.
Ms. Marvel #32
G. Willow Wilson provides a lot of comedy in a story resembling a classic Spider-Man tale. The early relationship of science-minded Bruno and hero Kamala returns. The art makes the characters and Jersey City look great. This is an issue I would highly recommend if you just want a comic that will brighten your day.
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