Comic Review: Venom #2

Venom #2

Marvel Comics

Writer: Donny Cates

Artist: Ryan Stegman

I haven’t been the greatest fan of Venom, while in theory, he is good, I find that he is so often overused and that many writers simply use him to give characters a power-up, rather than attempting to explore the mythos of the Symbiote. So when I read the first issue, I found myself intrigued, seeing Donny Cates explore the past of a different Symbiote, and exploring the mythos of the symbiote, it began on a high note. This issue disappoints a little, as it does little else than set up the plot for the future, and give backstory.

First, we must talk about the story: it continues on from before, explaining what was seen in the last issue, and explores the character of Strickland. Unfortunately, it does fall flat. While it does what it needs, and that is set up the plot for the future, all the while exploring the causes for the events set in motion, and does so quite well, it feels far too much like exposition for the sake of exposition. Now, that does not change the fact that the exposition is done remarkably well and does spin an interesting tale on the Symbiote. However, a theme which I hope will be continued is the fact that Strickland states that Eddie is a nobody, and this story may become an interesting spin on the “A nobody can make all the difference” trope. Therefore, the story does its job well, yet the use of exposition brings it down.

The characters do not feel quite as detailed as the last issue. Strickland is well-explored through the exposition of his actions and the thoughts behind them but does not seem all that detailed. This may be due to the fact that it is probably setting up the character for further exploration in future issues. So while Strickland is well done, Eddie does not seem as well done, yet this may be because while he is given a very small part, and is explored through the Symbiote. This quick rundown for new readers seems very superficial.

The art works well, it manages to be realistic enough to bring grit to the story, all the while managing to be not too realistic in order to bring the cosmic parts of the issue to life. This is done not only with the art of Stegman, but with the coloring of Frank Martin, which in this issue, makes a significant difference. Not much else can be said about the art, as one cannot fault it, it works well and is well done, yet simply stops short of being spectacular.

Venom manages to do its job well, yet drags a bit due to the exposition. It manages to be thoroughly enjoyable, and am excited for what comes next, hopefully, we learn more about the mythos of the Symbiote.