Connect with us
The Amazing Mary Jane #1 Review
Marvel

Comic Books

The Amazing Mary Jane #1 Review

The Amazing Mary Jane has a strong identity and a crackerjack wit.

After attending the Spider-Man panel at San Diego Comic-Con it was infinitely apparent the hottest book announced was The Amazing Mary Jane. It harbors excellent creators, features one of the most iconic characters in Spider-Man, and it takes the show to Los Angeles. Marvel has a history of setting stories in California like when Karen Page became an actress in Daredevil and it’s now Mary Jane’s turn to move up the hierarchy from model and soap star to movie star. As far as first issues go, Leah Williams nails it.

One of the strongest elements of this series is how Mary Jane takes control of her situation. Fans who have been following this story closely know she’s been somewhat tricked thanks to Mysterio plotting the film and getting Mary Jane hired. Early on in this issue Mary Jane figures this out and on top of that even spruces up the script. The identity of this book is quick-witted and fun which is immediately obvious when the credits page is depicted as a movie poster a quarter of the way into the book. I don’t want to spoil a thing, but know that Mary Jane is in control of her destiny even if she’s surrounded by ex-cons and looming supervillain threats may be entering the story before long.

Listen to the latest episode of our weekly comics podcast!
The Amazing Mary Jane #1 Review

That actor has blonde hair and is giving me Clone Saga dry heaves!
Credit: Marvel Comics

This book is also funny. I chortled at least once while reading it, for example at the line, “He thinks he’s shooting the Jaws of penguins.” Seriously funny stuff is at work here and given the usually ridiculous Mysterio, it suits the characters and the story. How else can you explain a guy who uses psychedelic gas to pull off his illusions? It’s also worth noting Peter and MJ are the perfect couples in this, even if they’re long-distance now.

Carlos Gomez draws a sharp and detailed book with rich colors by Carlos Lopez. The book is in fact quite colorful with a pop of color behind characters when needed and the movie set feels quite alive thanks to the attention to detail of those in the background as well as the attention to details with color. Take for instance a panel with Mary Jane to the side of a carousel. The carousel is rich with color with various people in front of it, which couldn’t have been easy to color. The kinetic energy is real with this one too and while Mary Jane spends a good deal of time walking and talking, the body language is strong with a well done lean here or there to convey MJ’s high-energy self.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book but came away from it grateful that Leah Williams and Carlos Gomez infused it with so much life and purpose. The Amazing Mary Jane has a strong identity and a crackerjack wit. It’s a strong first issue on its own merits.

The Amazing Mary Jane #1 Review
The Amazing Mary Jane #1
Is it good?
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book but came away from it grateful that Leah Williams and Carlos Gomez infused it with so much life and purpose. The Amazing Mary Jane has a strong identity and a crackerjack wit. It's a strong first issue on its own merits.
A strong narrative identity
Funny with great wit
Solid art that's lush and detailed
There's an explanation for Mary Jane's outfit but...did she have to wear it the whole issue?
9.5
Great

Join the AIPT Patreon

Want to take our relationship to the next level? Become a patron today to gain access to exclusive perks, such as:

  • ❌ Remove all ads on the website
  • 💬 Join our Discord community, where we chat about the latest news and releases from everything we cover on AIPT
  • 📗 Access to our monthly book club
  • 📦 Get a physical trade paperback shipped to you every month
  • 💥 And more!
Sign up today
Comments

In Case You Missed It

WWE SmackDown preview, full card: March 1, 2024 WWE SmackDown preview, full card: March 1, 2024

WWE SmackDown preview, full card: March 1, 2024

Pro Wrestling

AEW Dynamite preview, full card: February 28, 2024 AEW Dynamite preview, full card: February 28, 2024

AEW Dynamite preview, full card: February 28, 2024

Pro Wrestling

AEW Rampage preview, full card: March 1, 2024 AEW Rampage preview, full card: March 1, 2024

AEW Rampage preview, full card: March 1, 2024

Pro Wrestling

Marvel unveils the new villains Bloodcoven appearing in 'Blood Hunt' Marvel unveils the new villains Bloodcoven appearing in 'Blood Hunt'

Marvel unveils the new villains Bloodcoven appearing in ‘Blood Hunt’

Comic Books

Connect
Newsletter Signup