It's the way Stan the Man's autobiography was meant to be presented. From his earliest days at Atlas (now Marvel) as a copyboy for Joe Simon and Jack Kirby to surviving the great comics scare of the 1950s to partnering with the King to create the Marvel Universe up to his ubiquitous cameos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe- this epic work has it all.
Some of these tales I've read before. Maybe not from Stan's mouth but I've heard many of the anecdotes before. But, to have the master's spin put on them, it's really cool.
However, the truth must be told, I think Lee does paint himself in a way too positive light. For example, in his numerous battles with Atlas/Marvel owner Martin Goodman, Stan is seen constantly fighting for his zany superhero ideas and bullpen of talent. But like they say 'the history books are written by the victors' and many of Lee's detractors are either no longer without or really bitter...
Assisting Stan is the great Peter David (The Incredible Hulk) on co-writing duties with Colleen Doran (The Nightmare Factory) on art. Obviously, I can tell what Doran was responsible for but the dialogue and history of comics, I couldn't tell you where Stan Lee ends and Peter David begins. The writing talents are that seamless!
Amazing Fantastic Incredible is a work that I've seen many fans of comics have posted about on social media since the graphic novel hit stores in November of last year. Sadly, the reviews for this book have been mixed. Most of the complaints I've seen have accused Lee of being a revisionist historian (remember what I said about the author and his frequent battles with his publisher earlier?)
But I loved this book! The writing was unparalleled- what do you expect from the combined might of Stan Lee and Peter David?! But don't forget the art! Doran takes every page and has filled them with great easter eggs and original prints, and much more. This book is the ultimate feast for the eyes of any comics fan, be ye solely in the Marvel or DC camps!
Worth Consuming
Rating: 10 out of 10 stars
No comments:
Post a Comment