Spider-Man: Death & Destiny #2

Background

This story is set after the events that occurred in Amazing Spider-man #90, and fills in some gaps in Spidey lore. What you need to know is that Captain George Stacy was a great cop and one of the only supporters of Spider-man. He was also friend to Peter Parker, through his relationship with Gwen (George's daughter). George played a significant role in Peter's life and then during a battle between Spidey and Doc Ock, George died in the crossfire. This story picks up the pieces of this tragic chapter in Spidey's life.

Story 'The Camera Doesn't Lie'

The story elements from the previous issue continue, until after a conversation with his Aunt, Peter recalls George Stacy's final moment. During his last moments, George reveals that he knows Peter is Spidey and his dying wish is that Peter looks after Gwen. Peter realises that in his grief he has been selfish and self absorbed and not done what George asked of him. He puts his pursuit of Doc Ock aside and goes about tending to the other areas of his life. He seeks to repair his relationships with his friends and Gwen. With mixed results. He works on his studies and makes headway. And he visits George's grave to pay his respects. Meanwhile Doc is kicks into gear a plan to bring about a confrontation with Spidey.

General Comments

You can tell that Weeks has a special attachment to the original death of George Stacy storyline. This is most obviously apparent in the inner monologue of Peter Parker throughout the series. Weeks seems to hit spot on with what Peter must've been going through and you sometimes wonder how close he is to the character. I mean is Weeks making seem more real by describing feelings he went through as he read the original storyline? Whatever the case, he provides an excellent story.

Weeks' characterisation of Peter isn't the only strong point of this series. In fact Weeks seems to go all out in other areas as well to make this a good read. He characterisation of Peter's classic supporting cast is spot on. The way he portrays Doctor Octopus is also great. The storyline itself is an emotional rollercoaster ride. And the art is superb! Weeks goes into great detail with his artwork in this series and it really shows to good effect. He did a fill in issue in Peter Parker: Spider-man Vol.2 #13, that was quite impressive and he matches that here.

Overall Rating

Beautiful stuff. Five webs.