No choice of colours!

 Week Ending 17th January 1976

I can't say that I'm a Superman fan, Batman yeah a little, but not Superman. I always say that I have't got any Superman comics in my collection, but when I check I find him in a number of comics that I own. Mainly the team-up or group books. But seeing the Superman Vs the Amazing Spider-man advert on the back of the weeklies from 50 years ago has made me think again. That and the James Gunn Superman film from last year, which I thought was wonderful. Paul Burns from the Facebook Group "The Mighty World of British Comics" noted on the post promoting last week's blog mentioned that the Superman vs Spider-Man Treasury facsimile came out on Wednesday. May be I should pick up a copy the next time I pop into a Forbidden Planet. Anyway back to 1976.  

The Mighty World of Marvel #172

For the second week running the front cover really spoils the surprise monster of the week by featuring the Harpy. Might it have been time for a generic Hulk cover. This cover was drawn by Ron Wilson with inks by John Tartaglione. In many ways it's Wilson's version of Herb Trimpe's cover for the Incredible Hulk #169, that will make an appearance next week.

The Incredible Hulk “The hate of the Harpy!”

Writer: Steve Englehart

Artist: Herb Trimpe

Inker: Jack Abel

Originally published in The Incredible Hulk #169

Cover date October 1973

(Published in July 1973)

Following Betty's nervous breakdown after her husband, Gwen Talbot, did not return from the secret mission to recover her father, General Ross, Banner had visited her in hospital, but her reaction to him was less than friendly. Her blaming him for all her problems caused him to transform into the Hulk, who smashed his way free, only coming back later that night with a bunch of freshly picked flowers. MODOK, in a giant robot battle suit was also there, brain-washing Betty into hating the Hulk even more as part of on an ongoing plan. The Hulk and MODOK fought, but the AIM leader fled as his mischief had already been made.

The authorities soon arrived at the rest home following the Hulk's battle with MODOK. Naturally, with no villain to be seen and the Hulk present they attack him. Believing that they are keeping him away from his friend he responds in kind, fending off the authorities the Hulk then charges off into the home to try and find Betty. However she is no longer there, with her nightgown the only evidence that she had been there. When the doctors and police arrive they instantly accuse the Hulk of taking Mrs. Talbot. The Hulk knows nothing about any Mrs. Talbot, it's only Betty that he's after and he's sick of everyone hounding him. He leaves through a solid wall. Waiting for him is Jim Wilson who smuggles him past the authorities. In a dream-lit landscape Betty Talbot stripped naked wanders like a lost ghost, until a  mental voice beckons her. In the clearing a strange capsule spirits her away. Meanwhile, at the Pentagon, Colonel Armbruster and General Ross face the top brass, who have decided that recent events have embarrassed Project Greenskins and the General Ross should stand down and be replaced by the Colonel. In New Jersey, Jim brings the Hulk to his girlfriend Talia's house, who isn't too pleased to have the Hulk staying with them. At AIM headquarters, MODOK puts Betty in a "Gamma-Ray Transformer" machine as the next part of his evil plan. Find out more on that in next week's "Betty and the beast!"

The Mighty Marvel Mailbag

Chris Palmer From Cambridge thinks it was interesting to compare Marvel's adaptations of the R.E. Howard Conan stories in visual aspects with his own personal interpretations on reading the originals. Barry Smith's art is fantastic, comparable only with Gil Kane's art. He describes "Origins of Marvel Comics" as truly beyond words. Jeremy Bulter from London tries to get a No-Prize but gets quite confused about the dates on Brand Echh mags. David Patel From Staffordshire read in a book about comics called "Comics Anatomy of a Mass Medium" by Reinhold Reitberger and Wolfman Fuchs, published by Studio Vista, London. It was actually a German book that was translated. It's a sort of biography of comics and a collection of odd facts, Marvel Comics, which was originally known as "Timely" comics, covers about 15% of the book, with 5% of it covering DC comics, the rest covers comics from around the world. Comics like the Beano and the Dandy don't even get a mention. 

Jeffry Armstrong from Lisburn started a club which I call Marvel Comics Collectors Club (MCCC). The object of the club is for all members to be able to exchange comics they don't want for issues they need to complete their collections. The clubs purpose is to give members a chance to correspond with each other as pen pals and unite all Marvel fans. Douglas Angel QNS RFO from Norfolk creates a top ten Marvel Pop Songs, 10. Galen and Urko - Funky Gibbon. 9. Havok - The Man in Black. 8. Cyclops - Long Tall Glasses. 7. Ka-Zar - The Streak. 6. Dracula - The Stake. 5. Blastoar - The Bangin' Man. 4. Black Bolt - Whispering Grass. 3. Ghost Rider - Motor Biking. 2. Overlord - Stardust. And now... 1. Werewolf - Moonlighting. The Nameless One from London doesn't think Jack Kirby's art is all that great and wonders how Kirby got all the praise about his art when the Nameless One thinks his art isn't of a good standard. To them John Buscema's drawings of the Silver Surfer are better than Kirby's. Paul Gallagher from London has just read the origin of Doctor Doom in the "Fantastic" Annual from 1970, which also contained stories of the X-Men, Thor, Iron-Man and Hawkeye.

Daredevil “As it was in the beginning...”

Writer: Stan Lee and Roy Thomas

Artist: Gene Colan

Inker: George Klein

Originally published in Daredevil #53

Cover date June 1969

(Published in April 1969)

Following last week's shocking ending Daredevil dwells on the dilemma of letting the known criminal Starr Saxon go because of the lack of evidence and the fact that Saxon has discovered that Daredevil's secret identity is the blind lawyer Matt Murdock. He sits upon the New York roof tops and reflects on the events that led him to become Daredevil in the first place. 

What follows is an extended recounting of the events first presented in MWOM #20 and #21, but this time told by Roy Thomas using much of Stan Lee's original dialogue with Gene Colan adapting the panels from Bill Everett's original artwork, sometimes simplifying the number of panels and sometimes improving the story sequences. This actual version was told in MWOM #69 and #70, as a way to refresh the readers memory of Daredevil after he returned to the weekly are an absence of 37 weeks when the Hulk took up the lion's share of the comic, which would have been about two years ago from this comic. I wonder how many fans spotted that one? In a dingy room above Fogwell's gym a group of criminal types have their poker game broken up when a costumed figure enters looking for The Fixer. They don't take the "costumed wrestler" that seriously, much to their own displeasure when Daredevil gives them a lesson they'll never forget. In the origin "flashback" Daredevil has a "flashback" to the time when his father made him study hard so he wouldn't become a "pug like him." The local kids thought he was a "sissy" but Matt hit the books hard and trained his body even harder in private. When Matt went to college his father look for revenue to support him in his education, taking a fatal decision to fight in a boxing match under the management of a dubious boxing promoter. Next week "Meet the Fixer!"

Bullpen Bulletins

Our own outstanding idea of an original and ostentatious oration we simply couldn't omit...!

The first Item this week is a reminder that Stan Lee was in Britain over the late Summer of 1975, spreading the message of Marvel where ever anyone would listen. Marvel's leader returned from his trip bursting with amazing ideas for a whole passel of peerless projects and special surprises including the possibly of some new titles. Stan used this Items to extend his sincerest thanks for the red-carpet treatment he received while in Britain. The second Item would have been directed at Daredevil fans especially those who begged, pleaded, cajoled and even tried to bribe them into retelling the now-classic origin of Daredevil. Well Marvel listened and the all-new rendition of DD's origin starts in this week's MWOM. The creators behind this retold classic is written by Roy Thomas with wonderful art from Gene Golan. This Bullpen Bulletin appears in all the weeklies except for SMCW which has a repeat of last week's Bullpen Bulletin. The final Item will be reviewed later in the blog in The Titans Bulletin page.

The Fantastic Four “A monster forever?”

 Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: Jack Kirby

Inker: Joe Sinnott 

Originally published in The Fantastic Four #79

Cover date October 1968

(Published in July 1968)

Ben Grimm has a  hard decision to weigh up, whether to remain as Ben Grimm or choose to become the Thing once more. A decision that would mean he would become a monster for the rest of his life, Ben decides to leave that decision to Alicia once she has a chance to be with him as ordinary Ben Grimm. 

Meanwhile, Reed Richards looks over Susan's medical charts that the doctors have shown him,  showing him the potential threat of the cosmic rays have had on Susan's body, which have a potential affect on their unborn baby. His decision is whether to tell Sue or not. However, he chooses not to tell her. Elsewhere the police are sorting through the Mad Thinker's hideout, which was last seen in MWOM #157. They impound all sorts of equipment and find a crate with a sign that reads "Don't open in room temperature." Curiosity gets the better of them, when they do open it they discover the frozen form of one of the Thinkers humanoid androids. The warm room temperature wakes it up, but without any commands or signal the construct goes on a rampage! "When the Android Man strikes!" will be here next week.

A Marvel Masterwork Pin-up of Daredevil the man without fear, being attacked by the Owl! I have no idea who drew this pin-up or why they have draw the Owl shooting energy from his hand? Since when could he do that? But other than that I kind of like it!

Spider-man Comics Weekly #153

The second Ron Wilson cover this week has Spider-man bursting through the pages of his own comic. Inked possibly by Jim Mooney. The background artwork on the left is a page from next week's Thor strip (page 27,) drawn by Jack Kirby with inks from Bill Everett. While the right hand side of the page features page 18 from this week's Iron Man strip, drawn by George Tuska with inks by Johnny Craig. 

Spider-man “Trapped in the tentacles of death!”

Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: John Romita Sr.

Inker: Frank Giacoia

Originally published in the Amazing Spider-man #107

Cover date April 1972

(Published in January 1972)

An unnamed artist created this week's second part opening splash page with a catch-up text circle, new story title and credits. Spider-man has escaped from Spencer Smythe's Spider-Slayer. Off panel he must have phoned the police to fill them in on Smythe's scheme to have his men rob a bank while he guides them using the police surveillance camera network, which he had helped develop. The police have started to dismantle the cameras on his tip off but still consider him a criminal. 

In the confusion and with no-one to guide them Spider-man mops up Smythe's gang and delivers them to the police. After that Smythe, angered about the web-slingers interference, goes after his nemesis in his the Spider-Slayer robot. However, the wall-crawler had made short work of the robot's controls before he had escaped Smythe's lab, causing an electric feedback in it's systems, making the controls unresponsive, bucking like a machine gone mad! Spidey easily capture the robot master, leaving him for the police to collect. The wall-crawler then pays a visit to J Jonah Jameson, after being fed up with Jameson constantly hiring Smythe to go after him with Spider-Slayer robots. Spider-man cautions the newspaper editor to never try it again. Jameson agrees to do so in the future, but when the web-slinger leaves he admits he had his fingers crossed. On his way home Spider-man spots Gwen walking with Flash, just as two military police officers pull up in a vehicle and escort Flash away, leaving Gwen in tears. Wondering what it all means he speculates that things will never be the same between him and Gwen again.

The Web and the Hammer

Since collecting Mighty Marvel Comics from December 1974 Shahap Mustafa, from London, can't remember what life was like without them. He rates SMCW at 100%, MWOM at 99% and the Super-Heroes at 96%. Jon Halliwell from Lancashire writes that he and his friends thinks that Spider-man Comics Weekly is the best meg Marvel have ever made. He gives great reviews of the other British Marvel mags. Vincent Danks RFO, KOF from Yorkshire thinks that the Fantastic Four is obviously more popular than the Hulk and so they should be swapped so that the FF are the main feature. Spider-man is nothing except brilliant. He didn't used to like Iron-Man, but does now. Thor is, as usual, brilliant. Michael Jackson from Yorkshire asks for the Spider-man strip to be extended. He says it's a sin, a crime, a desertion to say anything against Shang-Chi, he's fab, the artwork is ace. Michael says that good ol' Jack (King) Kirby's supposed to be great at impact. Well, he is, but have you seen Barry Smith's art in Avengers No. 100? It's way out. 

Douglas Allen RFO, KOF, QNS from Dumfriesshire thinks that Morbius is a truly unique Marvel character. who transformed himself into a living vampire in an attempt to cure himself from his unknown blood disease. His cure has some pretty nightmarish side-effects. He has to carry on his horror or die. Spider-man is like Morbius in some ways. He also was transformed into Spidey by accident, but carries on being Spidey because he sees it as his responsibility. Bringing the two together was a fabulous idea. but he wonders may be Spidey beat Morbius way too easily.

The Web and the Hammer also heard from J Verney from Essex, Micheal Jones from Exeter, W S  Lau from West Yorkshire. Vincent Chant from Surrey. Steven Boyd from Greenock, Christopher Browne from Gwynedd, Kevin Merrifield from Weston-super-Mare, Jonathan Webb from Hants. David Glover from Stoke-on-Trent, lan Willis from Southampton, Wayne Perkins from Worcestershire and Boris from Bedford.

Iron Man “Vengeance...cries the Crusher!”

Writer: Archie Goodwin

Artist: George Tuska

Inker: Johnny Craig

Originally published in Iron Man #6

Cover date October 1968

(Published in July 1968)

This week's second part uses the cover artwork from Iron Man issue 6, by George Tuska (pencils,) and Frank Giacoia (inks,) as the opening splash page with credits, recap boxes and a new story title added. The Crusher seeks to get his revenge on Iron Man by attacking Stark Industries, Whitney Frost has also entered the building in the hopes of stealing one of Stark's super-weapons. When Whitney is captured by the Crusher, Jasper tries to save her by putting himself into danger. 

Iron Man is forced to knock the SHIELD agent out so that he can deal with the Crusher without putting anyone in danger. Iron Man agrees to hand over the centrifugal force device that he had used to defeat the villain, as seen in SMCW #126. With it the Crusher intends to use it on the golden Avenger. Iron Man adjusts the settings to make the Crusher weightless and carry his foe over the ocean. The Crusher starts battering Iron Man causing him to drop him into the ocean, where his massive bulk sinks to the seabed. Returning to Stark International, Iron Man finds a revived Jasper who feels humiliated because Iron Man had saved Whitney from the Crusher and not him. Dejected Sitwell leaves to "prove" himself to Whitney. Not even Iron Man can guess the far-reaching and devastating effect of Jasper's humiliation next week, when "the Maggia strikes!"

A superhero team-up Marvel Masterwork Pin-up that features the three stars of Spider-man Comics Weekly, Iron Man, Spider-man and Thor. The Grand Comics Database lists the penciler as Dave Hunt with Dan Adkins as inker. 

The Mighty Thor “Ulik unleashed!”

 Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: Jack Kirby

Inker: Bill Everett

Originally published in The Mighty Thor #173

Cover date February 1970

(Published in December 1969)

It's another Thor classic with Jack Kirby and Bill Everett handling the art and although previously I wasn't that enthralled with Everett's inks,  I'm quickly starting to love it. And I think I'm going to enjoy this adventure. Doctor Donald Blake has just finished treating Thor, or rather a circus strong man impersonator who is dressed as him. The strong man had injured himself lifting a very heavy weight. The circus just happens to be owned by the Ringmaster, leader of the Circus of Crime. Recognising the Ringmaster from his previous encounter, Donald Blake decides to investigate as Thor.

In far off Asgard, Loki has gathered a grim assemblage of Asgard's ne'er-do-wells who wish to overthrow Odin and defeat Thor. Among their numbers is the Rock Troll Ulik, who wishes to get revenge against Thor. A fitting tool to use against his brother, Loki transports the troll to the circus on Earth. Ulik's sudden appearance shocks the circus troop who instantly attack him. Ulik smashes them away like pebbles into the sea, demanding that Thor be brought before him. When the Ringmaster arrives, using his hypnotic hat he easily puts Ulik under his thrall. When Thor stumbles upon the scene, he is spotted by Princess Python, who mistakes Thor as the strong man who had pretended to be the Thunder God as part of his act. Thor decides to use this to his advantage to find out what it is the Circus of Crime is up to. Agreeing to participate in the act, Thor performs in the big top, impressing the audience to much applause, the Ring Master warns him not to ham it up too much. Next week "Ulik uncaged!"

Avengers Weekly #122

I really like this cover by Keith Pollard with inks by Frank Giacoia. The Grimm Reaper is at his most manic as he smashes figurines of the Avengers like a spoilt brat, with his bully boy mates egging him on. It's a great call for my Cover of the Week, but in my opinion there is one better. Keep reading to find out which one it is. 

Conan the Barbarian “Death and 7 wizards!”

Writer: Roy Thomas

Artist: John Buscema

Inker: Ernie Chan

Originally published in Conan the Barbarian #33

Cover date December 1973

(Published in September 1973)

Continuing the adaption of the Flame Winds novel by Norvell W Page, Conan has survived the creatures attack pulling himself weakly from the pool Tsien Hui, under the watchful eye of a monkey-like beggar, who tries to relieve the unconscious barbarian of his money pouch. Conan wakes to stop the monkey faced thief. The beggar points out that the guardsmen have been alerted and are quickly approaching. The beggar leads Conan up a tree and over a wall to make their escape. 

The beggar escorts the Cimmerian to a secret hideaway inside a cave system in which resides a local thieves' guild. Having once plied his trade as a thief Conan feels right at home. Bourtai, the monkey faced helper, explains how seven wizards came to Wan Tengri and overthrew the previous king. They now rule the city with magic and terror. Conan also learns that Kassar, the shepherd who smuggled Conan into the city, has been captured and will be put to death. Feeling responsible, Conan vows to save him, Boutrai agrees to lead him to the Flame Tower where the wizards rule. The tower itself is surrounded by the magical red flames that cover the city. The personal guard of each untrusting wizard lies ready to attack each other for the slightest reason. Bourtai and Conan sneak into the underground passages of the tower when the two are separated, leaving Conan in the dark with only a torch and a broadsword. 

This In-house advert that features here has also appeared in this week's Spider-man Comics Weekly, but here the list of "5 Big Features" has the X-Men replacing the Inhumans. 

  

Avengers Assemble

C Brake KOF, RFO from Middlesex went to the Roundhouse on Monday the 20th October 1975 to listen to Stan Lee and he really enjoyed it. Jokingly he says he's looking forward to "Grandson of Origins." He puts forward an idea of a new series of treasury size books called Marvel Artist Tribute that could feature the best works of different artists each issue. Jan Leshi from Middlesex writes that many letters in the "Avengers Assemble" criticise Doctor Strange. But they think this is very wrong. as the Doctor is a fantastic character. The recent stories about Shuma-Gorrath were outstanding, especially with the Gardner Fox/Craig Russell team. Tom Timlin from Liverpool had a letter printed in Avengers weekly #87 in which he criticised Jim Ivers and others. In SMCW #140 Ivor Davis wrote and said in a rude manner for "him to shut up." Tom explains that he feels that the letters in the British mags have nothing on the letters in the US mags. No letter-writer in Britain is anywhere as good as American writers, although Jim Ivers is probably the best Marvel correspondent in Britain. He also adds that Ivor Davis got wrong in thinking that Tom doesn't like Mike Mittlestadt, as he thinks Mike is also as good as many US letter writers. Bobby Robertson from Ayrshire offers percentages for the British Marvel weeklies, MWOM 96%, The Titans 96%, SMCW 94%, the Avengers weekly 92.5%, the Super-Heroes 90%, POTA 87% and Dracula Lives 78%. John Savage from Hull thinks it was a brilliant idea to include the Black Knight in the Avengers line-up. He's starred quite a few times in the comic, so it would only be fair to let him join the greatest team on earth.

The Avengers “Lo! The Lethal Legion!”

Writer: Roy Thomas

Artist: John Buscema

Inker: Tom Palmer

Originally published in The Avengers #79

Cover date August 1970

(Published in June 1970)

Thor and Iron Man have been summoned to the Avengers mansion to help with the search for the Black Panther, who had been abducted by Man-Ape last issue. While the Avengers discuss the best course of action in finding their teammate, the Scarlet Witch points out that T'Challa would be missed at the high school where he worked at, under the fake identity Luke Charles. The Vision dons a synthetic mask as part of a human disguise and leaves to pass on T'Challa's apologies to his employer.

In a secret chamber on the far side of the city a group of super-villains, known as the Lethal Legion, comprised of past Avengers foes, discuss their plans and plot the next phase of their scheme, under the ear shot of the imprisoned Panther. The Reaper sends Swordsman and Power Man to strike at the water main beneath Avengers Mansion, while the Man-Ape and the Living Laser are sent to attack a nearby power station. Once the villains leave, the Panther breaks free and alerts the Avengers to the villains' plans via the monitor system that the Man-Ape had used to gloat to the Avengers of his victory over the Black Panther. After the Panther had finished passing on the information the screen goes blank. The Grim Reaper had planned that the Panther would escape and pass on information that would lead the Avengers into two traps. The Panther falls to the gas spewed from the Grim Reaper's scythe. The Vision arrives at the school where T'Challa teaches and informs the flustered principal that Luke Charles cannot attend that morning. Elsewhere Goliath and the Scarlet Witch enter the tunnels under the mansion where Power Man and the Swordsman are waiting for them.

Butlin's Super Joker

In 1975 British Marvel in partnership with Butlin Holiday Centres to host a Summer long Super Joker competition. Throughout the year weekly winners were named in the weeklies. The London Bullpen have awarded the top prize to the joker who got most laughs! The winner is Martin Boon from Bristol, who receives a two week Butlin's holiday for them and your family at the Butlin Holiday Centre of their choice! His joke is "Spider-man went to the Doctor and said 'Doctor, I feel like a bridge', and the Doctor said 'What's come over you?' Spider-man replied 'Two buses, a car, and a lorry!'" Special Marvel prizes also go to these 10 runners ups, Robert Budd from London, Peter Flanigan from Stoke, Paul Adams from Lancashire, Dean Allan from Hull, Laura James from Surrey, David Golden from Liverpool, David Topliss from Burton-on-Trent, Geoffrey Burrows from Glen Parve, Paul Cockcroft from Essex, Martin Ealham from Spalding. There's a nice little in-house advert for the Thing and Hulk strip in the Super-Heroes.

Doctor Strange “Sise-Neg Genesis”

Writer: Steve Englehart

Artist: Frank Brunner

Inker: Dick Giordano

Originally published in Marvel Premiere #14

Cover date March 1973

(Published in December 1973)

This wonderful classic Doctor Strange tale continues with beautiful artwork from Frank Brunner from a Steve Englehart story. Doctor Strange arrive in Medieval Times to that Baron Mordo with Sise-Neg who has accumulated even more power during this time jump. Mordo offers to become Sise's disciple while Strange attempts to convince Sise-Neg the danger of the power he seeks.

The three sorcerers observe a knight riding his steed. In a demonstration of his power Sise-Neg conjures up a fire breathing dragon to battle the knight. Doctor Strange cannot stand by and watch so he aids the knight defeating the dragon. The knight is thankful offering the undying gratitude of Lancelot Du Lac, who wishes him adieu as he continues his journey to meet King Arthur at Camelot. Baron Mordo points out that Strange's compassion for humanity has saved the life of Lancelot, insuring that he survives his role in the history of Camelot, in which the oh-so human knight will fall in love with Queen Guinevere, causing the fall of humanity's most noble dream. Sise-Neg and Mordo continue their travel through time leaving Strange in Medieval times knowing that Sise-Neg has absorbed Merlin's power and so he too continues to follow them. This time the three sorcerers traveling further back to an ancient city, where Doctor Strange and Baron Mordo witness the god-like Sise-Neg destroy the city with ease even defeating the warrior wizards known as the Priests of death. The small group od survivors file away with one husband telling his wife to not look back at the city that had been filled with wickedness and forget the city of Sodom and Gomorrah.

Dracula Lives #65

The cover by Gil Kane (pencils,) with Tom Palmer (inks,) from Tomb of Dracula issue 30 is used again as this week's British mag's cover with a more eerie greenie blue sky than the American version. 

Dracula “Memories on a Mourning's night!”

Writer: Marv Wolfman

Artist: Gene Colan

Inker: Tom Palmer

Originally published in Tomb of Dracula #30

Cover date March 1975

(Published in December 1974)

The pensive Count Dracula visits the grave of the recently deceased Shiela Whitter, to pays his respects. He expresses his genuine regrets for her passing before flying off. Writing in his journal, Dracula reflects on other times that he has allowed the perceived innocence of others who have got the better of him. Recalling a time during the 1800's in Germany, when Dracula was summoned by Lyza Strang with a request to kill her husband Archibald Strang, explaining that her husband's quest for power would destroy them both. 

Lyza expresses a desire to be with Dracula and share his power. She explains how Archibald intends to become the Minister President of Germany an in turn would invade Romania and take Dracula's castle. However there is one more that stands in Archibald's way King William, also known as Otto Von Bismarck. Accepting the woman's request Dracula flys off into the night to seek out his target. Finding Strang arguing with Bismark over who is the rightful ruler of Germany Dracula waits until Strang has left then he kills him. However Dracula is also betrayed by Lyza who has arrived with soldiers who stake him, then throw him in the river. Lyza had secretly been having an affair with Bismark and had Archibald assassinated in the hopes it would help Otto win the position of Minister President. However, when Otto gained the position he tells her he had no doubt he would win it and exiled her from Germany. In her exile she becomes a victim of the vengeful Dracula. She would later die again as a vampire at the hands of Abraham van Helsing. Dracula would reflect how Bismark's rise to power would lead to World War I and the invasion of Romania, but digresses from the recollection to another moment when his belief in innocence was challenged. He recalls one night when he met a young blind girl named Melanie, whose parents had hit hard times and couldn't afford to put her into a special school. The story continues in Doom and Darkness.

House of Dracula

Aston Kaye from Buckinghamshire commends Marvel on the recent Shiela Whittier episode. It really had the reader frozen into an atmosphere it was generating, creating a level of suspense and horror which Aston  thought a magazine couldn't produce in comparison with a film. Colan excelled and the result was the best Drac story yet. Kev Conlan PMM from Merseyside writes that without doubt Dracula Lives is the most stable of the British weeklies. Kev would appreciate it if British Marvel were to publish in the future the adaptation of Bram Stoker's original story as was printed in the US Marvel/Curtis magazine Dracula Lives. Paul Smith from Buckinghamshire calls Dracula a "Fang-tastic" comic, because he's a fan of the supernatural heroes. He suggests more features like the horror film articles 'Monsters of the Movies' from many issues ago, were added the comic could improve. Paul likes the title change from Dracula Lives to Dracula Lives featuring the Legion of Monsters. 

A Marvel Masterwork Pin-Up featuring the Werewolf By Night, with the poem, "Even a man who's pure of heart and says his prayers at night, may become a wolf when the wolfsbane blooms and the moon is full and bright!" As spoken by the wise gypsy woman, Maleva, in the classic 1941 Universal horror film, "The Wolf Man", as she explains the curse to Larry Talbot, who was of course played by Lon Chaney Jr. The film was written by Curt Siodmak. The fantastic artwork was created by Howard Bender with inks by Al Milgrom. As per their signatures to the left of the full moon.

Werewolf by Night “The amazing Doctor Glitternight”

Writer: Doug Moench

Artist: Don Perlin

Inker: Don Perlin

Originally published in Werewolf by Night #27

Cover date March 1975

(Published in December 1974)

This tale starts with Jack Russell turning into the Werewolf and fleeing out along a Malibu Beach leaving Buck to comfort Topaz who had cut her arm while trying to calm the beast. For British readers her appearance here might have come as a shock as she was last seen leaving Jack way back in Dracula Lives #43. The British weekly for some reason misses out her reappearance, that in America had appeared in Giant-Size Werewolf issue 3, cover dated January 1975, published October 1974. 

The Werewolf comes across a ritual held by a sorcerer called Doctor Glitternight, who transforms an apparition of Topaz into a hideous monster. When Glitternight sees the Werewolf, he assumes it's an agent of his enemy and orders his creation to attack. As the monster defeats the Werewolf Glitternight commands that he be thrown of a cliff onto the rocks below. The creature does this but as it does the Werewolf sinks its claws into the creature's tentacles, pulling it to its doom and also making a soft cushion to land on, surviving the fall to sprint away. The next day, after recalling dimly remembered events to Topaz, Jack learns from her that she went to Glitternight, one of Taboo's teachers in mysticism, to bargain to restore her powers. Glitternight helped her at the cost of her soul, which he's been corrupting with black magic to create bestial servants. Next week "Within the dark ego!"

Another fantastic Marvel Masterwork Pin-Up, this time of the Man-Thing. The signatures in the pool on the lower right tell me that Carl Potts penciled the piece with A M, probably Al Milgrom, applying the inks. Worthy to be on any horror fan's wall. 

Man-Thing “No choice of colours!”

Writer: Steve Gerber

Artist: Jim Starlin

Inker: Rich Buckler

Originally published in Adventure into Fear #12

Cover date February 1972

(Published in November 1972)

This Man-Thing tale is superb, beautifully drawn, beautifully written, but dealing with a subject that is less than beautiful, but never-the-less an important subject to weave into a story. Man-Thing watches a car chase that suddenly screeches to a halt while the driver of the first car leaps out and flees into the swamp, followed by Wallace Corlee, a hateful, racist sheriff of Topequa, Florida, who is pursuing a black man named Mark Johnson. 

Corlee shoots Jackson in the shoulder, but he still manages to evade capture when the impact sends him flying into the swamp water. Jackson pushes past his exhaustion to surface out of sight further down stream. Not one to give up the sheriff continues searching for his target. The Man-Thing understands the emotion of hate, perhaps the most primal and certainly the most violent, but the creature also understands empathy and searches for the man who Corlee's hatred was targeted at. When Jackson revives he finds the Man-Thing had placed his injured arm in a sling. Jackson is more afraid of the sheriff who is still hunting for him than he is of the muck monster. He tells the Man-Thing that the sheriff framed him for a burglary and is chasing him because Mark was romantically involved with a white woman. A woman who the sheriff had set his eye on. He continues to speak to the Man-Thing at length despite the fact that the creature doesn't comprehend the meaning of his words. As Jackson follows the Man-Thing a snake attacks the fugitive. Quickly the swamp monster grabs it and kills it, just as Sheriff Corlee catches up with them, drawing his gun, he loudly reveals that Jackson is actually wanted for murder.

Planet of the Apes #65

It has been quite a regular thing that the covers of Planet of the Apes are a little "same old-same old" with Ron Wilson doing his best to produce covers every week for the mag's starring strip. I have called for some of the wonderful painted covers from the US Marvel/Curtis magazine to be used, simply because they are beautiful. This week I get my wish and it's a cracker of a cover, even though I feel it doesn't quite match with the events in this week's episode of the Conquest of the Planet of the Apes story, who am I to complain the gorilla general leading his men into battle would have been enough for me to want to buy and read it. Bob Larkin's stunning cover from Planet of the Apes Marvel/Curtis magazine issue 17 just has to be my pick for this week's Cover of the Week. If only all comic covers were like it. 

The inside front cover features a photo pin-up of a scene from the 1972 film Conquest for the Planet of the Apes. The scene is North America in the near future of 1991, in a time and place in which human workers have begun to protest against the increasing proliferation of ape slave labourers. I really like how the comic's editor keeps choosing to feature photo scenes from the film next to the comic adaption that also showcases those events. 

Planet of the Apes “Rites of bondage”

Writer: Doug Moench

Artist: Alfredo Alcala

Inker: Alfredo Alcala

Originally published in Planet of the Apes (US) #18

Cover date March 1976

(Published in January 1976)

The story is set at a time when evolution has granted the former beast of the jungle intelligence enough to perform simple tasks. Mankind has brutally taken advantage of that and conscripted them into slave labour. Protests from human "lower classes" have grown as their jobs were taken by cheap slave labourers, but mankind should have been more worried about incidents of rebellion from the ape slave as humanity walks blindly into its own destruction. Outside of the Ape Central headquarters fascist police brutally beat an ape who had stood up to his cruel treatment. As a single voice calls out from the watching crowd, "Stop it, you stinking lousy humans!"

That voice belongs to Caesar, the son of the intelligent apes from the future Cornelius and Zira. The police question who called out as it is a criminal offence to show disrespect to a state official. If the authorities found out that Caesar could speak he would be kill or dissected to understand why he had gained that ability, to prevent any other of his species from obtaining that level of intelligence and rebel against their human masters. Armando, the chimpanzee's "owner" steps forward admitting it was him who called out as an unintentional reaction. One police man thinks it was the Chimp who spoke, Armando admits his outburst was inexcusable. The police suspects there is more to it than he's letting on and they will take him headquarters for interrogation. As the police are distracted by some humans beating up another ape Caesar flees in panic, while Armando races after him. When he catches up with him he tells him he would have bluffed his way out of it. But Caesar's running away would only complicate matters as they could now suspect the chimpanzee of being intelligent enough to understand everything that had been said. He decides to go to the authorities and admit to the outcry. If he's not back by night fall Caesar is to go to the harbour and infiltrate the fresh shipment of apes from Africa. Later Armando is questioned, sticking to his story he tells the that he said "stinking lousy inhumans" as by the blessed Saint Francis who loved all animals, he meant it. Digging into his history they uncover he has run a circus for over twenty years, from before the time when two talking apes arrived on earth from the future and conceived a baby. The Governor suspects that the baby might have survived. Going over the audio tapes from that time his suspicion grows and he interrogates Armando even more. Next week "Caesar the slave!"

Apes Forum

Christine Findley from Stranraer thanks Marvel for creating the Planet of the Apes comic because its a tremendous with fab stories and also because of the past features on the TV series, "Planet of The Apes". Linda and Kevin from Bolton who are girl and boy friends who have bought every issue of Planet of the Apes. Linda also writes that any girls who are reading POTA do not need to feel ashamed of the "Planet of The Apes". She has been called many things because she read "Planet of The Apes", so, girls, if you think you are too old, well you are not. She says will tells you that when you are past 80 you will not be too old even then. Her grandad reads them and he's 82 years old. Peter Labrow from Bury has been reading POTA from the beginning but he thinks it's time to beak his silence. The inside of the comic is very good, the stories are ace and, up to a point, so is the artwork. But the covers! The covers are, in a word, Horrible!Jackie Wilton from Dublin writes that the adaptations of the Apes films are very good, as is the art work involved. But she doesn't like the inclusion of the "Sinbad" special.

David Fielder from Herts thinks that "Kick the Can" by Bruce Jones in POTA #53 was a very interesting story. As both writer and artist Bruce has produced a very thoughtful and poignant story. The method of presentation is interesting, because of the lack of characters' dialogue and Bruce's use of continuity boxes to tell the story. raises many questions. It touches upon the motivation of people and why one sometimes feels compelled to do something. The story also illustrates how memories are so important to everyone. Bruce has also coupled these ideas with extremely good art. Regular letter writer Neil Fisher from St Helens reviews the five Planet of the Apes films that have been released in America for 9 dollars each. He gives the American address that fans can buy them. Richard Hunter from London has a large collection of Apes souvenirs which consists of all British mags, 13 of the American mags and two of the American all-colour mags. He also has jigsaws, cards and books, including an American version of "Monkey Planet", called Planet of the Apes. But one of his most-prized possessions is the original soundtrack to Planet of the Apes. He plans to get picture cards from the original film next. Kris Hayde from Kent feels he must congratulate Marvel on a most wonderful, fabulous, super-doopa mag. As a newcomer to "Planet of The Apes" he's tried collecting as much info as he can.

Ka-Zar “Showdown!”

Writer: Mike Friedrich

Artist: Gil Kane

Inker: Tom Sutton

Originally published in Astonishing Tales #15

Cover date December 1972

(Published in September 1972)

This week's second part story should have actually been printed in last week's Planet of the Apes instead of the Ka-Zar story that was printed, which should have been saved till this week. This opening splash page was drawn by David Wenzel as shown by his signed initials DW on a packet sent flying in the ambulance. A catch-up box, a new story title and credits are added, however the credits for the artist and inker are wrong. It was Gil Kane and Tom Sutton who drew this second part, not Rich Buckler and Chic Stone, who would go on to draw next week's episode. Ka-Zar in his own forceful way questions Vinnie about the whereabouts of the drug dealer known as the Pusher. 

Ka-Zar physically pulls Vinnie out of the police van and carries him high up onto the roof tops to frighten him into revealing where the drug dealer who supplied the drugs that killed a man who the jungle lord had saved earlier. See POTA #63. Vinnie eventually gives Ka-Zar the location and he leaves. Vinnie also leaves thinking that he has sent Ka-Zar on a wild goose chase but in reality the savage had waited and followed Vinnie in the hope that he would lead him to the Pusher to warn him that Ka-Zar was after him. Vinnie tells the Pusher about Ka-Zar wanting to find him and about his interference in their kidnapping of Doctor Calvin. The Pusher lets slip that there are dangerous powers who are seeking Calvin, their only reward for failure is death. Just then Ka-Zar smashes his way into the gym to battle the Pusher. The buildings weaken structure starts to break and collapse around them. Ka-Zar only has time to save himself and the rat Vinnie. Leaving Vinnie with the police we find out Vinnie's full name is Percy Ronald Calvin, Doctor Calvin's son. At the hospital Ka-Zar meets up with Bobbi Morse who finds out that Doctor Calvin has been in and out of consciousness and calling for her son. Next week "Ka-Zar at bay!" at least it should be but I imagine it will be the second part of that story.

A Marvel Masterwork Pin-up of Captain Marvel, which is also used as a plug for his continued adventures in The Titans weekly, if there are any Planet of the Apes readers who have wondered where the Kree warrior had gone to. I can't find the identity of the artist who drew it. The name Micheal Golden comes up in a Facebook group and an google AI search comes up with Mike Zack. I doubt both of them. If you look at the space to the left of Captain Marvel's right foot there appears to be a signature that has been obscured. To me it seems to have been the inkers name as it has a plus sign above it. but all I can make out is it ends with the letters "and" So the artists must remain a mystery.   

Black Panther “The Baron does not fear death!”

Writer: Don McGregor

Artist: Gil Kane

Inker: Klaus Janson

Originally published in Jungle Action Vol 2 #9

Cover date May 1974

(Published in February 1973)

The Gil Kane (pencils,) with Mike Esposito (inks,) cover from Jungle Action volume 2 issue 9 is repurposed as this week's second part with any speech bubbles removed, credits and a new story title added, with a catch-up box. At a Wakandan burial shrine T'Challa investigates the disappearance of M'Jumbak, only to encounters another of Erik Killmonger's minions, Baron Macabre. 

This villain has summons zombie servants up from their graves to battle T'Challa. Baron Macabre fires a lethal burning ray from his taloned fingertips, that send shards of jagged stone from the rock it hits, that break off into the Panther's body scalding his flesh. The Baron's death regiment carry the injured king under Macabre's orders to the equally mysterious King Cadaver. Meanwhile at the Royal Palace Zatama, one of the Black Panther's advisors, analyses the events of the last couple of days when an unseen person enters the room and kills him with a spear. Meanwhile at the burial shrine T'Challa escapes from Baron Macabre and rushes back to the Royal Palace, upon his return he finds that his romantic interest Monica Lynne stands accused of killing his royal officer Zatama! More mysteries may or may not be answered next week in "King Cadaver is dead...and living in Wakanda!" Answered or not it will be a fantastic read.

This Marvel Masterwork Pin-up of Warlock, which let's be honest is really more of Counter-Earth's Victor Von Doom, has been drawn by Brian Moore as per his signature on the bottom right. Could the screen image of Adam Warlock been cut and pasted or copied from an image by Gil Kane? Possibly. The text box in the bottom right corner reads "He shall return!" hinting that the adventures of Adam Warlock will be returning but not for just under three years in Star Wars Weekly issue 45 on the week ending the 13th December 1978.

The Super-heroes #46

I have in the past criticise a little Ron Wilson's covers, mainly the Planet of the Apes ones. But I can't deny that Wilson was born to draw the Thing, a character he really gets. This Hulk versus the Thing cover is a perfect example of his strength and would have been my Cover of the Week this week other than the beautiful cover from Planet of the Apes stealing it from him. Mike Esposito inks the art with possible assistance from John Tartaglione as the Grand Comics Database suggests.

Giant-Man and the Wasp “Hocus pocus panic!”

Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: Dick Ayers

Inker: Dick Ayers

Originally published in Tales to Astonish #56

Cover date June 1964

(Published in March 1964)

An unnamed artist drew this second part opening splash page with catch-up text boxes, credits and a new story title added. Unable to trace the Magician or the kidnapped Wasp Giant-Man decides to stage a fake yacht party in the hope that an opportunity to steal more from the idle rich will intrigue the villain. The plan works and the Magician appears at the fake party. Giant-Man battles the villain, until the hero is alerted to a sinking yacht. As Giant-Man rescue the people on the yacht the Magician attempts to escape in his personal blimp. Using Rope from the yacht Giant-man lassoes the blimp and the two continue their fight on the blimp. The Wasp is freed, but the Magician tries to kill both ant-sized heroes by setting his trained rabbit on them. Giant-Man resumes his giant size to scare the bunny away this gives the Magician a chance to stop Giant-Man in his tracks by hypnotising him. Meanwhile the Wasp unplugs the blimp, causing it to deflate and crash into the water. Thinking that Hank was still aboard, she laments the loss of the only man she loved. However, Giant-Man soon turns up alive, riding into sight, ant-size, on a paper airplane, while the police fish the Magician out of the sea.

The Thing and the Hulk..Together! “The game!”

Writer: Len Wein

Artist: Jim Starlin

Inker: Joe Sinnott

Originally published in Marvel Feature #11

Cover date September 1973

(Published in June 1973)

The artist behind this second part splash page is unknown, however the name on the building to the right of the page reads "ohland," could this have been penciler and inker Duffy Vohland? On the right hand building the name over the saloon is Hunt. Could that be the artist Dave Hunt? The Leader and Kurrgo have kidnapped both the Thing and the Hulk and forced them to battle each other at the site of an abandoned ghost town, to decide who will have the over-all control of the two super-strong heroes and earn the other villain's technology and help.

The Thing must defuse a bomb before it destroys the world. but the Hulk has been tricked into attacking him. As a surprise to himself the Thing seems to be getting the upper hand in the battle, when he finds the bomb he discovers it to have been a fake. After the lengthy battle, Kurrgo and the Leader transport the Hulk on to their ship. The Thing hitches along for the ride and on board the Thing realises that the whole thing was a trick. Kurrgo's robot had been transmitting a field of cosmic radiation down to Earth to increase the strength of the Thing so that he could beat the Hulk in Battle. The Leader declares the contest void and he is a winner by default. Angered by the result Kurrgo orders his robot to attack the heroes. During the fight Kurrgo's robot is knocked into the ship's controls. The Thing and the Hulk manage to escape just before the ship explodes, seemingly destroying Kurrgo, his robot and the Leader. The Hulk leaps off, leaving Ben to walk back to civilisation. Next issue "the Thing and the invincible Iron Man."

The Super-Heroes Mailbag

Bryan Foster from Surrey really wants to get a letter printed because he has started up an all-comic Swap-Sell mag with his friends and he gives some details. Richard Rayner from Cleveland asks is it possible to send sample stories and artwork to the British subsidiary of Marvel? As there might well be the possibility of home-produced strips when the current batch catches up with American comics. The Marvel reprints form a firm foundation to build a unique, all-new, British equivalent that readers can be proud of. Ian Spence RFO from Exeter is clearly an Xpert in the world of the X-Men. He letter includes this line, I Xhort you to bring them back into Xistence over here. I have been Xercitationing many Xcruciating forms of torture which include Xenterating and Xsanguinating you. Translate that at will. 

Bloodstone “The lurker within”

Writer: John Warner

Artist: Pat Boyette

Inker: Pat Boyette

Originally published in Marvel Presents #1

Cover date October 1975

(Published in July 1975)

Ulysses Bloodstone had fought a giant monster in San Francisco Bay who seemed to have been controlled by a mysterious blind piper. After defeating the monster Bloodstone had taken the blind man to his apartment while he considered what to do next. Unseen by Ulysses energy from the blind man's eyes solidified into a giant humanoid monster who attacks Bloodstone. While fighting the giant Bloodstone learns that he is called the Possessor. He had attacked San Francisco to flush out Ulysses Bloodstone and steal the Bloodgem from the adventurer's chest. The Possessor knocked down Bloodstone and used his powers to empathically relive Bloodstone's origin. Ulysses Bloodstone had been a savage hunter in the world of the 81st century BC, he has stalked a hooded figure through the prehistoric landscape and into a cave, within rested a futuristic city. In the present a film crews equipment disrupts the Possessor's connection with Ulysses Bloodstone. A ray from the Possessor's hand hits the Bloodgem on Ulysses' chest seemly killing him. Next issue "Hellfire Helix Hex!" the conclusion of the origin of Bloodstone!

The Titans #13

This is a historic cover, the X-Men finally get to star in a British Marvel comic after taking over from the Inhumans. They get their name incorporated into The Titans logo as "the X-citing X-Men!" This cover was penciled by Keith Pollard with the inks rendered by Mike Esposito. 

The X-Men “The power and the pendant!”

Writer: Roy Thomas

Artist: Werner Roth

Inker: Dick Ayers

Originally published in The X-Men #25

Cover date October 1966

(Published in August 1966)

While taking Jean Grey to Metro College the X-Men stop and rescue Children from an orphanage that has caught fire. After the blaze is put out they arrive at the College. Scott and Warren witness Jean's college classmate, Ted Robert's obvious interest in her. Scott deals with the idea of trying to get over her while Warren has decided to seek romance elsewhere. Far away in Central America, a man known as El Tigre leads some men to find the hidden pyramid of the Maya god Kukulcán. His guides, two mercenaries named Toloc and Ramon, make no attempt to hide their contempt toward their employer. After digging they uncover a stone chamber that holds the cursed sacred gold of Kukulcán. While inspecting the golden relics, El Tigre notices a glowing stone, unable to identify the substance he hides it. That night Toloc and Ramon plan to kill him.

 

Warned by a sixth sense, El Tigre captures the two would-be killers and makes them swear their loyalty to him. Later, he discovers he can read the Mayan hieroglyphs and learns the story of the Sacred Pendant of Kukulcán and that the part of that enchanted amulet carved from a magic stone that he is holding is the source of his new-found mental powers. Nothing will stop him from finding the other half of the pendant. Cerebro detects a strange force in the city. The X-Men investigate as El Tigre and his men arrive in New York. Later El Tigre arrives at the City Museum, the Professor's probing suddenly detects him, but El Tigre blocks him from monitoring his actions any further. The Professor sends the X-Men to his location. Once there the young mutants split up and search for El Tigre and his men. The Beast runs afoul of animated suits of armour, while Iceman searching an arctic exhibit is tripped up by rope. In a prehistoric exhibit, Angel is also downed by a blow dart fired by Toloc. Followed a hunch Cyclops goes to the Pre-Colombian wing, where he soon spots El Tigre. Both are surprised by one of the museum's security guards. El Tigre instantly uses his mental powers to command the guard to keep Cyclops at gunpoint while the villain retrieve the missing half of the pendant. Liberating the fragment from a display case he joins the two halves together. Suddenly a bright flash of light engulfs El Tigre. When it fades he stands garbed in ancient clothing. He announces that he is now the reincarnation of the Mayan god Kukulcán!

The Sub-Mariner “The Sub-Mariner strikes!”

Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: Jack Kirby

Inker: Dick Ayers

Originally published in Tales to Astonish #83

Cover date September 1966

(Published in June 1965)

Following his battle with Iron Man, as seen in SMCW #112 the Sub-Mariner rushes a submarine piloted by Warlord Krang. Namor is still furious at the supposed betrayal of Lady Dorma who, unknown to Namor, has been blackmailed into marriage by Krang. Krang attacks the Sub-Mariner with the ship's hydro-blaster. prompting a retaliation as he strikes the hull of the ship with his own body. The ship's sonic vortex weapon strikes Namor as the ship attempts to land. Krang is attempting to strike a weak spot on the Sub-Mariner's skull in the hopes of causing him amnesia like the type that plagued him for years until his memory was returned by the Fantastic Four.

Namor survives unharmed and with his facilities still in tacked he resumes his attack. The battle is being watched by Number 1 of the Secret Empire who hopes to enslave Namor to serve the Empire. Namor gets to the ships window where he sees Lady Dorma who tries to explain her situation to the Sub-Mariner. Namor smashes through the glass only to be blasted by Warlord Krang. Coming back to the surface Namor fails to notice Number One arriving on the scene with a "Lobotomizer" weapon that he hopes to use against the Sub-Mariner to erase his memory. But before he can fire the weapon Krang opens fire with a powerful Fleet Destroyer missile that explodes on impact with Namor. Namor is hurled into the ocean once more while Krang flees the scene with Dorma. Number One pulls Namor out of the water, he is surprised to find that the Prince of Atlantis has been struck with amnesia. Taking advantage of this Number One tells the Sub-Mariner that he is the enemy of humanity. Next week the world faces "the Sub-Mariner at large!"

Titanic Transcripts

Paul Melvin Grunwell from Leeds Thinks that  The Titans is  "c'est magnifiquie!" but also points out the real problem with the weekly is that printing complete stories every week will mean the British editions will "catch-up" with their American counterparts. Matthew Watson RFO, KOF, QNS from Cornwall sees that the Titans are great value for money, being only one pence more than the other mags for twice the amount of story. He gives a critique for each of the stories that feature. Simon Donald from Newcastle-on-Tyne writes with all the stories, how could he not buy it? The free colour poster was so amazing he nearly fell over! Michael Sheriff from Perth is quite sure that The Titans is going to be Marvel's greatest comic ever, as it can't fail to please everybody with its line-up. He writes if Marvel are looking for another barbarian to feature in their mags, how about Fionn, a Scots barbarian? You will find reference to him in ancient Scots ballads and songs.

There's no name put to this X-Men centre-spread and I can't put a finger on who might have drawn it. Who ever it was did a smart job, I wonder would this have been the first time Magneto was ever attacked by a Sentinel in a British or American comic. I know the Sentinels destroyed a robot replica of Magneto in the X-Men #58, cover dated July 1969, published May 1969, also seen in the Marvel UK monthly Marvel Super Heroes #366, cover dated October 1980. But does that count? 

Nick Fury, Agent of SHIELD “Operation: Brain blast!”

Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: Jack Kirby

Inker: Frank Ray

Originally published in Strange Tales #141

Cover date February 1965

(Published in November 1965)

After defeat at the hands of SHIELD Hydra agents are being rounded up. Fury, Dum-Dum and Jones break through the steel door that leads to the building above. Meanwhile the Imperial Hydra, Arnold Brown, hesitates with his finger over a destruct button, knowing that his daughter Laura will be killed in the blast. Two Hydra agents enter the room as their route to escape. Not recognising Brown as their leader the Imperial Hydra, due to him not wearing his padding and high healed shoes that make his appearance look bigger when he wears his green garb, they shoot him for his blasphemy to their oath despite his claims that he is their leader. The Hydra agents escape out the window using vacuum shoes to climb down the building just as Fury and the others arrive.  Laura Brown grieves over her father's but with some urging from Fury, she "escapes" using more vacuum shoes. Next week "The mechanical Thinkers!"

Bullpen Bulletins

This is the landscape version of the Bullpen Bulletin page with the final Item from this week's news. Marvel has talked about the people in the British Bullpen office based in America, but what about the actual office itself? British paraphernalia are scattered all over it. There's a Union flag and a picture of Captain America singing "Rule Britannia.." Occasionally they have tea at 4:00, but that's only because they also have it at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 and 5:00. There's also a note that reads "All colonists shall show the proper respect to the members of the British Department and are advised to remember their station in life when privileged enough to address one of Her Majesty's loyal subjects." I guess an American had written that.

Captain Marvel “And a child shall lead you!”

Writer: Roy Thomas

Artist: Gil Kane

Inker: Dan Adkins

Originally published in Captain Marvel #17

Cover date October 1969

(Published in July 1969)

Captain Mar-Vell is trapped in the Negative Zone, the Supreme Intelligence tells him it is due to his blind quest for revenge against Yon-Rogg. However, the Intelligence offers Mar-Vell a potential way to free himself. Directing his mind towards the plight of young Rick Jones on Earth, whose partner, Captain America, had just rejected him. Unknown to Jones the Red Skull had used the Cosmic Cube to forcefully switched bodies with Cap. 

Rick leaves the Avengers mansion recalling his time with the super-team and Captain America. Rick heads out of the city hitchhiking his way across America. Later hiking through the countryside Jones see a glowing figure that looks like Captain America who gestures for him to follow him. Its likes trying to catch a shadow, no matter how quickly he runs it just stays the same distance a head. Will Rick catch up with Cap? Find out in "Follow Cap's ghost!' 

Captain America “30 minutes to live!”

Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: Jack Kirby and Dick Ayers

Inker: John Tartaglione

Originally published in Tales to Astonish #75

Cover date March 1966

(Published in December 1965)

After successfully destroying the three Sleeper robots reactivated by Nazi sleeper agents, Cap parachutes to safety. In New York City, a secret group plots to steal a highly explosive chemical called "Inferno 42" from SHIELD. Meanwhile, having been  rescued from the ocean by the Navy, Cap reflects on his past and laments over the loss of his partner Bucky and his time in suspended animation makes him feel like he's a man out of time.. 

Dressing his civilian clothes he goes for a walk when he spots a woman whom he seems to recall from his war days. While trying to figure if it's really the mysterious woman from his past or not, he notices somebody bumping into her and doing a switch with the package she was carrying for an identical one. Cap soon finds himself caught up in the middle of the SHIELD plan to secretly transport Inferno 42 through New York City. His interference has alerted the evil scientists who have hired Batroc the Leaper. However, while clashing with Captain America when trying to get the woman's package, the two accidentally crack the canister causing the Inferno 42 inside to become active. As the two men fight the woman manages to make her escape. Batroc realises that the cylinder has been broken and that the device could destroy all of New York, the two race after her. Find out what happens next in "The Gladiator, the girl and the glory!"

All of the back pages of the seven British weeklies advertise "the greatest team-up of all time!" Claiming it to be the "Battle of the Century!" But was itreally? I don't know, but what I do known is next week is going to have some incredible, amazing and fantastic battles between the seven covers of British Marvel's greatest comics from 1976. Come back and see if that lives up to the hype for some classic childhood nostalgia. 

See you in seven.

Make Mine Marvel.