Week Ending 1st September 1976
Before we jump into this week's blog Paul Burns commented in last week's comment section that he is currently writing an article on Gerry Conway and this period of the Spider-man strip that is featured in Super Spider-man for Back Issue. I wonder if Paul reads this could he give me more details of where we might find that article. Cheers Paul.
This week is full of invaders from outer-space, invaders from the oceans and Invaders from World War Two. Find out who's good, who's bad and who the super ugly, hooded man with six eyes on stalks is in this week's blog.
The Mighty World of Marvel #205
This Al Milgrom cover is brilliant! There's nothing any kid could do but buy this mag. The Avengers battling Mandroids and an Inhuman emerging from the sewers, even if you hadn't seen or heard about these characters before, your curiosity would demand that you hand over your nine pence quickly. A belting Cover of the Week.
The Incredible Hulk “No shadow hath the Hulk!”
Writer: Len Wein
Artist: Herb Trimpe
Inker: Herb Trimpe
Originally published in The Incredible Hulk #184
Cover date February 1975
(Published in November 1974)
This week's second part opening splash page was drawn by an unnamed artist, with the top panel focusing on the Warlord Kaa possessing the Hulk's shadow and fighting against him. While the lower panel joins General Ross with Betty and Glenn as they spend the day rafting and other outdoor activities. This day's sequence can't surely be running at the same time rate as the Hulk and Warlord Kraa battle. The activities carried out by Ross, Betty and Glenn take up to a day, a night and the next morning doing different activities. The next morning General Ross reflects that he's thankful for the last few days that have allowed them to take their minds off things, especially the Hulk.
Bullpen Bulletin
The first Item brings news of the introduction of British Marvel's latest strip, the Invaders, with the Living Legend of World War Two, Captain America, his sidekick Bucky! Then comes the original Human Torch aided and abetted by his sidekick Toro! And last but not least the Savage Sub-mariner! These five feisty super-doers have one simple mission, Get Hitler! Read about them in Super Spider-man with the Super-Heroes issue 186. The second Item reminds readers that they have already met Jack Russell, Werewolf by Night. Now it's time to meet a Wolf-Woman! Her name is Lupalina and she pops up to plague Conan the Barbarian in this week's MWOM! The new three Items will appear in the POTA Bullpen Bulletin page later on in the blog which will feature a gorilla instead of of the Living Legend as shown here.
Back on Earth an interrogation is occurring in some secret government facility, using a science fiction torture chamber machine placed on the head and shoulders of one technicians who the Avengers rescued from the Kree experiments in Alaska carried out by Ronan the Accuser, way back in the Avengers weekly #145. Adam's artwork and design is incredible, especially the opening page, which is psychedelic and menacing. In charge of the interrogation is Senator Craddock, who has somehow gain the use of a new "Alien-Detector" which he uses to forcefully probe the men to makes sure they aren't holding any more secrets and confirm that they aren't themselves aliens. Craddock plans to have all the information ready when he forces the Avengers to turn up to a hearing at the Alien Activities Commission. Later at the Avengers Mansion the Avengers plan out their next course of action to rescue their teammates, a monitor comes on and Nick Fury passes on a quick message to see if they are at home, adding that it's nice in Acapulco this time of year, then he hangs up. At first the Avengers don't understand the cryptic message.
Soon they realise that Nick Fury was trying to tip them off to an impending attack, when over a loud speaker Craddock demands that the Avengers leave the building immediately or faced the consequences. Outside they find Craddock with the army and the press. He has a court order subpoenaing the Avengers to testify at his Alien Activities Commission. To enforce the order a large SHIELD helicopter arrives. Goliath doesn't care he's not going to allow some jumped up politician to order him around even though he has just taken the last of Hank Pym's growth serum. The SHIELD copter lands and the front opens to reveal a trio of Mandroids, highly trained soldiers in suits of high-tech armour designed by Tony Stark. Their standing orders are to capture the Avengers. Goliath is first to attack, thinking that they aren't going to be tough enough to take on the Avengers. The giant Avenger gets quite a surprise, as does Captain America. Iron Man warns his fellow Avengers of just how capable the Mandroids are, as he also happened to train them. As the battle royal rages no-one reacts to a man-hole cover creaking open, heralding a new arrival on the chaotic scene. A creature who has travelled over half the world the Inhuman called Triron, but is he here as friend or foe? Find out next week in "Avenger Vs. Inhuman...and why!"
Cornered the barbarian crouches awaiting the onslaught, at least he's death won't be slow like the agonising fate Torkal Moh decreed. Conan's teeth show themselves in a snarl like a savage animal as the first wolf leaps. He catches the canine and swings it in the direction of the two wolves directly behind him. No sooner then the rest of the pack attacks. With his two strong hands he chokes two of the beasts when abruptly a voice orders him to drop them. Doing so he turns to see that he was saved by their mistress, Lupalina. She knows that Torkal Moh has taken the girl and staked him out as a feast for the rats, but she does not know his name. Conan tells her his name and that he intends to rescue the girl from Torkal Moh who has also taken an amulet from him, which he was required to deliver to the Regent of Phalkar. Lupalina takes Conan to her hut where she asks Conan more questions about the corpse he and the girl had dragged behind them and of Stefanya's birthmark. Upon hearing the birthmark's description she decides to help Conan in his task, but she won't give her reasons why. That night Conan dreams of another Priestess of the Wild, Ursla, who tells Conan to give her sister priestess Lupalina her greetings, which the next day he does. Conan had recalled meeting Ursla in MWOM #202. Conan and Lupalina reach Torkal Moh's castle, where they wait to ambush a small raiding party carrying defeated slaves. With Conan's fighting might and Lupalina's army of wolves they quickly defeat the soldiers. Some of the slaves agree to join them, disguising themselves as soldiers so that they can make their way into Torkal Moh's castle known as Ravengard. Find out how it goes next week in "Attack!"
John Buxton from Northampton has been waiting anxiously for the Incredible Hulk #176 to turn up in MWOM with "The Death of a Super-hero." The Man-God being executed by the modern version of Pontius Pilate on Counter-Earth. Warlock is a truly unique character. Originally created in a lab for sinister purposes, Him was pitted against the Fantastic Four then Thor and later became entangled with the High Evolutionary's evil creation the Manwolf on Counter Earth. He became a modern-day Jesus, even having disciples. With the Hulk, we see a screenplay of the Bible. Events led to Adam Warlock’s crucifixion. He even delivered a similar speech and his new friend, the Hulk, was helpless to aid him. Finally there was his inevitable resurrection. Martin Bruton from London looks back at 1967 when "Power Comics" were at their zenith when "Fantastic" featured Thor, X-Men and Iron-Man, but also featured a story called The Missing Link, later known as Johnny Future. This non Marvel yarn with only three or four pages each week managed to hold its own in company with the other features, mainly due to the style, elegance and sensitivity of the artwork of one Luis Bermejo. The scripting was adequate but it was Bermejo's work that dominated each page. Michael Sulch from Peterborough wants to be able to subscribe to the American Monthlies again as he missed the original offer.
The Avengers “Behold the Mandroids!”
Writer: Roy Thomas
Artist: Neal Adams
Inker: Tom Palmer
Originally published in The Avengers #94
Cover date December 1971
(Published in September 1971)
This fantastic splash page by Neal Adams from the original strip is used for part three with the credits added in a text box where originally only Neal Adams' name was only listed as he had followed on from John Buscema as the artist, who drew the second part, as see over the last two weeklies. The "Part Three" text circle on the top left has been removed.
Conan the Barbarian “Night of the wolf!”
Writer: Roy Thomas
Artist: John Buscema
Inker: Dick Giordano
Originally published in Conan the Barbarian #49
Cover date April 1975
(Published in January 1975)
This second part opening splash page was drawn by an unnamed artist. Conan has freed himself after being pegged out to die by Torkal Moh, who had stolen his horse and kidnapped his travelling companion, Stefanya. The pair had been transporting Stefanya's dead master the wizard Zoqquanor. The Cimmerian had been following Torkal Moh's trail when he suddenly sensed he wasn't alone. Looking round he discovers his stalkers are a pack of wild wolves. Against one wolf or maybe two he might have a fighting chance, but with only his bare hands and against this pack of wolves his plight is worthless.
This full page features an in-house advert for Planet of the Apes and Dracula Lives comic and The Titans weekly. The text commands the readers to "Grab these two action-stacked issues...while they last!" The image of the Planet of the Apes and Dracula Lives cover shows the incorrect cover price, showing 8p instead of the new price of 9p.
The Mighty Marvel Mailbag
This Marvel Masterwork pin-up of the Green Goblin was signed as Moore/Vohland. It is a very strong possibility that it was pencilled by Brian Moore, who worked for US Marvel in the mid to late seventies, pencilling the cover of the Marvel/Curtis magazine The Savage Sword of Conan issue 25, cover dated December 1977, published October 1977 as well as strips that appeared in Crazy Magazine issue 50, cover dated May 1979, published March 1979, a Howard the Duck strip in Crazy Magazine issue 53, cover dated August 1979, published June 1979, that continued in issue 54, cover dated September 1979, published July 1979. In his time before those strips he did splash pages for British Marvel comics including a Fantastic Four one that appeared Captain Britain issue 39, cover dated the week ending 6th July 1977, which was inked by Duffy Vohland. Duffy also inks this Green Goblin pin-up. I do wonder why it wasn't printed in Super Spider-man with the Super-Heroes as it would have fitted there better than in MWOM.
Daredevil “...And one cried murder!”
Writer: Roy Thomas
Artist: Gene Colan
Inker: Syd Shores
Originally published in Daredevil #66
Cover date July 1970
(Published in May 1970)
Ross Archer played Brother Brimstone in the soap-opera "Strange Secrets" up until his death at the hands of his screen alter-ego Brother Brimstone in real life. Daredevil listens to the mourners as they file in line behind Archer's coffin as they enter an old Spanish church in California. To Daredevil's mind the deadman has more mourners than he would have imagined for a hot tempered man. He suspects that some of them may well be relatives, while most of the others are show business associates. He also suspects that one of them is perhaps his murderer.
All the excitement of the Wild West in HO scale from Atlantic. What's HO scale? Not a clue! In truth I don't remember this brand of model figures. But apparently Atlantic was the big new name in scale models, with a full range of western figures as well as a huge range of soldiers from World War Two and modern army, all in perfect detail. As well a figures there are snap together tanks, helicopters and armoured cars. All in life like detail with no need for glueing. The kits started from 20 pence. More action-filled packs from the Wild West range that are shown in this advert are: Pack 1002 Buffalo Bill, Pack 1003 Geronimo and Apaches, Pack 1005 Davy Crockett, Pack 1006 Apaches Camp, Pack 1007 US Camp, Pack 1008 Kit Carson and Pack 1009 Sioux Indians, all as seen in silhouette on the right of the advert.
Super Spider-man with the Super-Heroes #186
This cover was Jeff Aclin's version of Gil Kane's cover from the Amazing Spider-man issue 137 and I have to say I think the landscape version improves the original making it a wide screen spectacular. The brighter background helps a lot too. The inks from Frank Giacoia, on both Jeff and Gil's covers look tidy on UK and US versions. It was a close call with the MWOM cover and this one for CotW, but I really love the Avengers. The new back-up strip, the Invaders makes a cover guest appearance on the bottom right corner.
Spider-man “The Green Goblin strikes!”
Writer: Gerry Conway
Artist: Ross Andru
Inker: Frank Giacoia and Dave Hunt
Originally published in the Amazing Spider-man #137
Cover date October 1974
(Published in July 1974)
This opening prologue page was redrawn by Dave Hunt (pencils,) and Duffy Vohland (inks,) to fit the original image drawn by Ross Andru into a landscape page. It was sold on Heritage Auctions on the 23rd February 2018 for $2,390. Which is around £1765. The new Green Goblin holds up a truck carrying strange canisters.
Meanwhile, Spider-man has spent the second night looking for Harry Osborne, but without finding any sign of his onetime friend he swings over to the hospital where Mary Jane is being treated following the explosion at his old apartment. There he finds that Joe, Flash, Liz, Aunt May and even J Jonah Jameson are all visiting Mary Jane. Small talk is had by all, but when Peter asks Flash if he wants to see MJ, he says that he'll wait for Harry. Peter and Aunt May go in together. She's in good spirits, when Aunt May asks MJ what really happened to them she tells her that the police are checking things out, but at the minute they have bigger thinks to worry about, like the news of the Green Goblin's recent attack that she heard about on the radio. Peter makes an excuse to leave the hospital, but not before he gives Jameson the cold shoulder when the publisher tries to talk Peter out of quitting at the Bugle.
This pin-up artwork that takes up half a landscape page between the Spider-man strip and the Invaders strip was drawn by an unnamed artist. There appears to be initials on the bottom right corner that could read "LM" or possibly "CM" but it isn't clear enough to be someone signature. They could well be just artist lines.
The Invaders “The coming of the Invaders!”
Writer: Roy Thomas
Artist: Frank Robbins
Inker: Vince Colletta
Originally published in Giant-sized Invaders #1
Cover date June 1975
(Published in March 1975)
Now I'm not a big "War comics" fan, although there are plenty of great exceptions to that, as I written about in the POTB blog "I don't like war comics, oh-no I love-em!", but I do have a massive soft spot for the Invaders. I think it comes from the American monthlies versions of that title that I bought. I think the colour and the shameless glory of them spoke to my impressionable child-self at the time. Also the UK Fantastic Four annual 1979 from World Distributers Ltd, left a mark on me. It featured a Team-up between the FF and the Invaders, originally from the American Fantastic Four annual issue 11, cover dated June 1976, published March 1976 and I absolutely loved that story as a child. I can't say I think Frank Robbins artwork is great, but seeing this splash page with the greatest heroes of World War Two throwing punches and fire-balls at Hitler makes me feel good inside. I hate fascists!
It's 22rd December 1941 at the Liberty Shipyards when sudden chaos breaks out as a group of Nazi saboteurs are taken down by Captain America and Bucky. With victory for the fighting mad patriots from the shadows steps an FBI agent named Stuart. Approaching the heroes he inquires about a man named Doctor Anderson. Cap immediately recognises the name, reflecting back on the events when he first transformed into Captain America. Thinking back to 1940, the scene changes to a Top Secret meeting at the White House between President Roosevelt and General Philips about Operation Rebirth, when it is suddenly interrupted by Doctor Anderson, the head of the project. The President wished the men and the project god-speed. I know this is a retelling of Cap origin by Joe Simons and Jack Kirby, but Thomas and Robbins really expand and fresh out Cap's origin. Some of the panels are re-used and influence John Byrne's retelling of the tale back in the 80's. The chief scientist behind Operation Rebirth is Doctor Abraham Erskine who selected Steve Rogers as a volunteer for a project designed to give him superhuman strength, speed and dexterity. In this version Rogers drinks a potion that starts the process. Seeing Rogers transform into a Super-soldier in seconds a Nazi spy also present, assassinates Erskine and with him the secret of his Super-Soldier Serum is lost. Steve Rogers soon went on to become the patriotic hero Captain America. Snapping back to 1941, Captain America listens intently as Agent Stuart tells him that Doctor Anderson might be dead as he's been taken to the hospital and they need the help of Captain America and Bucky. Next week "The Human Torch and Toro!" enter the tale.
The Web and the Hammer
Jeff Aclin (pencils,) and Duffy Vohland (inks,) create this cool Marvel Masterwork Centre Spread. The Web-slinger is really up against it as he has to face four of his greatest enemies, Kraven the Hunter, Doctor Octopus, the Vulture and the Green Goblin! This centre spread would make a stunning addition to any Spider-man fan's bedroom wall.
Two more triumphs from Marvel. This week's The Titans plus Planet of the Apes and Dracula Lives, with the incorrect cover price.
Ka-Zar leads the Thing to the far southern side of the Savage Land where a crater lies, caused by a volcanic eruption. The animals near by are freshly frightened when a volcano erupts before their eyes, causing them to stampede. Moving closer to the volcano they discover a giant machine on wheels and an army of men under the command of Volcanus ,who hopes to use the volcanic energy of the Savage Land for his own ends. After a brief battle, the two heroes are incapacitated by Volcanus, who uses the volcanic force linked directly through his re-structured bio-system to blast them. Ben and Ka-Zar awake to find themselves trapped in an iron cage that is suspended over the volcano. Zabu is trapped in a steel net on the ground below. Volcanus plans to kill them in the next eruption caused by his machine, that will also give him the remaining power he needs to totally transform his atoms into a being of living fire. Once Volcanus leaves with his men Ben and Ka-Zar swing back and forth inside the cage causing it to swing violently from side to side until it smashes against the volcano walls allowing them to climb free. The Thing and Ka-Zar battle Volcanus's men making short work of them. The Thing confronts Volcanus, who falls when the tremors weaken the ledge, sending him plummeting into the lava below. Next week the Thing meets up with the amazing Scarecrow.
Writer: Stan Lee
Sanda the High Priest cannot give the order, so Sylitha, who has eyes for Sanda's position, orders Durnon's death. Illyana the woman who discovered Ka-Zar and Zabu unconscious in the outer jungle protests, she and Durnon are to be wed in the spring. She asks Sanda is there not something he can do to stop it? But the High Priest is forlorn as he cannot. Ka-Zar has seen enough and speaks out against the madness of stone gods and cowardly priests. Having stood and watched as he was tried for the misconduct of others, as Sanda was blamed for misconduct and as Durnon was ordered to be punished for Sanda's nonexistent blame. The Savage Lord can only see that any God who demands death is a devil. A devil who is no more than a bald and fat piece of carved stone idol, used by Sylitha to further his own selfish goals. With those words the priest cries out "Blasphemer!" and all hell breaks loose. Ka-Zar and Zabu fight with the guards until Illyana shows them a hidden passageway through which they make their escape. When the passage way ends Ka-Zar, Illyana and Zabu have to continue their journey by diving into a fast flowing underground river that might lead them to safety, Could it be a journey to "Heaven of Hell?" Find out next week for the answer.
Digby Russell from Berkshire writes that over the past year or so POTA has gone from good to bad to good and from good to excellent. One particular story that he brings to the readers attention is the Statue of Liberty was an excellent idea, for which the artwork was shown again on the cover of issue 35 in "Beneath ..." all the fantastic memories came back. He thinks the best artist for the apes is Alfredo Alcala. The end of issue 38 was a masterpiece. with Brent realising he was looking at a 1980 subway station. Digby comments on Nova's death, that here again Alfredo shows the sorrow of the heartbroken Taylor fully and effectively. Issue 46 was possibly the greatest ape comic ever. with the cover and the determination of Taylor to blow up the world. Mike Burgess from Sussex thank's the editor for mentioning his name and address in POTA, he has had quite a good response, but further letters are more than welcome! Dominic English from Essex Asks where he can find food for his Sea Monkeys? This question was answered last week. James McIntyre from Middlesex is eagerly awaiting his copy of Captain America's Bicentennial Battles treasury as it has fulfilled two of his dearest wishes, to have a Cap treasury and to have more non-reprint original Treasuries. Colin Wood from Blackburn writes that Dracula Lives #62 and #79 were landmarks in British Marvel. In #62 Man-Thing first graced the pages of DL. He can't fault this story, both artwork and scripts have been immaculate. Steve really brings out the creature's tragic life and the emotions of the creature. Issue 79, he thought that Son of Satan was planned for these pages, but he's glad that the Ghost Rider was chosen, instead, it's terrific.
Andrew Sheldon from Preston buys three weeklies per week and he thinks that putting Dracula Lives with POTA was a great move. Dracula fighting with Blade against Doctor Sun was great. The Man-Thing is good and so is the Planet of the Apes. However Ka-Zar is just okay, but it is the worst feature in this mag. Murray Bailey from Staffordshire gets very spiritual when he asks "What is God?" Friendship, happiness, love, enjoyment, kindness, peace and so on, in fact everything that is good, is God. So he's sure many other Marvelites feels that Marvel plays a similar place in their lives. To quote from a letter by Mykel Evengetista in Dracula Lives #86: "And look at it as a comic-book story... just a comic-book story." Murray disagrees with and says that Marvel is definitely not just a comic-book story. For him it's a way of life. His letter touches religious topics that might compare Marvel to the Bible, read his letter to find out more. Adam Cainer from York writes about the Man-Thing, pointing out that despite public reaction similarities with the Hulk and the Glob, The Man-Thing stands out as being powerfully different and empathic. He identifies with the emotions of others, a one-way communication system which relies on his being able to cruelly sum up the emotive information he senses. Affection makes him docile, but fear is the emotion which the Man-Thing loathes, for fear breeds fear, and fear often brings violence in its wake. Whoever knows fear burns at the Man-Thing's touch. Ian Garbutt from Aberfoyle writes his letter to report that due to your publishing his letter in POTA #79 the Beyond Antares Science Fiction Club has had a fairly large influx of new members. both male and female. The first issue of the club's periodical "A for Antares" has been published successfully. The idea of the newsletter was apart from imparting information and encouraging readers to contribute science fiction articles, poetry or short-stories. His letter adds that new members are always welcome.
When the man presses him for answers he tells him that he may regret his insistence, but tells him anyway. The statue was once alive until he met Medusa. It was late one night, just before closing when the man came in to the shop, but not as a customer. Thinking that the shop keeper kept valuables behind a vault door at the back of the shop the robber forced him at gun point to open it. The shop keeper refused, but the crook struck him down and forced him to open it. Handing the key over to the thug he opened the door. In the shadows tentacled creature moved. In the next second the criminal was turned to stone. The curious man believes it's all ridiculous nonsense and balderdash. The shop keeper tells him that he begged for his story and he related it to him. But the man still thinks that the keeper had insulted his intelligence with such a fantastic tale. The shop owner offers the man the chance to look behind the door and see for himself, but the man leave saying he has no time for such nonsense. The old shop keeper placing his hand on the statue's shoulder says to him "He didn't know whether to believe or not, my friend! But we know, don't we?? We know!! We Know!!"
Zira is taken by the new male human, she is convinced that there is something special about him. Just then Doctor Zaius arrives to talk to Doctor Zira. She asks Taylor, who she names Bright Eyes, to perform the trick that made him look intelligent. Stoney faced Taylor doesn't react. Zaius finds her story amusing, a man who acts like an ape. But certain Apes have the gift of mimicry. Zaius finds the study of man pointless, as men are a nuisance. They out grow their own food supply in the forest and migrate to the green belts, ravaging the apes grown crops. Zaius believes the sooner they're exterminated the better. To him it's a question of Simian survival. With that he leaves. Zira thinks there's more to it and orders Bright Eyes to be kept in the same cell as the human girl. The next day Taylor tries to get Zira's attention when Zira and her fiancé Cornelius meet Doctor Zaius again. Taylor writes in the soft dirt, "I can write", but his female cellmate rubs it out. Did someone see it? Find out next week.
The back page of this week's Planet of the Apes features another fistful of posters offer. This time the Silver Surfer, the Incredible Hulk and the Amazing Spider-man. You can have the set of all three from the price of one pound fifty pence. Or if you're a FOOM member they could be yours for ten pence less. The three posters are 23 inches by 34 inches, printed on heavy art paper. The Silver Surfer image is taken from the Silver Surfer issue 7, cover dated August 1969, published May 1969, with Mephisto replacing Baron Frankenstein at a later date for this poster. The Hulk image looks very familiar, could it be by Marie Severin? And I'm not sure who drew the Spider-man v the Sandman poster. Any ideas?
While Sue and Franklin head for Whisper Hill, Reed orders Crystal to stay behind to monitor things from the Baxter Building as Ben, Johnny, and Reed go off to face the Atlanteans. When Namor's ship detects the approach of the Fantasti-Car, the Sub-Mariner decides to face them alone. From behind his back Magneto use his powers to fire an Atlantean missile at the Fantastic Four. Namor is horrified that an Atlantean weapon has been fired first and flys off to stop it. Reed has also spotted the missile and activates a jammer device to stop the projectile. The resulting blast strikes the Sub-Mariner, knocking him into the water below. The Thing dives in after him, while, inside the Atlantean submarine Magneto makes his move, using his magnetic powers to incapacitate the crew he fully takes over the invasion fleet. Elsewhere Susan returns from dropping off Franklin with Agatha Harkness. But before she can rejoin with the others. However, along the way, Magneto spots her ship, who uses his powers to crash the vessel into the sea.
Meanwhile, the Thing and the Sub-Mariner battle it out beneath the waves, but Namor proves to be more than a match for the Thing when his air begins to run out. Namor returns to the surface where he finds his flagship gone. Before he can search for it, he is attacked by Johnny and Reed. Mister Fantastic rescues the Thing from the sea and he too joins the battle. Namor heads back towards his fleet. As the Fantastic Four subdue Namor, Reed demands to know why he started the invasion? Namor is confused saying it was them who launched the attack, adding that he should have listened to Magneto. Reed and Ben are shocked to hear about the evil mutants involvement. Just then, one of Namor's soldiers informs his Prince that there is a message Magneto requesting that he and the Fantastic Four listen to his demands. Going to a view screen they see that Magneto with both Sue and Lady Dorma as his prisoners. Magneto demands that both Namor and the Fantastic Four do not lift a finger against him if they want to keep the women safe. As the communication terminates, Johnny and Ben realise that the fate of the world rests in the hands of both Namor and Reed, whose women are in deadly peril.
On Exile Island, the Red Skull and his minions the Exiles decide to have some entertainment by forcing two of their prisoners to fight each other. They refuse, but the Red Skull threatens to press a tiny metal rod. Not knowing what it does strikes fear into them so they fight to avoid the consequences. The Exiles are a group of Red Skull allies from World War Two. It is possible that after the war, they were gathered by the mad scientist Doctor Weird to fight against Iron Man on his island and rounded up by the military after his defeat, as seen in SMCW #53. In the original US comic Doctor Weird's character's name was Doctor Strange, of course Tales of Suspense issue 41, cover dated May 1963, published February 1963, was before Stan Lee and Steve Ditko created the Master of the Mystic Arts. It's never mentioned but Kirby was artist on both strips so may be he liked the look of the characters and reused them.
The Exiles are Grunning, Angelo Baldini, Ivan Krushki, Franz Cadavus, Jurgen "Iron-Hand" Hauptmann and General Jun Ching, none of them are named in this story. The Red Skull and the Exiles begin to plan their trap for Captain America. The red-white-and-blue Avenger wastes no time in going after the Red Skull, after commandeering a lift by a SHIELD aircraft who takes him out to the ocean near Exile Island Cap leaps from the plane and into the murky depths. Using a high tech breathing device designed by Tony Stark, Cap dives below the waves in search of the under-sea entrance to the Skull's island. Soon Cap is caught up in one of the island's defences. A bed of electronically controlled sea-weed that snares anything up that comes into its proximity with its artificial tentacles. Cap is prepared for such a trap. Hidden in his glove are shock pellets that detonate on queue blasting him free. However a guard on the Island is alerted to the explosion in the kelp bed and orders an attack craft to investigate. Find out next week if they "Kill Captain America!"
Writer: Roy Thomas
The final panel from last week's ending has been re-shaped and repurposed as this two panel second part opening splash page. Namor had left Lord Seth on for dead after a battle with the deadly Lethe beast and wandered aimlessly in the oceans as if in a trance for days, when suddenly his memory returns, coupled with a desperate desire to return to Atlantis that sweeps over him.
As he swims through the borders he greets a guard who blasts at him and tells him he is no longer Atlantis' sovereign as that title belongs to Naga. Captured and chained Namor cannot believe how his people have decided to forget their peaceful ways and worship Naga. Lord Vashti and the chief scientist Ikthon agree they should sacrifice Namor to Naga, the Serpent of life and death. All their attire is entwined with serpents just like the rest of Atlantis. The blood thirsty crowd rejoice as their Priestess, Lady Dorma arrives wearing the Serpent Crown. Angered Namor breaks free from his bonds and takes the Serpent Crown from Dorma's head, asking who dares stand against him. A voice rings out, it is the freed Tiger Shark. Although he stands against Namor he sounds more sane than the Atlanteans who have fallen to the madness. Dorma tries to stab Namor in the back. He tries to smash the Crown but it is indestructible so instead he flees with it. Later he risks finding more about Naga by wearing the Crown. Suddenly he sees images of an ancient reptilian face and a strange chart that mark landmasses in both the Atlantic and the Pacific. Then he witnesses visions from the early origins of his people, when their leader Var-Tov predicted the Earth's shifting axis that was to bring doom. His race world split in two with half fleeing to the Sea of Turbulence while the other to the Sea of Tranquility. Namor witness the world tremble as continents sink and seas rush in where there was once arid deserts. In a fit of panic Namor throws the Crown down a ravine, but somehow he senses that he must recover it incase it falls into the wrong hands. Just as he reaches out to retrieve it another hand grabs for it. Find out who it belongs to next week in "the Questers!" More Invaders, invasions and incredible imaginative adventures in next week's Power of the Beesting blog, so till then...
Iron Man “Who Am I?”
Writer: Archie Goodwin
Artist: George Tuska
Inker: Johnny Craig
Originally published in Iron Man #17
Cover date September 1969
(Published in June 1969)
This two panel landscape opening page was drawn by an unnamed artist. Tony Stark has returned to Stark Industries after a tiring mission as Iron Man to find waiting in his office a rogue Life Model Decoy version of himself, that was awoken after a sabotage attempt by Madame Masque.
The LMD over powers the original Stark and has him thrown out as an imposter. With his identity stolen Tony becomes homeless and dejected. The LMD has changed all of Stark's records so that his fingerprints and signature doesn't match so Tony can't cash a cheque and his credit cards have been cancelled so he has no way to buy clothes or buy food. He's even kicked out of Avengers Mansion by Jarvis when he can't supply the proper entrance code. His chest plate starts to run low on power, desperately he has to break into a parked car to charge it up from the vehicle battery. This is noticed by a neighbour who calls the police. When the police arrive Tony has to over power them and flee to prevent them from spotting his chest-plate beneath his shirt. They give chase but just when he thinks he's lost them he is shot unconscious by Madame Masque and lifted away on an auto-ascension lift from her ship. As they rise she orders that Midas is signalled that the mission is a success. Next week we'll learn that "Even a hero can die!"
The Thing and “Coming of Volcanus!”
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Artist: Ron Wilson
Inker: Dan Adkins
Originally published in Marvel Two-in-One #16
Cover date June 1976
(Published in March 1976)
Last week's ending splash page makes this week's second part opening splash page with a catch-up box, new story title and credits added. The Thing has journeyed to the Savage Land to investigate strange volcanic activity in the region at the request of Reed Richards. There he is attacked by a ferocious Allosaurus, Ben is no push over but he's thankful that Ka-Zar and Zabu help him defeat the carnivorous dinosaur. After listening to Ben's reason for being there the Savage Lord agrees to help the Thing as he too after returning to the Savage Land sensed new dangers.
The Mighty Thor “...Death of a Thunder God!”
Artist: John Buscema
Inker: Joe Sinnott
Originally published in The Mighty Thor #189
Cover date June 1971
(Published in April 1971)
This second part opening landscape splash page was drawn by an unnamed artist. After Hela, the Goddess of Death had failed to control Odin when the All-Father had overcome the part of his soul known as Infinity, so she had sort payment instead. The price is the soul of the mighty Thor. Odin sends his son to Earth, in the identity of Donald Blake with Volstagg to watch over the mortal.
Hela travels to Earth, assuming a mortal guise as she hunts for the Thunder God. Appearing first in New York City she has to dispatch a pair of muggers who make the mistake of trying to rob her. As the search begins she detects Thor in Spain, then in the Alps, and again and again she detects him in different places, however each time the Norse God is nothing more than an illusion which evaporates each time she uses her entropy powers on these constructs. The illusions are nothing more than a ruse by Odin to give Volstagg time to get to Donald Blake's office. After an eventful ride through New York's subway system, Volstagg eventually arrives at Donald Blake's office, where he tells the doctor why he is there. Blake refuses to hide from Hela forever. Hela returns to New York, deciding that if she cannot find Thor herself, she would draw him out. Finding a group of fire fighters tending to a burning building, she rapidly ages them. When Blake hears of the strange news on the radio, he has no choice but to face Hela as Thor. Arriving on the scene, he saves the remaining people from the burning building, calling forth a storm that puts out the flames. Hela confronts Thor with the near dead firemen and gives Thor an ultimatum: Give up his life or she will take those of the firefighters instead. With no other choice, Thor agrees. Hela restores the aging firemen to normal and then closes in on Thor. Discover "the awesome end" next week.
Planet of the Apes and Dracula Lives #98
I can't say for certain but I think Ron Wilson must have been quite busy working for Marvel US, possibly with Marvel Two-in-One, Fantastic Four, Power Man and various Kung Fu strips as it feels that he hasn't drawn a UK Planet of the Apes for quite some time. Taking his place is Herb Trimpe who seems to be coming quite a regular. This certainly has Herb's strength, two ripped antagonist scrapping it out. Duffy Vohland applies the inks. Trimpe and Vohland's signatures can be seen on the left edge with the date "76".
Most of the Keeper's face is in the shadows of his cowl, but the abrupt and lightning move of the alien break's Jason's grip, throwing the Keeper's cowl back and revealing the hideous face behind the tendril-stalked eyes, a multiple razor-sharp beaked mouth that bites at Jason's chest. The lad fights him off and eventually breaks free. Alex picks up one of the monkey-demon's sword to frighten them away, while Jason picks up Lightsmith. They jump into the "Shaker-railer." and race down the track with the monkey-demons in pursuit. Less than a mile away Brutus and his army of gorillas and mutant drones enter a tunnel, that has been constructed for a sinister purpose. On the ground a rail track that leads deeper into the mountain. As they venture further inwards with their prisoners Malagueña and Gilbert they discover a large number of tall pillars stacked tightly in rows, unknown to them they are missiles of the deadliest kind. Brutus asks Drone-Ess are they the things which will destroy every last human on Earth? His cold reply is "Undoubtedly Commander Brutus." Suddenly they hear a humming which Drone-Ess is similar to the railcar system that the Inheritors use in their caverns. Unknown to the curious party the eyes of the winged monkey-demons watch their every move as the twin lights of the "Shaker-railer" races down the track towards them. Next week the "Armageddon threat!"
The third Item of this week's Bullpen Bulletin gives notice that Howard the Duck is continuing his campaign for the Presidency of the United States, but has found the time in his busy schedule to pose for a centre-spread that featured in The Titans #46, showing that he'll make a fine candidate. The next Item asks all Marvelites to be on the look out for a van that was seen on the A25, which had a huge Spider-Man, seven feet tall and three feet wide, painted on the front! And on the back a colossus Captain America. The Bullpenner who saw it noted down the van's registration number as NWP 745E. The final Item this week would have been of interest to all subscribers of FOOM Magazine, they should be receiving issue 13 in September. FOOM is only issued three times a year at roughly four-monthly intervals.
Planet of the Apes “Escape from the Psychedrome!”
Writer: Doug Moench
Artist: Tom Sutton
Inker: Tom Sutton
Originally published in Planet of the Apes (US) #20
Cover date May 1976
(Published in March 1976)
An unnamed artist draws this second part opening splash page. With the threat of his life and the dirty end of a machine gun the alien who calls himself the Keeper, pilots a shuttlecraft through the endless corridors of the Psychedrome with Jason, Alex and the brainwashed Lightfoot as his passengers. The craft is pursued by winged monkey-demons as they reach the "Shaker-railer." Moving faster than they seemed the monkey-demons steels Jason gun right from his hands. With nothing to use against them the young man grabs the Keeper around his neck as hostage.
Bullpen Bulletin
Ka-Zar “The Devil-God of Sylitha!”
Writer: Doug Moench
Artist: Don Heck
Inker: Frank Springer
Originally published in Ka-Zar Vol 2 #11
Cover date October 1975
(Published in July 1975)
Don Heck takes over the art chores in the Ka-Zar strip with Frank Springer applying the inks. I must say it is quite jarring, especially in black and white. I'm not a fan of Heck's work, although it does improve my appreciation of last week's Ka-Zar artwork. Ka-Zar is a stranger to the ways of the golden city of Tordon-Na and to its vaulted temple of the God Ilak-Aron. The effigy of Ilak-Aron decrees that the High Priest Sanda has sinned by welcoming Ka-Zar into their valley. The punishment for that crime is the blood sacrifice of the High Priest's son Durnon!
Man-Thing “Conquistador-- Death and life!”
Writer: Steve Gerber
Artist: Mike Ploog
Inker: Mike Ploog
Originally published in Man-Thing #7
Cover date July 1974
(Published in April 1974)
This third part opening splash page was drawn by an unnamed artist. The hidden city of the Conquistadors has suddenly been found in the middle of the Florida Everglades, where members of a "lost-in-time" group has just tried to capture the swamp creature known as the Man-Thing. Obviously, he did not approve. Meanwhile in Citrusville Richard Rory announces to his friends Ruth Hart and Ayla Prentiss that his luck is finally changing as he's been offered a job on the midnight to dawn slot on WNRV radio station.
Life is full of ups and downs and Richard has had more downs than many, so the happiness balance swigs the other way as Ruth tells him that she has made a decision on where her life is heading next. After finding herself over the past few days she feels that she isn't ready for a lasting relationship. She has decided to return to her parents home and finish her school work. She turns to leave, whispers goodbye and doesn't look back. Richards asks if Ayla is going too. She is sorry to say she will be leaving with the carnival tomorrow evening. The couple walk past a cafe, where inside FA Schist explains to Professor Wickham that he was convinced that the Fountain of Youth exists somewhere in the swamp. He had hoped that the draining of the swamp while constructing the airport would reveal its location. Schist offers Wickham a chance to discover it together. Meanwhile back in the swamps, the Man-Thing has followed the trail of fear and followed the Conquistadors who burn at his touch. Those who escape madly head for the safety of the Hacienda, but before they can reach their goal they are overcome with exhaustion, they begin to fall and crumble. By the time the Man-Thing reaches them the air is filled with the stench of rotted flesh. As dead men do not fear the muck-monster's fury evaporates and is replaced with curiosity as he studies the dead men's bones, not noticing the vine-covered fortress they had failed to reach. The horror continues next week.
Apes Fang-Mail
Dracula Presents “Behind my door waits...Medusa!”
Writer: unknown
Artist: Steve Ditko
Inker: Steve Ditko
Originally published in Tales of Suspense #10
Cover date July 1960
(Published in February 1960)
The Lord of the Vampires again presents a horror tale from Marvel's extensive back catalogue. Dracula himself decrees that no creature can hide from him, no locked door can keep him out. But even he, the undisputed master of horror must take heed when told that "behind my door waits Medusa!" A man enters a Curio shop and is interested in a lifelike statute of a man. The shoppe keeper tells him he was present during the statue's creation, but he cannot tell him more.
Planet of the Apes “Captive of hate!”
Writer: Doug Moench
Artist: George Tuska
Inker: Mike Esposito
Originally published in Planet of the Apes (US) #2
Cover date October 1974
(Published in August 1974)
An unnamed artist draws this second part splash page. The astronaut from the past called Taylor has been captured on a world gone crazy that is ruled by apes, where humans are muted savages, either hunted for sport or studied for science. A gun shot wound to the neck has temporarily lost him his ability to speak. All his efforts to communicate with the female chimpanzee doctor called Zira have been missed.
The Titans #46
Here another great Jeff Aclin landscape cover which uses the widescreen format to improve on the US cover it was based on. In this case it was John Romita Sr.'s cover from Fantastic Four issue 103. Jeff has another good shout for the Cover of the Week, if not for Al Milgrom, but that's the luck of the draw. Frank Giacoia inks this cover.
The Fantastic Four “At war with Atlantis!”
Writer: Stan Lee
Artist: John Romita Sr.
Inker: John Verpoorten
Originally published in The Fantastic Four #103
Cover date October 1970
(Published in July 1970)
This opening splash page copies the original opening splash page by John Romita Sr. was drawn by another artist to fit the landscape splash page. There's a signature under Magneto that look like it reads FULLER! Which could mean it was by John M Fuller, the artist who drew last week's centre spread from The Titans. He also did the centre spread from The Titans #42.
Since the Sub-Mariner has rescued Magneto the evil mutant has goaded the Prince of Atlantis towards war against mankind thru trickery and deceit. As Namor's flagship with the Atlantis' fleet approaches the US coast, the Sub-Mariner's equipment registers that the Fantastic Four are preparing for war against the Atlanteans. He is not ready to give the order for all out war, even as Magneto continues to fan the flames with his constant pushing Namor to an aggressive stance in order to suit his own plans for conquest. Meanwhile, at the Baxter Building, Reed contacts the head of the military to convinces them to hold off mobilising any forces to face Namor's army until the Fantastic Four can find a way to deal with the situation. The Human Torch grow impatient and tries to fly off to try and stall Namor's forces, but is pulled back by Reed. Richards then orders Sue to take their son Franklin to Agatha Harkness' home on Whisper Hill to keep him safe. Just then, the President calls in and gives Reed one chance to stop Namor, telling the Fantastic Four that the United States Army has been mobilised to strike if they should fail. Originally Jack Kirby drew Richard Nixon as the President, in this UK version an art bodger re-draws him as Gerald Ford.
Ghost Rider “Ghost of a chance!”
Writer: Gary Friedrich
Artist: Jim Mooney
Inker: Vince Colletta
Originally published in Ghost Rider #4
Cover date February 1974
(Published in November 1973)
This landscape page recaps last week's event and was drawn by an unnamed artist. The Ghost Rider has escaped from a road chase by the police when the sun came up and he transformed into Johnny Blaze. Later he had to be taken to hospital due to the wounds his mortal form had sustained.
Months later on the day of the demolition derby Roxanne speaks again with the Attorney General who informs her that she needs evidence against Dude Jensen. Roxanne looking to ease her fears seeks out Johnny before his show. As she enters his dressing room she witnesses Linda Littletrees with her arms on Johnny's shoulders. Before Johnny can explain she storms off, Johnny attempts to explain that Linda is just a friend but Roxanne doesn't believe him and so slaps him. This falls right into Linda's plan of attempting to seduce Johnny, however he sends her away.
As the sun goes down the flaming form of Ghost Rider takes over Johnny's body once more. With his Hellfire he materialises a Hell Cycle and heads for the start of the demolition derby. Meanwhile Roxanne overhears Dude Jensen hiring a gunman to kill an independent driver named Red Thompson who's costing him a lot of money. The hitman spots Roxanne and ties her up. Ghost Rider continues racing in the Derby as Red Thompson's car heads straight for him. Before they hit a shot rings out and kills Thompson, causing his car to crash, almost hitting the Ghost Rider. Spotting the shooter, the Rider chases after him, blasting the assassin with hellfire. Meanwhile in Jensen's office, Dude threatens to dispose of Roxanne. The drama continues next week in "Alone against the underworld!"
I have to be honest I can't recall seeing this "angel" looking villain who has kidnapped Beverly in any Howard the Duck stories I've read. Please correct me if you know who he is. The artists David Wenzel (pencils,) and Duffy Vohland (inks,) signed their names just under Howard's flippers.
Captain America “The weakest link!”
Writer: Stan Lee
Artist: Jack Kirby
Inker: Syd Shores
Originally published in Captain America #103
Cover date July 1968
(Published in April 1968)
Agent 13 has agreed to go on a dinner date with Captain America in his civilian identity as Steve Rogers. Later they go dancing where she reveals that her real name is Sharon Carter. However, their date is crashed when one of the Red Skull's minions uses stun gas fired from a gun to incapacitate Steve and capture Sharon. When reporting back to their master, the Red Skull is furious that they bring the tail blonde haired man who was her date, as from their description the Skull recognises him as his hated enemy in his civilian guise. However his plan to have Captain America come to him will soon happen when Cap learns of Sharon's kidnapping.
Nick Fury, Agent of SHIELD “Death of a planet!”
Writer: Jim Steranko
Artist: Jim Steranko
Inker: Jim Steranko
Originally published in Strange Tales #156
Cover date May 1967
(Published in February 1967)
This landscape splash page by an unnamed artist feels a little strange as this week's second part opener. Why is there a number of super-hero floating heads around the Supreme Hydra when he's proclaiming victory over SHIELD? Super-heroes don't fit into these early Agent of SHIELD stories. But it does make more sense when on the following page you see that Steranko has drawn five panels filled with multiple super-heroes who are listening to him rant.
He then announces to the world that he's placed a "Death Spore" bomb on board the Heli-Carrier, which will unleash a deadly plague upon the entire Earth. There is an alternative, if any nation surrenders and pledges their total loyalty to Hydra within one hour they will be spared its effects. After the rant the Supreme Hydra leaves to have his true features restored with the "Epiderm-Mask" machine. Meanwhile Nick Fury, who had hidden away on board "Bronson's" craft, the "Dyna-Soar," sneaks around Hydra Island looking for the kidnapped Laura Brown. Silently he knocks out several of HYDRA's thugs. Using special X-ray goggles Fury sees through a wall the Supreme Hydra removing the "Epiderm-Mask" machine, but his true identity is slightly obscured. A Hydra agent shots Fury in the back and he is captured. Upon awakening the Colonel discovers the true identity of the Supreme Hydra is none other than Baron Wolfgang Von Strucker, his old enemy from World War Two! Just take another look at that landscape splash page, it must have been a double page splash page but here we see it in all its glory. Jim Steranko may be controversial these day, depending on you view, but you can't deny that he was a master of his art. The detail is incredible! It is supreme in every way! Next week "Showdown!"
The Sub-Mariner “Of Serpents and crowns...and death!”
Artist: John Buscema
Inker: Dan Adkins
Originally published in Sub-Mariner Vol 2 #9
Cover date January 1969
(Published in October 1968)
See you in seven.
Make Mine Marvel.
No comments:
Post a Comment