Issues - 1-2

Writer- Michael Jan Friedman

Art- Sal Velluto

 

Summary:

In this retelling of a classic tale, the Silver Surfer has just recently been exiled to planet Earth and is roaming the planet. As he hovers above the Balkan nation of Latveria, he receives an invitation by none other than Dr. Doom. Doom convinces the Surfer that he works purely for the benefit of man and gives him a tour of the castle. Eventually Doom lures him into a chamber where he strips the Surfer of the power cosmic. Doom absorbs the power and begins a spree of destruction all over the world. The Surfer meanwhile is left remembering what it was like to be powerless. After killing the Fantastic Four, Doom feels the emptiness of absolute victory. He returns everything as it was and proceeds to try and leave Earth. Unknown to him, Galactus has forbade the Surfer [or the wielder of his power] to leave the planet. Once in contact with the planetary barrier Doom is stripped of the power and it is returned to its rightful owner.

 

Comments:

I have yet to read the original story, however I am sure this is a masterful retelling. How can I be sure? Simple, if the original story had been told like this, Doom would never have done half the things he has. The great thing about this story is also the bad thing about this story. The ending sees a changed Silver Surfer and Doom. Having learned what it means to give away his power, Silver Surfer vows never to do it again. This is not true, the same day I bought this issue I bought Silver Surfer #108 where the Surfer does the same exact thing. Doom promises to use his own devices to reach his goals. This is also not true. How many times can we recount Doom “cheating” to try and achieve his goals? The story as well as the art is top notch. Doom’s appearance while holding the power cosmic is absolutely demonic. Overall the story is so good that the events that followed this historic event as told here don’t do this story justice. Although I loathe to think that Doom would actually kill either Johnny or Sue Storm [Reed he hates, Ben perhaps because of the humiliating defeat he suffered at his hands], Doom’s characterization is great here, especially the final scene in issue 2. My only lingering question is why? This two part story is part of the MARVEL REMIX series. To my knowledge I know of a three-parter done for the Fantastic Four however I don’t see the point of these remixes. I don’t think they constitute as retcons, and they are not ongoing series intended for younger readers, so why? Also, what other titles had REMIXes? Those questions aside, which have nothing to do with the story, Bottom Line: * * * * * out of 5

 

Notes:

 

 

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