Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 1: Power and Responsibility Reviews

• Comics for Everyone

  
  By A1W3F5QAQM5QTX on 2001-08-14
  Hats off to Marvel for making comics accessible again. Ultimate Spider-Man is a great comic that anyone can read and relate to. It tells the story of a nerdy high school sophomore who suddenly finds himself in possession of fantastic powers. It's an old story, with a hero that will be familiar to almost anyone. After all, Spider-Man is one of the most recognizable characters in entertainment history.

  But what's this "Ultimate" about? Spider-Man is a character who was created in the sixties, and since then he's been dragging forty years of continutity and backstory. Ultimate Spider-Man approaches the character from the ground up, with a contemporary voice and pop culture references that place the book squarely in the 21st century. This Peter Parker isn't married and successful yet; he's barely coming to grips with his powers. The origin is updated, the villains look different, and nothing about the hero's future is set.

  Longtime Spider-Man fans may still be more comfortable with the original character that they've grown up with. (The "classic" Spider-Man is still thriving and his ongoing series is currently enjoying the excellent writing of Babylon 5 creator J. Michael Straczynski.) But for those who lost interest in comics years ago, or those who are approaching the medium for the first time, this book is absolutely perfect.

  The writing, by comics wunderkind Brian Michael Bendis, is awesome. Dialogue is sharp and sparkling with very authentic voices. The art is attractive and expressive. The stories are easy to follow, even for a first time comics reader. It's a comic that anyone can enjoy, and one which I strongly recommend. I loved it, my girlfriend loved it, and I'm sure that you'll love it.
  
  

• Retelling the story of Spider-Man for the 21st century

  
  By A2NJO6YE954DBH on 2003-03-09
  I started reading "The Amazing Spider-Man" and "Peter Parker: Spider-Man" again when I started doing a unit on comic books for my Popular Culture class and had ignore "Ultimate Spider-Man." Seeing that the first seven issues were collected in "Ultimate Spider-Man: Power and Responsibility" I thought I would check it out and was more than pleasantly surprised. The idea here was to update Spider-Man for the 21st century, specifically by going back and starting over from the beginning, doing so fully cognizant of where Stan Lee and Steve Ditko started off the comic book and where the character would end up in terms of super villains and future bride. There is certainly a sense in which this version is compatible with the blockbuster "Spider-Man" movie, but that is more in terms of having Mary Jane Watson there from the start than anything else. Ultimately, the point here is tighten the original Spider-Man story and give the characters some twists.

  "Power and Responsibility" takes its time in developing the origin of Spider-Man. The original story by Lee and Ditko in "Amazing Fantasy" #15 was eleven pages long. Here it takes six issues to get to the same point in the character's history. Of course, since we know where things are going, we can take time to appreciate the journey. At the same time, there is a concerted effort to bring various elements more into the mix. That infamous radioactive spider is the creation of Osborn Industries, the pet project of Norman Osborn and one of his chief scientists, Dr. Otto Octavius. Osborn is extremely interested in why young Peter Parker does not die after the bite and the creation of the Green Goblin becomes a direct consequence of the fateful spider bite. In time I am sure we will see the birth of Doctor Octopus will come from this as well.

  The stories here are by Bill Jemas and Brian Michael Bendis (who does the script), with pencils by Mark Bailey and inks by Art Theibert and Dan Panosian. In many ways I am reminded of when John Byrne had the responsibility of restarting Superman; there is a sense to be a bit more realistic. It is not that Peter Parker is an absolute scientific genius; it was his father who did most of the preliminary work on what would become the formula for Spider-Man's web. Once he gains his spider powers, Peter Parker does what just about any persecuted high school nerd would do; he goes out and becomes a super jock. When he starts web slinging he makes a lot of initial mistakes. I even like the way Peter snaps back at Uncle Ben and Aunt May as things start to get to him, both before and after the spider-bite. This jut increases the pathos of the tragedy that unfolds.

  I like the fact that "Ultimate Spider-Man" is divorced from the two "real" Spider-Man comic books. Going back to the original stories by Lee and Ditko (later John Romita, Sr.) in either "The Essential Spider-Man" or "Marvel Masterworks" series are not going to be really helpful to younger readers of the character. It was well worthwhile for those of us who started reading "The Amazing Spider-Man" in the Sixties to go through Betty Bryant and the death of Gwen Stacy to eventually get to the day when Mary Jane confronted Peter with the fact she knew he was Spider-Man, but those are hundreds of issues to go through. Starting over again with full knowledge of where the characters are going to end up is a worthwhile approach, especially given how good of a start we see in this first collection (the next three are already out for those who want to continue the journey). Besides, how can you not be happy that Aunt May is alive again? I might have to check out some of these other Ultimate titles from Marvel as well, because this one is pretty impressive.
  
  

• Not quite the "Ultimate" I'd hoped it would be

  
  By A3OI841P5R6FCH on 2001-08-12
  After hearing & reading about it for a few months, and being unable to find any single issues of it anywhere, I finally had the opportunity to check out the first major "Ultimate Spider-Man" story arc with the release of this TPB. A new take on the origin and first efforts of the Spider-Man, eh? Hmm. I figured I'd give it a shot. Besides, I was (& still am) a big fan of writer Brian Michael Bendis' work on SAM AND TWITCH and POWERS, and expected more of the same excellence from him here.

  Unfortunately, I was a bit disappointed by the results. It was decent reading, but nothing that I'd consider an all-time classic-in-the-making. I wasn't big on the setup to the origins of the Spidey/Green Goblin/Dr. Octopus feuds. Now they're sort of lumped together, rather than separate (This little twist isn't particularly original, either; an earlier Spidey-retooling attempt, John Byrne's "Chapter One", also did this with Parker & Doc Ock). This little grouping also had an element of destiny that I didn't much care for. However, I rather enjoyed the part where the post-bitten Parker finally stands up for himself (at least a little bit) against `Flash' Thompson; it's about time!

  Ultimately (doh!), this new Spider-Man tale suffers from the ol' Re-Make-Of-A-Classic-Movie syndrome: despite all the effort put into it- new plot twists, modernizing of characters, etc- it could never hope to match up to the original. I guess I'm still a bit of a chauvinist for Stan & Steve's "Origin of Spidey" tale as told in Amazing Tales #15, and the first several issues of Amazing Spider-Man volume 1. Of course, my not being a big fan of the super-hero comics medium probably doesn't help matters any...

  ...but that didn't stop me from putting my two cents in, did it?

  `Late
  
  

• POWER, RESPONSIBILITY, AND FUN!

  
  By AYKEN16NIUW9M on 2001-08-17
  I have been a fan of Spiderman since the early 1970s. In fact I practically grew up alongside Peter Parker. I've seen the character through plenty of ups (The Death of Gwen Stacy, Untold Tales of Spiderman) and downs (Spiderman 2099, the Howard Mackie years). So naturally, it was with great trepidation that I finally decided to read the new "take" on him that was presented in Power and Responsibility. I could not imagine the fun ride that was in store for me.

  Writers Bill Jemas and Brian Michael Bendis do an unbelievable job of keeping the beloved characters and elements that fans will know and love. But, at the same time they create just enough of a twist to keep readers intrigued and guessing as to what they will experience next. A perfect example is the character of Uncle Ben who is fully developed and around long enough to establish a strong relationship between himself and Peter. Readers have plenty of time to enjoy Uncle Ben while at the same time dreading the fate that they know will unfold around him. The death of Uncle Ben is the prime motivation for the entire character of Spiderman...and yet I liked Ben so much I hoped that this time around perhaps he'd live.

  The Ultimate Spiderman storyline also does a nice job of fleshing out the origin of Spiderman and his nemesis The Green Goblin (who is incredibly different). Interwoven between the characters several familiar faces also fall. I can't wait to see the Ultimate version of Doctor Octopus or to see how the character of Harry Osborn develops do to what occurs in this intial storyarc.

  Finally why should you read Ultimate Spiderman: Power and Responsibility? Bottom line - IT IS FUN. You'll have a chance to see a modern take on a classic hero and to watch as he grows, experiences the troubles of being a teenager, the challenges of being a newborn superhero, and as he learns that "with great power comes great responsibility."
  
  

• Spider-Man Revisited

  
  By A26T16EHVHIJ8O on 2001-05-18
  Writer Brian Michael Bendis set out to reinvent and reinvigorate Marvel's hallowed Spider-Man franchise in this landmark series. Judging from the critical acclaim and market success it's had, I'd say he met his goal.

  Spider-Man was originally created in 1963 and while his origin story is a comic book classic, let's just say some of the elements within the story have become somewhat dated. Bendis' rehash of Spidey's origin sets him in modern times, with the look of a modern 15-year-old, and the characters speaking in...you guessed it...modern dialogue.

  Bendis has done a fine job of updating the character and doesn't give in to the temptation to pace the story too quickly. He takes his time, building up the characters and the story of how Peter Parker is bitten by a radioactive spider and subsequently given super powers.

  Mark Bagley competently, though not spectacularly, illustrates the story. Bagley's artistic storytelling skills are excellent, but I think Marvel might have been better served had they gone with a less traditional artistic style on this book.

  ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN: POWER AND RESPONSIBILITY is a great new beginning for Spider-Man and appeals to fans of all ages.
  
  

• Terrible
  By A2AFM0SLLFPSJ1 on 2002-04-06
  I am a huge Spider-man fan and despite my advanced years I still collect the book. Heck I even have a Spider-man tatoo.

  That being said, this is a terrible rendition of the Spider-man franchise. I totally understand Marvels wanting to revamp the story for the 21st century and draw in new readers or to be more precise bring in more money. But they seriously dropped the ball in this effort. The reason I love Peter Parker a.k.a Spider-man so much; Was that he was different from other boys his age. It was not just his super powers that made him unique. It was that Peter was actually a GENTLEMAN!!!! He was compassionate and cared for others and was willing to put the needs of others before his own. He was the total antithesis of your typical self-centered foul mouthed teenage boy who had his middle finger in the air to the world. Unfortunetly this last description is more in line with Bendis' version of Peter Parker. In the Ultimate Spider-man Brian Micheal Bendis has turned Peter into a foul mouthed, truculent boy who is rude to his elderly Aunt and Unlce who have actually sacrificed to raise him. This is NOT the Peter Parker I spent the last 13 years admiring. Bendis is not a very good writer and he seems to think that putting in cuss words and smart alecky remarks constitutes clever writing. Further he actually thinks that he's actually making the character a realistic teenage boy. Oh really how many teenagers do you know swing from spider webs and scale walls with their bare hands? I have no problem with a story being tweaked. But tweak is not what Bendis does. He uses a hatchet where a fly swatter will do.

  When I bought this book the comic book dealer wouldn't let me flip through it--I now see why. I must have gotten half way through the TPB before throwing it across the room in disgust.

  I would only recommend this book to people who are unfamiliar with Spider-man. But for you long time "Web heads" out there I strongly recommend against you picking up this book. It is a true sacrilege to a hero of our time.
  
  

• The birth of a Spider-Man for the 21st Century
  By A19B6IN2VWHDXZ on 2001-05-22
  Stan Lee and Steve Ditko told this story in one issue of Amazing Fantasy in 1963. In Power and Responsibility, Brian Bendis and Bill Jemas have revised and expanded the tale as the launching point for the Ultimate Spider-Man series.

  The extra space is spent on a few new plot touches, but mostly it gives us a longer, deeper look at these characters. We see the pain of Peter's adolescence, compounded by his problems fitting in at school and the loss of his parents; we see the joy that his newfound abilities give him; we see the pressure of adjusting to the changes in his life that result. Peter spends a great deal of time in a basement lab, studying a set of equations left behind by his father. The one sided conversations he has with the blackboard are great character moments, filled with loneliness and determination. Peter also spends a great deal of time with his father figure, Uncle Ben, and here is one of Bendis' greatest touches - the extra time spent with Ben show that he's just the kind of caring, involved, lighthearted, generous sort we all wish we could have in a father, which makes his death hit that much harder.

  The art is also strong here -- good character expressions, appealing design work, and nice action sequences. Combined with Bendis' strong dialogue and characterization, this book conveys the essence of the character, and quite frankly the upcoming movie has a lot to live up to top this story.

  Power and Responsibility is an excellent introduction to the character for kids and other readers who may not be familiar with his published adventures. It also should entertain longtime Spider-Man fans who are ready to see the character stripped down to its basics and rebuilt again. (Although those familiar readers may rate the book slightly lower, given their familiarity with the story. I myself am looking forward to where Bendis will take Ultimate Spider-Man now that the origin is out of the way.)
  
  

• Bendis Tells The Genesis Of Spidey A Little Hipper, Cooler
  By on 2003-01-26
  'Ultimate Spiderman' is the almost perfect retelling of Spidey for the 22nd century. I think this is a one of a kind story, because i'm pretty certain no other author has attempted such a project.

  First off, let me start by saying Brian Bendis is a FANTASTIC writer, and he clearly donates some of his greatest talents to this comic-book. How? Well, the characters. Peter is somewhat nerdy, but not necessarily uncool, making him likeable. Uncle Ben is, as always, the kind uncle, but is also calm and cool, and definitely the epitome of strength and respect. Mary-Jane is definitey toned down, soft-spoken, and intelligent but hip. Flash Thompson is every bit the bully, and is complimented by new cronies.

  Bendis also shows off his ability of unique storytelling by taking a slower, more relaxed approach to the spiderman legacy. New characters are intoduced slowly, and the story unfolds slowly, easily, and never misses a beat. And these reasons make Ultimate Spiderman a must buy.

  'Power And Responsibility' tells the origin of Spiderman, and introduces Mary-Jane, Uncle Ben, Kong, Flash Thompson and Liz allen (breifly).
  
  

• Great Start to a Great New Comic Book Series!
  By A2H2SXQUC0OAY0 on 2004-05-02
  After 42 years of stories, Spider-Man, like many other Marvel titles, has become bogged down in its own complex continuities. Many comics have gotten to the point where those who haven't been reading since way back have trouble understanding the plots. It is for this reason that the creation of the Ultimate series is such a smart move on Marvel's part. Now, on to comic being reviewed. Gone are the futile attempts by Lee and Ditko (Spidey's original creators) to come up with good villains and story lines every month (many old fans may look back not-so-fondly on such abysmal creations as the Terrible Tinkerer, or A Guy Named Joe). Since Spider-Man is already established as a great series, Bendis had more time to flesh out the characters, and elaborate on classic story arcs, without struggling to come up with new ideas every month. To make it more appealing to younger readers, Bendis put a more modern spin on Ultimate Spider-Man. This means that the characters act/talk like they're living in the year 2000, not 1963. Many long-time fans will notice several major changes in the continuity and characters. For one, Peter Parker starts out dating MJ Watson, bypassing his relationships with Betty Brant and Gwen Stacy (although they both make cameo appearences in a couple of stories). In addition, rather than being an insane-workaholic-costume-wearing-Spidey-foe, ultimate Green Goblin is an insane-workaholic-mutated-drug-addicted-Spidey-foe. Since it is known from the beginning that Norman Osbourn is the Green Goblin, his origin is told in a different manner, in a much shorter time (which is a change for the better, IMO). Finally, the event of Uncle Ben's murder is pretty similar to the original comic, except for the fact that Peter lets the crook go when he robs a deli, rather than a wrestling manager. Oh, and Aunt May is much younger, so Peter doesn't have to worry about her health (at least for the time being). That about covers all the MAJOR CHANGES in the first story arc, which are necessary for a better retelling of the exploits of the web-head. As for the artwork, Bagley does an excellent job providing the right atmosphere for the stories. In my opinion, his use of detail is top notch, and his style is great. Bagley can only get better as he continues his career. Overall, Power and Responsability is a great start to a promising new Spider-Man series.
  
  
• A good start.
  By A1T3LFK6K0X6SL on 2006-06-23
  Spider-Man has been around for nearly 50 years, and remains of the most recognized icons in sci-fi/superhero fiction, playing seconds only to Batman. As one of the best-selling comic titles in current years, "Ultimate Spider-Man" "revamps" the Spider-Man character with a slightly different origin, and even new takes on familiar faces--heroes and villains alike. These sort of things aren't always successful, but under the creative wing of writer Brian Michael Bendis (author of the "Powers" saga) and artist Mark Bagley it is. I had never read any of Bendis's previous works, but I started here, wanting a "fresh start" after watching the live action Spider-Man movies directed by Sam Raimi. In this first volume, Bendis and Bagley recount in six chapters what Stan Lee and Steve Ditko told in only eleven pages in 1962. This may seem a little slow at first, but Bendis fleshes everything out exceptionally well. While on a field trip to Osborne Industries, a familiar, klutzy High School student named Peter Parker is bitten by a radioactive spider, which he discovers, as the story progresses, grants him supernatural powers, resembling those of a spider. The company's C. E. O., the sleazy Norman Osborne, is intrigued by the effects of the spider's bite, and attempts to reenact the accident only to be turned into a monster.
  
  This first volume is pretty much a shortened version of first Spider-Man movie with Tobey Maguire and Willem Dafoe, so if you;ve seen that movie you should know what's going on here. But there some different things. The most notable change from the original Spidey mythos is the new twist on the villains, in this case it's the Green Goblin--rather than dressing up in green and purple tights and riding on a flying, bat-shaped boogey board and throwing grenades at everything, he's an actual, factual goblin monster. While this change took a little getting used to, I came to like Bendis's new take on Spidey's evilest enemy. The only downsides to this maiden chapter is the climactic fight between Spidey and the Goblin--Bagley's art is fun to look and Bendis's writing keeps you entertained, it's just a little rushed. Anyway, Bendis and Bagley get to a pretty good start on a "new take" on an old favorite. I look forward to more "Ultimate Spider-Man." Recommended.
  
  
• With more pages comes greater plotting
  By AHAFQYTACW34B on 2001-05-06
  What is the point with super heroes comics? More: what is the point with Stan Lee's super heroes? Take, for instance, Spider Man. Created 40 years ago the caracter still remains as fresh today as at the ocasion of his debut. Want some proof? Take the new retelling of the webslinger launched at the middle of the last year. Despite his great talent for dialogue and plotting, Mr. Brian Michael Bendis, the new writer of the now called "Ultimate" Spider Man , doesn't need to change nothing on young Peter Parker and his secret identity. The only changes refer to updating 1960's to a new millenium, i.e., welcome computers and celular phones, bye remingtons and walkie talkies.

  But don't fool yourselves. Mr. Bendis is a real gifted writer, and although he has a perfect and established caracter to play with, he ads new nuances to old friends and foes of Spiderman/Peter Parker. Take for instance Norman Osborn, a.k.a. Green Goblin, and his son, Harry. The classic ones were archetypes of the distant father and the troubled son. Now, in our more complex times, we had a father that doesn't seem even to recognize the existence of his son, and a son that, although had problems with that, seems to be satisfied only with the dad's money.

  Another goal here is the lenght of this retelling. Where Lee has only 20 pages to tell the origin and establish his character, Brian has more than 170. So we have more details, more pacing, more suspense and deep characterization.

  It is an Spider Man with more space to remember the old fans of what is a real super hero character, and to show the new ones of which stuff legends are made.
  
  

• Spidey Swings into the new Millenium with Style
  By A1VS4PX8JCTLYN on 2001-07-30
  It's very hard to play around with a great character's history and get away with it. Hmmmm... How about giving the character the same teen years that he first started with some 40 years ago and 7 issues to retell the origin that was told in just one classic all that time back. Does that work? It sure does! Ultimate Spider-Man introduces you to a Spidey that is just a teen and brings back that teen angst that he was famous for during his starting years. While those old issues worked during the 60s, these ones truly make you have the feel of the 21st century. The hairdos, the internet ruled life and the clothes they wear. They make you feel that these events are happening right here and now in a Queens neighborhood.

  The story telling is top-notch. The classic Spidey history is not touched. This TPB is just an introduction of a character that has endured so much, but clearly does not replace the history. If it did just that, Bendis's and Jemas's heads would be on a platter a long time ago. Seriously though, the book is really well told. Let's also not forget the art. The art is top notch. Mark Bagley returns to the character that has made him famous in the 90s. His take on the character though is different than when he drew the Amazing Spider-Man. This Spidey is much thinner and sleeker. He not only acts like a 15 year older, but also looks like one, which is a great and believable thing.

  Now what do I really think about the Ultimate Spidey? Hmmmm... I like the concept of introducing Spidey to the young folks out there and truly making him hip. Make him more accessible. I also like the fact that the character was not introduced as the real deal and all 40 years of continuity was wiped away. That's about it, I guess. I have to admit, I love the real Peter Parker. The original Spidey. I love the way he matured. The way he acts now, his flaws and the man he has become. I grew up with him and that means a lot. You just can't take that away. He's just the real Spidey and that's the bottom line.

  Ultimate Spidey is a nice concept. It's great in making new readers know who and what Spidey is and what he stands for. Through it all, the Ultimate line of comics is just a stepping stone in which new readers would later graduate to read the real deal.
  
  

• Refreshing update to an old favorite
  By A81UC9NWP39KI on 2001-11-27
  Spider-Man has always been one of my favorite super-hero characters of all time. Somehow, though, I lost track of him after heading into college, marrage and a career. Then, a few weeks ago, a friend mentioned that he had started to collect "the new Spider-Man."

  "New" Spider-Man? I thought. How could this be?

  My friend lent me his first few issues, and although I was skeptical, I gave them a read. It did not take me more than a few pages to get completely hooked. All of the original themes and characters are there, but have been cleverly updated to appeal to our modern taste. I must admit, if Spidey had been closer to my age when I was in high school, I might not have stopped reading in the first place!

  In any event, the revamp of the series is exceptional, and the artwork is impressive by any standard. Watching Peter deal with growing up AND having those super powers has been a twist I did not expect, but have enjoyed immensely.

  You will want to note that this edition only covers the first seven issues. I am now eagerly waiting publication of the second collection, due out December 2001.
  
  

• If it's the same story, why is it so different?
  By AU6DX4I168RIV on 2003-02-10
  Ultimate Spiderman's first story arc is a predictable one, Spiderman's origin. The movie, released almost two years after this comic, follows its plot twist very closely.

  This restart is great for Spiderman, as his regular monthly titles have become bogged down by continuity. It's refreshing to see Peter Parker back in high school, living with Aunt May.

  Brian Michael Bendis is a master storyteller and has no problem making this overdone origin story interesting to read. It does seem like the title picks up after the death of Uncle Ben, and I suspect that Bendis was just happy to get it over with. One of Bendis' greatest talents is his ear for dialogue. At first, it seems as though the teenagers are talking funny, but it wears off and sounds completely natural.

  Mark Bagley has always drawn a great Spiderman, and this title is no exception. However, Bagley struggles quite a bit with Peter and his friends, leading to confusion and a little guessing.

  This is truly a great read, and a great place to start if you're new to Spiderman. But be sure to compare it with the Stan Lee/Steve Ditko original when you get a chance.
  
  

• A darker twist to Spidey
  By A2VU6PLMY3UB9 on 2005-06-05
  Ultimate Spider-Man vol.1 marks the start of a very different Spidey story. The artwork is brilliant, it's a joy to look at while you read the story. The story on the other hand takes out a lot of the fun of the original story. It's full of anger, stronger violence, and you will also find hardly any comic relief, or any moments when people have peaceful times together. For those of you who plan on starting with this volume and going onto the next, you will find that the villains are either the result of illegal experiments, an obsession with power, or insanity. No one is hit by gamma rays, in the wrong place at the wrong time, or tries to fullfil a noble cause in improper ways. Heck, the Green Goblin doesn't even have his trademark glider. I will admit that the dialogue is realistic, you read it and look at the pictures and its all believable. But there are times that it seems the writer created all kinds of characters but gave them all the same personality. In vol.1 it's very hard to find characters who aren't always yelling, swearing, threatening, or being just plain mean. For those of you who may have noticed, in the movie, video games, classic comics; Peter Parker doesn't swear once. It would be a shock to hear him say anything offensive at all. In Ultimate Spider-Man, he does it more than anyone else in the series, which really surprised me. He also purposely does a lot of crazy things that get him into trouble, when that happens he runs away yeling or crying like a baby. Expect something like this from a lot of the characters. But you think this is sonething, wait until you get further into the story, it gets worse. For example, In vol.3, you aught to see how crazy Aunt May gets. Well, with that out of the way, like I said with great artwork and enjoyable battles it can realy be fun to read. But if you're looking for something closer in relation to the old comics or the movie, I wouldn't start with this series. I would do a little research if that's the case.
  
  
• Don't read this review, Buy the Book. Now
  By A102S8NXJ1MJ9Y on 2001-05-22
  Seriously. GO spend the 15 Dollers....now..... OK...now that you have bought it I will tell you what you just purchesed. Only the greatest starting of a comic book ever. Never before has a book seemed this fresh and fun. Never has dialogue been this crisp and down to earth. Never before has the art of a comic ever been better suited, fully giving off the perfect sense of youth, fun, and action that Spider-Man needs. Never has a character ever seem as real and natural as Peter Parker. Never has a cast had such great FOILS for the protaganist. Never before has there been a book more apropos for children and adults. so congrats, for never before has your money been better spent.
  
  
• Spiderman as he's supposed to be nowadays
  By ATBHMBQEC4063 on 2001-06-24
  What we have here is the 'Peter Parker/Spiderman' story retold from the very beginning (the origin) only now crossed with 'Gen 13' and 'DC's Elseworlds Tales'. It's the story from the origin because you get to see all over again how Peter is in highschool, being 'tortured' because of his nerdity by people like Flash Thompson and eventually is bitten by the famous spider which turns him into Spiderman. Secondly it's crossed with 'Gen 13' in the fact that Peter and all his "friends" and relatives are updated to this day and age. They wear modern clothing and they talk 'modern-kid-slang' as they do in highschools in the 21st century. Finally it's also crossed with 'DC Elseworlds Tales' because it ISN'T the story as you know it exactly. Vital AND subtile points in the story have been altered in such a degree that you never get that deja-vu feeling and which turns this story in a very enjoyable experience on it's own. Not just a re-telling. You don't grow bored easily with it and you find yourself keeping on reading, having fun noticing the more subtle differences there are with the original thing. What also is very nice about this book is that there's no knowledge REQUIRED of the original Spiderman storyline, since it's an alternative time-line, so that newcomers to Spidey-comics can just as easily enjoy it as well. It stands very well on it's own. The only point of criticism I DO feel I have to mention is that the character Green Goblin really isn't handled well to my liking. Both in intelligence level as in outer appereance it doesn't seem right to me. Apart from that it's all good and not many people will dislike it.
  
  
• A great restart to a living legend
  By A8S9PELA7Z8TY on 2001-08-10
  I always wondered why someone who was looked down upon by his peers, didn't use his new powers to just become an overnight success. That was always my biggest problem with the Spider-Man. In this book, not only was that question addressed, but it was taken to a level I wouldn't have thought of previously.

  The Ultimate Spider-Man not only successfully retold the origin of the webslinger, but it managed to entertain on a very human level. It faced a lot of the problems faced by a modern teen in high school and in mourning in a real fashion.

  On a technical level, I like how it addressed the near uncontrolled emergence of his powers, and how Parker had problems with his control of his prototype web-shooters.

  My only complaint is a common one. The new Green Goblin is very intimidating, and formidible... I can even go without the trademark pumpkin-bombs, but his lack of intelligence bothers me. It's not the laughing, maniacial psycho I admire as a villian.

  Even without the Green Goblin's smiling visage, this is still an excellent book. I'd recommend it to casual comic fans, as an easy way to meet Marvel's flagship hero. To hardcore fans... it's a fifty/fifty shot... but still worth a read
  
  

• Read the original origin issue-loved that, loved this more!
  By A3NN14TDSJII6W on 2001-12-20
  I had older brothers, so I read most of the Marvel classic comics when I was very young (before overzealous parents made us clean up and throw them out!). Spiderman was always one of my favorite comics because I always felt that Peter Parker was just as important to the story as his superhero alterego (never felt that way about Superman or Green Lantern, et al). ... and I could identify with Peter Parker and appreciated the "realism" of how a regular kid might feel if endowed with super-human powers and abilities. Ultimate Spiderman does an incredible job of reconnecting to the original Spiderman concept, but in addition, updates it to be accessible and meaningful to today's readers. It delves deeper and more convincingly into the psyche of Peter Parker, which makes how he is as Spiderman so much more believable. Also really loved some of the updating of the supervillain connections which I'm sure will be played out in future issues. If you're a Spiderman fan of ANY age, and have at least a moderately open mind, you'll definitely enjoy this graphic novel.
  
  
• Spidey is No.1
  By A35237X8NYNDM0 on 2001-12-21
  Great stuff, well worth the money and a fantastic item to own.
  
  
• An Active and Exciting Retelling of Spider-Man
  By on 2002-01-04
  The Ultimate Spider-Man is a new and excellent retelling of the legend of Spider-Man. Even the different appearances of the characters including Peter Parker is great. I love the story-telling, the new characters and the old character with new personalities. This new Ultimate line for Spider-Man is magnificent. Even when the cruel Norman Osborn transforms into the new hulky Green Goblin is great. I love the new Green Goblin with his new hulky appearance and his new powers. The Ultimate Spider-Man book is a great new comic being added into the Marvel Universe.
  
  
• A move in the right decrection for the dieing marvel.
  By AYUERG2ZI55MO on 2002-02-04
  I've been a spider-man geek sence I was 7 years old. I've gone though the trails and tribulations, the death of aunt may and the whole god awful clone saga. Spider-man is a total joy to read. It would make you pick up a copy and wait and once the next issue came out you'd buy it. No questions asked. That changed Once Todd Mcfarline and Jim lee Revolted, Marvel and Spider-man were never the same again. The killer to spider-man was the "maximum clonage" saga (come on! even the tital is a corny rip off) It riped apart everything us fan boys thought was real about spidy. Spidy isn't spidy. there are millons of spidys. This guy is spidy but not spidy but the guy who is spidy in the Kan planet of hoth! Spidr-man Ultimate lets us push those painful memories far into the back of our minds by giving Spider-man a new begining. The wise cracking crime fighter we have grown to love is back in a new Gen X type New york city With new vilans and life problems to juggle. The art work is vivid and so are the story lines. A must buy for web heads and beginers.
  
  
• Rebooting the Spiderman story a cool idea
  By A2HPUBAJYTJKLP on 2002-02-14
  'Ultimate Spiderman' is Marvel's way of starting fresh with one of it's most popular characters. It's a complete retelling of the Spiderman story. Although most plot elements remain the same (bitten by a radioactive spider, same costume, same characters) there are some points that are tweaked. Example is the characters, just as Peter Parkers Uncle Ben. Rather than a kindly old man like in the original comics, Uncle Ben here is an older hippie like figure. Little things like that are different, and if purists can get over that I think everyone will enjoy 'Ultimate Spiderman'. The art is good and the story moves along quickly enough.
  
  
• AWESOME STORY
  By A224VGMK0S4HCM on 2002-03-04
  Brian Bendis is a fantastic writer and Mark Bagely's pencils are just as great. The Ultimate line of comics is a fantastic way to get new readers. This book is for old and new fans alike. If this book doesn't make you a Spider-Man or comic fan, nothing probably will.
  
  
• Great Book
  By on 2002-05-07
  This is a great book. i've been a longtime Spidey reader, and I think this is a great way to revamp the mythos and the legend. The artwork is incredible, and Brian Michael Bendis is the best writer!
  
  
• Welcome Back Spidey
  By A23HC4ZDV41Q3J on 2002-08-13
  In 1995, I quit comic books. I had collected everything that had Spider-Man's face on it for the past 5 or 6 years. I was a big fan of Mark Bagley's art and enjoyed the fun-spirited stories of Spidey. Then the whole Clone Saga started. If you don't know what I'm referring to consider yourself lucky. Anyway, while it was going on Mark Bagley left Spider-Man and so did I. It wasn't until about 6 years later I was in a book store and I saw "Power and Responsibility." I just happened to pick it up and saw Mark Bagley was the artist.I had no clue what it was about but I thought I'd check it out for old time's sake and I was blown away. This story forgets everything that's ever happened to Spider-Man and starts his whole story over in the year 2000. The script, by Brian Michael Bendis is spectacular. He has retold the story in a way it makes Spidey seem like a brand-new cahracter. Bagley's art is as great as it's ever been and his re-imagining of the Green Goblin is fearsome. This book reprints Ultimate Spider-Man #1-7. If you like this be sure to check out the other 2 Ultimate Spdier-Man trade-paperbacks or get the hard-back of issues #1-13 and then start buying the regular series. You'll have to look hard to find a brand new copy cheaper than it is on Amazon so this is the place to get it. GOOD PLACE FOR YOU FANS OF THE MOVIE TO START READING.
  
  
• ultimate spiderman rules
  By A2GOL3NQ5VWJKS on 2004-07-28
  if you liked the movies and want to continue learning about spiderman i highly suggest theses books it si the begining to a great series of spiderman comics that is more modern and I find that the drawings are easier on the eyes (even though i love the old spiderman)
  
  
• Amazingly well done!!!
  By A3GOPZ9ZJY547H on 2005-03-01
  This was a wonderfully well done story. They took the original story and redid it to make it better. You can read a bunch of reviews that say the same thing in a lot more words. If you liked spider man you will like this, so long as you aren't a stickler for everything being the way it used to be, and if you are why are you even looking at this.
  
  
• A very powerful reimagining
  By A18IQME5DCSH2L on 2005-07-12
  This review is for Ultimate Spider-Man col. 1 Paperback edition:
  
  Ultimate Spider-Man, Power and Responsibility, is one of the most popular story lines for a very good reason: it's excellent. A retelling/re-imagining of the classic early Spider-Man stories, including Amazing Fantasy #15, this is a perfect starting point for fans of the movies who want to read Spider-Man but find the normal comic confusing.
  
  But even hardcore Spider-Man fans will find this graphic well worth the money. The script by Brian Bendis flows well, with realistic dialog and all the teen angst that has always been a staple for Spidey, and the art by Bagley is perfect. Bagley captures the cast and crew in perfect detail.
  
  Yes, a few of my friends that are traditionalist Spider-Man fans bristled at some of the changes. However, if you're looking to read the original series, it's available in many formats including Essential Spider-Man, or for those with deeper pockets, Marvel Masterworks Spider-Man. This is a deviation, which is what makes it fresh and new.
  
  This particular edition reprints Ultimate Spider-Man #1-7. Highest recommendations to newcomers and long time fans alike.
  
  
  
• Most Amazing Spider-Man Comicbook Drawings Yet...
  By A2H6YKLBJZJ43N on 2006-06-11
  The Comic book shows the best graphics I've ever seen for the retelling of Spider-man. The writers also give more drama to story. Peter is younger in this Edition, and it seem he's goes through more challenges. Villans are not "made" one by one, they all have a history or a connection, eighter to Spider-man or another villan giving the story an exciting "why and how", not just a straigh out "here it is". The way the book and was done, make you feel like they are real, Everything has a meaning (including the lamest villan). Ultimate Spider-Man No. 1 is the best comic book I've ever read.
  
  

• Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 2: Learning Curve
• Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 3: Double Trouble
• Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 4: Legacy
• Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 5: Public Scrutiny
• Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 6: Venom