Writers: Karla Pacheco and Zander Cannon
Artists: Pere Pérez, Guillermo Sana, Antonia Fabela, and Rico Renzi
Publisher: Marvel comics
Price: $4.99
Release Date: May 3rd, 2023
If you’re interested in this comic, series, related trades, or any of the others mentioned, then simply click on the title/link to snag a copy through Amazon as you read the Edge of Spider-Verse #1 Review.
THE DISPATCH
The return of Spider-Rex! Edge of Spider-Verse #1 revisits the Jurassic earth first seen in the second volume of this series which debuted last year. It is somewhat similar to the Jurassic League miniseries from DC Comics, but with a lot more humor. This issue sees Jurassic versions of both Venom and Kraven the Hunter, as well as Jurassic versions of J. Jonah Jameson, Mary Jane Watson, Aunt May and Uncle Ben. It’s particularly hilarious to see the banter between Spider-Rex and Kraven and all of their puns, as well as the dino-fied lyrics to the 60’s Spider-Man cartoon theme song.
The other story in this issue features the mysterious and deadly Spider-Killer. This is in a more noir setting and has a creepy, horror vibe to it. Unlike other versions of Spider-Man, this version seems be more of anti-hero at best, villain at worst. There’s great, gritty narration by who appears to be the Harry Osborn of this universe, and J. Jonah Jameson is gender-swapped into a femme fatale.
ART
There are very different art styles in each story in Edge of Spider-Verse #1. Each style reflects the tone of the story well. In the Spider-Rex story, it is very brightly colored and Pérez draws the dinosaurs and other animals well. Even though they are anthropomorphic, they aren’t too exaggerated-looking besides the colors and facial expressions. The explosion at the end of the story looks similar to Carnage, so it leads readers to wonder whether the adventures of Spider-Rex will continue with a Carnage-like dinosaur.
In the Spider-Killer story, it is very gritty and noir-esque. The shadows add to the element of mystery and suspense. The villainous thugs are easily recognizable as the Chameleon, the Scorpion and the Lizard. The art makes it clear that this is a sinister version of Spider-Man.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Edge of Spider-Verse #1 contains 2 vastly different versions of the Web-slinger. If you’re a fan of dinosaurs or happen to like gritty, noir detective-type stories with a creepy flair to them, this comic is for you. It has humor as well as suspense and mystery. Perhaps these versions of the web-slinger will be seen again in future issues of this series or elsewhere. Who is your favorite alternate Spider-Man?