Writers: David Hein and Benjamin Percy
Art: Luciano Vecchio, Marika Cresta, Brian Reber, Ruth Redmond
Publisher: Marvel comics
Price: $4.99
Release Date: May 31st, 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 #2 Review.
THE DISPATCH
Edge of Spider-Verse #2 sees the return of Spinstress, a combination of Spider-Man and various Disney princesses, who first appeared in the second volume of this series last year. Both Spidey and Disney fans will love this story. This one sees the debut of Kraven the Huntsman, an obvious amalgamation of Kraven the Hunter and Snow White’s Huntsman. He even has a scar on his eye, a homage to the villainous Scar from Disney’s The Lion King. He could be a spoof of Gaston from Beauty and the Beast, or Clayton from Tarzan as well. This version of Kraven is accompanied by a giant vulture named Adrienne, an obvious parody of Spidey’s foe, the Vulture AKA Adrian Toomes. Additionally, we see the return of Merry James Watson (Mary Jane + Prince Charming), Bishop Octopus (Dr. Octopus + Ursula) and Norma, the Fairy Gob-Mother (Maleficent + Green Goblin). Finally, there is a surprising twist at the end that will leave readers wanting more of these characters from the world of Earth-423.
In keeping with the theme of fairy tales and folklore, Edge of Spider-Verse #2 introduces us to Earth-2410. This earth features a mutant version of Spider-Man, born with spider-like features as a result of a witch’s curse. This story is somewhat tragic, but nonetheless intriguing. As with the first story, it also features a variation of Kraven the Hunter. It stays true to Spider-Man in that despite being from a different universe, he is still a misunderstood loner who is viewed as a menace by much of society.
ART
The art in Edge of Spider-Verse #2 really captures the tone of each story. Vecchio does a good job of mimicking classic Disney animation styles, while having the characters still resemble versions of Marvel characters as well. Disney fans and Spidey fans will enjoy how it pays homage to both Spider-Man and beloved Disney classics.
The second story has more realistic-looking art, reflecting the more serious tone to that story. It shows that this version of Spider-Man is mysterious and innocent, despite his shocking appearance. The color contrast between light and dark reflects upon both young Petor’s innocence and society’s perception of him as a monster to be feared. The ending panel is reminiscent of classic Spidey panels of a discouraged Peter Parker walking out of an alley. This version of Peter, or rather, Petor, knows that he must allow society, including his own father, to hate him, in order to fight for the greater good.
FINAL THOUGHTS
This was a fun issue that Disney fans, Spider-Man fans and folklore enthusiasts will all appreciate. Edge of Spider-Verse #2 leaves you wanting to see more of these characters and their respective worlds. There’s so much potential for these characters and hopefully Marvel will expand upon them even more.