Spider-Man has quit, and the world may die because of it. He’s quitting the trials against the Eight Scions of Cyttorak but also isn’t lifting a finger to save anyone. That’s because of the events of Amazing Spider-Man #65, where Spider-Man witnessed millions of deaths, realizing none of this matters. His humdrum way of looking at things continues in Amazing Spider-Man #66, out this week.
The issue opens where we left off: Spider-Man is emotionally eating a pizza. A quick recap reminds us of how he saw his friends and family die, and now his only goal is to keep eating his feelings. Enter Cyra, one of the Scions, and Doctor Strange, who are observing this odd behavior.
In one of the stronger scenes in the issue, Justina Ireland pits Peter Parker up against a robber. Will Spider-Man save the day? His first response may surprise you as it reconfirms he won’t stop a guy with a gun as usual and instead talks his way past so he can eat ice cream. It’s tough to see Spider-Man like this; even Spider-Boy agrees at one point, but Ireland hammers home his state of mind.
Cyra and Doctor Strange are on the case!
Credit: Marvel
Readers worried Black Cat won’t appear in the issue because how often is a cover a bait and switch will note she does appear. She’s actually a linchpin in Cyra’s fascination with Spider-Man’s response to her trial. One might note that the events of this issue are likely seeding a potential angle. Spider-Man has to defeat these Scions, but I digress; it’s too early to tell. It’s not too early to note a major development with Cyra’s twin brother, which will likely ramp up the stakes.
As far as the rest of the issue, there’s a Shay appearance, which feels rather flat since that relationship hasn’t been developed much. The rest is setup for the X-Men to enter the story, which solicitations have already spoiled. I’ll argue that Juggernaut’s role in all this is interesting, but as far as a Spider-Man story, it doesn’t align with the legacy of Spider-Man. I suppose crossovers are inevitable.
Regarding the art, Andrea Broccardo’s pencils are excellent when the Scions are on the page and any characters in costumes. That said, as far as Peter, his face is inconsistent and awkward here and there. It can go from spot-on and emotive to downright anime-inspired. The superhero stuff like the next Scion looks great like he’s sprouted from a 90s Rob Liefeld comic, but Peter just isn’t selling it.
While Amazing Spider-Man #66 takes bold steps to examine Peter Parker’s psychological state, its uneven pacing and lack of narrative focus dilute the impact. The standout moments, including strong scenes with Cyra and visually impressive designs of the Scions, are offset by flat character relationships and inconsistent artwork.
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