We’re now in full swing for Amazing Spider-Man‘s second story arc under writer Joe Kelly, and a brand new villain is taking center stage. Named Hellgate, he appeared on a roof in front of Black Cat and Spidey, spouting something about a gate being open for the “Prince of the Steel Silk.” Total nutbar, or a threat worth investing in? We find out in Amazing Spider-Man #7!
It’s clear when you put Amazing Spider-Man #7 down, the first story arc was a taste tester, and this second story arc is all about the new stuff. The issue opens with Spider-Man assuming this Hellgate guy is some kind of cosplayer as he speaks as if from a fantasy RPG. Ever the polite hero, Spider-Man asks for 20 minutes to deal with some bad guys. Hellgate promptly kills them all so that they can continue talking. Yikes. So begins a fight, or is it more of a chase, as Spider-Man tries to keep Black Cat and himself alive.
While the action is taking place, writer Joe Kelly does a good job cutting away to other characters who will play a part in this story arc. That includes a mysterious “hero” on a scooter who seems brand new. There’s also a man who has more info, which is a good sign since Hellgate doesn’t seem to explain things much. There’s also a well-timed flashback to Peter getting a lesson in when to fight and when to run from Uncle Ben. It’s a reminder Kelly’s Spider-Man is very tethered to his youth and the lessons learned there, as was the case in the last story arc.
Dude has a bad vibe.
Credit: Marvel
As for Hellgate, John Romita Jr. draws the heck out of his scenes. There’s a panel or two that looks unfinished compared to others, though that’s kind of Romita’s style. Romita gets to draw some cool stuff with a couple of double-page layouts that help stretch the page horizontally. Another cool new element is a web cartridge trick that hasn’t been done before. Romita and the color artists do a good job of adding danger to Hellgate via lava-like elements to his arms, chest, and legs. He certainly seems to be from some kind of Hell!
Another standout in this issue is the dialogue, with Spider-Man quipping, acting his nervous self, and sounding accurate to the character. Thinking fast is what he tends to do, and it’s also nice to see him use a bit of science in this issue as well.
Amazing Spider-Man #7 kicks off its new arc with a strong mix of action, mystery, and character, introducing Hellgate as a worthy, if still enigmatic, addition to Spidey’s rogues gallery. Joe Kelly’s understanding of Peter’s voice and moral compass shines, setting the stage for a promising and strange new adventure.
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