Writer: Mat Johnson
Artists: Mack Chater, Francesco Mobili, and Scott Hanna
Colors: Dono Sanchez-Almara and Protobunker
Letters: VC’s Joe Carmagna
Cover: Mark Bagley and Morry Hollowell
Amazing Spider-Man: Daily Bugle #1 asks the question so many newspaper publishers are struggling with today: how does print news stay relevant in a digital age? As editor-in-chief of the Bugle, Robbie Robertson’s answer is to obtain exclusive stories through some good old-fashioned investigative journalism. He forms a team of familiar faces from the Bugle and puts them to work.
Mat Johnson’s Marvel writing debut primarily follows Peter Parker, Ben Urich, and newcomer Chloe Robertson, niece of Robbie, as they investigate various leads for the paper. Each one uncovers a mystery that could prove deadly to the people, pets, and “platyrhynchos” of New York City. The art team supports the story with panels colorful enough for a Spider-Man book, yet gritty enough for the detective feeling.
The book takes a step away from most of the super-elements of the Marvel Universe to tell a more grounded story. While seasoned readers can appreciate some of the more obscure character appearances, this introduction to a 5-part miniseries will also make newcomers feel welcome. Daily Bugle #1 is for anyone ready to ditch their cape in favor of a magnifying glass.
Review by Andrew Fellner
