I can't believe new and 1990 are in the same universe anymore #anotheryearolder
Created by: Stan Lee, Written by: Peter David, Designed by: Dale Keown, Bob McLeod, Joe Rosen, Glynis Oliver, Edits by: Bobbie Chase, and finally the Psychotherapist: Tom DeFalco
As a warning: SPOILERS AHEAD!
Story:
The story begins with Bruce Banner stuck inside his own mind with both versions of the Hulk (Grey Hulk and Green Hulk) and Doc Samson. Attempting to help Bruce with his mental issues, Doc helps Bruce challenge his past and face his fears and emotions. Each time Bruce attempts to confront his emotional childhood involving the death of his mother, Rebecca Banner, Bruce and the Hulk's are attacked by an Xenomorph-looking creature (a visual representation of his Dad).
Seeking additional help, fearing Bruce has withdrawn deeper into his multiple personality disorder (MPD), Doc Samson asks the help of Ring-Master, a.k.a. "Maynard Tiboldt," to hypnotize him further.
Bruce finally overcomes his emotions and fear of becoming like his father when visiting his mother's graveyard. Bruce reveals the monster to be his father and watches him crumble to pieces. His mother appears and talks the Green and Gray Hulk to combine with Bruce. Bruce makes his final transformation into an idealized form of Bruce Banner/Hulk, later known as, "The Professor."
Impression:
I thought it was an interesting story about the psychological baggage Bruce carried and it was fun to visually see/read the process (probably helped that they had a psychotherapist on hand). I enjoyed the story and how easy the arc was to follow, yet not feel watered down. It might seem like a simple story, but there was quite a bit of complexity and events in the story that had to be covered in a short span. I loved how it ended with the Hulk, his almost devious smile plastered on his face, saying to Betty, "Honey...I'm Home." It left me wanting to read the next issue, but I have no idea how to find it (I grabbed this one from a 50 cent bin at my local comic book store).
Overall: I'll give it a solid three out of four HULK-SMASHES!
Let me know your thoughts on this review and if there are any comic books you would like me to review next. You can expect one comic book review a month starting today. I almost have a schedule down, so once I do, I will announce it. Remember, if there is anything you want me to blog about (or if you want to contribute), leave a comment or email me at the contact page.
-J.J.