Amazing Spider-Man #21 (Review): The Hunter Reveals Himself
Updated: Jan 24, 2020
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #21
Writer: Nick Spencer
Artist: Gerardo Sandoval
Inker: Victor Nava
Colorist: Edgar Delgado & Erick Arciniega
Publisher: Marvel Comics
7/10
SPOILERS AHEAD
Nick Spencer's "Hunted" arc nears it's conclusion in this latest issue and we finally learn Kraven's true intentions. While this arc has had it's ups and downs, with some of the HU issues being better than the main story, this issue is right in the middle. I had high hopes for this arc, I mean Kraven is one of my favorite Spidey villains, but
this story has fallen flat for me at times. Reading the issue I found myself getting bored until halfway, Spencer completely pulled me back in. I feel like reading this arc as a whole might make me feel differently.
So let's get into the story. When we left off with Vulture gathering the rest of the villains and leading them in a revolt against their captors. Vulture has unexpectedly been one of my favorite parts of this story. The way he has manipulated the rest of the animal themed villains into following him, shows what a cunning adversary he truly is.
While the villains continue their revolt, Spider-Man has been overcome by a gang of Vermin. When it seems like he won't make it, Kraven comes to his rescue and saves him. That's right, Kraven. This is where the issue began to win me over. We learn that the whole reason Spidey was brought here, was so that Kraven could make him stronger, a more worthy adversary for Kraven to defeat himself.
When Spider-Man wakes up in a room with Curt Connors/The Lizard, he's forced to take of Curt's inhibitor chip in order for them to escape. The catch is that if he does this, Curt will die. After talking back and forth, Curt pleads to Peter that this is only way to save his son. Curt's son has been under the protection of Black Cat, since being captured by Kraven. The side story of The Lizard and his family has been the best part of this arc, in my opinion. I never really cared about The Lizard, and Nick Spencer has now made me really care about this character. I love what Spencer has done with Black Cat also, having not really loved where her story ended up under Slott's run. He has made her likeable again, which is perfect considering she's such a good foil to Peter.
While the story wasn't perfect, the art was bombastic and full of action. Sandoval did an amazing job with this issue. His style fits perfectly with Humberto Ramos' style. He helps bulid the tension through intense action sequences and menacing villains. I would love to see him on a Spider-Man book regularly.
While this arc only has one issue left, with an epilogue issue as well, we have a lot of loose ends to tie up.
Who will survive? Will the Lizard stay in his uncontrollable villainous form? Get ready for an exciting conclusion next month.