Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews
Incredible Hulk #607
Marvel Comics
Pak & Pelletier
Fall of the Hulks continues in this issue that sees plenty of action and plot movements. It's a good issue for a number of reasons and chief among them is its accessibility. I attribute this to the writer, as Greg Pak has command of the characters, the story and making sure it provides something for the new reader and the experienced one. The artwork is exceptional which helps to round out a very good comic book.
The plot (in this issue) seems to be fairly straightforward. The Leader and MODOK are rounding up the Marvel brains. This issue centers on the pair scooping up Hank Pym. At first he seems to fall into a trap, though he's convinced they fell into his trap. However, in short order it is apparent that Pym is in trouble as the Red She-Hulk shows up to bring him in to The Leader and MODOK.
The person that sets out to save Pym is Bruce Banner. However, he's got his Hulk-like son with him as the muscle since he can't change into the real Hulk. The issue has a lot of other guest stars as there is a nice brawl. The issue ends with a nice reveal and resetting of the core team that is going to go after The Leader and MODOK.
I haven't read Incredible Hulk in months and I was completely engaged in this issue. Not only is there a brief recap but the issue moves the plot along in a way that informs the reader about what they might need to know about the past issues. It's terrific storytelling and makes me actually want to follow the Fall of the Hulks storyline in this comic book. In fact, the comic doesn't contain any sort of "Part X of X" on the cover and in the issue so you'd never know there was a big storyline occurring except for the banner on the front cover. I found this to be a good thing.
The artwork is great because the pages are filled with characters, emotions and action. The line work does resemble John Romita Jr and I suspect this is because of the inking and coloring done on the pencils. So while it doesn't look like a typical Pelletier comic, it does look awesome in another, unexpected way.
The comic also contains a backup about the Red She-Hulk and without any sort of lead-in or wrap up I was confused as to how this fits into the issue. The backup doesn't even contain creator credits but I would doubt the artist is Pelletier. The story is fine but it doesn't add anything to the main story and I was lost on its purpose in the context of this issue.
If you are looking for an excuse to pick up an issue of the Hulk then this one is a good one to grab. Sure you will spend $4 on it but it's an entertaining and clever issue that could potentially act as a self contained story with a jump on point to the next plot development at the end of the issue. The comic has plenty of guest stars and a lot of intriguing good guy-bad guy politics to keep the story a guessing game in terms of allegiances. This is a good comic book.
4 out of 5 Geek Goggles
