Amazing Spider-Man Annual #15
Published and © by Marvel, 1981
Title: “Spider-Man: Threat or Menace?”
Synopsis: Spider-Man and the Punisher both want to stop Doctor Octopus from poisoning New York – but have very different methods.
Writer: Denny O’Neil
Penciler: Frank Miller
Inker: Klaus Janson
Review: Legendary Bat-scribe Denny O’Neil and Daredevil wunderkind Frank Miller had already teamed on one excellent Amazing Spider-Man Annual (see review), but this second effort is even better. Once again, O’Neil delivers a tight plot and demonstrates a splendid knack for dialogue and characterization. But it’s Miller’s art that really takes this outing to the next level. His signature blend of kinetic action, expressive anatomy and cinematic storytelling propel this story forward with stylish aplomb. This is the work of a one of the medium’s master artists quickly coming into his own.
Grade: A+
Second opinion: “Denny O’Neil’s annuals provide a yearly respite from the drivel of his usual monthly grind. … 3 1/2 out of 4 stars.” – Jim Johnson, Comics Buyer’s Guide #1606, July 2005 … “Another fine entry for O’Neil and Miller.” – Pierre Comtois, “Marvel Comics in the 1980s: An Issue By Issue Field Guide to a Pop Culture Phenomenon,” 2014 … – “A breakneck yarn. … No. 36.” – from “The 100 Best Single Issues Since You Were Born” list in Wizard #175, May 2006
Cool factor: Frank Miller’s use of Eisner-esque storytelling techniques – such as a repeating newspaper-paper-front-page motif – helped reintroduce superhero comic-book fans to medium’s storytelling potential. (Also, shout out to Klaus Janson for his stylish inks and Bob Sharen for his excellent color work. Everyone brought their A game to this one.)
Notable: Also features a three-page “Just How Strong Is … Spider-Man?” feature by Mark Gruenwald and Bob Layton; a one-page “Peter Parker’s Apartment!” feature by Roger Stern, Marie Severin and Terry Austin; and “A Gallery of Spider-Man’s Most Famous Foes” feature by talent including Stern, Keith Pollard, Greg LaRocque and Frank Giacoia.
Character quotable: “I don’t talk – I act!” – The Punisher, man of few words
Editor’s note: This review was written June 26, 2025.
