Fantastic Four #263
Published and © by Marvel, February 1984
Title: “R’ and R’ ”
Synopsis: Reed and Sue settle into family life in Connecticut, while Ben and Johnny head to California for an auto race.
Writer: John Byrne
Artist: Byrne
Review: As he often did, John Byrne follows up a cosmic story (see reviews of FF #261 and #262) with a down-to-Earth, family-driven issue. The first half of the book features some nice at-home moments from Clan Richards, who are settling into new digs in Connecticut. Meanwhile, the Thing and Human Torch head west so Johnny can participate in an auto-racing event. There are nice character moments to be had here, too, before the inevitable action kicks in. As for the art, Byrne’s backgrounds seem to be trending minimal again, but his storytelling is still quite nice.
Grade: B+
Cool factor: Nice change-of-pace issue.
Not-so-cool factor: A weak villain. And potential Torch love interest Julie Angel – did we really need to see her again?
Notable: The “Fantastic Four Fan Page” includes two John Byrne sketches for possible new hairdos for the Invisible Girl – including a mohawk!
Collector’s note: According to the Grand Comics Database, there is a 75¢ Canadian variant of this issue. … According to MyComicShop.com, there is also a Mark Jewelers variant and a Marvel Legends edition of this issue.
Character quotable: “Holy cats! They’re killin’ him! And dyin’ once in one day is enough!” – The Thing, espousing words of wisdom as he attempts to save the Torch
Editor’s note: This review was originally published by Comics Bronze Age on March 29, 2010.
