Marvel Fanfare #20
Published and © by Marvel, May 1985
Title: “Clash”
Synopsis: The Thing crosses through a interdimensional doorway to free Doctor Strange, who had been imprisoned by Xandu.
Writer: Jim Starlin
Penciler: Starlin
Inker: Al Milgrom
Review: Jim Starlin was one of the brightest stars of the early Bronze Age, with runs on Captain Marvel and Warlock that helped redefine just how trippy, wild and epic mainstream comics could be. But, as with his early ’80s work on DC Comics Presents, this return to Marvel offers mostly potential, not execution. For every bit of fun banter, there is awkward dialogue. For every strong scene, there is a poorly executed story device. For every striking image, there is inconsistent rendering (and lackluster inking from Al Milgrom). This isn’t a bad comic, just one that falls short of expectations.
Grade: B-
Cool factor: It seems like this one should be cool …
Not-so-cool factor: … but it’s actually kind of sad.
Notable: This issue also contains portfolios by Charles Vess and Carl Potts. … Also includes a one-page “Editori-Al” and back cover illustrated by editor Al Milgrom.
Character quotable: “Like, I don’t want ta hear any of the crapola, you old hag!” – Charlie Carcrash, stereotypical ’80s street thug
Editor’s note: This review was written Nov. 18, 2021.
