Marvel Fanfare #5
Published and © by Marvel, November 1982
Title: “To Steal a Sorcerer’s Soul!”
Synopsis: With the help of computer tapes, Nicodemus regains his memories and once again schemes to become the Sorcerer Supreme.
Writer: Chris Claremont
Penciler: Marshall Rogers
Inker: P. Craig Russell
Review: Doctor Strange has always been a bit creepy, and it’s obvious why when looking back through the lens of the #MeToo movement. Clea is both his lover and his disciple; talk about your power differential! Still, Chris Claremont delivers a solid story and the art, though a bit stiff, is excellent.
•••
Title: “Shall Freedom Endure …”
Synopsis: Still mad about his father’s defeat during World War II, Stryker Jr. sets out to destroy Captain America.
Writer: Roger McKenzie
Penciler: Luke McDonnell
Inker: John Beatty
Review: An inconsequential-but-solid story from Roger McKenzie, with some not-quite-ready-for-prime-time art from Luke McDonnell.
Grade (for the entire issue): B+
Second opinion: “This is one of the best stories (Chris Claremont has) done in a while. The artwork is not as nice as I had hoped but by no means bad. … 4 out of 5 stars.” – Comics Coast to Coast #3, 1982
Cool factor: Marshall Rogers trippy layouts are a great fit for Doctor Strange.
Not-so-cool factor: Seriously, even Little Me knew Doctor Strange’s relationship with Clea was ethically unwise.
Notable: Includes a one-page “Editori-Al” strip by Al Milgrom.
Character quotable: “I am proud of you, disciple. I expected – demanded – much of you tonight and you performed brilliantly.” – Doctor Strange, not creepy at all
Editor’s note: This review was written Sept. 8, 2021.
