Marvel Premiere #28
Published and © by Marvel, February 1976
Title: “There’s a Mountain on Sunset Boulevard!”
Synopsis: A mountain emerges in Los Angeles, bringing Marvel’s monsters together to face a golden man on a flying golden steed.
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Penciler: Frank Robbins
Inker: Steve Gan
Review: Wow, this story is a mess. Beyond the fun idea of bringing together several of Marvel’s horror-themed characters as a so-called Legion of Monsters, there is little in the way of story logic at play here. So many unanswered questions: Why are the monsters drawn to the mountain? How does Man-Thing get from Florida to Los Angeles? Why is a former Earthling now golden? And why does he ride a flying, golden horse? The best a reader can hope for is to turn off the brain and enjoy Frank Robbins stylish art (which, granted, can be an acquired taste).
Grade: C-
Second opinion: “The tale seems to read like a quickie to make fast money. … I try my hardest to tolerate Robbins’ artwork, but can’t seem to like it.” – Jan Garczynski, Bemusing Magazine #9, May 1976 … “Why they did this, I really don’t know.” – Martin Lock, Comics Unlimited #33, December 1975 … “A fine effort.” – Richard Ashford, Comics Unlimited #44, June 1977 … “Somewhat daft.” – FantaCo’s Chronicle’s Series Annual #1, 1983
Cool factor: Just look at that cover. So much potential for cool here!
Not-so-cool factor: Starseed is a silly, trippy mess of a character, perfect for this silly, trippy mess of a comic. Very much a product of the times.
Collector’s note: According to the Grand Comics Database, there is a 9p British variant of this issue. … According to MyComicShop.com, there is also a Mark Jewelers variant.
Character quotable: “This is like a 3-D version of the Monster Mash!” – Ghost Rider, least monstrous of this lot
Editor’s note: This review was written Sept. 12, 2025.
