Marvel Premiere #48
Published and © by Marvel, May 1979
Title: “The Price of a Heart!”
Synopsis: In order to save his daughter, the new Ant-Man must first escape the clutches of evil industrialist Darren Cross.
Writer: David Michelinie
Penciler: John Byrne
Inker: Bob Layton
Review: Much as with the new Ant-Man’s debut (see review), this issue offers solid superheroics. Scott Lang, the new Ant-Man, continues to learn his new role while his daughter’s health woes provide the story with a ticking clock. Darren Cross is a palpably wicked villain; his wanton abuse of power and privilege reads even more relevant today. But the story’s conclusion – which involves Yellowjacket and speaks to the question of Ant-Man’s future – stretches credulity. On the art side of things, John Byrne is one of the best superhero artists of any era, and Bob Layton is an excellent match on inks.
Grade: B+
Cool factor: The Scott Lang character has some potential.
Not-so-cool factor: Would you leave invaluable size-changing technology in the care of a known felon? Really?
Collector’s note: According to the Grand Comics Database, there is a 12p British variant of this issue. … According to MyComicShop.com, there is also a Mark Jewelers variant.
Character quotable: “Why should I use a derelict’s heart – when I can have that of a strong and irritatingly clever superhero instead … ?” – Darren Cross, entitled
Editor’s note: This review was written Feb. 17, 2023.
