Marvel Fanfare #4
Published and © by Marvel, September 1982
Title: “Lost Souls”
Synopsis: Angel, Ka-Zar and Zabu launch a desperate attempt to rescue the X-Men from the clutches of Sauron.
Writer: Chris Claremont
Penciler: Paul Smith
Inker: Terry Austin
Review: This conclusion to Marvel Fanfare’s Savage Land saga is a good one. Chris Claremont delivers some strong character work while soon-to-be-X-artist Paul Smith avails himself nicely on his mutant debut. Surprisingly, it’s Terry Austin’s work that’s the weak link here, as his detailed line occasionally overpowers Smith’s simpler style.
•••
Title: “Mindgame”
Synopsis: With his consciousness restored, Luther “Deathlok” Manning escapes from a military facility – or does he?
Writer: David Anthony Kraft
Penciler: Micheal Golden
Inker: Bob Downs
Review: This fine character study, featuring strong art from Michael Golden, is marred by subpar lettering.
•••
Title: “Ordeal!”
Synopsis: A nightmare of personifications sees Tony Stark teaming with his own compassion to battle his pride.
Writer (plot): David Winn
Writer (plot and script): David Michelinie
Penciler: Micheal Golden
Inker: Dan Green
Review: The plot is a bit of a thumbsucker but offers a fine excuse for more excellent art from Michael Golden.
Grade (for the entire issue): A-
Cool factor: Paul Smith draws a fantastic Zabu.
Character quotable: “We X-Men die somewhat harder than most. And we yield, not at all.” – Storm, triumphant
Notable: Includes a one-page “Editori-Al” strip by Al Milgrom.
Editor’s note: This review was written Sept.6, 2021.
