Special Edition: Spider-Man Vs. the Hulk
Published and © by Marvel, 1979
Title: “Chaos on Campus!”
Synopsis: Spider-Man and the Hulk clash at Empire State University, but, wouldn’t you know it, the Hulk is really just misunderstood.
Writer: Uncredited
Penciler: Sal Buscema
Inker: Al Milgrom
Review: This reviewer hadn’t seen this advertising supplement from the Columbus Dispatch before a copy turned up in a recently purchased stack of back issues. But, having read other such giveaways, expectations were low. Surprisingly, this one isn’t bad. The uncredited writer does a good job hitting all the key character points, from Peter Parker’s luck with women to the Hulk just being misunderstood. The book isn’t “written down,” instead reading like a typical Spidey comic from the time. The uncredited art is clearly by Sal Buscema, who turns in a typical, journeyman-level job. Again, not bad.
Grade: B
Cool factor: It’s rare this reviewer discovers a new ’70s Marvel. That’s always cool!
Not-so-cool factor: Bruce Banner is “David” Banner. Damn you, “Hulk” TV show!
Notable: This comic is regular size, but only 16 pages.
Character quotable: “Uh, Cindy, how about a burger and shake? Then, maybe … well, who knows?” – Peter Parker, smooth operator
Editor’s note: This review was originally published by Comics Bronze Age on Feb. 26, 2010.
