Marvel 65th Anniversary Special

    (Marvel, 2004)
™ and © Marvel Entertainment Group

Most people are not going to read this comic book because it appeals to modern sensibilities. It doesn’t. One is going to read this comic because of its historical appeal. The original Human Torch and the Sub-Mariner were Marvel’s first heroes and the celebrated Torch/Subby battles were among the earliest crossovers.

This special edition reprints the battle from Marvel Mystery Comics #8–9, lovingly restored. The battle ended in a stalemate in #9, which was resolved in one page in #10, also reprinted here. (Way to make sure they buy the next issue!) The covers are also included, full-sized, in front of each chapter. (Who says comics companies are incapable of listening? They heard that we want the covers!)

This comic is a great introduction to Marvel Masterworks’s Golden Age Marvel Comics. It’s a few dollars more than DC’s Archives Samplers, but it’s also more of a keeper. Various “Human Torch vs. Sub-Mariner” stories have been reprinted before. A real 65th anniversary present would be a collection of all the stories in one volume. (Hey, Marvel—you still listening?)

— Jack Abramowitz
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#1

September, 2004
Cover Price: $4.99
5 copies available from $6.00 		Carl Burgos, Bill Everett, John ComptonCarl Burgos, Bill Everett