Man-Thing (4th Series)

    (Marvel, 2004)
™ and © 2004 Marvel Entertainment Group

Scripted by the “writer of the upcoming Marvel film,” this small (three issues long) Man-Thing series almost treats the title character like a modern legend rather than an actual denizen of the murky swamps of the Marvel universe. Disregarding cover appearances, readers don’t actually see The Volatile Vegetable until the last page of the second issue (he appeared on the first page of the first issue of the 1979 series), meaning there’s little action so far but plenty of mystery and intrigue.

The story revolves around Nathan Mehr, an insurance adjuster whose deadpan delivery accentuates his business-like attitude when investigating a claim in a Louisiana bayou town regarding sabotaged oil-drilling equipment. (This trait also gives the well-written character a subtle sense of humor.) Adding to the fun are disappearances blamed on gator attacks and an uncooperative sheriff.

Holtz’s Kelley Jones-like art puts a menacing face on Gray Morrow’s original creature designs (Morrow co-created Man-Thing), but this is a new take on the character. In other words, this is not your father’s Man-Thing. (Ouch!)

— Brett Weiss
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#1

September, 2004
Cover Price: $2.99
8 copies available from $2.25 		Hans RodionoffKyle Hotz
#2

October, 2004
Cover Price: $2.99
4 copies available from $1.92 		Hans RodionoffKyle Hotz
#3

November, 2004
Cover Price: $2.99
2 copies available from $1.49 		Hans RodionoffKyle Hotz