Spider-Men II #3

After last month’s underwhelming reveal that the original Spider-Men ending was literally ‘nothing’, Bendis decides to spend this issue fleshing out 616 Miles.  616 Mile’s life revolves around the mafia and fortunately, Bendis and crime drama go together like peanut butter and jelly.

The story starts off with Wilson Fisk going to prison. This allows some fun prison tropes to be explored. Bendis has a long history with the Kingpin and knows exactly how to write him so he sounds methodical and scary. This issue is no exception. The Kingpin takes up a large portion of the story and he always takes steals the scene when he is present. This has the added effect of stealing some of the thunder away from 616 Miles, who surprise, is also at the prison. We see their relationship form and while it is interesting, Kingpin takes up too much of the spotlight. As a result, 616 Miles doesn’t get as much development as you’d expect. This is the most frustrating part of the issue. By the end, we know a little bit more about Miles but not much. We know that he is best buds with Kingpin, and he left crime because of a girl. What makes him tick? Is he really Miles counterpart, or do they just share a name? Why should we be scared of him? Still too many questions left unanswered supposedly meant to flesh him out.

Despite this shortcoming, everything else about this issue was great. Bendis’ dialogue really shines in this issue, particularly the scenes between 616 Miles and the Kingpin. Sara Pichelli’s work is great as always. Her Kingpin is threatening and her 616 Miles looks thoroughly creepy. One cafeteria scene was incredibly brutal and you'll know it when you see it.

The plot slows down a bit here and we’re still left with too many questions but overall, Bendis and Pichelli are still doing some fun work. Pichelli’s art is top notch and Bendis provides some very entertaining dialogue.