Review: Captain Marvel #16
“The Last Avenger” story line, possibly the most fun story line for Carol in quite some time, ends on this issue, with a bang, a shield, a smash and a hammer.
With last few “Avengers” rounded up, Supreme Vox sprung his trap on Carol, who knew there was more than bombing Kree up his nefarious sleeve. With the grand scheme unfurled, it’s up to Carol to change from the Last to the Mighty Avenger, literally.
The problem that can arise from this type of surreal change that a hero can go through, is that the setup can be much more entertaining than the punchline. After the first issue of “The Last Avenger”, things took a bit of downward turn as it seemed that it was just another monster of the month type of affair. Whilst the villain of the piece hasn’t moved past his mustache twirling type of motivation, how Carol has managed to defeat him has been entertaining. Having heroes fight each other can be difficult; who is stronger, faster; each one wants to hold their dignity (well maybe not Tony Stark and his bathrobe). Writer Kelly Thompson handles these concerns well; regardless of all the guests, Carol is the star of the show. The monologue works well as Carol morphs through the Avengers roster, through to the use of the “damn hammer” in way that made sense, despite the idea of other people using mjolnir being somewhat over used.
Lee Garbett’s art has been fantastic in this mini run. Here, there are parts that look greats, others that look half done. I ma not sure how this can occur to be honest. Starting at the early pages, everything looks great, but as things come to their conclusion, details are missing from Carol. Is this a mannerism in order to show the type of power she is using? I am not sure, but after such stellar work, I was disappointed about part of the end of this book. Garbett also uses a heavy line, which I quite like, but would a cleaner line help with some of the details missing panels? Colorist Tamra Bonvillain provides her normal excellent job. If there was any artistic confusion with Supreme Vox’s change, the final restitution of Carol in all her marvelousness definitely makes up for it. Letter are provided by VC’s Clayton Cowles, so you know what to expect here; you won’t be disappointed.
Having a soft spot for Carol Danvers since the 70’s, I ma pleased to have enjoyed this story line. There is no massive motive, no change a characters origins and no suddenly worthy element that effectively reduces the need for any of the other heroes.  It has been plainly put, a fun read! Marvel have been doing a great job, for the most part, with their female led books. Hopefully Thompson and company can keep this momentum going.
Writing – 5 Stars
Art – 4 Stars
Colors – 4 Stars
Overall – 4.5 Stars
Written by; Kelly Thompson
Art by; Lee Garbett
Colors by; Tamra Bonvillain
Letters by; VC’s Clayton Cowles
Published by; Marvel Worldwide
Author Profile
- I am a long time comic book fan, being first introduced to Batman in the mid to late 70's. This led to a appreciation of classic artists like Neal Adams and Jim Aparo. Moving through the decades that followed, I have a working knowledge of a huge raft of characters with a fondness for old school characters like JSA and The Shadow
Currently reading a slew of Bat Books, enjoying a mini Marvel revival, and the host of The Definative Crusade and Outside the Panels whilst also appearing on No-Prize Podcast on the Undercover Capes Podcast Network
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