The Marvels Project

The Marvels Project #4

This should be one of the most talked about events of the year; rather, it'll eventually go down as one of those classic graphic novels essential to anyone's collection. In this issue, Ed Brubaker does a flawless job capturing the supporting characters' intentions, laying the groundwork to what is soon to become the bigger picture. It's a rather lowkey chapter, as there's not a whole lot of action, but it's also what makes this chapter one of the project's most important.

When Sub-Mariner, Human Torch or The Angel aren't on-screen, The Marvels Project can get a little filthy. It's this chapter that allows us into the minds of key players that aren't all familiar to us; it's this chapter that allows us into the psyche of the spies from the Third Reich, into the psyche of investigators and professors onto the goals of their enemies and creations.

With murkey shades of gray and orange, Steve Epting captures the essence of WWII paranoia. Everything down to the wardrobes, vehicles, buildings, and human movements (you'll see what I mean during the issue's pinacle action sequence) is spot-on to what Bru is attempting to create. There's no doubt that nailing the period's emotional and physical landscape is just as important to the Marvels Project as is the story. We all know what happens here; it's the journey of getting there that makes Brubaker & Epting's version so special.

4/5 Bags&Boards - Really good "development" issue

i've been kinda thinking of picking this up with the back issues but i wanna know, is it really as awesome as i've been hearing?

LOOSECANNON wrote:The Marvels Project #4

This should be one of the most talked about events of the year; rather, it'll eventually go down as one of those classic graphic novels essential to anyone's collection. In this issue, Ed Brubaker does a flawless job capturing the supporting characters' intentions, laying the groundwork to what is soon to become the bigger picture. It's a rather lowkey chapter, as there's not a whole lot of action, but it's also what makes this chapter one of the project's most important.

When Sub-Mariner, Human Torch or The Angel aren't on-screen, The Marvels Project can get a little filthy. It's this chapter that allows us into the minds of key players that aren't all familiar to us; it's this chapter that allows us into the psyche of the spies from the Third Reich, into the psyche of investigators and professors onto the goals of their enemies and creations.

With murkey shades of gray and orange, Steve Epting captures the essence of WWII paranoia. Everything down to the wardrobes, vehicles, buildings, and human movements (you'll see what I mean during the issue's pinacle action sequence) is spot-on to what Bru is attempting to create. There's no doubt that nailing the period's emotional and physical landscape is just as important to the Marvels Project as is the story. We all know what happens here; it's the journey of getting there that makes Brubaker & Epting's version so special.

4/5 Bags&Boards - Really good "development" issue

Yes, totally agree. Bru is doing such a great job of retelling basically the origin of superheroes in the Marvel Universe. And Epting is turning out some of the best work of his career, and that's saying something. This book is easily one of the best on the stands.

Another excellent issue, though it's basically all setup. #5's gonna be crazy-good!

Spider_Fan14 wrote:i've been kinda thinking of picking this up with the back issues but i wanna know, is it really as awesome as i've been hearing?

If you liked Marvels or DC's The Next Frontier...like stories that retell the respected universe's origin...then u'll love this..especially if you've been reading Bru's run on Captain America or Reborn...

Spider_Fan14 wrote:is it really as awesome as i've been hearing?

Buy it, read it, love it, buy more for friends and relatives.

Issue #4 was really excellent. I really like Brubaker's approach to looking at Project Rebirth from the nazi spies' perspective. It was such an obvious version of the story to tell yet to the best of my knowledge no one had done it before. Great job from Brubaker to tell us sides of these old stories that we hadn't seen before.

Epting's art could not be more suited to this kind of story and time period. In fact, he and Brubaker really seem to have captured the period well - the voices and look all feel right.

Oh and farewell to The Ferret. It was nice meeting you.

Brubaker has said this will link back to the current Marvel Universe and I keep thinking each issue that this Private John Steele could be that link. I'm really intrigued to know where his story is heading.

Spider_Fan14 wrote:i've been kinda thinking of picking this up with the back issues but i wanna know, is it really as awesome as i've been hearing?

It is!

LOOSECANNON wrote:
If you liked Marvels or DC's The Next Frontier...

I wouldn't really liken it to those books though. I'd simply say if you've liked Brubaker's and Epting's Captain America then you'd definitely like this. If you like a good detective or spy story this is it too - a bit more grounded than your every day superhero book.

Yes, very espionage.

The Marvels Project #5

This book just continues to be great, and I feel like it gets better with every issue. We see Cap's origin, which has been retold countless times, from a new perspective that feels fresh and interesting: through the eyes and narration of The Angel. He's definitely becoming one of my favorite characters in this, I don't know much about the character but I'd love it if he somehow became a regular in the Cap books and modern MU in general. I also really liked the chilling scenes with the Red Skull. Bru perfectly compares and contrasts Cap and Skull and what they represent to their respective countries' war efforts. The parts with Fury and John Steele were well done too. But the best part of the issue was Steve's "debut" as Cap, seen from the perspective of The Angel. That was essentially the moment where the age of "Marvels" truly began!

And I'm sure I don't even have to mention it at this point, but Steve Epting's art is flat out stellar. It fits the tone of this book perfectly. And while I am a fan of Bryan Hitch, I just wish Epting could've handled Cap Reborn. Not only would it have been on time and the whole scheduling problem been avoided, but the art itself is just better suited for Bru's Cap universe IMO.

MP #5

Worst issue yet. Why? Because we've read this origin tale far too many. Yes, it's true, it's from a different perspective, a different angle if you will. It's still Captain America's origin and I swear I know his origin better than my own upbringing. That's because nothing too exciting other than building legos and pretending to be Luke Skywalker out climbing trees had happened.

Now, onto the book.

It's also agreed that Epting's art's been as vital as Brubaker's narrative. He captures the essence of WWII, telling a story with his panels as good as any.

Though, some may also argue that the third-person narration through this issue throws off the pacing. With all these characters, it'd be nice to see them do more interacting. Nevertheless the script remains top-notch. It's just too bad we've seen Cap's origin one too many times...despite needing to be done to move on.

3.5/5 Plastic Comic Book Bags - Another stunning issue from Ed & Steve other than the repeated Cap tale.

Bigtymin504 wrote:The Marvels Project #5

This book just continues to be great, and I feel like it gets better with every issue. We see Cap's origin, which has been retold countless times, from a new perspective that feels fresh and interesting: through the eyes and narration of The Angel. He's definitely becoming one of my favorite characters in this, I don't know much about the character but I'd love it if he somehow became a regular in the Cap books and modern MU in general. I also really liked the chilling scenes with the Red Skull. Bru perfectly compares and contrasts Cap and Skull and what they represent to their respective countries' war efforts. The parts with Fury and John Steele were well done too. But the best part of the issue was Steve's "debut" as Cap, seen from the perspective of The Angel. That was essentially the moment where the age of "Marvels" truly began!

And I'm sure I don't even have to mention it at this point, but Steve Epting's art is flat out stellar. It fits the tone of this book perfectly. And while I am a fan of Bryan Hitch, I just wish Epting could've handled Cap Reborn. Not only would it have been on time and the whole scheduling problem been avoided, but the art itself is just better suited for Bru's Cap universe IMO.

Just totally agree with you here. Probably the character I'm most interested in seeing where they end up, though, is this John Steele. Very curious as to what happens with him. Where is he now?

Like you, I didn't mind the Captain America parts. Although we've seen Cap's origins many times that part only went for a couple of pages which I can live with. The rest was The Angel's first meeting with Cap and seeing a lot of this revolves around The Angel then I think it makes a lot of sense to tell that story.

I also think it's a shame Epting couldn't have worked on Reborn.

The Marvels Project #6

Even with one of the most esteemed writers in Brubaker and artists in Steve Epting, The Marvels Project is an understandably tough sell. Being that this is the team that brought us the wonderfully-received Captain America run the past few years, I'm sure it's going steady. With Blackest Night and Siege running the ferries through the majors ever abundant waters, The Marvels Project is the shining raft left astray. And that's perfectly fine.

While I know it's not the best issue, #6 is perhaps my favorite of the bunch. Thomas Holloway's narration flows poetically, allowing for a quicker, less mind-numbing issue than usual. The second half leads to a perfect adaptation of Namor and Human Torch's classic battle (the second time), with Epting crafting each panel ever so precisely. His flooding of New York during the confrontation is a wonder to behold. And Wizard award winner (ha) Dave Stewart illuminates the Golden Age environs with his characters of various reflection. It's simply a gorgeous read.

With John Steele and Red Skull threads also pushing the narrative, we're getting closer to resolving Marvel's origins. I'm just hoping admist all the event-hopping this project gets the due is so rightfully deserves.

4/5 Bags&Boards - Sweet ending, too.

Review of #6 is up on the main site. Check it out!

http://panelsonpages.com/?p=19815

#6 is just more of the same awesomeness from Bru and Epting. The art continues to be stunning, some of the best of any book on the market. Looks like next issue we'll see the Invaders start to form!

Bigtymin504 wrote:#6 is just more of the same awesomeness from Bru and Epting. The art continues to be stunning, some of the best of any book on the market. Looks like next issue we'll see the Invaders start to form!

Yeah I agree about Epting. This was a fantastic issue for him (although they've all been good). The scene with the tidal wave hitting Manhattan with Namor and the Torch floating above the city was fantastic!

Interesting to see the Toro Raymond stuff too as a little more light has been being shed on how his powers are triggered and work over in the Torch mini series.

The Marvels Project #7

I keep repeating myself with this book but there's nothing much you can say other than it's fantastic. I love how Bru is introducing characters and bringing all the plot threads together with Angel, the Red Skull/U-Men alliance, Cap and Bucky, Torch, Namor, etc. Can't wait to see the endgame with #8 next month. And Epting is just drawing a masterpiece here. The Cap and Bucky cover by Steve McNiven was awesome too.

Bigtymin504 wrote:The Marvels Project #7

I keep repeating myself with this book but there's nothing much you can say other than it's fantastic. I love how Bru is introducing characters and bringing all the plot threads together with Angel, the Red Skull/U-Men alliance, Cap and Bucky, Torch, Namor, etc. Can't wait to see the endgame with #8 next month. And Epting is just drawing a masterpiece here. The Cap and Bucky cover by Steve McNiven was awesome too.

This is the second time this week you've reviewed the issue for me exactly the way I'd put. Thanks AGAIN for saving me time from writing. Should be a hell of a finale.

4/5 Bucky Pop Gun Shots

LOOSECANNON wrote:

Bigtymin504 wrote:The Marvels Project #7

I keep repeating myself with this book but there's nothing much you can say other than it's fantastic. I love how Bru is introducing characters and bringing all the plot threads together with Angel, the Red Skull/U-Men alliance, Cap and Bucky, Torch, Namor, etc. Can't wait to see the endgame with #8 next month. And Epting is just drawing a masterpiece here. The Cap and Bucky cover by Steve McNiven was awesome too.

This is the second time this week you've reviewed the issue for me exactly the way I'd put. Thanks AGAIN for saving me time from writing. Should be a hell of a finale.

4/5 Bucky Pop Gun Shots

No prob.

Bigtymin504 wrote:The Marvels Project #7

I keep repeating myself with this book but there's nothing much you can say other than it's fantastic. I love how Bru is introducing characters and bringing all the plot threads together with Angel, the Red Skull/U-Men alliance, Cap and Bucky, Torch, Namor, etc. Can't wait to see the endgame with #8 next month. And Epting is just drawing a masterpiece here. The Cap and Bucky cover by Steve McNiven was awesome too.

Yeah not much else to say except that this is just damn good.

I'm really keen to see what happens with John Steele too. He's like an indestructible man, so what happened to him? Where is he?

Actually now that I think of it, Bru has mentioned this series will have repercussions in the current Marvel Universe. I'm wondering if that might just be in the pages of Secret Avengers?

Steve Epting did just brilliant work (yet again) in this issue. That scene of Union Jack in WWI was great.

The Marvels Project #8

Ah so this great series comes to a close. We see the Marvels confront the secret Atlantian plot during Pearl Harbor and shortly after, the formation of The Invaders. Bru nicely captured the heartfelt efforts of the Torch and Toro. Then John Steele is shown to have disappeared, hopefully Bru has him turn up somewhere. I loved that we were introduced to Angel's grandson, have a feeling we'll be seeing more of him too. And not like I even have to say anymore but Epting's art was flawless again.

This is essentially the definitive origin of superheroes in the Marvel Universe. I highly recommend those that haven't read it to pick it up in hardcover.

The Marvels Project #8

I can't say I'm overwhelmed by this great maxi's finish. Most of that has to do with the change of direction Brubaker took halfway through the series. Of course, it HAD to be told this way, for this is the (maybe even definitive) origin of Marvel. However, as a fan of Brubaker's Gotham Central, Criminal, Incognito, Daredevil, Captain America, etc. I appreciated the more espionage/noir aspects of his writing. When The Marvels Project turned into yet another Golden Age superhero romp, I lost touch with what had been my "sleeper" (and I don't mean tiring) comic series of the year.

What Bru and Epting accomplish, though, is undoubted success. Looking at the project in its entirety a.k.a. trade format is the way to go. Each issue offered something of significance, but eventually it's going to come down how it's stored on your shelf.

For that, I say bravo.

3.5/5 Bags&Boards - As a trade, this one receives an easy 4...perhaps in time a stronger score. Definitely needs to be looked at come awards season.

I loved the finale to this mini. The ending was slightly predictable, but I think Brubaker did a great job pulling everything together, and Epting's art was gorgeous.

Bigtymin504 wrote:The Marvels Project #8

Ah so this great series comes to a close. We see the Marvels confront the secret Atlantian plot during Pearl Harbor and shortly after, the formation of The Invaders. Bru nicely captured the heartfelt efforts of the Torch and Toro. Then John Steele is shown to have disappeared, hopefully Bru has him turn up somewhere. I loved that we were introduced to Angel's grandson, have a feeling we'll be seeing more of him too. And not like I even have to say anymore but Epting's art was flawless again.

This is essentially the definitive origin of superheroes in the Marvel Universe. I highly recommend those that haven't read it to pick it up in hardcover.

Completely agree with you. I loved this series. It was excellent. The scenes with the Torch and Toro at Pearl Harbour were so well done and Epting's art was wonderful with colouring that just totally added to the atmosphere of the book. Overall a wonderful piece of work.

I'm most interested in what has happened to John Steele. I suspect more than anything this is the plot point Brubaker has up his sleeve for the future. What has this guy been doing since WWII? Where is he now? This is a very mysterious character and I, for one, want to learn more.

LOOSECANNON wrote:The Marvels Project #8

I can't say I'm overwhelmed by this great maxi's finish. Most of that has to do with the change of direction Brubaker took halfway through the series. Of course, it HAD to be told this way, for this is the (maybe even definitive) origin of Marvel. However, as a fan of Brubaker's Gotham Central, Criminal, Incognito, Daredevil, Captain America, etc. I appreciated the more espionage/noir aspects of his writing. When The Marvels Project turned into yet another Golden Age superhero romp, I lost touch with what had been my "sleeper" (and I don't mean tiring) comic series of the year.

I think the whole story progression made perfect sense for where America was in the war. It starts out as a story full of secret agents and hidden agendas and gradually becomes more out in the open as the USA is brought into the war. I think it was actually really well done by Brubaker.

I want to re-read the entire series start to finish to get the full concept, BUT! I thought the mini-series was wonderful. SO high brow for Marvel...the origin of the Marvel superhero during the 30s and 40s, which was the advent of the comic book as well...Brubaker and Epting did a great job following up their Cap run with this. It made perfect sense. Epting just gets better and better.