THE DEFENDERS

Issue No.2

"The Curse"

Writers: Kurt Busiek & Erik Larsen

Artists: Erick Larsen & Klaus Jansen

Colorist: Gregory Wright with Color Arts

Editor: Tom Brevoort

Cover by Art Adams

         In my review of the first issue of this series I made the presumption that since Patsy Walker was the narrator that time out that she would continue to serve that function for the series. Despite the possible advantages of that approach, I'm pleased to see that it's not the formula. This issue we have Kyle Richmond providing the narration. Now it seems as if narration (and a fine nod to the move to use a character-related icon in the narration panels to make it perfectly clear who's voice we're hearing) in each issue will be provided by a team member not deeply involved in the battle that issue. Hmm. I wonder how far they'll take that?

        This issue largely pins down the workings of Yandroth's curse, the tie that binds Dr. Strange, Namor, the Hulk and Silver Surfer together. (This is something of a relief, since the issue title goes... in questionable taste since Valkyrie's the central figure on the cover. If you don't know what I mean you're likely better off for it.) The details of the curse are spelled out in a couple of ways. Dr. Strange establishes a dual reason for thinking the curse virtually unbreakable, for one. For another, we see that it is just that core four - the ones who Yandroth recognized as the contentious, bickering team, who are bound by it. Further, we see that upon summoning the Hulk will always appear in his green, simple-minded form. Of all the elements, this is the first one I expect to prove limiting to the creative team and so the one most likely to be modified.

        I continue to see myself reading this series for the forseeable future. The writing works, as both Kurt and Erik have a sense of the history and an effection for the characters that come from being long-time fans. Working with a group of characters leaves less time to concentrate on each character, so I'm waiting another issue or two to see enough of  each character to see if they all ring true.

        I still have some reservations concerning the Larsen/Jansen artwork. I won't pretend it's what I consider to be a good look for the series, but when I look around at some of the other artwork out there I'll continue to keep in mind that it could be much worse.

                                         MJN

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