Ladies and gentlemen, Matt Fraction! I feel bad slagging this guy, but boy when you're due... Just when I thought that maybe Fraction had figured out a great storyline, he drops the ball.
Last issue, Doctor Octopus confronted Stark with an ultimatum. Fix his brain damage or Octavious detonates a nuke over Manhattan. I know, I know, sounds cheesy. Well, it kind of was. But it really seemed to work in an old school, Spider-Man kind of way. Well, whatever momentum Fraction had going into this issue, he catapulted out the window.
The whole issue revolves around this ridiculous dialogue between Octavious and Stark. It just seems to go on and on, in a series of countless circles.
Iron Man: "You're a madman Otto!"
Doc Oc: "But I've outsmarted you Stark. Buh hah hah ha!"
Iron Man: "Octavious, your crazy!"
Doc Oc: "Crazy to outsmart you Stark! Buh hah ha....
You get the idea!
I feel bad picking on Fraction, but it has to be said. He is really struggling with all of his books right now. Not sure if he is distracted or what.
On another note, I'd like to see a different colourist with Larroca. I think D'Armata's work makes Larroca's images look too shiny.
Unfortunately, I'm not sure I can continue qualifying spending money on this book. I'm not 100% sure, but it is getting close.