Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 9 Book

Bendis really manages to knock it out of the park (again) in retelling the infamous Spidey Clone Saga. In 9 issues he single handedly walked all over the 3 year sprawling mess in the regular continuity as we get a loving, tensely plotted story as Pete's life crumbles around him. I fondly remember reading these as singles, travelling up into central (London), picking up my pull list and heading off to Ed's Diner for a burger and malt shake. The wait was barely manageable to find out what happened next. Happy, happy times.

The clones are realised with knowing nods to the various spider characters over the years, the Fantastic Four feature prominently, the Ultimates pop up and there are numerous cameos including some new Ultimate versions of older characters. There's a truly epic feeling to it all and things get really serious with some major changes to the status quo. This is all fantastically portrayed by Mark Bagley who manages to nail the small character scenes and huge battle sequences alike. He really has made Ultimate Spider-Man what it is, side by side with Bendis.

I recall Ultimate Knights being a little of a let down at the time but read here it's quite a nice change of pace. The way Kingpin gets revenge on Pete through copyright is genius. It moves in interesting directions and Kingpin gets some emotional scenes, though it feels a little of a retread. I also like the way they handled Moon Knight and his multiple personalities.

The final issue between Aunt May and Pete is brilliant with some great character moments. Midway through, Bagley hands over the reigns for an intersecting chapter pencilled by Stuart Immonen (who took over regular duties after this). I certainly missed his approach and I stopped reading the singles here (for a variety of other reasons as well) but it really felt like the end of an era at the time.

Well recommended even for new fans.