Human Torch #2 Review

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Reviewer: Chris Delloiacono
Story Title: Burn: Part 2

Written by: Karl Kesel
Penciled by: Skottie Young
Inked by: Joe Seung
Colored by: Studio F
Lettered by: Cory Petit
Editor: Tom Brevoort
Publisher: Marvel Comics

HUMAN TORCH began with an above average first issue, and the latest issue does improve on its predecessor. Issue one while not an origin tale (who doesn’t know the FF’s origin), is set just prior and just after Johnny gains his Torch powers. The goal of the first issue seemed to be introducing soon to be Olympic wrestler Mike Snow. Snow engaged in a heated rivalry with Johnny that eventually led to Johnny accidentally burning him at the issues conclusion.

The second issue seems to be set firmly in modern day Marvel continuity. Johnny is about to embark on the conquest of the world’s land speed record. He of course revels in the spotlight he’s cast in due to the magnitude of the event. Kesel writes Johnny well as the arrogant kid that’s had far too much success early in life. While Johnny is still likable, he is certainly skirting the border.

The issue really takes off when Mike Snow, now a NYC fireman appears at Johnny’s office. His face was disfigured in the confrontation with Johnny years before, and his Olympic hopes were dashed. We learn that Mike never revealed what caused his injuries, thus saving Johnny’s career as the Torch. Kesel again does fine work showing how Johnny doesn’t understand the seriousness of what happened to Mike. A wild card is thrown into the equation when Mike tells Johnny that a co-worker of his recently spontaneously combusted. Is Mike behind this; is he luring Johnny into a trap? That’s where we’re left.

Skottie Young’s artwork is bright and the slightly contorted characters appealing to the eye. While I enjoyed his work for the most part, one aspect of his art is starting to bother me. It seems that every character is related to the Wicked Witch of the West, as they all have rather pointy chins. On a whole though the art is far better than I would have hoped in this series, and my complaint is nothing more than nitpicking.

Karl Kesel is keeping me interested enough to continue picking up the book. Kesel is the main reason I gave the book a try. I had no intention of giving it a lengthy trial; but if the book continues improving it will be here to stay on my pull list.