The title of Punisher vs. The Amazing Spider-Man seems like a clear-cut reference to the upcoming MCU film, Brand New Day. Most of the movie’s advertising has been hyping the conflict between Frank Castle and Peter Parker, and this mini-series does center around a fight between the two vigilantes. However, the form that battle takes is entirely unexpected.
Punisher vs. The Amazing Spider-Man #1 is set in the distant past, sometime after Spider-Man and Punisher first encountered each other. Despite his better judgement, Frank reaches out for help tackling a super-powered crime-boss. As a show of good faith, he even agrees to go non-lethal for the mission.
The two prove to be a surprisingly effective team taking on Father Crime. Effective enough that Frank agrees to keep in touch regarding other evil-doers he could use help with. This sets up the titular fight between Punisher and Spider-Man. However, the fight is not physical.
Punisher vs. The Amazing Spider-Man explores unexpected territory
On paper, Spider-Man and the Punisher couldn’t be more different. While both characters share a common origin as vigilantes who fight because of the loss of their loved ones, one is an idealistic wisecracker who won’t shut up and the other is a dour killer who speaks softly and carries a big gun.
The script, by Punisher: Year One author Dan Abnett, delves into their shared pain rather than their differences. This is a welcome change from the usual conflict over killing whenever Spider-Man and The Punisher share a storyline. This thoughtful approach also gives some depth to Frank’s character, who isn’t normally portrayed as empathic. Frank deduces that he and Spider-Man share a motivation based on his behavior.
This revelation makes Frank start viewing Spidey as a rookie soldier in need of training rather than an annoyance. Simultaneously, Peter tries to guide Frank into heroism by showing him a better way. Of course they’re both doomed to failure, but the juxtaposition is fascinating.
Despite this more nuanced approach, this comic contains action in plenty. This is ably illustrated by Matteo Della Fonte, but there’s some similarly subtle detailing in the art that echoes the themes of the story. Punisher, for instance, is always depicted in shadow with his face obscured. Conversely, Spider-Man is depicted in the light, except when he finds himself empathizing with Frank.
Punisher vs. The Amazing Spider-Man is not the cash-grab movie tie-in comic most expected. It is far better. This is easily one of the best comics featuring Spider-Man and The Punisher ever written.
Grade: 10/10
Punisher vs. The Amazing Spider-Man #1 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
