Spider-Man #4 (2016) – Comic Review and Breakdown
Genre
Superhero, Action, Coming-of-Age, Urban Drama
Main Characters
- Miles
Morales / Spider-Man – A young Afro-Latino teenager grappling with
great power and responsibility in a new Marvel Universe.
- Black
Cat / Felicia Hardy – A cunning and ambitious crime boss with her eyes
set on Miles.
- Bombshell
– A teen hero with explosive powers, caught in the chaos surrounding
Miles.
- Ganke
Lee – Miles' best friend and confidant, often the emotional anchor in
Miles’ double life.
- Maria
Hill – Director of S.H.I.E.L.D., overseeing matters involving enhanced
individuals.
Writer
Brian Michael Bendis – Known for his sharp,
contemporary dialogue and character-driven narratives, Bendis brings a
grounded, emotional authenticity to Miles Morales’ story.
Artist
Sara Pichelli (Penciler) – Her expressive art style
and attention to detail elevate the storytelling, especially in emotional and
action-heavy panels.
Justin Ponsor (Colorist) – Known for his vibrant yet moody palette,
which matches Miles’ dual life as a teen and superhero.
Editor Details
- Nick
Lowe (Editor)
- Devin
Lewis (Assistant Editor)
Both bring experience in managing key Marvel titles, ensuring continuity and quality across the Spider-Man franchise.
Publisher and Brand
Marvel Comics
Published under the All-New, All-Different Marvel branding—a post-Secret
Wars relaunch designed to modernize and diversify the Marvel Universe.
Release Year
2016
Brief Plot Summary
In Spider-Man #4 (2016), Miles Morales struggles to
adjust to his new role in a restructured Marvel Universe. As he begins to
understand the weight of being Spider-Man, the public and media grow fixated on
his racial identity, complicating his heroic journey. To add to his troubles,
the Black Cat, now a formidable underground power in New York’s criminal scene,
targets Miles by placing a bounty on his head. With villains closing in, allies
turning unsure, and a mysterious new mutant entering the picture, Miles finds
himself caught in a storm that challenges both his resolve and his right to
wear the mask.
Notable Arcs or Storylines
This issue plays a pivotal role in establishing Miles
Morales' place in the mainstream Marvel Universe after Secret Wars. It
also marks the beginning of his conflict with Black Cat, which positions her as
a key antagonist in his solo adventures. The story also touches on societal
issues surrounding representation, identity, and public perception.
Fan Theories or Interpretations
Many fans have interpreted the media’s fixation on Miles'
ethnicity as a meta-commentary on real-world reactions to diverse characters
taking on legacy superhero roles. Some readers also theorize that Black Cat’s
aggression toward Miles represents a symbolic passing of the torch between old
and new power structures in New York’s hero-villain ecosystem.
Review Summary
Spider-Man #4 delivers a smart, socially aware narrative that combines superhero action with real-world issues. Bendis’ dialogue feels authentic and grounded, giving Miles a relatable and distinct voice. Sara Pichelli’s art continues to shine with fluid action sequences and expressive character work, supported brilliantly by Justin Ponsor’s atmospheric colors. While the pacing leans on set-up more than payoff, the groundwork it lays for future conflict is compelling and layered. Overall, it’s a solid entry that deepens Miles’ arc and expands his world meaningfully.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
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