For this comic book review I am reading Fantastic Four #27, and a story titled “The Search For Sub-Mariner!“, Yes, you have guessed right, the Sub-Mariner is back in Fantastic Four, for the first time since Fantastic Four Annual #1.  Although Namor did have an appearance in Avengers #3 and #4.

But in this issue as you can see by the cover we also have a guest hero: Doctor Strange, in his first appearance out side of strange tales.  But what role will he have in this fantastic tale? and is this a Classic or a wash? you will have to look below into my comic book review. 

Artwork

from the action packed panels, to the details of Namor’s undersea castle, to the expression and emotion on the faces, this tale represents some of the finest examples of Jack Kirby’s work all put in one issue. it is so well done that it makes it hard for me to pick what panel to show. So, I am left to highly recommend that you thumb though Fantastic Four #27; and in the mean time let me show you a fine picture of the thing juggling as Mr. Fantastic and Namors thrust for each others blood continues. 

Originality & Continuity

In this issue, In addition to the Fantastic Four, we have Namor who’s last appearances where in the Avengers, and Dr. Strange whose regular tale appears in strange tales.  with such a collection of characters, continuity becomes something of even greater importance; This is why it pleases me to see that it was handled so well!

Characters & Development

Namor The Sub-mariner

This tale is key to the character of Namor; it is here that i feel we begin to see his transformation taking place,  one that will help us let him into our hearts as readers, and accept him as the Anti-Hero Anti-Villain that he can be.

Doctor Strange & Magic in the marvel universe

It is in this issue that Dr. Strange first appears outside of strange tales, and perhaps it is only fitting that he is summoned by the human torch, the character he shares the pages of that magazine with.  But it is with this volume that we  not only firmly establish Dr. Strange as part of the marvel universe instead of being in his own, but we establish magic and the mystic arts as something that exist in that universe.   This to me is as significant an event as any other! Time will tell how this changes the stories and the fate of the universe.

Reed Richards & Sue Storm

This is a great point for Reed and Sue, in there ongoing and developing love story. first it is the point where I feel Sue truly picks between Reed and Namor for herself, but it is also the point where Reed begins to realize that he has to not only act, he has to fight for the woman he loves.  Now we know it is only a matter of time before a question is asked, and a wedding is had.

 Story

Taking everything into account this story is a great read. It also did seem to have everything: from a love triangle, to action, amazing guests, believable motives, and much more.

I’m sorry, Namor! Sorry if you misunderstood the sympathy I felt for you… Yes, even the affection I felt… Sorry if you thought it was love! But I realize now… Reed is the only man for me… Nothing can ever change that!

– Sue Storm(Invisible Girl)

The only thing it looses, is what I thought would have been the perfect ending, being if Reed went though with his plan with sue for the issue. But at last, in classic comic book fashion, it did not happen; as nothing changes to fast. But now the seed that I feel was planted so long ago, begins to show signs of developing, and i suspect it won’t be much longer before we are rewarded big. But please, I would love to hear what you think.