For the Thor feature in this issue, we are introduced to a new rogue for our hero and the Marvel Universe: The Absorbing Man. Before diving into that, however, we see Thor pursuing an enemy fleeing in a racing car. Even with Loki’s unseen attempts to interfere, Thor quickly proves victorious. But it’s Loki who learns a key lesson here: Only Odin can strip Thor’s power from him.

This sets the stage for Crusher Creel to gain the powers that make him the Absorbing Man. His ability to mimic the material or strength of whatever he is near is a brilliant concept. Thus, when fighting Thor, he’s as strong as Thor; when fighting a tank, he becomes as if made of the tank’s metal.

The battle between Thor and the Absorbing Man serves as the main action, but behind the scenes, Loki’s scheming continues. By the end, Loki captures Jane Foster as part of his broader plan. This twist, revealed with Balder’s warning, forces Thor to abandon his fight mid-battle to rescue Jane—setting up a continuation of the story in upcoming issues.

Story

There’s a lot of potential packed into this tale. The Absorbing Man is a fascinating new foe, Loki is as conniving as ever, and the narrative flows well—despite the story not wrapping up in this issue. However, the ending transition, where Jane is suddenly captured, feels… rushed. It seems shoehorned in without prior buildup (or perhaps I missed it). A stronger setup for this twist would have made the conclusion more satisfying.

Artwork

When it comes to the artwork, I want to highlight depth in two senses. First, there’s the depth of expression among the characters—Loki’s smirks, Crusher Creel’s transformation as he realizes his new powers, and the tender moments between Don Blake and Jane Foster.

Second, there’s a fantastic use of physical depth, especially in the scale of the settings and action. Whether in the sprawling backgrounds or the dynamic combat between Thor and the Absorbing Man, the visuals effectively convey grandeur and intensity.