For today’s comic book review I read Journey Into Mystery #101; a story that is part one of another two-part story for the Mighty Thor.  But all being part of a larger epic that is ongoing related to his desire of Jane Foster.

In this issue, to punish Thor for not forgetting the mortal Jane Foster he reduces Thor’s power in half, as well as takes away his access to Asgard and ability to control the elements.  Loki sees this as an opportunity, and sets up an encounter with Thor against The Tomorrow Man, by restoring the past foes memories.  But can Thor stop the Tomorrow Man with half of his power? or is he doomed to fail? 

Story

as stories go, this one is well written, both in how it develops Thor, and his relationship with the avengers, but also in how we can have Loki pulling the strings from afar, even right under Odin’s eyes without it being quickly realized.

This story, like the other first part, offers us a great chance, for great growth, but lets hope that the next part lives up to what this one has started.

Art

This work I do not feel was Jack Kirby’s finest.  his detail and depth was lacking,  and Thor looked a bit off for most of the issue. We have seen a lot better from Jack then what was put forward for this tale.  and I know we will see better again.

But Jack Kirby at his worst is still quite good,  and some of the panels like the one I included where not all that bad.  offering detail and interesting angles for our story.

Originality & Continuity

This story works in continuity quite well, both from last issue, and from an issue long past, with reintroducing an old foe while Thor deals with the ongoing drama of loving a mortal.

Characters & Development

Thor, and Family

In many ways this is a family tale, and we get to see Thor, Odin and Loki develop as such.  Loki manipulating their father to turn him slowly against Thor, the favored son, who in their fathers eyes loves someone who is unworthy of such attention.  This is in may way’s a story as old as time itself, but one that gives us a great chance to get to know our characters.

For one, getting to see Thor having a tantrum that attracts the attention of Giant-Man and Iron Man is a sight to see.