Tales Of Suspense #53 is the second appearance of the Black Widow, and coming just one issue after her first, making this story a true follow-up to the events of Tales Of Suspense #52.  This issue, however focuses in more on her character as the central antagonist, then the last one did, but does that alone make it worth reading? Check out my review to find out what I think of “The Black Widow Strikes Again!” from Tales Of Suspense #53. 

Artwork

I feel that the artwork in this issue was on par with what I have come to expect from Don Heck and from comic books of the mid 1960’s. offering sufficient detail for the story, but not overly so as the time and pages done is what the value was focused on.

Originality & Continuity

This comic does pick up fairly well after the last, and offers us a look at what is to my recollection marvel’s first recurring communist spy. although i would welcome someone to correct me on this.

Characters & Development

Tony Stark – A Flawed Man

it is though the flaws in our hero’s alter ego that lets this story progress; his romantic interest in the black widow, and the wish for someone so beautiful to not be so evil is part of what allows her to be so successful in her endeavor to steal from him.

The Black Widow’s flawless performance

to counter that, we have a villainess whom when left to her own means and devices is executing a flawless performance. by giving the Black Widow a cunning intellect to match her striking beauty and then the skills to use both  is what makes her such a successful nemesis.

if any flaw can be attributed to the character at this stage, it is her l obedience to “the leader”. as it is the help he sent, and she dared not refuse that is the ultimate downfall to the mission.

Story

I feel that this story offers us quite an interesting read; giving our hero weakness, while showing us an opponent whom is skilled at exploiting those human weaknesses.

In reading comics about super hero’s, it is easy to overlook powerless individual’s but marvel does go a long way to remind us from time to time, that someone without powers or a mechanical suit sure can make an impact and stand toe to toe with the best of them.

But please tell me what you think of the Black Widow, both in this issue, and ongoing, by commenting below.