Marvel Now
Mark Waid, writer
Leinil Yu, artist
I'm one of those readers who felt that Tony Stark/Iron Man had a lot to answer for after the events of Civil War a few years ago. Since that time, I've been happy to see some instances where some of Tony's friends have taken him to task for some of his decisions and his hubris during those events. This book falls into that category.
Maria Hill, director of S.H.I.E.L.D., has taken Bruce Banner up on his offer from the first issue: S.H.I.E.L.D. supplies Banner with a lab, staff and materials so he can create things to benefit mankind and ensure that he is remembered for more than the destruction caused by his green alter ego. In exchange, Banner allows S.H.I.E.L.D. to point him in a useful direction when he inevitably hulks out again. While not 100 percent convinced of the overall benefits, Hill is taking advantage of the offer in light of there being no other workable solutions to the Hulk problem. For his part, Bruce Banner is making the most of his deal, already having developed a few new bits of hardware and setting a goal for himself to complete work on at least one new invention each week.
Enter Iron Man at the outset of this issue, barging into the S.H.I.E.L.D. base where Banner is currently located and demanding that Hill turn over whatever technology or whichever super-villain she is using to mind-control Banner. Hill explains that isn't the case, but Iron Man insists on investigating the situation for himself. Tony and Bruce share a mathematical joke to lighten the mood of the meeting, and Bruce does what he can to assure Tony that this plan is for the best. But it is also obvious that the two men have an underlying animosity/rivalry going on. Tony is clearly impressed by some of what Bruce has already accomplished but refuses to acknowledge that out loud. And Bruce has anticipated Tony's interference and expects the metal-clad Avenger to try to end the arrangement. You just know all of that tension is going to result in a superhero smackdown! But don't worry, fans of each character have their moments to be proud of in what ensues.
In fact, my only complaint with this book so far is the art -- just not a fan of Leinil Yu's work, especially on this title. I absolutely hate the way he draws faces here: the drawings are so detailed, you can't see the faces for all of the linework.
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