Brisk issue sets up many plots to come
After a brief dip in quality for the two issue Rogue and alternate-Ms. Marvel plot, Brian Reed sets a brisk pace for the next arc by introducing AIM into the fray.
Story & Script
One of the strengths of this book is the glib interior monologues from Ms. Marvel. Reed easily gets away with some romantic doting because he strikes a careful balance between Carol's brash pride and constant self-critique. Every time I start to get concerned that Ms. Marvel is coming off as too girlish Reed puts her in check. He makes it easy to believe that she can be both a woman and a deadly weapon.
As with the Civil War arc, the fun here is seeing Carol get out of her own head. Carol's flirtation with William Wagner is uncontrived. The pair speak like real people, sometimes in clipped phrases, sometimes rambling. Her interactions with Arana continue to charm – they make me wish Arana would sign on as a full-time sidekick.
The AIM portions of the book are taut, not overdressed with science-speak. One detraction is the “inside Doomsday Man” setting. It's meant to emphasize up Doomsday Man as its own sentience apart from its driver Korman, but I feel like it's misplayed – we see Korman boss the robot around without much debate. So much for their shared brain. Maybe it will be significant later on.
Artwork
Roberto de la Torre's take on Ms. Marvel is stunning – it's a pity that any other artist has to touch the book. He sketches a beautiful casual version of Carol, as well as a powerful Ms. Marvel. Actually, my favorite panel is the middle ground – I love the lightning bolt emerging from Carol's chest as she switches from date mode to battle ready.
I also enjoy Torre's version of William Wagner – he feels like a tangible late 30-something, not just an anonymous comic man.
If there's a weak point, I'd say that once or twice the pencils seem somewhat rushed - usually on faces that lack definition. Sadly, one of those occasions is Ms. Marvel on an otherwise killer final panel.
Bottom Line
This is an arc-starting issue that's busy putting plots into play, and as a result it slips by pretty quickly. Not a thrilling single-issue to pick up, but if you've got the entire run it will leave you ready to read more.