Stan Lee (born Stanley Martin Lieber) was an American writer, editor, creator of comic book superheroes, and the former president and chairman of Marvel Comics.
With several artist co-creators, most notably Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, he co-created Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, Thor as a superhero, the X-Men, Iron Man, the Hulk, Daredevil, the Silver Surfer, Dr. Strange, Ant-Man and the Wasp, Scarlet Witch, The Inhumans, and many other characters, introducing complex, naturalistic characters and a thoroughly shared universe into superhero comic books. He subsequently led the expansion of Marvel Comics from a small division of a publishing house to a large multimedia corporation.
In this issue, Peter resolves his relationship issues with Gwen and faces an old foe! I felt like this issue was more relaxed than others I have read but entertaining and engaging none the less!
Peter makes up with Gwen after Flash explains he wasn’t on a date with Gwen, but she had asked him out to talk about why Peter always seems to disappear. Elsewhere the Chameleon is back to his old tricks and pulls of an art heist disguised as poor Captain Stacy.
In a break from John Romita Snr. on his run, John Buscema and Jim Mooney are credited as illustrators for ASM #80. “The power and subtle genius of John Buscema can be seen in the issues he pencilled, and while he was pinch-hitting for me, I had the task of the transmitting to him, by phone, the plots Stan and I had worked out. It is probably well known by now that Buscema did not like pencilling ASM because of the wide array of characters and city scenes that make the series what it is. And I always must point out that, despite his aversion, he turned in beautifully drawn, sensitive characters as well as dramatic and dynamic action. The Marvel artists (he said modestly) always brought something extra to the mix, giving the tales an added dimension, and Big John did it as well as any of us. Jim Mooney was a vital element in this span of stories. His powerful blacks brought mood and depth that you can see for yourself. For decades, Jim had pencilled and inked countless major characters in a wide variety of genres for all the top comics publishers, and we lucked out having him with us so often. Jim Mooney is in a class by himself.” -John Romita Snr.
This issue sees the return of The Chameleon, one of Spidey’s earliest foes, as he uses his shapeshifting abilities to pull off an art heist—disguised as none other than Captain Stacy. While not the most thrilling villain comeback, the deception adds an interesting layer to the story, especially as Spider-Man and Robbie Robertson work together to set a trap.
On the personal side, Peter and Gwen finally patch things up after Flash clears up a misunderstanding. It’s a nice moment, though Peter’s tendency to "disappear" is still a lingering problem in their relationship.
This issue also marks a brief break from John Romita Sr., with John Buscema and Jim Mooney stepping in for the art. While Buscema reportedly didn’t enjoy drawing Spider-Man, his work here is still dynamic and expressive, and Mooney’s inking adds a rich, moody depth to the visuals.
Overall, ASM #80 is a solid but not standout issue, with a decent villain plot and some good character moments. Worth a read, but not an essential chapter in Spidey’s saga!
Setelah tujuh tahun berlalu, The Chameleon kembali beraksi di Amazing Spider-Man. Tentu saja dengan penggambaran yang lebih bagus meskipun jadi lebih sederhana. Ia berhasil mengkambinghitamkan Kapten Stacy atas pencurian lukisan. Tapi dengan jebakan sederhana, Spider-Man yang bekerjasama dengan Robertson, membuat Chameleon terpikat untuk beraksi kembali. Dan ia membuat kesalahan besar.