Amazing Spider-Man (1963-1998) #87

The Amazing Spider-Man (1963-1998)

by Stan Lee, John Romita Sr. (Artist)

Peter Parker finally reveals to his friends that he is Spider-Man.

Genres: Comics, Spider Man, Marvel

20 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 10, 1970

About the author

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.

Reviews

[Anna Quilter · Rating 3 out of 5]

UNMASKED AT LAST
August 1970

Peter started feeling unwell last issue and now he blurts out in front of friends he's SPIDER-MAN!

But thankfully he finds a way out....

[Sheldon · Rating 4 out of 5]

“This tale deals with the unmasking of Spider-Man and a pivotal moment for Gwen Stacy and her dad. I also enjoyed seeing that “Pocahontas” Indian-maiden costume on Gwen again. She was a Ditko character from their early college days and was cold to poor Peter back then. I may have had a hand in her gradual change to a warmer, more appealing adult since I tend to draw pleasant people as my main characters. We Marvel artists did affect how Stan Lee had his characters act (modest me again) at times. As if to support my theory of storytelling, you’ll find that this issue comes full circle and will tie up very neatly when the Prowler reappears to help Peter Parker out of a serious dilemma.” -John Romita Snr.

Often the covers for comics can be misleading and don’t actually depict what happens inside, but this is one time which is bang on the money. Parker’s spider powers are fading so he heads off to Gwen’s birthday bash with his Spider-Man mask in hand “I had to tell you – can’t keep it a secret anymore – Spider-Man is finished! His career is ended –forever! I’m the only one who could know that! Because I’m Spider-Man!” and quickly runs off into the night. Harry thinks Peter is losing his mind and relays the tale the last time Parker lost his powers and Doc Ock removed his mask and everyone assumed Parker was playing dress up (ASM #12). Mary Jane is naturally supportive of the situation: “Wow, Gwendy – you sure can pick ‘em! He’s either a masked menace or a psycho case! Take your pick! Okay Tigress! He’s all yours!”.

Parker ends up at the hospital for tests where he finds out the truth of what has been happening…

[Eddie B. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story started great.


But to say the ending was disappointing is the understatement of the year.


What a wasted chance! And speaking of explanations, where did "page 12" of this issue go? Could it also be because of..

[Agung Wicaksono · Rating 4 out of 5]

Few issues capture Peter Parker’s emotional turmoil as well as ASM #87, where—weak, feverish, and convinced his powers are fading—he unmasks in front of his closest friends. It’s a shocking, dramatic moment, and for once, the cover actually delivers on its promise!

Peter, barely able to stand, stumbles into Gwen Stacy’s birthday party, declaring, "Spider-Man is finished! His career is ended—forever! Because I’m Spider-Man!" before running off into the night. His friends are left in stunned disbelief—except for Mary Jane, who, in classic MJ fashion, quips, "Wow, Gwendy—he’s either a masked menace or a psycho case! Take your pick!" Meanwhile, Harry Osborn recalls the last time Spidey’s identity was in question (ASM #12), convincing the group that Peter must be delusional.

The art by John Romita Sr. perfectly captures the feverish desperation in Peter’s face, making his breakdown feel all the more real. This issue also brings things full circle, cleverly tying into The Prowler’s return to help Peter out of his identity crisis.

This is classic Spider-Man storytelling at its best—high drama, personal stakes, and the ever-present struggle of Peter Parker trying (and failing) to balance his double life. An absolute must-read!

[Shevek · Rating 3 out of 5]

Peter, que venía de creer quedarse sin poderes (luego se descubrirá que tenía gripe), decide hacer una participación triunfal en la fiesta de cumpleaños de Gwen y contar que es Spiderman. Los presentes, al darse cuenta de que no está muy católico, no le creen. Preludio a la saga de la muerte del capitán Stacy.

[Josiah · Rating 4 out of 5]

So much melodrama, but could this be the way Peter escapes being outed in homecoming? Only time will tell.

[Lilamedusa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Spider-Man's mightiest enemy is back! The flu. He really is a delicate boy, as aunt May says... I don't know why people insist on hating on her because she worries.

[Oneirosophos · Rating 5 out of 5]

A m a z i n g . . .