Comics / Comic Reviews / Marvel Comics

Iron Man #70

By Loretta Ramirez
July 14, 2003 - 13:30

 

It's often challenging to relate to Tony Stark, the genius- millionaire- playboy- industrialist- super hero, better known as Iron Man; however, in "Vegas Bleeds Neon," the challenge becomes as simple as a dice toss, and the outcome almost as rewarding as winning a jackpot. Written by Robin Laws and penciled by Robert Teranishi, #70 of THE INVINCIBLE IRON MAN, launches a three-part series on Stark's ill-fated holiday in Las Vegas.

The issue opens with Stark bemoaning his estranged girlfriend, his tarnished public image, and his sluggish finances. The phone rings Saige Kaufman, a private investigator, seeks authentication of a document as belonging to Howard Hughes. Stark, a renowned Hughes enthusiast and lured by Kaufman's promise of insider information on Senator Cullison (a committee member slated to oversee Stark's upcoming Senate hearing), speeds to Vegas in his 1957 Ford Thunderbird convertible-just the car to set the mood for Las Vegas action. Thus, begins a vivid and fast-paced adventure for Tony Stark where a simple paperwork mission turns into a robbery-ring case that escalates into a battle with Stark's own mysteriously animated armor.

The portrayal of Stark's character is the biggest payback. Robin Laws' approach is simple--unveil the ugly to reveal the charming. The result is a realistic character that is offensively proud, while agreeably well-intentioned. Through polished dialogue, Laws exposes this complicated personality. Stark grumbles about the incessant grinding of his genius brain, fantasizes over anticipated flirting-matches with Saige Kaufman (although mere moments ago he pined over his girlfriend), and showily tosses $100,000 as his opening wager at baccarat. However, Stark is endearing in his sincerity to assist Kaufman and in his good-humor as a decoy to entice robbers. Furthermore, Stark's need for a bit of summer fun and his sweaty agony over gambling losses, eases him down to an approachable level. A similarly compelling character is Kaufman--a woman afraid of the "cushy" life. She resents Stark buying her a designer evening gown, all the while appearing comfortable in such attire. This dualism in character, alike Stark's, is a delicate balance.

Praise is further due for the art of Teranishi and inker Eric Cannon, who underscore the ambiance of the story. While Stark is depressed, visual details are sparse. Yet on the drive to Vegas, the mood shifts. Clouds are abandoned in the backdrop as the wind washes over Stark, his face still tight but loosening. By the time Stark arrives, the glitz and potential of Vegas have transformed him. This is when details surge. Nearly tangible is the coolness of bottled hotel air, and almost audible are the squeaks of wheeled suitcases and the crisp taps across marbled lobbies. The story continues to unfold amidst a classic James Bond sophistication, spiced with Marvel wit. More applause is due for Avalon Studios' colorist Tony Avina for capturing Vegas' brilliance. The issue is much like a contained neon rainbow, so bright your face feels illuminated during the read.

Rating: A /10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12