All-New Venom #6: Couples Therapy

All-New Venom #6 must handle the arduous task of finding the series’ footing in the aftermath of its mystery’s resolution. With the illustrious Mary Jane Watson revealed as the symbiote’s new host after five issues of teasing and intrigue, the premise off of which the comic was sold has run its course and a new hook must be cast to keep readers invested. From now on, it’s the
“Adventures of MJ and Venom” and Al Ewing sees it fit to kick of this new arc by turning back the clock to the formation of this partnership.

During the events of Venom War, the symbiote had given MJ’s superhero alias Jackpot the upgrade she needed to defeat a particularly powerful foe, unknowingly bonding itself to her power slot bracelet, unlocking its safety restraints and causing it to glitch endlessly. Artist Carlos Gomez’s boundless fun and creativity makes what could’ve been a quick bit of peril into an memorable series of transformations as Watson morphs from splattering goo monster to Kree warrior. But the comedy quickly turns to body horror as her skin peels off and her bones extend, every spin of the slot machine bringing her closer to death until she begins disintegrating. It is only Venom, inspired by the selflessness of Spider-Man, who saves her by fusing their masses together, making it impossible for them to separate.

Al Ewing makes character work the top priority of issue #6, sowing seeds for ample interpersonal conflicts down the line. The foundation of trust between MJ and boyfriend Paul Rabin has crumbled, with Paul’s resentment towards her secrets and thrill-seeking making their relationship a ticking timebomb. Frankly, it would be cruel of Ewing to toy with fans and end things with anything other than a break-up, as all signs point towards that direction.

And anyone worried the comic would ignore Mary Jane’s traumatic history with Venom can lay their fears to rest, as her contempt for the alien is sewn into their every interaction. It’s an uncomfortable past they share and a topic they are clearly attempting to skirt around, which makes it even harder for them to function as a team. Not to mention the perpetual angst of Dylan Brock, who has no idea the father figure he feels abandoned by is secretly living under his nose. Yes, relationships all-around are on the rocks, and how these characters will make the best of this tough situation is the million dollar question that will keep people reading.