Comic Review: Amazing Spider-Man #8 – a solid step forward, but still flawed

 

Joe Kelly returns with another installment of his story, in which Spider-Man faces the mysterious Hellgate. Issue #8 continues this thread almost directly, offering readers the next part of a brutal confrontation, interwoven with flashbacks and short side scenes. While the issue is not without flaws, it also shows glimpses of genuinely good storytelling and a return to Spider-Man’s emotional roots.

JRJR back in form

There’s no hiding it John Romita Jr. has divided fans for decades, but one thing is undeniable: when he draws fight scenes, you can feel their weight and dynamism. In Amazing Spider-Man #8, it’s clear that JRJR is in his element the sequences of the battle with Hellgate have the right pacing, guide the reader’s eye perfectly, and convey the brutality of the fight.

While the previous issue was somewhat rough graphically, most of the panels this time look much better blood, sweat, dust, and rubble give the battle weight while maintaining clarity. It’s also worth appreciating that Romita portrays Peter as strong but not invincible the blows from Hellgate truly hurt, and Spider-Man increasingly shows signs of fatigue.

Is this “the most violent Spider-Man fight ever”? Definitely not. Compared to battles with Hobgoblin or Morlun, Marvel has clearly overhyped the marketing. Still, it’s a solid, visually striking fight, passionately told by JRJR.

Kelly and Uncle Ben’s lesson

The most interesting element of the issue is the flashbacks. Joe Kelly consistently returns to Peter’s youth, this time focusing on Uncle Ben’s boxing lesson. It may seem like a simple device, but its impact works brilliantly Ben teaches young Parker that sometimes fighting is necessary if the stakes are the life or safety of those you love.

This lesson is reflected in the final pages, when Spider-Man, battered and barely on his feet, continues to protect innocents and refuses to be broken. Kelly has a strong understanding of Peter his internal monologue, determination, and willingness to sacrifice give the story an emotional weight missing from many previous runs.

Hellgate – promise or disappointment?

The biggest problem with this issue remains Hellgate himself. His construction as a villain teeters between intriguing mystery and empty cliché. On one hand, his brutality and obsession with fighting make him a real threat; on the other, he lacks charisma and deeper motivation.

Additionally, the new thread with the character Nikodimu, who orders Hellgate to spare Spider-Man, feels like setup for a larger saga. This could be an interesting direction, but for now it feels more like a teaser than a coherent part of the story.

Interludes: MJ, Paul, and Black Cat

A brief scene with MJ, Paul, and Dylan is surprisingly significant. Though it may seem like a minor episode at first glance, many readers will see it as a signal that MJ and Paul’s relationship is heading toward a breakup. This could pave the way for MJ and Peter to reunite a storyline fans have long desired.

The problem remains that side-character scenes still feel tacked on. Black Cat, as in the previous issue, appears briefly and without meaningful impact on the plot. Unfortunately, this is another sign that the supporting cast in this run is unevenly utilized.

Pacing and story structure

Kelly’s biggest flaw is the narrative pacing. Two consecutive issues essentially cover one long fight with Hellgate, which can quickly tire in a monthly format. True, Kelly tries to diversify the action with flashbacks and short interludes, but it still feels like overextended plotting. This type of decompression can kill momentum in a twice-monthly series.

At the same time, it’s hard not to notice that Kelly manages to sneak in valuable reflections and emotions amidst the chaos. Thanks to this, Amazing Spider-Man #8 is not just a “filler” issue, but one that though imperfect leaves an impression.

Conclusion

Amazing Spider-Man #8 is an uneven issue, but in its best moments, truly satisfying. Kelly proves he understands Peter as a character and can weave universal lessons about courage and responsibility into superhero action. JRJR returns in good form, delivering dynamic and clear fight sequences.

The problem remains Hellgate a visually striking but shallow villain and the overly drawn-out pacing. It’s still an enjoyable story, but it lacks the spark to become more than a “solid Spider-Man” issue.

My Rating: 7/10

Pros:

+Well-written internal monologue of Peter, true to his character

+Dynamic and brutal yet readable fight drawn by JRJR

+Flashbacks with Uncle Ben—simple, but hitting the mark

+Interesting foreshadowing in the MJ and Paul scene

+Several truly effective action panels

Cons:

-Hellgate remains derivative and lacking charisma

-Overextended narrative - two issues cover essentially one fight

-“Most violent fight ever” is marketing exaggeration

-Side plots are too minor and insignificant

-Lack of real tension to hold attention longer