Rating:  -
This second collection of Ultimate Spider-Man is an example of what makes spider-Man cool; Peter has to use his wits as well as his skillz, his super-hero life screws up his public life, and he talks a mile a minute even as Electro tries to fry him. The last battle is excellant, and his handling of the Kingpin was top-notch. Arguably the best part is the last chapter, but I'll have to leave you guessing on it...don't want to spoil the surprise!
Rating:  -
Contrary to what other reviewers say on this site "Learning Curve" is the 2nd book in the Ultimate Spider-Man series. This book kind of has an awkward place to fill, Parker already has his powers, he's already faced the Green Goblin and people already hate him. But Doc Oc and Kraven the Hunter soon show up, with Kraven maintaining his 60's style origin (slightly mixed with the Crocodile Hunter), Doc Oc leads the big mystery, he was created in the same explosion that created the Goblin. Not quite how Stan Lee did it, but it works. This is also where Spidey hones his detective skills in. Other Spidey staples make first appearances (some that might not appear for some time in the regular 'ol world of Spidey) J.J. Jameson, Mr. Robertson, Betty Brant, The Bugle, Silvermain, Gwen Stacy, they all make entrances here although they don't make quite as large of apperances as they might back in the 60's and 70's. Overall the artwork is as good as the 1st book and the story is pretty good too. A must have.
Rating:  -
After the amazing "Ultimate Spider-Man: Power & Responsibility" taking such a great first step, I immediately picked up "Learning Curve", and although the fresh dialogue of Bendis and fantastic art remains, the overall story just didn't satisfy. Perhaps the novelty of the reintroduction of Spider-Man just wore off for me (even though some twists are presented). This story deals with the Kingpin and Parker's 'detective skills' so to say, and although a nice idea, it was something I felt slowed the story down to a point where the only thing saving it from being completly boring at times, was Bendis' dialogue. In my opinion they should have either continued with their brilliant interpretation of the Goblin or moved ahead to Doc Ock (where they are now in the current issues), OR made a better Kingpin story!. Maybe that's me just being impatient (most likely), but with the first issues and volume of Ultimate getting off so good I think Learning Curve is a step down, but just a slight step.
Rating: -
If you're a long time fan of the Amazing Spiderman comics, if you're a new reader, or if you're just curious about this character before the Sam Raimi film hits on May 3, 2002...THEN THIS IS THE BOOK FOR YOU.
Brian Michael Bendis is the best thing to happen to Spiderman since Stan Lee and John Romita. He's got a firm grip on the character and successfully manages to put a 21st century spin on things so both old and new fans can equally enjoy. Peter Parker is portrayed even more realistically here than he was in the classic run of the original title. Here's a hero with worries, problems, goof-ups, and oh yeah...superpowers.
The first Ultimate Spiderman collection "Power and Responsibility" is arguably one of the Top 5 story collections in Spidey history. With "Learning Cruve" Bendis proves that he is not going to have a sophomore jinx.
This collection of stories from the Ultimate Spiderman comic series covers issues 8-13. Inside we're treated to: Peter still struggling with his powers and his new role as a hero, Spiderman's clash with the Kingpin, an Ultimate spin on J.J. Jameson and the staff of the Daily Bugle, and revamped characters of The Enforcers and Electro.
There is no way to give the story justice in a review. You need to read and enjoy Learning Curve like any Spiderman fan should...with a smile on your face!
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