Marvels

Marvels is a graphic novel or comic (I’ll use both words back and forth because I don't care and that’s the kind of James Dean- Arthur Fonzzerelli rebel that I am), published in 1994 and spanning the Marvel universe from the 60’s to now.
It’s a re-telling of 4 key moments seen through the eyes of not superheroes fighting the battles but regular people and the effect on their lives.
Although reading about regular people is pretty boring since that’s what books are for and I imagine if the regular people are miserably unhappy then that’s what French movies are for. But since Phil Sheldon, the main character playing a freelance photographer and writer is surrounded by superheroes the comic is pretty kick ass.
The artwork is the first thing that you notice as its drawers-droppingly beautiful right from the intro of the creation of the Human Torch, to the covers of the different chapters.
Alex Ross uses photo realism to create a world which really makes you wonder why this is a comic and not a painting in a museum.
In any case I was in awe of this piece of work especially chapter 2 with the X-men and the little girl.
I think on some level you need some back ground information as to what's exactly happening. If you are new to comics, then I wouldnt suggest this title to start with as it there's not much exposition of the events taking place. They are snapshots taken from Phil's lens where he himself sometimes doesn't get the sense of satisfaction he needs to put his obsession to rest.
But then again it's a comic so if a 8 year old can figure it out I am sure eveyone else can.
And if you have seen Fantastic four part 2, Revenge of the blonder Jessica Alba, then you have the required back ground for chapter 4 which is the most action packed one.


On my playlist:

Def Jam 1985-2001: History of Hip Hop
Made me remember how cool LL COOL J was before hollywood.
And how Slick Rick is the best MC to come out of the UK period.