New Avengers #19 (Marvel Entertainment)
by Brian Michael Bendis & Mike Deodato

This is the first Brian Michael Bendis-penned Avengers comic to be released since the writer announced he’d be leaving the franchise he’s built into Marvel’s powerhouse, eclipsing even its X-Men brand. Given the fact Bendis is rehashing the Dark Avengers concept in this latest story arc, I think a change is a good thing. However, I have to admit there are elements in this story about Norman Osborn’s return to prominence as a public hero but secret villain that are interesting. I love how Bendis portrays Osborn and his colleagues not as corrupt criminals but as people who think they know what’s best for the world. They’re power-hungry, yes, but they don’t see themselves as terrorists. Still, this Osborn plot has been dragging on for years in one way or another. Perhaps by capping his Avengers run with this storyline, Bendis plans to bring some resolution to it finally. Just as I was torn by some aspects of the main plot, other elements appealed and turned me off. The opening scene between Daredevil and Squirrel Girl was clearly meant to be funny, but I found it painful. DD’s internal monologue about the stenches before him came off as juvenile, and he also seems rather naive about public sentiment and protests. However, the subplot focusing on Jessica Jones’ concerns about her child and how she can and Luke can be good parents while also serving as Avengers was quietly compelling. The script also fails in some respects. The woman with whom Gorgon speaks in a pivotal scene isn’t identified, and I can’t remember is she’s called Madame Hydra, Viper or something else these days, and I’ve already forgotten who’s fulfilling the roles of Ms. Marvel and Spider-Man in Osborn’s new Avengers lineup.