Avengers Epic Collection: Behold The Vision Paperback – 28 April 2015

The latest Epic Collection gives us Volume 4 in the eventual complete chronology of Avengers stories - this particular book collects material from 1968-1970. Now, this is a period widely considered to be one of the title's finest, and rereading this material, it's not hard to see why.Roy Thomas, successor to Stan Lee (who edits), writes every issue in this collection, with art provided by my absolute favourite classic Marvel artist, John Buscema, with several issues pencilled by Sal Buscema, Gene Colan, Barry Windsor-Smith and Frank Giacoia. They all turn in fine work, but John's wonderful linework is the clear highlight for me.The classic storylines begin straight away with the introduction of the Vision, and the team's second clash with the mad robot Ultron. For those viewers wanting to learn more about the characters from this year's Age of Ultron movie, these initial couple of issues are a must. Then, it's the introduction of the mysterious Yellowjacket, with a twist to the tale that's still hard to beat.The pace in this collection never lets up; in quick succession, the team assist Dr Strange with a mystical problem, face the dreaded Man-Ape in Avenger the Black Panther's home nation, race to save a city from the maniacal Egghead, face an even DEADLIER iteration of Ultron, battle for the fate of the planet at the behest of Kang the Conqueror, meet the sinister Zodiac cartel, try to stop the racist group the Sons of the Serpent from setting the country ablaze, and face down supreme warrior Arkon with the help of a couple of old team-mates.The real strengths of these stories, even as Buscema and the others throw page after page of breathless, gorgeous action scenes at us, are Thomas's wonderful scripts. While inheriting the verve and punch of Lee, the literary Thomas brings a richer depth to the characters and the stories he places them in, whether it is the ever-twisting nature of Hank and Janet's relationship, the Black Panther's soul-searching about his role in the world, the Vision's frustrations at his own muddled origins, or Hawkeye making dramatic changes to his role in the team. It's all simply brilliant, and a textbook example of how to write excellent superhero comics.As well as the main Avengers issues, we also have a Black Knight story from Marvel Super Heroes #17, by Thomas and Howard Purcell, serving as a fine introduction to the new heroic iteration of the character. Other bonus features include the unused cover to that issue, as well as original art pages by Buscema and Windsor-Smith. These are mere trifles, however, after the sumptuous main course this volume provides. These are probably the best Avengers stories to hit the Epic Collection line so far (Volumes 1, 9 and 17 are already available), and you owe it yourself to seek them out.

Twenty issues of Roy Thomas when he was on fire and the likes of John Buscema, Gene Colan, Barry Smith and Sal Buscema plus the classic Black Knight origin from MSH. There's some original art and bits as extras but this is solidly classic material that felt like a late Xmas present after the death of the MMW TPB line. Loved it.

Was a present for a family member. He loves it and says it’s so much better than looking at the comics on line

loved it.came within a couple of days.great to see the artwork again.

Classic Avengers, very good

This is the definitive Avengers collection. Roy Thomas, in my opinion, made the Avengers to what they are today. Not just earthbound heroes but right acoss the cosmos. The late, great John Buscema have always been seen by many as the greatest artist to grace this title and he really shined in many of the classic stories including the introduction of the Vision, originally created by Ultron. Also he drew Black Panther's induction into the Avengers. John have always been one of my all time favourite artist and in this book he sometimes teams up with his brother, Sal, another favourite of mine. Essential to true comic book fans. I'd recommend this.

Epic Collection Vol. 4 The Avengers is a great book! The team are hitting their stride courtesy of Roy Thomas, Gene Colan, John and Sal Buscema. This volume has the first appearances of the Vision, Yellowjacket, the New Goliath and the infamous Squadron Supreme. There's also special guests such as: Dr. Strange, the Black Knight, Nick Fury, the Black Widow and Captain Marvel. It's high action and a great read in the mighty, Marvel manner!!!

Roy Thomas, John Buscema, Gene Colan, Sal Buscema, Barry Smith...What more does one want ?Great Silver Age treasure for peanuts compared to the cost of the Marvel Masterworks in HC format.

Histórias importantes da mitologia (surgimento do Visão, Jaqueta Amarela) dos Vingadores, boa arte, edição impecável. Roteiros meia boca, mas na média da época.

Indeed, an EPIC collection. Roy Thomas is handed the reins and, no doubt, with careful guidance from editor Stan Lee, writes some of the most exciting Avengers stories ever told. The introduction of The Vision, Black Panther vs Man-Ape, the emergence of Goliath & Yellowjacket -- it is a Marvel Age feast of fun and excitement. The scripting is bold and dramatic. And the art - oh, the art. Witness John Buscema at his very best. He remains one of the greatest pencillers in comics history. Sal Buscema's pencil is lighter, but carries the day - as do the Avengers! Recommended.

xxx