"Paradigm Shift"

Aliens come down to earth seeking the group that deterred Galactus' hunger. The FF aren't in right now. The Avengers take the message. While there are some moments of mirth, this issue of Marvel Adventures: Avengers just isn't up to snuff.

Jeff Parker's characterization for the group is the sauce for this particular goose. The last time anybody crafted such realistic camaraderie was way back in the early '90s when Grant Morrison steered the Justice League into a new era of greatness. For instance, when Captain America gives a speech, the team recognize oration as Cap's forte. Ant-Man has been waiting to hear a Cap speech. Jan gets motivated by the speech. Storm thinks that it's not one of his best.

Parker is really the only writer out there who understands that Spider-Man doesn't just crack-wise. He's "really, really smart." This story allows Spidey to shine with scientific acumen. The moments also exemplify the wall crawler's unpredictability. The chaotic nature of Spidey reinforces the trickster archetype.

The Avengers come together in order to stop Galactus from ravaging the alien planet. Parker relies on a kinder Galactus that in many ways matches the Kirby/Lee original version. Parker remembers that the purpose of Galactus' herald was to not just seek out suitable planets for Galactus' diet but also to warn the populace that the end is nigh. Galactus never was a villain. He was always a force of nature, but with a pang of conscience. Galactus wished not to destroy life on the planets. If lifeforms were able to evacuate, he allowed them to do so.

Parker naturally adds a sense of humor to Galactus, and I have to admit to being skeptical, but Parker gives him just the right nuance that let's the reader know that Galactus is somewhat in on the joke. Parker's Silver Surfer is actually much better than the whining original. He acts more like Galactus' gentleman's gentleman, and that persona fits him better.

Ig Guara, Ribeiro and Arreola do their usual terrific job. They capture the essence of the Avengers and bottle it in proportionate, animated characters that possess comedy chops as well as super-hero miens. Their Galactus impresses, even when he appears to be goofing around. As does their Silver Surfer.

The book falters where the plot is concerned. Parker opens the book with a strong appetizer: aliens seeking out the FF and finding Avengers. The application of the Ultimate Nullifier makes sense, but it's the actual execution that's filled with empty calories. The different contests are quickly placed on the table and taken away before the reader can sample a taste. I think Parker would have been better off by skipping the soup and salad and sticking to the main course.

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