Hickman’s “Ultimate Spider-Man” sounds like a smaller and more personal story than what he usually writes. However, his habit of finding optimism in dark times fits Spidey’s own outlook.
There were rumors he would write the main “Amazing Spider-Man” title a few years ago. However, the job ultimately went to Zeb Wells. Hickman does have a few Spider-Man stories on his resume though. Spidey was a supporting character in both his “Fantastic Four” and “Avengers” runs, the latter giving us this always hilarious panel:
He also recently contributed to the anthology issue “Amazing Fantasy” issue #1000 (referencing the comic title where Spider-Man debuted). Hickman’s story, drawn by Checchetto, is titled “You Get It.” Peter talks with his other selves from across the Spider-Verse, asking for advice since his life never goes right. Their pep talk is about reminding him who he chooses to be and the good he does: “You choose to put yourself in the center of the storm every day, Peter … so complaining about the wind won’t do you any good.”
That brings us to the other reason to look out for “Ultimate Spider-Man” — Checchetto is a great superhero artist. He excels at both dramatic poses and dynamic action. His character drawing skills remind me of the famed Jim Lee but with a grittier presentation (he tends to leave his hatch lines visible). Checchetto’s recent work on “Daredevil,” written by Chip Zdarsky, is worth reading too.
“Ultimate Invasion” features a Peter who didn’t get his power-inducing spider bite as a teenager. Is that Hickman’s set-up for the delayed origin of Peter B. Parker in “Ultimate Spider-Man”? We’ll have to wait and see.
“Ultimate Spider-Man” will be available in January 2024.