Marvel Two-In-One launched in 1974, teaming the Thing with a different hero each month. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Date: March 1977
Cover Price: 30¢
Writer: Marv Wolfman
Artist: Ron Wilson

WHO stars in this issue?

the Thing – Benjamin J. Grimm was bombarded by cosmic rays in a space exploration flight, alongside three friends. The cosmic rays gave each of them different powers, and they formed the Fantastic Four. Ben underwent the most physical change of the foursome: his skin mutated into orange rock and, as a result, he gained super-strength.

Iron Fist– As a young boy, Daniel Rand discovered the mystical city of K’un-L’un. There, he trained in the martial arts and acquired the power of the Iron Fist, which allows him to focus his chi and enhance his strength and speed.

WHAT happens?

The Thing is knocked out with an anesthesia ray at Shea Stadium and yanked into the sky by Queen Sen’s men. They bring him aboard their blimp and place him with their other captive, Iron Fist. The two heroes are dropped from the aircraft into a jungle – the men let them know that they’ve been brought there to train an army so they may defeat General Chonga (who has captured Queen Sen). The men figure that if their army can defeat the martial arts master and the monster, then they are ready to challenge General Chonga’s army.

An initial grouping of men attack Iron Fist and the Thing but they’re quickly defeated. They reveal the location of their base and the two heroes make their way to the Temple at the Ridge of Four Hells after a long trek. Within the temple, they’re attacked by S’kari the blind swordsman and Mongo the Merciless. But, the battle is quickly stopped by Prince Dragon who reveals that his Queen Sen was to marry the emperor of a nearby nation to arrange peace between the two lands. But, General Chonga defected, took his army with him and kidnapped the Queen before the marriage could take place.

Now that Iron Fist and the Thing know the story behind why they were kidnapped, they decide to join Prince Dragon in liberating the Queen so that peace can be forged through marriage.

WHERE does the story take place?

The majority of this story takes place on Kaiwann, an island off the coast of Manchuria.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

This is the first and only appearance of General Chonga.

WHY is Iron Fist the guest-lead?

When this issue was published, Iron Fist’s series wasn’t selling very well. His appearance here was probably intended to draw some attention to his own series but, it didn’t work out. That series was cancelled six months later.

HOW was it?

This was the first issue of Marv Wolfman’s run but it wasn’t all that gripping. It started off well with some nice character bits between the Thing and Alicia. But, it quickly got silly when the thing was blasted with an “anesthesia ray” and hoisted into the air by two metal hooks stuck in his jacket. Are we really to believe that his jacket wouldn’t tear from his 500lb. weight? Aside from that, pitting the Thing against some regular guys with martial arts backgrounds is a completely unfair battle. And, because of that, the fight scenes don’t last very long. On the plus side, there are some twists and turns to this story (all of which have not been revealed here) that tug at some emotions. And the interaction between the Thing and Iron Fist is fun for Thing fans (let’s just say he doesn’t treat IF with the greatest respect). So, all in all it wasn’t terrible but I wouldn’t recommend it strongly.

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #22.

On Ebay: Marvel Two-In-One | the Thing | Iron Fist
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Marvel Two-In-One launched in 1974, teaming the Thing with a different hero each month. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Date: February 1977
Cover Price: 30¢
Writer: Bill Mantlo with Jim Shooter
Artist: Sal Buscema

WHO stars in this issue?

the Thing – Benjamin J. Grimm was bombarded by cosmic rays in a space exploration flight, alongside three friends. The cosmic rays gave each of them different powers, and they formed the Fantastic Four. Ben underwent the most physical change of the foursome: his skin mutated into orange rock and, as a result, he gained super-strength.

Black Goliath – After acquiring Doctor Pym’s size-changing formula, Dr. William Foster usd the formula on himself to become a super-hero. Black Goliath can grow to a height of fifteen feet and his strength increases with his size.

WHAT happens?

The Thing is assisting Stark Industries West with an experiment led by their scientist, Dr. William Foster. Foster has devised an “atmosphere suit” that will protect future astronauts as they explore the atmospheres of other planets. With the experiment in progress, the scientists are ambushed by the Hijacker. The villain assumes the Thing is trapped within the atmospheric chamber while the scientists have been gassed – so he heads off to find valuable Stark technology that he can pilfer.

Little does the Hijacker know but, the Thing has managed to break free of the chamber and one of the scientists, Dr. William Foster, was not affected by the gas. The Thing leaves Foster behind as he looks to track down the Hijacker, little knowing that the scientist is secretly Black Goliath. Soon after the Thing engages the Hijacker, he’s joined by the 15′ tall hero. And, despite the Hijacker living up to his name (hijacking the experimental Stark weapons and using them against the two heroes), he’s eventually defeated, ruining his robbery plan.

WHERE does the story take place?

The Los Angeles, California branch of Stark Industries.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

The Hijacker will be back in Marvel Two-In-One #96.

WHY is Black Goliath the guest-lead?

Black Goliath’s series was cancelled with issue #5 (cover date: November 1976 | Retro-Read Review of Black Goliath). In February 1977, this issue of MTIO hit the stands at the same time that Black Goliath was becoming a part-time member of the Champions. Mantlo was the writer of the Champions at this point, so it seems that this issue was intended to grab a little more attention for the character that would hopefully translate into sales on the other title.

HOW was it?

Since this was Bill Mantlo’s last issue as writer, I was hoping he would go out with a bang. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. This was a rather simple, beat-em-up tale with very little characterization. I was also disappointed to see that the villain used in this Black Goliath tale was an old Ant-Man villain. Now, I realize that he’s a derivative hero … but that doesn’t mean has to get stuck fighting all of his predecessor’s villains, too.

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #21.

On Ebay: Marvel Two-In-One | the Thing | Black Goliath
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Marvel Two-In-One launched in 1974, teaming the Thing with a different hero each month. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Date: January 1977
Cover Price: 30¢
Writer: Bill Mantlo with Jim Shooter
Artist: Ron Wilson

WHO stars in this issue?

the Thing – Benjamin J. Grimm was bombarded by cosmic rays in a space exploration flight, alongside three friends. The cosmic rays gave each of them different powers, and they formed the Fantastic Four. Ben underwent the most physical change of the foursome: his skin mutated into orange rock and, as a result, he gained super-strength.

Thor – When Doctor Donald Blake stomps his cane against the ground, he is replaced by Thor – the Asgardian God of Thunder. Thor is possessed of super-strength, armed with an enchanted hammer (named Mjölnir) and can summon forth lightning.

WHAT happens?

After being worn down by Seth‘s army of the dead, Thor and the Thing are transported to the Golden Paths of the Gods (the Egyptian version of Bifrost – the Rainbow Road to Asgard) by the Egyptian God of Death. They follow the path to Heliopolis where the other Egyptian gods (notably Horus, Isis & Osiris) have already fallen captive to Seth. The God of Death summons the Devourer to destroy his remaining enemies: the Thing and Thor.

But, Seth was not counting on the uncontrollable nature of the Devourer. The great beast cares not what its target is – and even Seth himself is assaulted by the creature. In a desperate move, the Death God releases his step-brother, Horus, for he was the one who had previously imprisoned the Devourer. Remembering his long imprisonment, the Devourer‘s attention shifted to Horus and so, the Thing used him to lure the Devourer out into deep space. Thor flung his hammer to return the Thing (and Horus) back to Heliopolis, leaving the monster stranded in space.

WHERE does the story take place?

The battle takes place in Heliopolis – the home of the Egyptian pantheon.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

Seth is next seen in Thor Annual #10 (from 1982) where he and other Death Gods (like Pluto, Mephisto and Hela) decide to unite their realms in a bid for power.

WHY is Thor the guest-lead?

Bill Mantlo ended his run on Thor in November 1975 with a Seth story. This story allowed him to utilize that villain again as well as the title character.

HOW was it?

After the set-up of last issue, this one proved to be a lot of fun action. After all, it’s always fun to see the Thing take on giant monsters that are bigger than he is. I really enjoyed the short-sightedness of Seth – who didn’t realize that unleashing a giant monster on Heliopolis might put him in danger as well. And, I’m glad to see that Blacksun wasn’t forgotten about – in the last panel, Doctor Blake prepares to examine the patient.

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #19 and includes a letter by writer, Robert Rodi.

On Ebay: Marvel Two-In-One | the Thing | Thor
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Marvel Two-In-One launched in 1974, teaming the Thing with a different hero each month. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Date: December 1976
Cover Price: 30¢
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Artist: Ron Wilson

WHO stars in this issue?

the Thing – Benjamin J. Grimm was bombarded by cosmic rays in a space exploration flight, alongside three friends. The cosmic rays gave each of them different powers, and they formed the Fantastic Four. Ben underwent the most physical change of the foursome: his skin mutated into orange rock and, as a result, he gained super-strength.

Thor – When Doctor Donald Blake stomps his cane against the ground, he is replaced by Thor – the Asgardian God of Thunder. Thor is possessed of super-strength, armed with an enchanted hammer (named Mjölnir) and can summon forth lightning.

WHAT happens?

The Thing and the Human Torch decide to try and save the fallen villain, Blacksun (he seemed to have overloaded his body with energy last issue). They suspect that the closest doctor of great renown is Doctor Donald Blake but little do they know that a mysterious figure is also looking for him. This hooded menace has invaded the hospital that Doctor Blake is currently working in – demanding to see him. The nurses and other assistants flee when the villain finds Doctor Blake, leaving Don free to strike his cane and become Thor. The thunder god releases hurricane force winds against the mysterious figure, stripping him of his trenchcoat and revealing Seth, the Egyptian God of Death.

Meanwhile, the Thing and the Human Torch have arrived at Blake’s hospital just as the hospital staff is running out – scared out of their wits. Back at the battle, Seth reveals that Heliopolis (the city of the Egyptian gods) has fallen to his forces – Earth and Asgard are his next targets. Just as his plan is revealed, the Thing bursts into the room. But, lest you thing Seth is outnumbered, he quickly summons up his army of the dead!

WHERE does the story take place?

The battle takes place within Doctor Donald Blake’s hospital.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

Seth will appear next issue since this story is to be continued.

WHY is Thor the guest-lead?

Bill Mantlo ended his run on Thor in November 1975 with a Seth story. This story allowed him to utilize that villain again as well as the title character.

HOW was it?

This issue was a little better than average. It seemed a tad too coincidental that the Thing is seeking Blake’s help just as he’s being attacked by Seth – but I can get over that. I’m curious to see if Blacksun is actually going to get help or if he was just used as an excuse to get the Thing to seek out Blake (Thor’s host). The biggest qualm I had was the Human Torch attempting his version of cryogenics on Blacksun’s body with extreme heat. Now, I’m not scientist but I highly doubt that the exact opposite process could be used to induce cryogenic freezing.

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #18.

On Ebay: Marvel Two-In-One | the Thing | Thor
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Marvel Two-In-One launched in 1974, teaming the Thing with a different hero each month. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Date: November 1976
Cover Price: 30¢
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Artist: Ron Wilson

WHO stars in this issue?

the Thing – Benjamin J. Grimm was bombarded by cosmic rays in a space exploration flight, alongside three friends. The cosmic rays gave each of them different powers, and they formed the Fantastic Four. Ben underwent the most physical change of the foursome: his skin mutated into orange rock and, as a result, he gained super-strength.

Doc Savage – Clark Savage, Jr. is a pulp hero from the 1930s. He possesses many skills and abilities including: great strength, endurance, photographic memory, mastery of the martial arts, and vast knowledge of the sciences. His nickname, “the Man of Bronze”, is attributed to the color of his hair and skin.

WHAT happens?

In the present (1976), Janice Lightner (the daughter of Raymond Lightner) seeks the assistance of the Thing – for her maniacal brother seeks to continue the work of her mad-scientist father. Her brother, Tom, has recreated the Sky Cannon based on his father’s notes, and he intends on using it to drain the stars of the light and imbue him with their energy.

Back in 1936, Lucinda Lightner (the wife of Raymond Lightner) recruits the aid of Doc Savage to stop her mad-scientist husband from using the Sky Cannon. In both times, the heroes arrive at the scene just as the Sky Cannon has been activated and they are struck by its Star-Beam. The energy breaches time itself and brings Doc Savage to the present (1976). The Star-Beam also merged Tom Lightner with his father, Raymond Lightner, into the villainous Blacksun, who launches an attack on the Thing, Doc Savage and their friends (the Human Torch, Monk, Renny and Janice Lightner).

However, the excitation of battle is no replacement for the call of space on this maddened being. Blacksun feels the call of the stars, themselves, and begins his journey towards them. But, in the end, he’s only a human – and his mortal form could not contain all the energy his body tried to contain. As his body gives way to the massive energies stored within, the temporal field retracts and Doc Savage (and friends) return to their home time period.

WHERE does the story take place?

Manhattan – specifically the Baxter Building (in the present) and the 86th Floor of the Empire State Building (in 1936).

WHEN does the villain next appear?

As hinted in the last panel of this issue, Blacksun will be seen in the very next issue.

WHY is Doc Savage the guest-lead?

Marvel does not own the rights to Doc Savage – he’s a pulp hero that’s been around since before Marvel Comics even existed. But, in the 1970s, Marvel purchased the rights to produce a comic series based on the Man of Bronze. His comic series was published from 1972 to 1974. Marvel changed the format to magazine-size and launched a new Doc Savage series in 1975. Sales must not have been doing well, so it appears that he showed up here to give the character some more exposure. Unfortunately, it didn’t work – his magazine was cancelled four months later (the last issue had a cover date of March 1977). Since then, other comic publishers have acquired the license, including Millennium, Dark Horse Comics and DC Comics.

HOW was it?

You’ll need a lot of suspension of disbelief with this issue but, it’s a neat treat to see Doc Savage teamed with the Thing – especially since it appears that the Thing is starstruck by the Man of Bronze. Also, since Doc Savage is a licensed character, this issue cannot be reprinted by Marvel unless they acquire the rights again. So, this story will be missing from those Essential collections of Marvel Two-In-One. There’s a lot of setup to get this story going but the climax only lasts five pages. Lots of setup and lots of action but little in the way of characterization – especially for Doc Savage (who seems incredibly aloof and uninteresting).

Note: no letters page this issue.

On Ebay: Marvel Two-In-One | the Thing | Doc Savage
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Marvel Two-In-One launched in 1974, teaming the Thing with a different hero each month. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Date: October 1976
Cover Price: 30¢
Writer: Roy Thomas
Artist: Sal Buscema

WHO stars in this issue?

the Thing – Benjamin J. Grimm was bombarded by cosmic rays in a space exploration flight, alongside three friends. The cosmic rays gave each of them different powers, and they formed the Fantastic Four. Ben underwent the most physical change of the foursome: his skin mutated into orange rock and, as a result, he gained super-strength. At this point in Marvel Continuity, Ben Grimm was reverted back to human form but he operated an exo-skeleton armor created by Reed Richards that was made to look exactly like the Thing.

Liberty Legion– a super-team that fought the Axis influence in the United States during World War II. The team consists of the Whizzer, Miss America, Red Raven, Jack Fost, Blue Diamond, Thin Man and the Patriot.

WHAT happens?

The Thing has traveled back in time to the year 1942 to retrieve a piece of vibranium metal before it can alter the course of history – for the worse (see Marvel Two-In-One Annual #1).

Currently, he has propelled himself towards a gigantic, Flying Swastika that is destroying Manhattan’s skyscrapers. When he reaches the deadly aircraft, he discovers it’s piloted by Brain Drain – the free-floating brain of Nazi supreme intellect, Werner Schmidt. The Thing manages to inflict some damage to the Flying Swastika but, Brain Drain safely lands it upon his floating, secret base.

It’s on that secret base that the Thing is attacked by SkyShark, Meranno the U-Man and Master Man. But, before he can be overwhelmed by the Nazi super-villains, he’s joined by the Liberty Legion. With eight heroes facing three villains, the Nazis are quickly beaten. The Thing retrieves the cannister of vibranium from SkyShark and returns to the present knowing that the time-stream has been returned to normal.

WHERE does the story take place?

New York City in the year, 1942. Specifically, Manhattan.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

While SkyShark and Slicer have not been seen since, Meranno the U-Man returned in the Invaders #38 (cover date: March 1979). Brain Drain got himself a new, robotic body in Alpha Flight #108-110 (1992) and Master Man returned in the Invaders #16 (cover date: May 1977).

WHY are the Liberty Legion the guest-leads?

After the early success of the Invaders, Roy Thomas expanded Marvel’s “golden-age” super-hero line-up by introducing the Lethal Legion – the homefront version of the Invaders. They took over the lead of Marvel Premiere for two issues in 1976 but didn’t prove popular enough to maintain an ongoing. It would appear that their inclusion here was Roy Thomas’ way of getting them some more audience exposure.

HOW was it?

This issue served to wrap up the storyline that originally started in Fantastic Four Annual #11 and continued into Marvel Two-In-One Annual #1. While the second chapter of this storyline strongly featured the Liberty Legion, this issue leaned hard the other way and gave the spotlight to the Thing. Lots of action to be had here but little in the way of characterization. With eight heroes and five villains (including Brain Drain and Slicer), there’s just not enough limelight to adequately go around.

On Ebay: Marvel Two-In-One | the Thing | Liberty Legion
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Marvel Two-In-One launched in 1974, teaming the Thing with a different hero each month. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Date: 1976
Cover Price: 50¢
Writer: Roy Thomas
Artist: Sal Buscema

WHO stars in this issue?

the Thing – Benjamin J. Grimm was bombarded by cosmic rays in a space exploration flight, alongside three friends. The cosmic rays gave each of them different powers, and they formed the Fantastic Four. Ben underwent the most physical change of the foursome: his skin mutated into orange rock and, as a result, he gained super-strength. At this point in Marvel Continuity, Ben Grimm was reverted back to human form but he operated an exo-skeleton armor created by Reed Richards that was made to look exactly like the Thing.

Liberty Legion– a super-team that fought the Axis influence in the United States during World War II. The team consists of the Whizzer, Miss America, Red Raven, Jack Fost, Blue Diamond, Thin Man and the Patriot.

WHAT happens?

After the events in Fantastic Four Annual #11, Reed Richards surmised that the missing half of the vibranium they recovered was destroyed in the blast. But, the Watcher’s presence seems to indicate that everything was not fixed with the timestream. With the rest of the Fantastic Four gone, it’s up to the Thing to figure out what happened to the rest of the vibranium cylinder – and he seems to have a hunch that, when it was sent back in time, it was broken in half by a “time wedge”. One half ended up in occupied Europe (see FF Annual #11), now it’s up to the Thing to go back in time again to recover the other half, lest its presence in the past change the present!

This time, he arrives in New York City of 1942 – just in time for SkyShark‘s air raid on the Big Apple. Before the Thing can even catch his wits, the Liberty Legion bursts into action to stop the German attack on American soil. They manage to destroy all of the Stukas but one – SkyShark makes a hasty retreat accompanied by the Japanese villain, Slicer. The Liberty Legion hops into the Thin Man‘s plane to chase after the Nazi villain – leaving the Thing behind in their NYC headquarters.

The Liberty Legion assumes that SkyShark is bound for the government’s aircraft plant in upstate New York – although, we discover that he’s veered off to a secret base (a metal platform in the Atlantic Ocean). Once the Legion arrives at the plant, they discover it’s being attacked by Master Man – so they leap into action against the Nazi villain. But, they’re not able to defeat him – he breaks into the plant and runs away with their experimental cockpit, which he was sent to steal for SkyShark.

Meanwhile, Meranno the U-Man steals an experimental jet engine from another laboratory out from under the Legion’s noses. And, back at Legion HQ, the Thing spies a jet-propelled, Swastika-shaped aircraft that’s destroying the city!

WHERE does the story take place?

New York City in 1942 with a side mission to upstate New York.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

The villains (SkyShark, Slicer, Meranno and Master Man) will all appear in Marvel Two-In-One #20 – the continuation of this story.

WHY are the Liberty Legion the guest-leads?

After the early success of the Invaders, Roy Thomas expanded Marvel’s “golden-age” super-hero line-up by introducing the Lethal Legion – the homefront version of the Invaders. They took over the lead of Marvel Premiere for two issues in 1976 but didn’t prove popular enough to maintain an ongoing. It would appear that their inclusion here was Roy Thomas’ way of getting them some more audience exposure.

HOW was it?

As a Marvel Two-In-One issue, it wasn’t very good since the Thing has very little to do. Nearly the entire issue was either a flashback to events from Fantastic Four Annual #11 or Liberty Legion action – of which, the Thing was left out of since they left him at their HQ when they took off for action. I enjoyed the time-travel aspect of the first part of the story but this just feels redundant. Actually, worse – it just feels like a way to ram the Liberty Legion down the readers’ throats. I’m hoping the story improves in its concluding chapter.

On Ebay: Marvel Two-In-One | the Thing | Liberty Legion
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Two-In-One

Marvel Two-In-One launched in 1974, teaming the Thing with a different hero each month. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Date: 1976
Cover Price: 50¢
Writer: Roy Thomas
Artist: John Buscema

WHO stars in this issue?

the Thing – Benjamin J. Grimm was bombarded by cosmic rays in a space exploration flight, alongside three friends. The cosmic rays gave each of them different powers, and they formed the Fantastic Four. Ben underwent the most physical change of the foursome: his skin mutated into orange rock and, as a result, he gained super-strength. At this point in Marvel Continuity, Ben Grimm was reverted back to human form but he operated an exo-skeleton armor created by Reed Richards that was made to look exactly like the Thing.

Fantastic Four – Four adventurers who were mutated by cosmic rays. Mr. Fantastic: his elastic body allows him to stretch it any way he wants. The Invisible Woman can create invisible force fields and turn herself invisible. The Human Torch can fly and generate flames. The fourth member is the Thing: super-strength.

Invaders – a super-team that fought for the Allies in World War II. Members include Captain America and Bucky, Namor the Sub-Mariner, the original Human Torch and his sidekick, Toro.

WHAT happens?

The Fantastic Four have some money problems and the Thing wants to use their time machine to travel back to California, two weeks before the Gold Rush of 1849, to cash in. But, in the room where the device is kept, he finds a squad of Nazi soldiers! They’re quickly subdued by the Fantastic Four and Reed Richards checks his time machine to discover that they Nazis came from London in the year … 1946?! We all know that the Nazis were defeated in 1945 – so what gives?

Reed Richards surmises that a hunk of vibranium (that has since gone missing) may have fallen onto the time machine during Luke Cage’s attack (in Fantastic Four #169). Later, the time machine may have been accidentally activated, sending the vibranium back in time where the Nazis got hold of it. They must have used the vibranium to develop better weapons early, giving them a distinct advantage that allowed them to win World War II. Now, the Fantastic Four must travel back in time to when the vibranium was sent and retrieve it before it can fall into the wrong hands.

The Fantastic Four materialize in early 1942 inside the Invaders‘ bunker. The “golden-age” super-team springs into action, thinking the Fantastic Four are Nazi invaders. After a brief heroes vs heroes battle, both teams figure out they’re on the same side. The nine heroes hop into the Sub-Mariner’s aircraft and fly to Castle Cherbelle – the base of Nazi leader, Baron Zemo – in the hopes of recovering the vibranium.

The heroes split into teams of three. Mr. Fantastic, the Invisible Woman and Namor the Sub-Mariner fight through squads of Nazis. Captain America, Bucky and the Human Torch (Johnny Storm) take on Baron Zemo, himself (although he beats a hasty retreat). The original Human Torch, Toro and the Thing encounter the Nazi Colonel who has a handful of vibranium-enhanced rockets primed for an attack on England. The Torch and Toro manage to destroy all but one rocket before they can be launched. Using some quick reflexes, the Thing grabs hold of the missile as it takes off. He manages to reroute the guidance system and send the missile back to Castle Cherbelle!

When the Thing wakes up from the blast, he’s greeted by the Fantastic Four and they explain that they’re back in the year 1976. The remainder of the vibranium was taken back with them (Reed assumes the other half was used in those rockets from earlier) and the Nazi Castle was destroyed (but not before the Invaders managed to escape to safety). As the team leaves to unwind for the night, the Thing stays behind in the time machine’s room. Suddenly, the Watcher appears – his presence suggests that there’s something that remains to be fixed with the timeline and the Thing decides to finish the job, even if he has to go back to 1942 by himself.

WHERE does the story take place?

The story starts in the Fantastic Four’s headquarters, the Baxter Building, in Manhattan, New York. But, the big battle against the Nazis takes place in Castle Cherbelle – located in Nazi-occupied France.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

The Baron Zemo of this alternate time-line hasn’t been seen since – but, then again, neither has this timeline.

WHY are the Invaders the guest-lead?

At this time, Roy Thomas was writing the Fantastic Four and his book, the Invaders, had launched the year before. It seemed like a neat idea to have a crossover between Marvel’s First Family and their 1940s WWII heroes. It was also a great way to introduce regular Fantastic Four readers to the Invaders and a fun way to celebrate America’s Bicentennial by looking back to the era that spawned its “greatest generation”.

HOW was it?

This was truly a fun, time-traveling story complete with the creation of an alternate timeline. I know it’s cliched to have the heroes fight each other but, I would have liked to see that battle go on for longer than it did. I found it strange that, at the end, the Thing seems to think he’ll have to fix everything on his own – it’s not like the rest of the Fantastic Four were out of the state or country (or even, planet!) – they were just going back to their rooms to shower off and relax after the big battle they just had. I’m sure they’d quickly jump back into action, if need be. We’ll see how this story plays out since it’s continued in Marvel Two-In-One Annual #1.

On Ebay: Marvel Two-In-One | the Thing | Fantastic Four | Invaders
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Two-In-One | Fantastic Four | Invaders

Marvel Two-In-One launched in 1974, teaming the Thing with a different hero each month. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Date: September 1976
Cover Price: 30¢
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Artist: Sal Buscema

WHO stars in this issue?

the Thing – Benjamin J. Grimm was bombarded by cosmic rays in a space exploration flight, alongside three friends. The cosmic rays gave each of them different powers, and they formed the Fantastic Four. Ben underwent the most physical change of the foursome: his skin mutated into orange rock and, as a result, he gained super-strength.

Tigra – Greer Grant underwent an experimental process to gain superhuman strength. Soon after, she found herself dying from exposure to radiation. The Cat People offered her a chance at survival through a combination of science and sorcery. She was transformed into Tigra – a human/cat hybrid.

WHAT happens?

Tigra seeks out the Thing‘s help in defeating the Cougar – a villain who has gained control of the Null-Bands. But, before she can even fill him in on the details, they’re attacked by the Cougar’s goons. The Cougar is a renegade member of the Cat People – they’ve sent Tigra to hunt him down before he uses the bands to win domination over them. After they defeat the Cougar’s thugs, Tigra and the Thing find one of Reed Richards’ devices that allows them to home in on the energy released by the Null-Bands.

Tigra and the Thing track down the Cougar using Reed’s device but, he’s ready for them – he subdues them with knockout gas. When they come to, they discover that Tigra has been chained to the wall. Additionally, the Thing has been placed within some complicated machinery that will allow the Cougar to drain his power. But, before the transfer can take place, the Thing bursts free and releases Tigra, as well. In the ensuing battle, the two heroes find it difficult to defeat the villain since he’s armed with the Null-Bands. He is ultimately defeated but, not by the Thing or Tigra. Sheila Conklin (the fiancée of Curt Ranklin – the Cougar’s secret identity) shoots him when she discovers her villainous husband-to-be has gone mad with power.

WHERE does the story take place?

This story jumps around New York City from the Baxter Building to Conklin Industries’ lab.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

This is the Cougar‘s first … and last … appearance.

WHY is Tigra the guest-lead?

Tigra took over the lead feature of Marvel Chillers with issue #3 (cover date: March 1976). This issue of MTIO was probably intended to give her a boost in sales with a little added attention but it appears it was too late. Marvel Chillers was cancelled with issue #7, which was published just one month after this issue.

HOW was it?

This was a very straight-forward “recruit the Thing” for help team-up story. Lots of action but low on characterization. On the plus side, it tied into both heroes: the villain was one of the Cat People and the Null-Bands he used were taken from a Fantastic Four villain named Tomazooma. Keen eyes will notice that occasionally the Cougar slips up and refers to the Null-Bands as Nega-Bands. Man is he off! Marvel Zombies know the Nega-Bands allow Rick Jones to summon forth Captain Marvel.

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #16.

On Ebay: Marvel Two-In-One | the Thing | Tigra
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Two-In-One | Tigra

Marvel Two-In-One launched in 1974, teaming the Thing with a different hero each month. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Date: August 1976
Cover Price: 25¢
Writer: Bill Mantlo with Scott Edelman
Artist: Ron Wilson

WHO stars in this issue?

the Thing – Benjamin J. Grimm was bombarded by cosmic rays in a space exploration flight, alongside three friends. The cosmic rays gave each of them different powers, and they formed the Fantastic Four. Ben underwent the most physical change of the foursome: his skin mutated into orange rock and, as a result, he gained super-strength.

Scarecrow – The Scarecrow is a magical entity that resides with a painting of a laughing scarecrow owned by Jess Duncan. He is the guardian of an interdimensional doorway that materializes through the afore-mentioned painting. His main purpose is to keep the demon, Kalumai, from corporealizing on Earth through the doorway. The scarecrow seems impervious to all harm (except for fire) and is silent (aside from his haunting laughter). In later years, he’s become known as the Straw Man, in an effort to differentiate him from the villain named Scarecrow.

WHAT happens?

The Thing accompanies his girlfriend, Alicia Masters, to a gallery opening hosted by Jess Ducan. At the event, Jess and his girlfriend, Harmony Maxwell, attempt to convince the Thing that a heroic Scarecrow watches over them (events seen in Dead of Night #11 and Marvel Spotlight #26). Despite all he’s seen in his life as a super-powered adventurer, Ben Grimm doesn’t buy their story of a vigilant spirit that emerges from a painting.

He doesn’t buy it, that is, until the Scarecrow emerges to take on a spirit sent to Earth by Kalumai. And, while the Scarecrow takes on Kalumai’s minion, Jess Duncan reveals to the Thing that the Scarecrow is a guardian, keeping the demon Kalumai from coming to Earth. The Thing acts upon this new knowledge and joins the Scarecrow in defeating the golden-skinned minion.

WHERE does the story take place?

This story takes place within Jess Duncan’s art gallery in SoHo.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

Kalumai is destroyed by the Scarecrow in a flashback sequence from Doctor Strange, Sorcerer Supreme #31 & 32.

WHY is Scarecrow the guest-lead?

This Scarecrow debuted in the final issue of Dead of Night (#11; cover date: August 1975). His second appearance followed months later in Marvel Spotlight #26 (cover date: February 1976). These two stories were initially going to be issues #1 & 2 of a Scarecrow solo title that never got going. It seems that the character wasn’t popular enough to maintain his own feature so concluding his story in an issue of Marvel Two-In-One was an easy way for Marvel to finish his story and ensure that the book would sell.

HOW was it?

After a few lame issues, this one seems to put the title back on track. First off, we’re treated to several pages of the Thing being grumpy since he’s been dragged to an art exhibit. And, he only gets more ornery when Jess and Harmony try to convince him of the Scarecrow’s existence. I really like that even though he’s faced down many alien and scientific threats, the Thing still isn’t comfortable with supernatural entities or events. It kind of makes a strange bit of sense.

Seeing as how this issue serves to wrap up some loose plotlines from the previous two Scarecrow stories, I was impressed that the Thing’s involvement wasn’t minimalized. In fact, he got plenty of limelight in this issue. And, even better, it was “characterization” limelight – not just “clobberin’ time” limelight (which can be fun, too – don’t get me wrong). And, while it resolves some of the Scarecrow’s tale (which was left as “to be continued … someday” in Mavel Spotlight #26), it serves to advance it, as well. Unfortunately, the mysteries and questions raised of the Scarecrow mythos in this issue were never answered. BUT, that’s a problem for Scarecrow followers (of which there probably aren’t many anymore since the character has languished in obscurity) … not Marvel Two-In-One fans.

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #15. Additionally, this comic includes Marvel Value Stamp [Series B] #3 (part of the Captain America puzzle).

On Ebay: Marvel Two-In-One | the Thing | Ka-Zar
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Two-In-One | Ka-Zar