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: July 1976
Cover Price: 25¢
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.

Spider-Man – When Peter Parker was bitten by a radioactive spider, he gained super-strength and the ability to stick to wallls. Using his scientific background, he devised web-shooters that allow him to swing from tall buildings.

WHAT happens?

After raising a volcano in the middle of the Hudson River and knocking the Thing unconscious, the Basilisk is well on his way to taking over the world with the threat of his other strategically placed volcanoes. Fortunately, Spider-Man makes his way to the volcano and takes on the villain – buying the Thing enough time to revive. In the ensuing battle, the two heroes manage to wipe the floor with Basilisk. And, when his unconscious body meets with the volcano, his ability to focus his power flees his body – thus, the volcano and Basilisk implode leaving the world safe again!

WHERE does the story take place?

This story takes place in the Hudson River near New York City.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

The Basilisk manages to finally tunnel out of the ground (after the events of this story) in Fantastic Four #289. After his emergence, he was suddenly killed by Scourge in that issue.

WHY is the Thing the guest-lead?

Bill Mantlo (the writer of Marvel Two-In-One since September 1975) was also writing Marvel Team-Up (essentially the same concept as MTIO except Team-Up featured Spider-Man every month) since October 1975. So, a handful of months after he started his writing gig on both titles, it seemed like a great idea to initiate a crossover between the two series.

HOW was it?

About one quarter of this issue was a flashback to the Basilisk’s previous appearances in Marvel Team-Up and Marvel Two-In-One. After we’re caught up to speed, the rest of the story is just a big brawl between Basilisk, the Thing and Spider-Man. Not much at all in the way of characterization but, it fills in some gaps in the Basilisk’s history and it’s also revealed that the Basilisk’s extra powers came from the Omega Stone which was unearthed in Marvel Team-Up #16. His powers were enhanced by the stone off-panel after #17.

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

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: July 1976
Cover Price: 25¢
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.

Spider-Man – When Peter Parker was bitten by a radioactive spider, he gained super-strength and the ability to stick to wallls. Using his scientific background, he devised web-shooters that allow him to swing from tall buildings.

WHAT happens?

The Thing continues to investigate the volcano that V/Volcanus fell into, last issue. He’s still hoping to discover why volcanoes all over the world are erupting within the very same week. Inside, he discovers a cave wherein the Basilisk ambushes him. During their battle, the villain reveals that he’s behind the erupting volcanoes – and he intends to unleash the volcanic activity on New York City, next. As he teleports himself to NYC, the Thing lunges forward and gets caught up in the transport.

Meanwhile, in Peter Parker’s Chelsea apartment, Spider-Man can barely believe his eyes when he looks out his window and sees a blanket of volcanic smoke surrounding the George Washington Bridge. He web-swings towards the smoke and finds a volcano has emerged in the middle of the Hudson River! By the time he makes his way to the volcano, the Basilisk has defeated the Thing . Now it’s up to Spider-Man to avenge his fallen friend AND save the world from being conquered by Basilisk and his volcanoes. (to be continued!)

WHERE does the story take place?

This story takes place within the Savage Land and then jumps to New York City’s George Washington Bridge area.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

The Basilisk appears next in Marvel Team-Up #47, the continuation of this very story.

WHY is Spider-Man the guest-lead?

Bill Mantlo (the writer of Marvel Two-In-One since September 1975) was also writing Marvel Team-Up (essentially the same concept as MTIO except Team-Up featured Spider-Man every month) since October 1975. So, a handful of months after he started his writing gig on both titles, it seemed like a great idea to initiate a crossover between the two series.

HOW was it?

This issue seems like mostly all set-up for the conclusion of the story. There wasn’t much in the way of characterization for the Thing … and if you were looking for an actual “team-up” between the Thing and Spider-Man, you’ll have to read the next part of this story (in Marvel Team-Up #47). In fact, there is no scene within these pages that features both heroes fighting the villain at the same time (as the cover teases). I’m also curious how this two-bit villain developed the power to summon volcanoes at will – hopefully that’ll be explained before the story concludes. And, would it be too much to hope that the green-colored bat will be explained too?

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #14.

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

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: June 1976
Cover Price: 25¢
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.

Ka-Zar – Kevin Plunder is a “jungle lord” (essentially, Marvel’s version of Tarzan) that makes his home in the Savage Land. It is a prehistoric land that exists beneath the icy crust of Antarctica – filled with a hot, jungle climate and dinosaurs. He is often accompanied by Zabu, a sabretooth tiger.

WHAT happens?

Reed Richards discovers a chain of active volcanoes that, if activated at once, could destroy the Earth. The chain stretches from the North Pole to the South Pole so he sends the Thing to Antarctica to investigate. Nick Fury picks him up in a S.H.I.E.L.D. hyper-jet and, once over Antarctica, the Thing parachutes down into the entrance of the Savage Land.

When he lands, the Thing comes face to face with an Allosaurus and is quickly joined by Ka-Zar and Zabu. After the trio ends the threat of the hungry carnivore, they discover that they’re both concerned about the same volcanic activity. The Thing follows Ka-Zar to the volcano in question where they find a squadron of meddling humans. Their leader, V, intends to harness the volcanic power in order to emerge as a super-being named Volcanus. But, in their ensuing battle, he is accidentally knocked into bubbling lava before he can complete the process.

WHERE does the story take place?

The dangerous volcanoes are located within the Savage Land – a prehistoric jungle located beneath the icy crust of Antarctica.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

I know that death is rarely permanent in comics but, V/Volcanus has not appeared since his presumed death in this issue

WHY is Ka-Zar the guest-lead?

I don’t see much of a “behind-the-scenes” reason for the use of Ka-Zar here. While the jungle lord did have his own ongoing series at this time, it was not written by Bill Mantlo (the writer of this issue). Nor does this story continue into the Ka-Zar series (in fact, the volcano story continues into next issue). Although, the Ka-Zar series was canceled only six months after this issue debuted, so it’s possible Marvel was hoping for a sales boost by giving him some more exposure in this issue.

HOW was it?

While it was fun to see the Thing take on a dinosaur there wasn’t much in the way of perceived danger. I wasn’t really concerned that a dinosaur would be able to do much damage to the Thing’s rocky hide. Nor was I very worried about this new would-be super-villain or his crew of bumbling henchmen. The only true danger is the volcanic activity – which isn’t even resolved in this issue (that story is continues into next issue). Ka-Zar’s presence in this story could be deemed totally unnecessary and it seems like the Thing could have gotten out of every “jam” in this story without his help. Additionally, we’re treated to one of the most unbelievable scenes in the Thing’s history, as the 500lb. rock monster swings from the jungle vines like Tarzan.

Note: With this issue, the title starts it’s monthly pubication schedule (previously, it had been bi-monthly). The events of this issue take place after Fantastic Four #166. There is no lettercol in this issue. It should also be noted that this issue marks the first meeting between Ka-Zar and the Thing.

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

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: May 1976
Cover Price: 25¢
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Artist: Arv Jones

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.

Morbius – Doctor Michael Morbius was a Nobel Prize-winning biochemist who suffered from a rare blood disease. He devised and experimental treatment to cure the ailment and tested it on himself. The treatment went wrong and Morbius now needs to feast on blood in order to survive. He also developed super powers from his experiment including flight, speed, and super-strength.

WHAT happens?

Morbius breaks into Alicia Masters‘ apartment, intending to make her his next meal but, his attack is quickly stopped by a visit from her boyfriend, the Thing. As they battle in her apartment, in the alleyway below, the Living Eraser makes his return to Earth. He intends to create havoc here in order to convince the military from his home, Dimension Z, that control should be taken from their Supremor and given to him.

As Morbius is driven out of Alicia’s apartment, he flies through the alley below and spies the Living Eraser – his next target! The Thing sees the attack and suspects that Morbius is just attempting to feast on another unfortunate human – not suspecting that Morbius’ victim is a malevolent invader from Dimension Z. And, as the Thing and Morbius do battle for a second time, the Living Eraser turns his erasers on both of them – transporting them to a prison cell in Dimension Z.

The Thing and Morbius decide to set aside their differences and work together to get back to Earth and stop the Living Eraser’s rampage. They break free from the cell, fight through the Eraser’s forces, locate some erasing devices and use them to return to Earth. Once there, they make quick work of the Living Eraser. But, rather than bask in is victory, Morbius turns the erasers on himself in a bid to save the Earth from being inhabited by the monster he considers himself to be.

WHERE does the story take place?

That battle against the Living Eraser takes place in Midtown Manhattan – but in between, the Thing and Morbius are dispatched to Dimension Z.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

In Sensational She-Hulk #35, it’s revealed that the first Living Eraser was executed! That very same issue introduces a new Living Eraser.

WHY is Morbius the guest-lead?

I fight it rather interesting that Morbius (originally a Spider-Man villain) later went on to feature in his own solo series. He took over Fear with issue #20 (cover date: February 1974) and was featured there until the series ended with issue #31 (cover date: December 1975). The last three of those issues were written by Bill Mantlo – who wrote this very issue! So, it seems that Mantlo enjoyed writing the character (he also used the character in Marvel Premiere #28 [cover date: February 1976]). If you’re curious to find out what happened next to Morbius, check out Spectacular Spider-Man #7-8.

HOW was it?

To be honest, there was far too much coincidence in this book for me to really enjoy it. Morbius attacking the Thing’s girlfriend? OK. I can accept that – but once the Living Eraser just happens to transport himself into that very same location … at the very same time – well, now you’ve lost me. There was also quite a blooper that I just couldn’t help but notice. On page 26, the Thing turns the eraser on the Living Eraser – erasing his right arm. The arm is still missing on page 27 but somehow, it magically reappears on pages 28 & 29. Similarly, the Eraser erases the Thing’s left leg on page 26. It’s missing on page 27 but it magically reappears on pages 28 & 29. On the plus side, it’s nice to see the Thing knock Morbius around and then form a tentative alliance only because they absolutely need to rely on each other to free themselves from Dimension Z.

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #13 and includes letters written by Paul Dini and Ralph Macchio. Additionally, this comic includes Marvel Value Stamp [Series B] #79 (part of the Silver Surfer puzzle).

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

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 1976
Cover Price: 25¢
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Artist: Herb Trimpe

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.

Son of Satan – At the time this was published, it was believed that Daimon Hellstrom was the son of Satan. It’s since been retconned that he’s the son of a motal woman and the demon, Marduk Kurios. He’s been trained in the way of magic but his sympathies lie with humanity and he works to rid Earth of dark forces. Oftentimes he harnesses the mystical energy through his trident into a blast he calls “soulfire”.

WHAT happens?

Reed Richards sends the Thing to a ghost town in Arizona to explore some strange readings his psych-detector picked up. He enters the town’s Lone Star Saloon and encounters a creepy painting of a man on a horse. Strangely enough, the bar isn’t deserted like the rest of the town – Daimon Hellstrom is there! He explains to Ben Grimm that he’s been drawn to the town to investigate the very same source that Reed detected. The force seems to center on the painting and Hellstrom explains that the man pictured in it is Jedediah Ravenstorm.

More than 100 year prior, Ravenstorm was a lawless criminal moving from town to town, stealing from his victims. He crossed the Colorado Dessert and started his own town – calling it Lawless. The town eventually filled with people … people who grew tired of taking orders from the outlaw. They hung him on New Year’s Eve in 1875 (that’s 100 year prior to the very date of this story) and one year later the town was deserted.

As Hellstrom’s narrative draws to a close, a whirlwind comes whipping through the town, led by the spirit of Jedediah Ravenstorm! The outlaw wants the strangers out of his town but Hellstrom intends to end his possession of the town’s soul. The Thing joins Daimon in his battle against Ravenstorm – but it sure is hard to defeat a spirit. Or is it? During the fight, Hellstrom deduces that they’re not just fighting Ravenstorm’s spirit but rather Kthara, Mother of Demons – she’s inhabited his ghost. She intended to possess the soul of Daimon for, if she could do that, she assumes she could take his father’s, as well. But, when she relinquishes control of Ravenstorm’s spirit after being struck by Hellstrom, she unwittingly unleashes the souls of the townspeople who turn on her to exact their revenge.

WHERE does the story take place?

The ghost town that the Thing is sent to explore is Lawless, Arizona.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

Neither Jedediah Ravenstorm nor Kthara have been seen since this issue.

WHY is the Son of Satan the guest-lead?

Daimon Hellstrom’s feature had recently been moved from Marvel Spotlight to his very own solo title in December 1975. Setting him up as the guest-star in this issue gave him some exposure that was surely intended to interest more readers to try out his own series.

HOW was it?

This issue was a neat ghost story that gave off some seriously creepy vibes – especially in the beginning. Not much characterization for the Thing but it served to wrap up the storyline of Daimon’s villain, Kthara. I really enjoyed how offput the Thing was by Hellstrom’s “area of expertise” – you can tell he’s really unnerved by it all and can’t wait to get away from the situation and put it all behind him.

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #12 and includes a letter written by Kurt Busiek. Additionally, this comic includes Marvel Value Stamp [Series B] #45 (part of the Doctor Strange puzzle).

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

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 1976
Cover Price: 25¢
Writer: Roger Slifer with Len Wein
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.

Power Man – A freak accident left Luke Cage with super-strength and near-impervious skin. He started his super-hero career as a Hero For Hire.

WHAT happens?

Arnold Krank is a biological researcher at Krasner’s Bio-Systems, Inc. and his special bio-genetics project created life! The green, modified cellular tissue began to grow out of control and, after absorbing two men, took on a humanoid form. He sought out the Fantastic Four to help contain the creature but only the Thing was available. And, when Ben Grimm wasn’t enough to stop it, Krank hired Power Man to join in on the effort.

By the time Power Man had arrived on the scene, the creature had grown large enough to hold the Thing in its hand. It was continuing to grow both physically – and mentally. It’s intelligence soared! (But not high enough to realize that naming yourself Braggadoom, after a recent onomatopoeia, was pretty silly) The monster easily defeated both heroes and tossed them blocks away.

When Power Man and the Thing finally make their way back to the monster, Braggadoom has grown to 300 feet – and destroyed a New York bridge. Sinking to the bottom of the ocean floor, the Thing manages to topple the monster but, before he can deliver a forceful blow, he’s stopped by … Power Man?! Y’see, Luke Cage has been warned by Krank that Braggadoom may be building towards critical mass and a continued assault on the creature could explode it, unleashing the destructive power of a nuclear bomb! As they debate about whether to strike against the monster … it begins to glow! Could they be too late?

Nahhhh … it’s just a false alarm! Actually, the creature expended enough energy during the past few hours to reduce it back to the size of a toy. Expecting the creature to grow and mature in the future, Arnold Krank devotes his life to raising his “son” in a responsible manner.

WHERE does the story take place?

This month’s destructive rampage takes place in New York City!

WHEN does the villain next appear?

This lame-named villain has never appeared again.

WHY is Power Man the guest-lead?

When the title of Luke Cage’s series changed from Hero For Hire to Power Man, Len Wein took over as writer. His run on that series ended 15 months prior to this issue and featured artwork by Ron Wilson. That very same creative team reunited with each other and the Luke Cage character in this issue.

HOW was it?

As terrible as Braggadoom‘s name is – he’s still a neat villain. I say that because I’ve got a soft spot for giant-sized characters. The scope of the battle scenes that include huge characters like this is almost always on a grand scale – and this issue is no exception. Even the cover is just eye-catching!

There’s also a lot of fun interaction between the Thing and Power Man. These guys aren’t quite the best of friends and it shows – Grimm tries to leave Cage out of the fight at one point, assuming he’s not powerful enough to help out. The Thing’s point is actually proven right: when Power Man isn’t able to topple the monster, Grimm has to do it himself. But, it should be pointed out that toppling Braggadoom was Power Man’s idea, in the first place. This interesting dynamic continued to play out two months later in Fantastic Four #168, when Power Man temporarily replaced the Thing.

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #11. Additionally, this comic includes Marvel Value Stamp [Series B] #11 (part of the Conan the Barbarian puzzle).

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

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 1975
Cover Price: 25¢
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.

Iron Man – Tony Stark devised a powered suit of armor to stop a life-threatening injury and to escape captivity from terrorists. But, let’s be honest, if you’re reading this, there’s almost no way that you don’t know who Iron Man is.

WHAT happens?

Tony Stark has hired the Thing to test-pilot his latest rocketship dubbed Pattycake One – after all, if something goes wrong, he’s sure to survive the crash. And, something does go wrong! Instead of launching into space, Pattycake is sent down into the ground. When the Thing emerges from the wreck, he discovers an underground cave and, strangely enough, a bright light. He follows the light to discover …. (just wait, we’ll get there) …

Meanwhile, Tony Stark puts his Iron Man armor on and follows after his friend into the underground cave where he discovers the Thing has been laid low by … Prester John! Yes, the centuries old explorer who once served as a knight of Richard the Lionheart. Assuming Iron Man and the Thing are demons, he defeats both of them using his Stone of Power. Then, as any true, misunderstood man-out-of-time should: he tells the subdued heroes his story. He recounts his previous encounter with the Human Torch and Wyatt Wingfoot (see Fantastic Four #54) and later, how he became the leader of the Bedouin tribe that possessed the Stone. Mad with the Stone’s power, Prester John turned on his tribe and whipped up a whirlwind that accidentally caused the ground to give way beneath his feet. He had been trapped this entire time – until Pattycake’s crash into the ground re-opened this underground cave. Now that he’s been freed, he returns to the surface where he intends to rule the world – for he believes it rightfully belongs to him.

A short while later, Iron Man and the Thing recuperate and decide that the way to end Prester John’s madness is to separate him from the Stone of Power. They catch up to the madman and engage him in a length battle. At the end, Iron Man distracts Prester John long enough for the Thing to snatch the Stone of Power from his neck. He launches the Stone as high into the air as he can – and the madness leaves John quickly. Somehow, the stone disappears in a bright rainbow-colored flash of light – the world is safe from its madness-causing effects … for now.

WHERE does the story take place?

The launch site for Pattycake One is Israel’s Negev Desert.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

Prester John next appears in Marvel Fanfare #54 (cover date: December 1990), although it is a flashback tale that takes place during the Crusades. He’s also seen in Thor Annual #17 (cover date: 1992) – a time-travel storyline involving Kang.

WHY is Iron Man the guest-lead?

Bill Mantlo had recently been the writer on a fill-in issue of Iron Man (#84 – cover date: September 1975) so perhaps he enjoyed writing the character and wanted to continue to do so. There’s also an interesting symmetry to his appearance here. Iron Man was the co-lead in Marvel Feature #12 (essentially MTIO #0) – and this book is twelve issues later. Twelve is an anniversary issue in comics – it signifies a full year of monthly publishing (or, in this case, two years on a bi-monthly schedule).

HOW was it?

I suppose labeling Prester John a villain isn’t quite appropriate. He’s truly out of his element (and you thought Captain America came from a different time … this guy comes from the Crusades!) and, in this story, driven mad with power. When he’s freed of the Stone’s madness, he seems like a decent guy – although, a bit high on himself … or maybe that’s just his “fancy” way of talking (similar to Thor’s).

The story was fun and featured some big battle pages – including a nifty double page spread! The way the heroes got together made sense and wasn’t overly coincidental. I’m sure fellow Marvel Zombies, like myself, will think it was nice to see the return of a Lee/Kirby character (albeit one of their lesser-known ones).

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #10 (one of the letters is from writer, Robert Rodi). Additionally, this comic includes Marvel Value Stamp #45 (Mantis).

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

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 1975
Cover Price: 25¢
Writer: Roy Thomas with Bill Mantlo (script)
Artist: Bob Brown

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.

the Golem – a statue of living stone that was made in the sixteenth century. In recent years, it has been reanimated by the spirit of Professor Abraham Adamson. As long as it maintains contact with the Earth, its power and strength will be continuously renewed.

WHAT happens?

The Thing and Alicia Masters have decided to take a vacation to Disneyworld in Florida. On the way, they hear a special radio announcement – a tidal wall has been resurrected, separating San Pedro University from the rest of St. Petersburg, Florida. The Thing hops the train into that very same city where he overhears a report of a stone monster on the loose and wreaking havoc!

At the University, Jason Adamson (the nephew of Abraham Adamson) deduces that the Golem is back in action because he is threatened by the tidal barrier. He then assumes that the demon lord Kaballa has finally gained control of the Golem – his goal is to use the Golem to rule the Earth.

Meanwhile, in the heart of St. Petersburg, the Thing and the Golem have come face to rocky face! We’re treated to four consecutive pages of battle. An eerie battle – as the Golem maintains a creepy silence amid his destruction. During the fight, the word “Emeth” appears on the Golem’s forehead and images flash into the Thing’s mind. Despite being controlled by Kaballa, the spirit of Adamson within the Golem is reaching out to the Thing – letting him know that there are people at San Pedro University that can stop him.

But, how to reach the University? A tall task now that there is a large body of water separating it from the rest of the city. The quick-thinking Thing starts throwing the debris from the Golem’s rampage into the water – creating a bridge that eventually lets him get to the University. With the bridge completed, Jason, Rebecca (his sister), and Wayne (her fiancee) run towards the Golem. And, as they near the stony creature inhabited by their uncle’s spirit, his love for them enables him to overpower that of Kaballa. He has regained control of the Golem! Sensing his imminent defeat, Kaballa retreats – vowing to return for the Golem later. Now that his loved ones are no longer in danger, the Golem reverts back into an unmoving statue.

WHERE does the story take place?

This story takes place in St. Petersburg, Florida – home of the fictional San Pedro University.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

Kaballa, Overlord of Demon-Ruin, next appears in the Rampaging Hulk #6 (cover date: December 1977), wherein he sends one of his minions against Ulysses Bloodstone.

WHY is the Golem the guest-lead?

The Golem is surely the strangest choice of co-stars this book has had – but his appearance here is most probably linked to this issue’s writer: Roy Thomas. You see, taking inspiration from Jewish folklore, Roy Thomas introduced the Golem into the Marvel Universe in the Incredible Hulk #134. That was in 1970 – four years later, the Golem was given his very own feature in Strange Tales #174, 176 & 177 – I guess it didn’t sell well enough to warrant more than three books. Those issues weren’t written by Roy Thomas – although he was the editor on them. With his character back in the limelight, it seems Thomas wanted to have another go at it. But, since it was clear the Golem couldn’t hold his own solo feature – the next best thing would be to make him a co-lead.

HOW was it?

It’s kind of hard for a mute stone being controlled by a demon lord to maintain an interesting tale by himself – so it’s quite apparent why the Thing is needed for this story. And, while I’m sure I’d appreciate the story more if I had read the Strange Tales issues, the Golem just doesn’t do much for me here. The villain, Kaballa, is also a lame-o who’s only seen a few more times over the next forty years of Marvel continuity. The cover promises the “End of a Legend!” – except, I don’t know that there’s much truth to that. Clearly, the legend isn’t the Thing – he’s seen again next issue. Kaballa is hardly legendary and, besides, he does return (as noted above). So, I suppose “legend” refers to the Golem, especially considering its place in Jewish folklore. However, it’s really not an ending – more like a hiatus, for it will be reanimated as soon as those kids are in danger again. Ah well – may it never be said that Marvel covers aren’t hyperbolic. By the way, Golem fans can find him in issues of the Hood and Nick Fury’s Howling Commandos.

On the plus side, it seems Alicia Masters is becoming more of a supporting character – which she should be, as the girlfriend of the lead character. And, there’s a fun bit as the Thing reacts to news reports of a rampaging rock monster. But, I’m still left confused about one part… When we first see the Golem, it’s inert inside a University lab with Jason Adamson. The next thing we know, a tidal barrier is erected around the school and the formerly inert Golem is now somehow on the other side of the wall – while Jason is still in the University. How did this motionless statue get all the way on the other side of the wall of water?!

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #9 (one of the letters is from writer, Robert Rodi).

Point of Curiousity – anyone else find it interesting that the Golem (Google: “[in Jewish legend] A clay figure brought to life by magic”) is battling Kaballa (Google: “The ancient Jewish tradition of mystical interpretation of the Bible, first transmitted orally and using esoteric methods”)?

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

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: July 1975
Cover Price: 25¢
Writer: Chris Claremont
Artist: Bob Brown

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 Widow – Natasha Romanoff is a Russian spy that defected to the United States. She has no super-powers, but is well-trained and often armed with high-tech weaponry, including her “Widow’s Bite” wristlets.

WHAT happens?

On a high-speed car chase through a New York City park, the Black Widow crashes into the Thing. When she gets out to check on him, she’s subdued by her pursuers, the Sword of Judgement – revolutionaries intent on avenging the exploited peoples of the world. The two heroes are captured by the terrorist group and brought to their base of operations in the Atlantic Ocean. They meet with the terrorist leader, Agamemnon, who reveals their plan (dubbed Operation: Poseidon) to drop the world’s most powerful thermo-nuclear device into the depths of the ocean. When it is triggered, it will unleash a radioactive 1000′ tsunami upon the United States of America.

After he leaves the prisoners alone, the Black Widow reveals that Agamemnon was a past lover of hers named Andrei Rostov. She unzips her costume to reveal organic weaponry that was hidden beneath her back body mold and the gadgets assist them in breaking free! In their battle against the Sword of Judgement, the cable securing the bomb snaps, dropping it into the ocean. But, the Thing manages to grab hold of it before it plunges too far. He is now tasked with bringing the bomb back to the surface while the Widow has to buy him time to do so, by taking on the Sword. As the hours pass, the Black Widow manages to defeat their army of one hundred members – leaving only Agamemnon. Their battle is quite evenly matched – until the Thing (who has, by now, secured the bomb) intervenes and defeats the terrorist.

WHERE does the story take place?

The bulk of the action takes place in the base of operations for the Sword of Judgement. It’s located over 2,000 kilometers off the coast of New York – in the Northern part of the Atlantic Ocean.

WHEN do the villains next appear?

The Sword of Judgement doesn’t make an appearance for another 35 years! The next time they’re seen is in Darkstar and the Winter Guard #2, where they attack St. Petersburg.

WHY is Black Widow the guest-lead?

A few months earlier, Chris Claremont (the writer of this issue) had scripted a Gerber-plotted issue of Daredevil (#117 – January 1975). At that time, the Black Widow was a prominent guest-star in the series so, it’s possible that Claremont’s brief encounter with the character gave him a taste that left him wanting more.

HOW was it?

It was a fun team-up with incredibly high stakes – but the coincidental way the Thing is brought into the story irks me a bit. This is much more of a Black Widow story, so fans of her hers should really enjoy it. Not only does it reveal one of her past lovers but it also shows off her weaponry and incredible fighting abilities (she takes down 100 men by herself!). Lest you think she gets all the spotlight, we are treated to some heart-warming introspection by the Thing, a Mazel Tov cheer (he is Jewish, after all) and an appearance by his girlfriend, Alicia Masters. Which is nice, because she wasn’t in many of the earlier issues – strange, considering she’s so closely linked to the title’s main character.

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #8 (one of the letters is from writer, Robert Rodi).

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

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: May 1975
Cover Price: 25¢
Writer: Steve Gerber with Chris Claremont (script)
Artist: Herb Trimpe

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 slams his cane on the ground, he becomes Thor – the Asgardian that the was worshipped as the Norse god of thunder. Wielding Mjolnir, the mighty hammer that can only be lifted by those who are worthy, Thor can harness the power of lightning. He’s also super strong and can fly through the air by throwing his hammer and holding on to its thong.

WHAT happens?

The Thing joins Namorita, her friend Ann, and Wundarr for a Saturday children’s matinee at the Inner City Marionette Theatre. While they’re out in the city, the Puppet Master enlists the aid of a mystery man. With his help, the Puppet Master’s radioactive clay is now supercharged and able to possess an immortal. His immortal puppet? Thor! A powerful choice to send against his most hated enemies: the Fantastic Four.

Under the Puppet Master’s command, the glassy-eyed Thor launches into attack against the three members of the F.F. who are home: Mr. Fantastic, Human Torch, and Invisible Woman. They’re quickly defeated by the Asgardian but before he can deliver the killing blow, he manages to snap out of his trance and transforms back to Doctor Blake to attend to the wounded heroes. That’s when the Thing and friends return to the Baxter Building.

After making sure the Fantastic Four will be fine, Blake leaves and transforms back into Thor. At this point, the Puppet Master’s mystery companion is revealed as … Radion, the Atomic Man! (Who?) Radion recharges the clay Thor puppet and the Puppet Master regains control of Thor. The god of thunder is sent back to fight the Thing and the battle flows into the street where the Puppet Master and Radion are standing by. And, just as the Puppet Master is reaching for a puppet that will control the Thing, he notices that both puppets have lost their controlling radioactivity! It seems that Wundarr‘s presence has eliminated the threat of their power – after all, he innately absorbs energy. Radion, a being composed entirely of radioactive matter, runs off – for fear of Wundarr absorbing him entirely. The Puppet Master is then easily defeated by a powerful slap from Wundarr.

WHERE does the story take place?

The Baxter Building – the Manhattan-based headquarters of the Fantastic Four.

WHEN do the villains next appear?

The Puppet Master returns in Fantastic Four #168-170 (cover date: March-May 1976) where he takes control of Luke Cage, Power Man.

Radion returns as the Ravager in Iron Fist #3 (cover date: March 1976), where he is encased in a suit of armor.

WHY is Thor the guest-lead?

This story was originally supposed to take place earlier in the MTIO schedule but, since Thor had recently appeared in Marvel Team-Up, it was decided that this tale would be pushed back a few months. With that in mind, it seems that the presence of Thor (a Marvel mainstay) in the early issues of this then-young title would have served to include some legitimacy and early hype. After all, a Thing vs Thor battle is sure to increase sales!

HOW was it?

A “Thor vs” story is almost as good as a “Hulk vs” one but, I could have used a lot more battle in this issue. The Thing vs Thor fight only lasts two issues! Even the initial Thor vs F.F. fight lasts only two pages.

The other let-down was the “mystery” villain. Why create a shrouded villain only to have it be revealed as someone who has never been featured before?! For me, that kind of defeats the purpose of building up the hype of the “mystery” – when it’s a mystery you can never solve. Now, I can understand the purpose of doing it if you’re trying to build hype between issues (like early appearances of Archangel before his big debut) but it just doesn’t make sense to me to do it all in the very same issue. Anyway, enough ranting about the “shrouded mystery” of a villain’s debut. It seems Radion was a Claremont creation, since his next appearance was in an issue of Iron Fist (which Claremont wrote). So, readers who are curious about this character (anyone? anyone at all?) can find more about him there.

The cover promises a “battle royal” – but, don’t believe the hype. On the plus side? We get some more character action/development from Wundarr (he even puts a whole sentence together, this time).

Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #7.

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