Spider-Man's Tangled Web #4: Severance Package:

Writer: Greg Rucka
Artist: Eduardo Risso
Colors: Steve Buccellato

Although this is billed as a Spider-Man adventure, the web-slinger makes an appearance in only one panel. Regardless, this is a fine short story that provides a wonderful opportunity to fill out the back story of Spider-Man's life. At the center of the story is Tom Cochrane, a very well-paid henchman of Wilson Fisk, also known as the Kingpin. Cochrane seems happily married, with two young children, and lives in a mansion that is shown with expensive cars parked outside. One night he learns that a job that he had planned has gone wrong because of Spider-Man. The rest of the story deals with the consequences of his failure, and how Cochrane deals with them.

The first thing that struck me was the artwork. Eduardo Risso is a marvellous pensman with a terrific sence of perspective and space. Furthermore, he has captured emotion very well, not only through the facial expressions of the characters, but also through wonderful use of light and shadows. The lines are simple but elegant, and Steve Buccellato's coloring only enhances the visual appeal of the comic. Greg Rucka, who as writer gets top billing, is no slacker either. The story is presented both poignantly and suspensefully, with the reader constantly wondering how it's all going to turn out. Character development is well done too, with the protagonist portrayed convincingly as a pragmatist and a fatalist. The Kingpin's appearance is sinister, and is entirely in keeping with his reputation as a ruthless businessman.

In its brief 22 pages the comic manages to embody the essence of a good short story. Excellent artwork, well-written story, convincing characters. Three thumbs up.