Review - Black Widow: Itsy-Bitsy Spider

While on a mission to apprehend a bio-toxin from a foreign government, super spy Natasha Romanoff is confronted by a woman claiming to be the new Black Widow. The tenacious Yelena Belova has been sent by Russia to procure the bio-toxin and eliminate her rival if necessary. Natasha must outwit and outmaneuver her successor every step of the way, while ensuring that the bio-toxin doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.

Black Widow: Itsy-Bitsy Spider collects Black Widow (vol 1) #1-3 and Black Widow (vol. 2) #1-3, written by Devin Grayson and Greg Rucka, and with art by J.G. Jones and Scott Hampton.

This collection is divided into two sections – the first collecting the “Itsy-Bitsy Spider” story arc that introduces the new Black Widow and the second that serves as a sequel titled “Breakdown.” “Itsy-Bitsy Spider” is a globe-trotting spy thriller that takes us to the fictional country of Rhapastan as Natasha Romanoff attempts to secure a bio-toxin that turns humans into monstrous super beings. Hot on her trail is Yelena Belova, the self-proclaimed Black Widow. She’s eager to usurp the name from Natasha and is willing to do whatever necessary to please her superiors back in Russia. “Breakdown” is a simmering and more intimate arc, which sees Natasha switching places with Yelena in order to manipulate her into giving up her life as a spy.

Devin Grayson handles singularly handles the writing for the first arc and is joined by J.G. Jones on art. Jones’ artwork is incredible and pairs well with Grayson. The work is expressive and Jones creates many dynamic action sequences. His creative perspectives and experiments with panels gives the overall story a cinematic feel to it. Though it’s easy to say that Jones’ artwork steals the show, Grayson is certainly no slouch either. She gives us complex character work that makes it easy to sympathize and understand our protagonist’s perspective. We get a few touching moments where we see Natasha’s emotions come through, which is rare for her character.

Grayson pairs with Greg Rucka for the follow-up “Breakdown,” with Scott Hampton providing the art. Where Jones’ bold artwork paired well with the explosive first arc, Hampton’s simpler style works well for the more Cold War era-tinged second arc. The usage of cooler tones and pops of warmth throughout provides an atmospheric vibe that enhances the story tremendously. While the narrative itself is loosely a sequel to “Itsy-Bitsy Spider,” it is more character-driven than its predecessor. We see Natasha really pushing Yelena to the brink of insanity through her machinations and it shows just how far she’s willing to go to spare her successor from going through half of what she went through. That said, the main plot device that supports the identity switch is really contrived.

Black Widow: Itsy-Bitsy Spider is an intriguing read and provides a nice little character study of Black Widow. While the two arcs included do very little to elaborate on her past or provide background information on the iconic redheaded spy, they do tip towards being accessible. This is a great collection of stories for fans of the character, especially those who enjoy the Marvel Cinematic Universe version.

RATING: B