With Amazing Spider-Man #50 (legacy issue #944), Zeb Wells kicks off a brand new arc that promises to finally shake up the web-slinger’s status quo. While Spidey’s recent arcs have been a bit of a mixed bag w/ a lot of mini-arcs take up a lot of recent space, this issue is a step in the right direction, showcasing Wells’ ability to craft a compelling story that will keep readers engaged.

Wells' writing here succeeds despite Marvel's heavy teasing of Norman Osborn's return as Green Goblin, which could have made the reveal feel anticlimactic. Instead, Wells is able to build tension, adding a twist to Norman’s relationship with the Green Goblin that allows the situation to play out in an unexpected way. Even though the return of Green Goblin wasn't a surprise, Wells' execution makes it feel fresh and exciting. I was shockingly surprised at how much I enjoyed that scene & the issue as a whole.

A good part of that reason is Ed McGuinness' artwork, which steals the spotlight with some of the best artwork on this run. McGuinness uses the extra pages of this oversized issue to feature impressive double splash-pages that really amp up the action & intensity. His art is a perfect blend of classic Spider-Man charm and modern comic book flair, making this main story a visual pleasing experience.

In addition to the main story, the milestone issue includes several backup stories that add to the celebration. These tales are a mix of fun and adventure, including several guest characters who all get a few moments to shine. "Time to Make the Doughnuts" and "Don't Think Thrice, It's All Right" stand out for their stories and fantastic art, each showing different elements of what makes Spider-Man a timeless, classic hero. These backup stories are the icing on the cake, making this issue a must-read for any Spider-Man fan.

Amazing Spider-Man #50 surpassed my expectations for this Green Goblin story & I’m now interested to see where this will go. It's a fresh start that promises to deliver some exciting developments in Wells’ run, which something we’re all the better for.

Rating: 8/10