The Invisible Hand closes in on Spider-Man as the Fall Formal pairs Peter Parker with a familiar face.

After the great car chase scene, I liked how Spider-Man was mostly brains in this episode. As a super hero, he’s one of the types who won’t use his powers as brute force but as a set of tools for his mind to take advantage of. It was a smart decision to have the Rhino defeated by Spider-Man’s brain and not his brawn. I never thought about making him sweat but then again, I don’t walk around New York in a costume.

Halfway through the season, we are introduced to L. Thompson Lincoln, Tombstone. Sure, he’s the Big Man but it’s obvious to the comic book crowd he’s a red herring. That otherwise silent elevator scene with the Rhino and Fredrick Foswell was screaming out that something is going on. I mean, there is that chance that Greg Weisman is using our comic book knowledge to his advantage and making us think Foswell is a villain when he’s not but there’s also the chance that Foswell made Tombstone the public face of the Big Man to protect himself. It was nice twist for Tombstone to call the cops on Spider-Man. I’ve noticed that in today’s society, if you can’t beat ‘em then ruin their PR!

And on to my favorite part, spot all the cameos! Jean DeWolff is partnered with none other than Stan Carter. I wonder which take on De Wolff, Weisman will take. In the Silver Age days, she was Spider-Man’s “Commissioner Gordon,” the only one in the police department that believed in his intentions. But nowadays, her character is actually an informant for Kingpin. Considering how many fans thought the Big Man was Wilson Fisk at first…just saying. And Captain Stacy appeared, too. Can’t wait to see how his presence will be played out. He approved of Peter Parker dating his daughter and knew a little something extra about Parker before his demise. Speaking of Gwen Stacy, I didn’t see her going out with Eddie Brock. I guess she just figured faster on the show that she doesn’t like Flash Thompson or Harry Osborn.

Midway in the season, the Spectacular Spider-Man is still going strong. It’s no surprise to me that there are some DC Animated alumni involved in this episode. Writer for Justice League Unlimited, Matt Wayne lends his talents along with New Frontier director, David Bullock. Even the cult favorite actor, Clancy Brown, voices the Rhino. This has got to be the first time in awhile when I thought a series’ first season was near perfect. It’s a safe bet to renew this one for five seasons.  

The Spectacular Spider-Man
“The Invisible Hand”
Written: Matt Wayne
Directed: David Bullock