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WEISMANSWERS 2009-05 (May)

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anonmous writes...

**SEASON TWO SPOILERS OF "THE SPECTACULAR SPIDER-MAN"**

**BIG SPOILERS -- SERIOUSLY**

**FINE, DON'T SAY I DIDN'T WARN YOU**

Hello, I said I'd be back.

Here's part two of my episode reviews for season two...

"Accomplices":
So we get Frederick Foswell as Patch, Black Cat's cameo return, a bidding war between a bunch of supervillains, the introduction of Kingsley, and the debut Silver Sable...and voiced by Nikki Cox, no less! Man, you guys know how to throw a party! I didn't even mind that Silver Sable turned out to be Silvermane's daughter. Seeing Doc Ock at the auction with Vulture, as well as his tentacles around two lovely ladies, was a nice addition and Ock even convinces Rhino to go out and get the chip. I'm just surprised Vulture didn't speak. When we get Kingsley, he acts like Roderick one minute and then his twin brother Daniel the next. I'm guessing he's actually both, since we only have Courtney B. Vance credited as "Kingsley" in the credits. Not only do we get to see Spider-Man fight Hammerhead (finally!!), but we get a brief Rhino/Spidey team-up! Best of all, said chip is a fake and the real one is with Norman Osborn! Osborn's taking a long walk down a dark path now and I love every second of it.

"Probable Cause":
I hate to say it, but this was kind of a filler episode for me. I mean, we've got the Shocker back and the Enforcers. But did the Enforcers really need costumes too like the Shocker? One of the reasons I love the Enforcers in the comics is because they are normal looking foes. They're not supposed to wear super-powered villain costumes. This is why I do not like Montana being the Shocker in this series. Herman Schultz may not be as memorable as Otto Octavius or Norman Osborn in the alter-ego department, but he's the Shocker. He's just a crook who wants to steal cash and keep a professional reputation, but keeps getting foiled by Spider-Man. Having Montana as the Shocker is, no disrespect intented, just wrong in my opinion. To me, it's not the Shocker, it's Montana in a Shocker costume and with Shocker's gauntlets. This isn't as bad as the Rheinholdt Kragov Electro that the Fox Kids Spider-Man show gave us, but any deviation from a classic Spider-Man foe, especially in terms of their alter-egos, doesn't sit well with me. That's just how I roll. Besides, I especially did not care for seeing Fancy Dan as Ricochet. Ricochet was my favorite Spidey identity-turned-Slingers member and seeing someone with the name Ricochet as a villain made me cringe. The episode itself also seems a bit out of place to me. We had the start of the Gang War arc with the bid on the chip, and Gang War's conclusion comes up next. In between that, we get -- Shocker, Ox and Ricochet? That took me out of the story a bit, because it seems a bit out of place in this particular arc. I think, at least, this should have happened before the bidding war, because this is an odd choice for the middle of the Gang War arc, especially since most of the villains involved (Doc Ock, Tombstone, Silvermane, etc.) don't even show up in this episode. Also, we have focus on quite possible the worst villain that Spider-Man has faced on this show: Sally Avril. Seriously? Well, at least she did seem concerned about Peter in the episode when she thought he had died, even if it was for about two micro-seconds. However, I did love what happened with Flash in this episode. I'm really loving how much Flash has grown in this season and how he's been handled. Kudos, all. Stan Carter's dark comments regarding Spidey not going "far enough" against villains was a nice addition. And you have got to love that ending with Harry...

"Gangland":
I never thought I'd love the opera so much in my entire life. We get Silvermane making his debut, AND his cyborg armor look to boot. I love the return of Silver Sable, but was disappointed she didn't do as much as she did in "Accomplices". Despite this, I liked how she was trembling when in Hammerhead's presence. It shows that Hammerhead is also growing as a criminal to fear, like the other crime lords here. Doc Ock, in particular, also shines here, and I love, love, LOVE what you've done with him in this episode. Next to "Shear Strength", THIS is the Doc Ock I know and love: brilliant, cold and extremely dangerous. His attack on the defenseless Silvermane and his hatred for Spider-Man during their fight scenes are wonderful to watch, and Peter MacNicol simply cannot appear in enough episodes as the voice of Ock. One moment I loved was when Doc Ock was shouting with rage in his final fight with Spider-Man in the sewers after he was kicked against the pipes. Seeing Ock continue to attack Spidey with just such fury shows just how frustrating and how hateful that Ock finds our heroic Spider-Man.

Please, please, PLEASE say we'll see Doc Ock in multiple episodes next season.

The only Doc Ock complaint is the sudden lack of the new chip. What happened here? Suddenly, Spidey removes the power pack again when Ock's knocked on the ground and Ock's tentacles no longer work. Did I miss something here? When Ock returns for season three, PLEASE say he'll get TOTAL mental control over his tentacles. This is the most annoying method ever for defeating Doc Ock, moreso than Spider-Man firing webs over Doc Ock's goggles/sunglasses. Ock is in serious need of improvement on your show.

However, I'll forgive this incident for the sheer joy for the next two highlights: Spider-Man's rematch with Tombstone, and the reveal of the new Big Man in the finale. The Green Goblin is back in style, just as crazy as ever. If Gobby's maniacal laughter at the finale doesn't give you chills and get you excited for next week's episode, I don't know what will.

In all, this is my second favorite episode for season two. Brilliant work, guys. I applaud you all.

"Subtext":
My fifth favorite episode of this series. The introduction of Molten Man is wonderful, we get some great moments for Liz and Mary Jane, and we also get a bit of the Green Goblin. We even get Blackie Gaxton back, to boot! The personalities for the characters really shine here. I really felt bad for Mark here after all that's happened to him. When Liz shouts at Peter and then breaks down crying, you feel sorry for her. I also felt bad for seeing Mary Jane standing by herself when Peter comforts a sobbing Liz. I hope M.J. gets much more focus in season three...or in the current Marvel Comics, but that's another matter.

"Opening Night":
This wasn't a bad episode, it was very entertaining. But it's not one of the better episodes this season, either. I loved seeing all of the imprisoned villains together, especially since we saw Beck with inmates back in "Identity Crisis", hence my forshadowing mention earlier.

[Wait, did I really just say "hence"?!? What am I, a senior citizen?!?]

I loved seeing the Rhino, the Enforcers (thankfully without their costumes), Silvermane, and Molten Man. I especially love what you did with Molten Man here. You sooooo have to bring him back when there's a new third season. However, I didn't care much for the reveal of the imprisoned Quentin Beck as a robot that tranformed into Mysterio, though it does explain why Tinkerer didn't break out Mysterio at the finale of "Reinforcement". Despite this, the Mysterio gargoyles pop up again and are as fun and funny as ever, so I'll forgive it. I won't be so kind, though, on the reveal of Uncle Ben's real killer. Black Cat's father?!? Ugh. No offense, but this brought back bad memories of "Spider-Man 3" for me. We didn't need someone with a name or a history to be the guy who fatally shot Uncle Ben, or someone who felt haunted about doing it. In the comics, it's a nameless burglar. It's more effective. Sometimes, less is more, and it should've been that way here. Granted, it gives a new twist on the Spider-Man/Black Cat relationship, but here, it felt forced and unneeded. Though it's going to be interesting to see what Black Cat does next time she shows up. I did like her characterization here, and I really LOVED what you did with the Green Goblin. At this point, I honestly didn't care if it was Norman or Harry behind that mask: I simply wanted to see more of him. His rhyming, his hacking into the Vault, his fight with Spider-Man...it's just pure brilliance. We also get a great, long overdue moment on this show: Hobie Brown finally speaks!! However, I must applaud you with J. Jonah Jameson. He's just pure gold in this episode. I especially love his scenes in this episode, from his joy in seeing Spider-Man imprisoned to his quip about Mysterio's robots getting their own show. But the best is saved for last, indeed...

"Final Curtain":
Seriously...this is the best season two episode!! Everything here is just brilliant. From Peter's break-up with Liz Allan to the "is he or isn't he" guessing game of the man behind the Green Goblin's mask, this show had more twists and turns than any other episode. I have to admit, I love your portrayal of Donald Menken. Think you can reprise the role next season? Anyway, what's so clever here is that you can totally buy the idea of ANY of the suspects being the Green Goblin, from Donald Menken to Harry Osborn to Norman Osborn. I must admit, I knew Chameleon would appear in season two, but I had no idea how cool and important his role here would be...or the big reveal of Chameleon's REAL first appearance on your show.

On one hand, it could've been Harry. I thought this show was going to have Norman somehow transfer the Goblin personality from Harry into himself with his staff to spare Harry of what he'd done in season one. This would've given Norman the edge he needed over Tombstone and Hammerhead without having to apologize for what had happened to Harry, kind of like a selfish "what was a curse for Harry has been turned into a blessing for me" angle. Given how Harry had acted in "Competition" and "The Invisible Hand", or how he kept blacking out after taking Globulin Green, you could believe that he had with a split personality and was the Green Goblin. Maybe when he was Harry-Goblin, he listened at the door about Hammerhead threatening Osborn with Octavius' knowledge of Osborn co-creating Rhino and Sandman before he entered to tell his dad about his latest accomplishments since he was now a football player and that he had a date to the Fall Formal. Of course, we all know Goblin later traps Octavius and turns him into Doc Ock, even if that wasn't his intention. It also would've explained Harry's angry outburst and attack on his father when he blacked out in "The Uncertainty Principle".

Granted, I knew Norman Osborn would likely be the Goblin this season, but I was pleasantly surprised to see how tricky and how evil he actually was. I mean, you see him break his own son's ankle, for crying out loud! Norman is slimy, unapologetic and cares for no one, not even his own son. He just takes what he wants and doesn't care who he hurts.

My sole problem with this episode is Green Goblin's faked death. It was simply too early to have Norman Osborn believed dead by his son and the public, especially since I simply wanted to see more of him next season. At least we could've had Norman find out Peter's secret identity before episode's end. I mean, Norman goes from wanting to turn Harry into a man he could be proud of and then suddenly leaves New York under the alias of the blond Mr. Roman when everyone thinks he's deceased? I know Osborn's just planning his next move, but I didn't think he'd need to let anyone think he was dead to do it. However, given Harry's own dark turn when he guilts Gwen into sticking around as his girlfriend after previously learning he found out Gwen intended to leave him for Peter, I'm sure Harry's going to go down a dark path of his own that may lead him to the Green Goblin mask one day.

I'm also gonna guess that one of Goblin's "pumpkin head" henchmen is gonna be Hobgoblin or Jack O'Lantern. Maybe it's a currently-unnamed Jason Macendale working for Goblin? And with Tombstone being watched and Hammerhead MIA, maybe Frederick Foswell trades his Patch identity for the position of the new Big Man...

I've also got some guesses as to who the Hobgoblin could be, early as it may be:
- Donald Menken. We thought he could've been Green Goblin, so he might be a Hobgoblin suspect too.
- Chameleon. Heck, we thought he was Norman Osborn on season two and if Harry hadn't realized Chameleon's apology mistake, we wouldn't have even thought he was an imposter.
- Norman Osborn. What better way to have the time to improve his own equipment and costume when everyone thinks you're dead, even your own wife and son?
- Harry Osborn. Hey, he was the Hobgoblin in "Ultimate Spider-Man", so why not here too? And it'd be a great way to have him avenge his thought-dead dad by attacking his own best friend, even if he doesn't know it...yet.
- Ned Lee. He's working on stories of Spider-Man and the Green Goblin for the Bugle. I also buy he's the original Hobgoblin in the comics a lot more than I do that Roderick Kingsley was the real Hobby all along. Speaking of which...
- Roderick Kingsley. The obvious man behind the mask, but given how manipulative he turned out to be and just how long it took us to find out who the original Hobgoblin really was, it may not be so easy for us to think Roderick would don the Goblin mask in season three.
- Emily Osborn. Where DOES she disappear to, anyway? And besides, it'd give her something to do on the show besides silently cut her dinner with a kitchen knife.

For season three, I'm betting we see Venom back, more of Mary Jane, Man-Wolf, the debut of Hydro-Man, and maybe even the origin of Jackal. But these are merely guesses.

Now, I don't want my comments on season two to sound too mean or even make you think I didn't like season two at all. Far from it. I love this show. I just got disappointed with it, is all. Besides, you've got to take the bad comments with the good. If everyone told you how brilliant it was all the time, then you wouldn't learn about what people didn't like about it, or how to improve on your faults and become a better writer out of it from what you've learned. Season two was nowhere near as bad as seasons two, four or five of Fox Kids' "Spider-Man" series, but it wasn't as good as season one of "Spectacular". Regardless of my rants and criticism, I honestly hope you and the rest of the writers and directors return for a season three. "The Spectacular Spider-Man" is my favorite animated series ever, Spider-Man or otherwise. It simply cannot end at season two, but it also can't continue without the current cast and crew. You're what makes this show so great, and you all do brilliant work. I genuinely hope this show gets its planned 65-episode run...and much more.

Thank you so very much for your time, sir. I'm honored to chat with another fellow Spider-Man fan such as you.

**END OF SEASON TWO SPOILERS**

**END OF SPOILERS**

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!

Spidey didn't remove Ock's chip, he removed Ock's power-pack. Ock DOES have total mental control of his tentacles thanks to the chip imbedded in his spine. But something still needs to power the tentacles, and that's the power pack.

And Norman didn't BREAK Harry's ankle, he twisted it. Not that I'm defending the act, just trying to be specific, since this casual misconception seems to have become common currency.

Response recorded on May 12, 2009

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Patrick writes...

Hey...
first off spectacular spiderman is AMAZING!!
but on to the point i was curious if u were going to go ahead with a season 3 of the show...
the finale of season 2 had left room for desire...
just curious...
and i was as well as curious how i would read your answer...
so if it couldn't be too much of a hasle could you please e-mail me your answer...
my e-mail is:
kurosaki223@gmail.com

feel free to e-mail me...
it is your choice

Greg responds...

I don't e-mail responses directly, because (a) it would defeat the purpose of this forum and (b) if I did it for you, I'd have to do it for everyone and (c) I don't want everyone to have my e-mail address.

And, AGAIN, I'd love to do a Season Three. We are awaiting word as to whether or not we're getting a pick-up.

Response recorded on May 12, 2009

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Arthur Jr. writes...

To follow up on my Cletus Kasady and Morris Bench question, I was wondering if you plan to include Carnage and Hydro-Man in the third series if you're still in charge? Seeing as Venom's symbiote is still in the sewers, I even assumed that you might plan for Eddie to be incarcerated at Ravencroft and the symbiote spawning an offspring resulting in the creation of Carnage (though I heard Carnage wasn't allowed to kill anyone in the 90's series).

In a follow-up to Man-Wolf in the same question, I was wondering if you would plan for Frank Welker (who did Bronx in "Gargoyles") to voice Man-Wolf if you decide to include John Jameson's Man-Wolf form. I suggested an idea for Frank Welker in the role since Dee Bradley Baker is already providing Lizard's vocal effects.

Greg responds...

Repeating myself, I don't know why I'd recast the role, when I have a perfectly great voice actor already in the part, i.e. Daran Norris. (You didn't "follow up" your Man-Wolf question, you just restated it.)

Otherwise, repeating myself some more, I have ZERO intention of spoiling Season Three plotlines at this stage.

Response recorded on May 12, 2009

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Tyler writes...

Hi Mr. Weisman,

My question is: in season 1 of Spectacular Spider-Man, during the Electro and The Lizard episodes, what was the reasoning behind Peter's ring tone being "Little Bunny Fu Fu"? (at least thats what it sounded like to me). It was funny, I was just curious why it was chosen. Thank you for your time.

P.S. Thank you for doing Spectacular Spider-Man. I love twists on the show, it keeps new fans guessing and comic book fans on their toes. This is truly one of the best adaptations I've seen yet. This is what Spider-Man should be. Also, love Gargoyles, fantastic show, hope it comes back in the near future. Thanks again.

Greg responds...

It's "Itsy Bitsy Spider".

Response recorded on May 11, 2009

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Marn Hierogryph writes...

Why couldn't Spider-Man be more like W.I.T.C.H. and less like Gargoyles. The villains were all under developed and the girls were all shallow.

There's background characters than there's main character's who are underused. For example, did we really need Mysterio, Kraven, Colonel Jupiter, and Molten Man? We already had plenty of villains who still needed developing, so adding new ones only made things feel more crowded. Those episodes could have been better used to help the Tombstone gangwar stuff, or the Goblin stuff (even though technically MM was part of the Goblin arc)

Why not just focus on one villain for a certain amount of episodes. Tell a complete story. Finish that villain off and then move to the next one? Why does it have to be "villain of the week?"

I would say having the established characters develop would make it fresh (For example, rather than just have him just pop up for a fight all the time, let Electro be cured, or regain his sanity/goodness and become a hero, or show him confiding in Eddie/Conners about his actions and show conflict) if you just add new characters to keep things fresh, then it's just delaying the inevitable. Plus I'm reminded of that Poochie episode of the Simpson.

The thing with that is we're not getting to read these books, just look at the covers over and over again while they tease us with the content inside them. Sure, the show is giving us new characters, but if all that entails is "Villain shows up, tries to take over the word, fails, tries again next week" then I'd rather stick with a smaller cast who's motives and characterization moves beyond that and have their stories become more complex and intuitive.

I suppose that's the base problem with franchises, introducing things just for the sake of the people who liked it in other mediums, as opposed to what's actually beneficial to the show itself and what would make for ideal storytelling.

I found them both kind of shoehorned in and took away focus from the real villain the arc was about. Instead of Jupiter and Molten Man, we could get more focus on Venom and Goblin, who are severely lacking in terms of characterization and development in the show so far.

For what it's worth, I won't be watching the third season (if there is one) since it's clear now this show isn't what I was hoping for.

Greg responds...

Were there any ACTUAL questions in there, or is this just a single tirade, with some of it phrased as questions?

Look, obviously, I'm sorry the series isn't working for you. But I don't regret any of our choices. Doing ALL our (for example) Electro stories in a row and then writing that character off forever, hardly seems like a sensible solution. That would proclude him interacting with and/or changing because of other characters. Most of the series I do, including Spidey, Gargoyles and W.I.T.C.H., are written as tapestries. You can follow individual threads, or you can step back and take in the whole picture with it's (admittedly) cast of thousands. Over time, all characters will get more development. I'd preach patience, but you're clearly out of it with us, and I guess I have to respect that.

Response recorded on May 11, 2009

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Joseph writes...

Hello Greg,
Thank you for the rollercoaster ride that was the second season of the Spectacular Spider-Man. I've got a few things I have to ask you (SPOILERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!):

1. In "Final Curtain", Norman Osborn thanks a man called Gargan on the phone. Throughout the show, Norman Osborn has a bald heavy along with Donald Menken. Is he Gargan?
2. Speaking of Donald Menken, is he an actual comics character?
3. Have we ever actually seen the real Mysterio at all this season?
4. Were Vulture and Silver Sable arrested along with the others in "Gangland"?
5. Where did Calypso, Hammerhead and Blackie Gaxton go to after they ran away at the end of their respective episodes?
6. Did Doctor Octopus go back into Ravencroft at the end of "Gangland"?
7. Who will take control of OsCorp considering what happened at the end of "Final Curtain"?
8. In "Blueprints", how was Mysterio able to get people to bow before him?
9. With Mark (now Molten Man) in prison, what's going to happen with MJ's love life?
10. How was the gene clenser actually able to affect Venom?
11. And in a future season, will Black Cat's story continue?

Thanks for continuing one of the best superhero shows ever in such a strong way, and hopefully it'll continue once again!

Joseph, a happy fan.

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!

1. No.

2. Yes.

3. Yes.

4. No.

5. No comment.

6. Yes.

7. No comment.

8. They weren't bowing. They were collapsing to their knees thanks to a colorless, odorless gas that weakened them.

9. No comment.

10. It wasn't.

11. Duh.

Response recorded on May 11, 2009

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SERIOUSLY...

It's the return of the giant invisible flying monkey brain. Damn thing won't leave me alone. Where's Mongo Mingi Mungu when you really need him?


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Matthew writes...

Hey, Mr. Weisman, I have a question.

I know you served as the director for W.I.T.C.H's second and final season. Many people attribute the fact that W.I.T.C.H never really caught on as well as it could have to it's first season, which deviated heavily from the spirit of the source material. As I've heard you made it a big goal to do better with that in the second season, I'd like to ask: if you had been working on W.I.T.C.H from the start (the first season), what would you have done differently? How would the whole Meridian/Phobos/Elyon storyline have gone under your direction?

Thanks.

Greg responds...

I served as Supervisory Producer for the second season of W.I.T.C.H. I was not the director.

Your question is impossible to answer. There are too many "IF"s in that hypothetical. If I had been in charge. If Disney had told me it was a comedy show for the Disney Channel set in a high school with a little magic thrown in and then halfway through production changed their collective mind to make it a fantasy action show with a little comedy for Jetix instead (which is what happened to the Season One producers). Etc.

Response recorded on May 08, 2009

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C-Note writes...

Hi Greg,
I know you are probably used to hearing it, but I am a big fan of both Gargoyles and The Spectacular Spider-Man. My questions mostly concern Spectacular Spider-Man.
1. How do the overseas ratings effect our chances for a third Spider-Man season?
2. What is the earliest we could possibly know if Spider-Man is picked up again?
3. If picked up, how long would it take to produce a new season?
4. How has the show being transferred to a Disney channel helped or hindered the possibilities of a third season?
5. Will Disney now be handling the DVD releases of Spider-Man?
My last question I ask because I am hoping they will be as I think (or hope) that they would use that as a sort of free advertising for the Gargoyles DVDs (If you like this, buy this other series by creator Greg Weisman, etc.) and possibly give us the season 2 part 2 we have all been waiting for. Anyways, thanks for your time and just know that I, as a dedicated Spider-Man fan who was highly wary of any new incarnation of the character, love what you have been doing on that series so far. Thanks again.

Greg responds...

1. Well, if ratings are high all over the world and those stations want more episodes than perhaps it would encourage Sony International to put more money into the series, so that if for WHATEVER reason, other Sony divisions are less interested, it might help compensate. But we're still waiting for Disney to give us a domestic pick-up sometime after the second season starts airing in June.

2. June at the earliest.

3. About ten months, give or take.

4. Well, we lack continuity, and Disney wants us to prove ourselves all over again, I suppose.

5. No. That's always been Sony Home Entertainment.

Response recorded on May 08, 2009

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Clark Cradic writes...

Is Una's horn real or just a part of her armor?

Greg responds...

Real.

Response recorded on May 08, 2009

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THE BIG CHEESE writes...

Hey Greg, um i was wondering is it possible that in the secend season, when spiderman forces the gene clenser down venom's throat did the symbiot servive? I saw the symbiot escape into the sewers. Is it possible that the symbiot will break Brock out of Ravencroft and while doing so, the symbiot reproduces and will bond with Cletus Kasady?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

1. You saw him survive, and you're asking me if he survived?

2. No comment.

(And once again, I reiterate, I'm not going to be giving any specific spoilers away for Season Three, because (a) we don't have a pick-up yet and (2) once we do, I do NOT want to give away my plans!)

Response recorded on May 08, 2009

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Greg Bishansky writes...

"We all wear masks, Spider-Man. But which one is real? The one that hides your face, or the one that is your face?"
- The Green Goblin

"Final Curtain"

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

*** SERIOUSLY, MAJOR SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

*** I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE IF YOU KEEP READING ***

I am not sure how to summarize this episode. It was great. Every question was answered. Everything about the Green Goblin and the Osborns. We know it all.

And I figured the mystery out when "The Uncertainty Principle" was over. I was never convinced it was Harry Osborn. I figured the Norman at OsCorp was the Chameleon committing some industrial espionage. I figured Norman knew his cover was blown and faked the limp and set up Harry. I thought that for over a year.

And yet, this episode kept me guessing. I began to believe I might be wrong. And I am ashamed to admit, I didn't pick up on Chameleon/Norman's apology. But, when I did begin to pick up on Chameleon was when, as Norman, he seemed flustered and confused about what was going on. As Spidey himself said, it's not the voice, it's the words.

But, this was perfect. The Green Goblin... Norman Osborn has always, always been my favorite villain in the "Spider-Man" mythos. My favorite villain in the Marvel Universe. I had waited years and years for that perfect adaptation of him outside the comics.

I didn't like the Norman Osborn in the 90s series, because he was a wimp and a victim of the Kingpin. Osborn should never be a victim. It also created the notion that the Goblin and Osborn were separate personalities, and they even had conversations with each other.

The movie did better, and I enjoyed it. Willem Dafoe was God in that movie. But, as cool as the mirror scene was, I didn't care for the split personality angle either. Also, I didn't like the idea that he as a decent man before his accident.

But, "Spectacular Spider-Man"... this is the Norman Osborn I always wanted. This is the Green Goblin I always wanted. A ruthless, evil, psychotic, Machiavellian, genius. There is no one he wouldn't use. No one he wouldn't stab in the back. And you never knew what he was going to do next.

Greg Weisman and his team brought us the perfect animated sociopath. A man who is truly detestable. A man who'd throw his own son to the wolves. No... not a man. A monster. A goblin.

Of course, I have to tip my hat to Alan Rachins and Steve Blum for bringing him to life. Both of these fine actors gave me chills, and both of them stole the show. I was beyond skeptical when I heard that Norman and the Goblin would have separate voice actors, but at the time I was unaware his identity would be a mystery, but these two won me over big time.

"I protected Harry. If I'd been sent to prison, who'd have made a man out of him?" -- If this line doesn't make you want to punch the man in the face, then you're just not human.

Anyway, the episode ends with Norman Osborn dead to the world, but is in hiding in the Cayman Islands as "Mr. Roman." ... his hair dyed blonde and with a mustache now. He looks the spitting image of "Gargoyles" villain, John Castaway. Actually, Castaway was the new name and identity of Jon Canmore... and he grew a mustache like that. I wonder if this is a nod. Considering Greg, probably.

Speaking of "Gargoyles" nods. The Connors board Flight 1057 to Florida. 1057 is the year Macbeth's alliance with Demona and his reign as King of Scotland ended. Norman boards Flight 994, the year Goliath's clan was massacred.

Peter breaks up with Liz to be with Gwen. Liz puts on a strong front to save her image, but she was heartbroken. A shame, she was a good girlfriend. Peter was a crappy boyfriend.

Gwen on the other hand, as much as she wants to be with Peter, well, Harry shows his devious side and guilts her into staying with him.

Harry, aside the aforementioned devious side has no idea who his father is. No, the little Spawn of Satan (hee hee, literally) thinks daddy was a victim of the Globulin Green as well. Oh, how little he knows.

The action in this episode topped every other action sequence in the series. Vic Cook did terrific job on this one. Everyone involved did great.

And the dialogue was terrific. Not just the lines themselves, but the delivery. Menken's "I have no response to that" floored me. I also loved Goblin's "Menken? Seriously?!" and Spidey's appalled outrage when he learned that Norman had framed his own son.

I do have a few questions though. Was Norman publicly outed as the Green Goblin? Obviously Harry, Peter, Chameleon and, from the sound of things, Gwen know the truth. Does Emily Osborn know? Does the world at large know? Or was that kept underwraps and Norman is just taking advantage of the world thinking he's dead to plan his next move?

I also have to compliment Greg and his team for taking a mystery everyone knew, the identity of the Green Goblin and not only making a mystery out of it, but keeping it going for the span of two seasons. The 90s soon didn't attempt it, well, for half an episode they did, but not seriously. The movies told you he was Norman Osborn from the get go. It's a staple of the "Spider-Man" mythos. And yes, while I wasn't fooled, many, many others were. And I have to compliment that and I have to tip my hat to just how well constructed this mystery really was.

But, all the other clues aside, the big tip off for me personally that it was Norman and not Harry was this. Norman was born and raised in Connecticut. Harry was born and raised in New York City. In "Catalysts," the Goblin tells his Gob Squad that he'll be back "in a New York minute." No actual born and bred New Yorker ever used the phrase "New York minute."

Really, in a way, the more I think about it, the more I believe that Norman Osborn was the lead antagonist of the series from pretty much the get go. We just didn't get 100% confirmation on that until the end. Yeah, Tombstone was the face of the crime element, and it was his plan originally to create supervillains in the first place, but Norman Osborn was the one who seemed to profit off of it. Not to mention that, aside from the Venom arcs, Norman had a hand, either large or subtle, in just about every single arc. Let's see...

Lizard Arc: Norman steals Toomes invention, which was majot pipe laying for what came later. Also, indirectly created his first supervillain when Toomes sought revenge.

Rise of the Supervillains: Norman Osborn becomes involved with the organized crime element, creates two supervillains (three if you count tipping off Big Man to Tri Corp's shipment of the Shocker suit). Gets a taste of the underworld, and, obviously likes it.

Green Goblin arc: This is pretty self explanatory. Like the good corporate shark that he is, he attempts a hostile take over of the Big Man's empire. He, unintentionally creates Dr. Octopus... the webslinger's other big nemesis. And, Norman pretty much ruins his son for the rest of his life here.

Venom arc: Norman was M.I.A.

Master Planner: Not as heavily involved, but he gets his own guy, Miles Warren into ESU. He becomes Peter's mentor, which is a big deal (and frankly, I wish we saw more of), and pipe is laid for later.

Venom Arc II: M.I.A. again, although I do wonder if he suspects Peter is Spider-Man.

Gang War: Norman Osborn set this thing off with his fake auction, raising the tensions, and then when the pot was going from a simmer to a boil, he manipulated Hammerhead into betraying Tombstone. Crippled the Big Man. And Silvermane and Ock are now back in custody. He finally absorbed the underworld into his own personal empire.

Green Goblin Returns: I think this is self explanatory, and I don't need to summarize his actions and their consequences here.

But that all leads into belief that I always had. Norman Osborn is the anti-Peter Parker. And that is especially true in this series. The two biggest threats to the Big Man were men in masks. Spider-Man and the Green Goblin, and both for totally different reasons.

When Peter and Norman put on their masks, they can cut loose. Truly cut loose. Peter is more confident when he's Spidey, and gets to escape the insecurities and personal problems of Peter Parker by becoming someone else. Where as, Norman Osborn, when he puts on his mask, gets to be himself. The Goblin is his face, Norman Osborn is the mask.

It's more than the both of them being trickster figures. It boils down to the psychosis of both of them. Masks are a big part of their lives. Norman collects them for a reason, because his entire public persona is a mask. I doubt even his wife and son know who he really is.

Peter would love to give up being Spider-Man. He's thought about it more than once, especially when he had the gene cleanser. Norman would never give up being the Goblin. He'd rather give up being Norman, and in a way that showed considering he didn't look too broken up about fleeing the country under an alias. He even flirted with the flight attendant.

Greg Weisman has always said that the secret to creating a great villain is to make them a dark mirror to the soul of your hero. The Goblin personifies that quite well. From all that I mentioned above, to little things like Norman being upperclass and Peter being lower class.

Brilliant.

All the gushing aside, I write this review with a heavy heart. As of now, there is still no pick-up for a third season, and it just can't end like this. I want more. This show is too good to end now.

But, if this is the end, I want to give kudos to everyone involved. Vic Cook for being an outstanding director. Jennifer Coyle... probably my favorite director of the bunch, her episodes always had outstanding little touches.

Josh Keaton for bringing Peter Parker and Spider-Man to life. Vanessa Marshall for bringing Mary Jane to life, a character who sadly had too little to do, but I hope we see more. Lacey Chabert for helping make Gwen Stacy a character who matters for more than just her infamous death in the comics. Ben Diskin for making me like Venom. Alan Rachins for his devious Norman Osborn. Steve Blum for his deliciously evil Green Goblin. Kevin Michael Richardson for picking up where Keith David left off and making Tombstone a force to be reckoned with. Peter McNicol for his calculating and cruel Dr. Octopus.

But, most of all, my friends the supervising producer and story editor, Greg Weisman; and post production assistant, Jennifer L. Anderson. I loved coming down to the studio while you in were production. I loved giving you instant feedback. Knowing you both has made the experience that has been this show that much richer. I love you both.

I still hold out hope for a third season. Shows this good just can't die like that.

*** I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE IF YOU KEEP READING ***

*** SERIOUSLY, MAJOR SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

*** END MAJOR SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Greg responds...

High praise. Thanks.

Response recorded on May 07, 2009

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Martin writes...

Got a few more questions. Any news on the ratings, Greg? also, do you thing the Disney XD schedule is good? I mean repeating the same episodes for weeks? And, do you think a possible season 3 should have more new villains than returning?

Greg responds...

Guys, BEFORE you post questions, how about looking at the queue to see whether or not someone has posted the exact same question... like three questions in a row, okay? As a favor to me, please?

As far as I can tell, Disney XD is introducing one Season One episode a week (after introducing three in the first week). Then they rerun the newly introduced episode alongside any already introduced throughout the week that follows. This gives them a cumed rating score for each episode. You make it sound like they're taking one episode and only one episode and repeating it for weeks. That's just not the case.

As always, if we get a third season, there will be a mix of new and returning villains.

Response recorded on May 07, 2009

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Jay writes...

I would like to ask one simple question. Are the ratings for Spectacular Spiderman doing "Spectacular" enough to have season 3 renewed or at least have hope for it?
Thanks for your time.

Greg responds...

Once again... we have to see what the ratings are for the Second Season before we find out about a possible third.

Response recorded on May 07, 2009

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Bubba writes...

As a hardcore spiderman fan I would like to ask a couple of questions about the show. 1. Do you feel confident that there will be many more seasons to come for "The Spectacular Spiderman" because I think many people believe this to be one of the, if not, greatest adaption of a superhero show? If so, when will you think season 3 will be announced?
2. When is the season 1 boxset of season 1 being released and the price? Also does dvds sale come into play when the programs think about renewing the series for more seasons?

Greg responds...

1. I really am too superstitious to predict. I don't know when (or if) an announcement will come, but I'm pretty sure it won't come until AFTER the second season starts airing on Disney XD in the United States.

2. Sometime this summer. And probably.

Response recorded on May 07, 2009

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Greg Bishansky writes...

My mistress with a monster is in love.
Near to her close and consecrated bower,
While she was in her dull and sleeping hour,
A crew of patches, rude mechanicals,
That work for bread upon Athenian stalls,
Were met together to rehearse a play,
Intended for great Theseus' nuptial day.
The shallowest thickskin of that barren sort,
Who Pyramus presented in their sport,
Forsook his scene and entered in a brake.
When I did him at this advantage take,
An ass's nole I fixèd on his head.
Anon his Thisby must be answerèd,
And forth my mimic comes. When they him spy,
As wild geese that the creeping fowler eye,
Or russet-pated choughs, many in sort,
Rising and cawing at the gun's report,
Sever themselves and madly sweep the sky;
So at his sight away his fellows fly,
And at our stamp here o'er and o'er one falls;
He murder cries and help from Athens calls.
Their sense thus weak, lost with their fears thus strong,
Made senseless things begin to do them wrong,
For briers and thorns at their apparel snatch:
Some, sleeves -- some, hats; from yielders all things catch.
I led them on in this distracted fear
And left sweet Pyramus translated there,
When in that moment (so it came to pass)
Titania waked, and straightway loved an ass.

"Opening Night"

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Okay, two of my great loves have been combined. Spider-Man and William Shakespeare. And, our first episode personally scripted by Greg Weisman since "Intervention" back in the first season. You know it's a Weisman episode because of all the Shakespeare dialogue. You also know it's a Weisman script because of the cast of thousands. ;)

Okay, a new wing has been built at Ryker's Island called the Vault. Considering all the supervillains running around, it would make sense to finally give them their own wing. Not to mention Norman Osborn gets to make a profit off of it. He cranks 'em out and he locks 'em up. The perfect racket.

So, Norman somehow contacts Spider-Man and wants him to break out of the Vault to test security. And then is conveniently called away by Donald Menken... curious.

Meanwhile, at Midtown High, the production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is about to start, and Peter hasn't shown up to watch Liz. More than that, Harry Osborn, who was cast as Puck is missing also. Curious...

So, Norman Osborn and Harry Osborn are both no where to be seen, and the Green Goblin shows up to destroy Spider-Man. And, with an OsCorp Osberry, he manages to take control of security and free all the criminals and supervillains locked up. Bad news, Spidey, very bad news.

While this is happening, Black Cat breaks in to bust out her father, Walter Hardy aka the Cat Burglar. And, as we find out, the murderer of Uncle Ben...

Okay, I may as well discuss this since I know this is going to probably provide a lot of controversy, but, this is very well done. It achieved what "Spider-Man 3" tried to do, and failed miserably at. Either way, Peter still didn't stop him, he looked the other way, and his Uncle Ben paid with his life. This isn't like the movie where the Burglar was not the real killer and the Sandman was. If they had made that Burglar Flint Marko from the get go, I doubt that would have been as controversial.

Sam Raimi, if you're reading, take notes. Watch this show. This is how you do Spidey.

Okay, back to the episode. Among the prisoners are Montana, Ox, Fancy Dan, Rhino, Molten Man, a Mysterio robot, and Silvermane takes charge. Turns out Quentin Beck is still free after all... which was a big surprise.

Speaking of Mysterio, his Homunculi have really grown on me. They amuse me. I particularly enjoyed Jameson shouting out "I love these guys! They should have their own show!" Hmmm... winged creatures having their own show. I believe Weisman would call this an exercise in self indulgence. ;)

By the way, I enjoyed seeing Montana use a lasso. Yeah, it's dated, I don't want to see him use one again. But as a brief nod to the source material, it was fun.

And only Rhino could call Ox "pip squeak."

Did the Goblin ever bother to deactivate Mark's "curse?"

Well, Walter Hardy turns out to be a semi-decent man, as he wants to pay for his crime, stops the criminals from escaping, and remains behind as a prisoner. Black Cat is not happy about this. Period. Sorry, Cat/Spidey 'shippers. I think the ship has sailed for that now.

Although, on that note, it shouldn't be too hard for Felicia to figure out Spidey's identity now, considering how personally he took Ben Parker's murder. Assuming it even registered for her.

This episode was just beautiful. The action. The drama. The Shakespeare? Oh god, the Shakespeare. We need more of it in animation. You can never have too much Shakespeare.

My favorite moment is hard to pick, but... I loved the Green Goblin reciting Puck's monologue. Hey, the Green Goblin is a trickster, and Puck is the original. Gotta love it. That was a geekgasm.

"Up and down, up and down,
I will lead them up and down:
I am fear'd in field and town:
Goblin, lead them up and down."

Speaking of Puck, Hobie Brown finally speaks. About damn time, too. I loved his Puck costume and Glory's Cobweb costume.

Flash is still not a very good actor. Not a knock at Joshua LeBar, he is fantastic. I really think Flash has grown more this year than anyone else in the cast. Kudos for that.

So, the Goblin loses his temper and attempts to kill Spidey, but is driven off my both him and the Black Cat. Somehow, I don't see Cat doing him any more favors.

I guess we'll see soon if the Goblin messed up by revealing his return too soon. Yes, he nearly nailed Spidey, but he obviously went into that confrontation half-cocked. But, I am sure that next episode the gloves will be off. No matter who is under the mask, his (or her, it could be Emily) last name is Osborn. Spidey knows about that connection and will have to be eliminated.

One more episode to go. Spider-Man versus Green Goblin. I both eagerly anticipate it, and at the same time, I dread it. The show still hasn't been picked up for season three, and I don't want "Final Curtain" to be, well, the final curtain.

So, where was Harry? Who is the Green Goblin? What will happen to Peter and Gwen? If this is indeed the final curtain, then I am sure it will be a very memorable one.

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Greg responds...

Actually, Jonah's line wasn't a Gargoyles reference. I really would like to do an "HOMUNCULI" spin-off series. Three little robot monsters on the loose in the world. I think it would be great fun.

(You heard it here first.)

Response recorded on May 07, 2009

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anonymous writes...

**spoilers for season two for "The Spectacular Spider-Man"**

Hello.

Loved what you've done with Sandman on this show's first two seasons. I hope you have more plans for him if there's a season three.

As for Sandman's old partner Rhino, will we see another solo Rhino story on your show someday? We saw one for Sandman in season two, so why not one for Rhino too?

Finally, do you think Robert Englund could come back as the voice of Vulture next season if you decide to use him? Englund has done an excellent job on this show.

**end of season two spoilers**

Greg responds...

1. We'll just have to see.

2. I see no reason why Robert wouldn't come back. Do you know something I don't?

Response recorded on May 06, 2009

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kyle Tonarella writes...

Hey Greg I have a question conserning black cat on spectacular spider-man. At the end of the episode Opening Night which was a awsome episode written by you Greg. Anyway at the end black cat said that she'll never forgive Spider-man for letting her father stay in prison is there any chance in a possible season 3 we'll see diffrent dynamic next time spidey and black cat face each other ?

Greg responds...

SPIDEY SPOILERS!!!!!

That's where we left off. That's where we'll pick up again -- if we pick up again.

Response recorded on May 06, 2009

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Jason R. Carter writes...

OK, some SS-M questions:

1. Exactly, what *does* Rand see in Sally, anyway? Multitudes of fans are dying to know.

2. You said in an interview (can't remember quite where I read it) that it was Sean Galloway's design for JJJ that cinched the deal for him. What was it about that particular design that convinced you?

Greg responds...

1. Dude.

2. I wouldn't say it was his Jonah that clinched the DEAL for HIM. It was his Jonah that clinched SEAN for ME. It's hard to answer your question articulately, but basically it just felt SO Jonah, and yet contemporary. He just seemed to capture the essence of the character.

Response recorded on May 06, 2009

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Greg Bishansky writes...

Well, what can I say about this one? Heeee's baaaack... with a vengeance.

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

"Subtext"

There's a new Big Man in New York City. His name? The Green Goblin. With Tombstone now under surveillance and cut off from his empire, and Silvermane and Doc Ock in prison... all thanks to his machinations, the Green Goblin is stepping up to the plate and painting the town green.

In the comics, the Green Goblin was this character who always, in spite of his bizarre costume, would have me on edge whenever he showed up. You never knew what he was going to do next, except you know it would be evil and painful. Well, considering how this episode is I am going to be on the edge of my seat throughout the next two.

Liz's brother, Mark Allan, is in trouble. Big trouble. I've often said that one of the worst things you can be is a gambler. It's maybe only slightly better than being a drug addict. It's stupid and the consequences are dire. The only sure thing about gambling is the price is not worth the risk... and not worth the minute victory.

I gambled only once in my life, at the 2005 Gathering of the Gargoyles in Las Vegas. I spent, maybe an hour playing Black Jack, and when I was up $100, I stopped. I never went back. Yes, I won. But I felt it. I felt how easy it was to sink into it, and walked away.

Mark, well... he ended up owing money to a bookie and hood named Blackie Gaxton, who as we saw in the last episode worked for Tombstone. And now, he's working for the Green Goblin. And what does Gobby want? A guinea pig for a new supervillain. You all know where this is going...

Mark gets his powers, courtesy of Norman Osborn's new scientist, Miles Warren (whom I expected). The poor boy thinks he's done, is even given $100 and sent on his way. Well, here comes the tragedy. He can't control his new powers at all. The Green Goblin is in control of him. And now, he's become the Molten Man, and he's at the Goblin's beck and call.

The Goblin has one simple demand, kill Spider-Man. Not distract him, like Tombstone was attempting to do. Kill him. As we can see, the Goblin is looking to be a more dangerous Big Man than his predecessor. Helps when you're psychotic.

Oh, and I don't think you need to be a genius to figure the Goblin had no intention of letting Mark out of his clutches even after he killed Spider-Man.

Meanwhile, Mary Jane and Liz are concerned, and like Spidey, track Mark down. Poor Mary Jane, she got more attached to Mark than she expected. Things do not end well.

So, Molten Man is defeated, and taken away. Mary Jane and Liz have been emotionally wrecked, and the Goblin is just cackling his green head off and plotting his next move.

Peter tried to salvage his relationship with Liz, but, the writing is on the wall... there's not much there to salvage. But, watching this, I can't help but wish them luck.

Gwen Stacy has kept her new look, and damn she looks fine (but, I do miss the glasses). Harry is a lucky guy... um... too bad the writing on the wall here spells doomed as well.

Of course, I would fail at life if I didn't bother mentioning Miles Warren here. Even with my knowledge of the character in the comics, it's still shocking to see this jackal slowly getting worse and worse before our eyes. When we first met him, he seemed, well, normal. Next episode he is profiting off of Kraven, and carrying guns on school property. Then, he seized administrative control of the lab from the Connors, but he was right, security under them has been lacking. But here... supervillain in the making. This jackal is probably the most vile character in the series.

As for the story. Greg Weisman combined the characters of Mark Raxton (he was Liz's step-brother in the comics) and Bennett Brant (Betty Brant's brother) into one. Bennett was a gambler who fell into debt with Blackie Gaxton and was killed over it. In a way, I think this is more tragic and I cannot help but be reminded of the "Gargoyles" episodes, "Metamorphosis" where Elisa Maza's brother, Derek is transformed by David Xanatos into a bat-winged, feline mutate named Talon.

Two episodes left to go, and, honestly, and this is saying how well done this show is, but... I'm actually scared for the cast. It just feels like nobody is safe. usually on TV, especially in cartoons, the cast is safe. You don't have that feeling of dread because tragedies are usually not allowed to befall them. But, here? We're approaching the season finale, and that usually means a shake-up is coming, and here I think it will be a tragic one.

The Green Goblin is back... and I have no idea what he's going to do next. God help them.

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Greg responds...

Hey, if we can keep you uneasy, then I think we've succeeded.

Response recorded on May 06, 2009

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Gargoyleslady writes...

I have a question about Elisa and I did check the archives before asking. Where in Manhattan is Elisa's apartment located?

Greg responds...

We generally thought of it as being in Soho.

Response recorded on May 05, 2009

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Jesse B. writes...

Hello again, Greg!

I apologize if my last comment about Robbie, Jean, and Stan in Spectacular came off as overly critical. That was absolutely NOT my intention! "Silly" was definitely the wrong word to use in regards to the use of Jean and Stan in the series. I really am looking forward to further development with those two, and I especially love the occasional dark asides we get from Stan.

In regards to the Master Planner arc: definitely a stellar job overall, especially "Shear Strength" which instantly became my favourite episode in the series. Jen and the staff definitely get major props for putting so much intensity and passion into that episode.

There was one thing I was a little unclear on throughout the first arc of season 2:

- Was Tinkerer the one who constructed those androids that Mysterio used, or was it Beck? Or were they provided by someone else?

One other thing: I just love the way that you-know-who uses "Master Planner" as his crime lord name. I hope that continues into the future!

Greg responds...

Mostly Tinkerer.

Response recorded on May 05, 2009

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Greg Bishansky writes...

"Gangland"

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

It's Valentine's Day, and, well... to everyone like me who hates Valentine's Day, this episode is a treat.

We've got a trio of villains this time. Tombstone, Dr. Octopus and Silvermane call a summit at the opera at, what looks like, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Ock, Silvermane, and the Tombster all decked in fancy tuxedos. Silvermane nearly toasting to a Valentine's Day Massacre made me choke... awesome Al Capone reference there. This was fun to watch. Tombstone, Silvermane and the good doctor all think they're in control, but not at all realizing they're being played.

After Norman Osborn's little speech in the previous episode, Hammerhead has gotten very ambitious, and has trapped these three right where he wants them. Playing them all... but, who is actually playing who? Hammerhead is receiving notes from someone else. Now, who'd want these gangsters and supervillains to destroy each other? I have to say, I loved seeing Tombstone flustered.

Meanwhile, across town, Peter, Liz, Gwen, Harry, Mary Jane, and Mark are dating as a group over at a hotel Liz owns, so, free food... very sweet deal. But, as usual, Peter and Gwen would obviously rather be with each other, which Liz notices, as does Mark. They are joined by Flash, Sha Shan, Rand, and Sally... and hilarity ensues. Gotta love Flash demanding that Peter prevent him from saying something stupid.

I have to say, I loved Mark and MJ's statements on just what a sham Valentine's Day actually is. Sums up how I've always felt about it.

I loved the battle scenes in this episode, with an opera soundtrack in the background. Tuxedos and opera... and carnage. Classy. Very classy. Of course, Peter is forced to take off so Spidey can arrive, and, at long last, take these three down. He takes down Silvermane, then Doc Ock, and finally, the re-match we've been waiting for... Spider-Man versus Tombstone.

Throughout the battle, Tombstone calls Blackie Gaxton for help... there is interference. Octopus calls Kraven... again, interference. At this point, it's become clear, this is bigger than a stooge like Hammerhead. Another hand is at work here.

Can I say again how much I love the opera soundtrack? Opera. Gangsters. Supervillains. It's "The Godfather" in spandex.

Tombstone is taken down, and L. Thompson Lincoln is exposed as the Big Man of Crime, and hauled off in handcuffs. Of course he fires Hammerhead, and tells him to "expect his severance package soon." Nice!

While I know some people are complaining about it, what I like about this show is the shifting status quo. Tombstone doesn't remain the unknown crime lord. It avoids the problems of the 1990's Kingpin in that particular cartoon... nothing ever changed there, same old same old, and every villain worked for him. Here, on the other hand, Tombstone's situation is allowed to change. And that's one of the reasons why this show is so rich.

Of course, Tombstone makes bail. Nothing to convict him on, but that doesn't mean his life isn't about to get a whole lot more difficult...

... Especially at the end, where we learn who the true mastermind behind all this was. With Tombstone knocked out, there is a power vacuum in the criminal underworld. And, being no slouch, Tombstone figured it out. In the words of Michael Corleone, "our true enemy has yet to reveal himself," well, he finally does

"Guilty, guilty and oh so very guilty of being the new Big Man of Crime?" And with a maniacal laugh worthy of so many others, the Green Goblin ushers in his new dark reign which looks to close out this season.

This episode was just brilliant, and I think may be my favorite of the series run so far. But, we've got three more to go.

*** SPIDEY SPOILERS ***

Greg responds...

Ah, the benefits of opera...

Response recorded on May 05, 2009

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Stuart Green writes...

Hello again, Mr. Weisman. I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to ask two quick questions, if I may:

1.) There is something I've wanted to know for a long time and I kept forgetting to ask you. In the trailer for season one of "The Spectacular Spider-Man" and in the series' opening credits, Spider-Man had a blurry red-and-blue spider-sense look. On the show, though, the spider-sense look features the same wavy lines around Spidey's head like in the comic books. Why did the look of spider-sense change? Do you know?

2.) What are your feelings on the currently-retconned marriage of Spider-Man and Mary Jane? I am one of the Spidey comic fans who has quit reading the book due to "One More Day"/"Brand New Day", but how do you feel about the Spider-Marriage? Do you like it? Do you miss it?

On the subject, in case anyone is interested, I started an online petition last year to restore Spider-Man's marriage to Mary Jane back into continuity in "The Amazing Spider-Man" comic books. To read and/or sign it, go here:

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/spideyandmj/index.html

Thanks for your time, Mr. Weisman, and I hope you have a good day.

Greg responds...

1. You know, I don't have what you're describing in front of me, but I don't think we were inconsistent.

2. No comment.

Response recorded on May 04, 2009

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anonymous writes...

**spoilers**

Hi.

1 - Any Man-Wolf plans in mind for season three or another season? Think Frank Welker could do the voice for Man-Wolf?

2 - Hope to see more Doc Ock. Wish he'd interacted with Mysterio and more with Kraven in season two, but I know you can only do so much every season. Maybe next season we can see them together on-screen?

3- Now that Hobie Brown finally spoke on your show, think the voice actor for Hobie will return for more episodes next season even if he doesn't become Prowler?

4 - Hope we see more of Mysterio in season three. And the REAL Mysterio, not a robot of him. I also love his gargoyle robots. They were a hoot in "Opening Night". (My favorite gargoyle line: "Pistachio!")

**end o spoilers**

Greg responds...

1. No comment on my plans, but as much as I love Frank, I'm not sure why I'd recast the part, when Daran Norris is so great.

2. No comment.

3. Yes.

4. Those weren't gargoyles; they were homunculi.

Response recorded on May 01, 2009


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