That's not hyperbole, either, it's a stone cold fact! Of course, it comes as no surprise to this incredibly astute comic reader that Marvel would choose this unparalleled run for such an unprecedented treatment, releasing the entire 48 issue masterpiece in one massive Omnibus volume, completely digitally recolored to bring the classic newsprint run up to speed visually for modern readers. Don't take my word for it, even though you can, as my word is gold, but take a look at some selected images that I was good enough to scan for your viewing pleasure.Never before has a writer and artist been so perfectly matched with a character and his world as Walt and Thor. His stories had a layered complexity, complete with defining character moments for the entire Asgardian cast, incredibly interesting subplots going on in each issue, the best villainy comics have ever seen, and art by Walt Simonson that captured the scope of Thor's world in a way that nobody has done before or since. Sal Buscema does some nice art, as well, and had he maintained the level of his Balder mini series art, the last act of Walt's overall story would have been just as strong as the first two acts, but his art is a bit uneven at times, and lacks the power and scope that Simonson's art has. His Balder work, however, as seen below, was the best stuff of his career.
This run had it all! A great lead hero! Great villains! Great supporting cast! Great babes! Great storylines! Great art! From the epic battles with Beta Ray Bill, the forces of Malekith the Dark Elf, Surtur and his massive horde of demons, Hela, Loki, the Frost Giants, and the Midgard Serpent, Thor is packed full of explosive action and tension from cover to
cover, and he still manages to provide far more character depth than any of today's "talking heads" comics. There is so much going on within the main story, but never does it become confusing or feel like it's overstuffing the lead story with bloated details. It all fits together like a perfect puzzle, and it baffles me why Simonson's Thor wasn't forever used as the Thor blueprint like Frank Miller's Daredevil forever became the tone and style of that series and character.Simonson's Thor should be required reading for anybody who loves comics. It doesn't get any better than this, as Walt puts on a clinic for how stories and art should go together in a monthly format, with a sweeping huge scaled arc being painted on a canvas of fanboy dreams. Do yourself a favor and put out the money for the new Omnibus. Even if you have to live on peanut butter all month to afford it! I'm Dusty, and you've just had the honor of being enlightened by my wisdom. Take advantage of my generosity!
