The first issue of Predator vs. Spider-Man delivered a concept long imagined by fans, bringing together Marvel’s iconic web-slinger and the legendary alien hunter. Writer Benjamin Percy captured the intrigue of this crossover with a strong start, and Predator vs. Spider-Man #2 successfully maintains that energy, continuing to balance superhero action with horror elements.
As New York City suffers through an intense heat wave, the deadly Yautja known as “Skinner” continues his brutal killing spree. Peter Parker scrambles to uncover the Predator’s identity and stop the threat, but his problems don’t end there. Detective LaPearl is pursuing him for snapping photos at a crime scene, and Mary Jane Watson is stranded underground with Skinner. Meanwhile, Kraven the Hunter sets his sights on the Predator, unaware of what he’s truly up against.
Benjamin Percy skillfully balances multiple storylines, showing how each character responds to the threat posed by Skinner. Staying true to his roots, Peter Parker relies on intellect, using the public library to research the Predator’s history of violence. Kraven takes a more instinctual route, analyzing the crime scenes like a fellow hunter. Mary Jane Watson stands out by leading others to safety, proving her strength lies not in powers or enhancements, but in her determination and ability to act selflessly in the face of danger.
Credit: Marvel Comics
Predator vs. Spider-Man #2 stands out visually thanks to Marcelo Ferreira’s dynamic artwork. Ferreira captures Spider-Man’s agility with fluid motion as he swings through the city, making his web-slinging feel fast and effortless, almost like multiple Spider-Men soaring at once. His talent for facial expressions also adds depth, particularly in a scene where Peter Parker’s humorous dialogue contrasts with his clearly panicked face upon realizing Detective LaPearl is at his door. Ferreira also nails iconic moments, including a signature shouting panel from J. Jonah Jameson.
While the Spider-Man action is impressive, Ferreira truly excels in delivering the horror elements. The Predator known as Skinner lives up to his gruesome name, flaying victims and even wearing their skin to ambush others. This results in chilling visuals, such as a subway car spilling blood or a victim having their face torn off. The horror is heightened by Jay Leisten’s moody coloring, drenching scenes in shadow while making Spider-Man’s red-and-blue suit and Kraven’s golden vest stand out. Clayton Cowles’ lettering also adds to the atmosphere, with Skinner’s roar rendered as a terrifying, bone-rattling scream.
The most unsettling visuals come when Mary Jane discovers Skinner’s hideout, a chilling and graphic scene that ranks among the most terrifying in a Spider-Man comic. This grotesque lair highlights the deadly threat Skinner poses not just to Spider-Man and Mary Jane but to all of New York, raising the story’s stakes and immersing readers in the danger these characters face.
The one weak link in Predator vs. Spider-Man #2 is Detective LaPearl, whose subplot feels underdeveloped and tonally disconnected from the rest of the story. Her relentless pursuit of Peter Parker for snapping crime scene photos adds little tension and feels more like a distraction than a meaningful threat. Worse, her character comes off as a generic, overzealous cop, reminiscent of the clichéd police roles in Predator 2, more bluster than substance. In a comic filled with compelling characters and escalating danger, LaPearl’s presence feels like a leftover plot thread rather than a vital piece of the story.
Credit: Marvel Comics
Predator vs. Spider-Man #2 delivers a relentless blend of tension, terror, and heroism, elevating both its superhero roots and horror influences. Percy skillfully juggles multiple character arcs while maintaining tight narrative momentum, and Ferreria’s art swings seamlessly from high-flying action to blood-chilling dread. With powerful visuals, sharp dialogue, and a final page that leaves the story teetering on the edge of chaos, this issue cements the series as a thrilling collision of genres, and the next chapter can’t come soon enough.
‘Predator vs. Spider-Man’ #2 Review: The Hunt Gets Darker
Predator vs. Spider-Man #2 delivers a relentless blend of tension, terror, and heroism, elevating both its superhero roots and horror influences. Percy skillfully juggles multiple character arcs while maintaining tight narrative momentum, and Ferreria’s art swings seamlessly from high-flying action to blood-chilling dread. With powerful visuals, sharp dialogue, and a final page that leaves the story teetering on the edge of chaos, this issue cements the series as a thrilling collision of genres, and the next chapter can’t come soon enough.
