We know how Spider-Man got his powers in the Ultimate Universe, but what about Harry Osborn? Find out his backstory in Ultimate Spider-Man #5 by Marvel Comics!

ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN #5

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: David Messina
Colorist: Matthew Wilson
Letterers: Cory Petit and Joe Sabino
Editor: Wil Moss
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Price: $4.99
Release Date: May 29th, 2024

Previously in Ultimate Spider-Man: The Maker created an ideal Earth where he prevented anyone from becoming a superhero. However, Tony Stark discovered the truth and gave an adult, Peter Parker, a radioactive spider and a suit. The Maker perpetrated a terrible attack on NYC in Stark’s name and killed Norman Osborn and his wife, Emily.

THE BACKSTORY

Ultimate Spider-Man #5 shows Tony Stark’s terrorist attacks from Harry’s perspective, revealing how he and Gwen suddenly became the CEOs of Oscorp. Additionally, Harry received Stark Industries from the Kingpin after Tony’s fall. From there, he found the Iron Man suits and started looking for the people Tony contacted for powers, eventually developing his Goblin suit. He met Peter Parker and became his friend. Throughout the issue, Harry’s monologue reflects on his father’s death and his sudden new responsibilities.

NOT A TOUGH INTERIOR

I am a massive fan of the new Spider-Man series and like Jonathan Hickman’s creative decisions. In previous issues, Harry Osborn felt almost like a perfect figure for Peter to look up to, but in Ultimate Spider-Man #5, he is portrayed as a flawed figure ruled by grief. This nuanced portrayal was unexpected and raises questions about his motivations. In the last issue, Harry said the famous line, “With great power comes great responsibility,” but this issue suggests it might take on a new meaning.

The art in this book is solid, but since it features mostly people, there isn’t a standout image that feels dynamic. Even when the Green Goblin suit appears, it doesn’t have a substantial impact. Still, the artwork is good overall.

BOTTOM LINE: STILL THOUGHT-PROVOKING

The last few issues of this title have been good at establishing the characters, but I admit the plot hasn’t progressed much. In writing, you want to balance characterization, plot, and setting with conflict, and in this issue, that balance feels disrupted. Still, Ultimate Spider-Man #5 is a solid 4 out of 5 stars.

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