I think it is interesting that in these Ditko/Lee Hulk stories we find some very similar themes as in their Spidey stories. A chance encounter between one of the heroes (Rick Jones) and a villain (Chameleon), both unaware of each other's true identity. The identity of the Leader is still a mystery, just like that of Green Goblin. And we learn that the spy in the previous issues was actually in the Leader's payroll, which illustrates the resources he has at his disposal. (I don't know whether this was planned by Steve and Stan already in #60, but it works very well either way.) I think Steve Ditko had at least a hand in plotting these yarns.

The actual plot is quite forgettable, but action flows effortlessly, and the mystery of the Leader is, well, mysterious! But how stupid are the people around Banner/Hulk?!? I mean, they are there in middle of the desert, not too many people around. And every time Hulk appears, Bruce Banner is nowhere to be seen. "Is there a connection between Bruce and the Hulk?" Gee, Betty, you think so?

Ditko and Roussos are not a good fit. People look quite wooden and stiff, and faces are often just ugly. Ditko inking himself over at the ASM looks so much better... Art is not very dynamic either, even in a scene where the Hulk smashes through a wall, for example.


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Comicsdad