Red Hulk #7 - Marvel Comics

RED HULK No. 7, October 2025

Disconcertingly penning a helpless Thunderbolt Ross being strapped to an experimentation table for most of this twenty-page periodical’s plot, Benjamin Percy arguably plays something of a dangerous game in hoping that the unlikely pairing of Deathlok and Machine Man will provide its audience with enough excitement to make this comic actually worth buying. And whilst the predominantly mechanical duo certainly do deliver an enjoyable mixture of banter and explosions as they’re chased by local law enforcement officers, the side-lining of this ongoing series’ titular character sadly still leaves something of a hole in the book’s storytelling.

Indeed, apart from providing artist Jethro Morales plenty of opportunities to pencil some truly disturbing physical horror – as the General’s body and brain are systematically swollen with isolated gamma pulses, the vast bulk of “Lab Rat” appears to be ‘treading water’ simply so enough time can pass for the aforementioned Luther Manning and X-51 to successfully reach Project Alpha undetected and attempt to rescue the Red Hulk. Admittedly, this publication does also contain an intriguing sub-thread in which First Sergeant Bowden discovers that Captain Simon Ryker is in direct contact with Doctor Victor Von Doom. But the supposedly loyal soldier, who just happens to have a cybernetic hand strong enough to tear open a safe room’s door, takes so little convincing to break into her superior officer’s secret room that her change in allegiance disappointingly smacks of just being an unconvincing contrivance.

Much more successful is Machine Man’s ability to out-think his pursuers, as opposed to just blasting them to pieces with all manner of automatic weapons – which is precisely what his ‘partner-in-crime’ Deathlok wants to do. The two super-powered refugees make a surprisingly good team, and the fact that it’s their sudden confrontation with a pack of killer Sharkmen deep inside a nuclear reactor’s water-filled pipeline which ends the comic as its cliff-hanger, rather than anything happening to Thunderbolt, says a lot for the odd couple’s ‘audience pull’.

Frustratingly, Morales’ layouts also don’t land as well as they could (or perhaps should). There is no doubt that the illustrator proficiently provides this book with plenty of eye-catching sketches. However, Jethro’s style does imbue the likes of Thaddeus’ mistreatment by Ryker with a perturbingly cartoony look which detrimentally impacts upon the grisliness of the sequences.

The regular cover art of "RED HULK" #7 by Geoff Shaw & Marte Gracia

Red Hulk #6 - Marvel Comics

RED HULK No. 6, September 2025

Having previously penned a five-issue piece depicting the titular character escaping a heavily-fortified prison in the mountains of Latveria, many a reader probably thought Benjamin Percy may well be in danger of re-treading old ground by sticking General Ross straight into a military-run, top secret gamma-research facility for his next storyline. Indeed, one of this comic’s opening scenes featuring the Red Hulk impotently bashing away at his cell’s impregnable walls must surely have given the odd bibliophile a disconcerting sense of déjà vu; “Rage doesn’t feel like an adequate description. Because it’s mixed up with a sense of betrayal and disgust, and even defeat.”

Happily however, whilst much of Thunderbolt’s experiences “twenty klicks from Langley” arguably do feel unnervingly familiar, the exploits of Deathlok most certainly don’t as the cyborg attempts to audaciously rescue Machine Man from the Department of Defence’s Waste Disposal centre. This somewhat brutal, quickly botched covert infiltration mission is easily the highlight of this book’s twenty-page plot, as it cleverly provides Luther Manning (as well as his computer-chipped brain) a chance to inject an already palpably tense sequence of the Demolisher desperately searching through numerous rubbish piles, with some much appreciated subtle humour.

In fact, much of this publication’s success debatably rests upon the relationship between the time-travelling assassin and Jack Kirby’s living robot X-51, rather than anything penned for Ross, with the pair’s evident growing friendship proving as enthralling as their sentiments for one another are touching. Furthermore, with an emaciated and powerless General being largely confined to sedentarily walking along the corridors of his prison with First Sergeant Tamika Bowden, the mechanical duo are this comic’s sole source of any adrenalin-fuelled action.

Possibly just as perturbed by this book’s largely uninspiring central narrative is Geoff Shaw, whose layouts featuring the alleged American “war criminal” appear a little uneventful once his Red Hulk persona has worn itself out senselessly battering unmoving bricks. Admittedly, it must be hard to repeatedly pencil the same figures striding down a featureless corridor for too long. But the dynamism seen in the artist’s drawings of Deathlok and Machine Man’s aforementioned antics probably makes those illustrating Thunderbolt’s uneventful journey down to Captain Ryker’s laboratory even more monotonous to the eye.

The regular cover art of "RED HULK" #6 by Geoff Shaw & Marte Gracia

Red Hulk #5 - Marvel Comics

RED HULK No. 5, August 2025

Undeniably hurling Thunderbolt Ross from out of the cooking pot and straight into the fire, Benjamin Percy’s penmanship for Issue Four of “Red Hulk” is arguably a tour-de-force as to how to absolutely pack a twenty-page periodical with some serious high-octane action, yet still deliver a strong storyline involving international politics, treachery, and a palpable feeling of outrage at how despicably a country can treat one of its experienced war veterans. In fact, the General’s anger towards the United States apparently ‘bending the knee’ to Doctor Victor Von Doom positively bristles off of each printed panel; “Defy any system that supports this global @#$%#& coup. We’re at war with the world.”

Furthermore, the introduction of a somewhat quietly spoken, albeit utterly belligerent Colonel, makes a great contrast to the loud, almost bombastic shouts emanating from the gamma-powered protagonist. This particular character, who is so disrespectful towards a superior officer that he doesn’t even salute Ross, is the exact opposite of everything the American author depicts Thaddeus as standing for, and resultantly imbues their momentary cordiality with a terrific amount of tension before the pair have exchanged even a score of words.

The Oregon-born writer’s handling of both Machine Man and Deathlok is also not without merit, courtesy of the badly battered pair still contributing plenty to the plot’s progress. The couple’s close shave with a lone Doombot provides a neat benchmark as to just how much more powerful Red Hulk is over them (as the human mutate rips dozens of the robots apart with his bare hands). But they also move the group's escape bid forward by establishing a communications link with the then seemingly sympathetic U.S. Air Force, and negotiating co-ordinates for a supposedly safe extraction.

Ultimately however, the real heavy-lifting of this tome is done by Geoff Shaw and colour artist Bryan Valenza. Between them the two illustrators absolutely knock the ball straight out of the park, with some marvellous, eye-catching double-splashes of Ross’ heavily-muscled alter-ego brutally bashing any android stupid enough to come within his reach. In addition though, there is a distinctly disagreeable arrogance in the bearing of the aforementioned insolent Colonel, so when the holier than thou soldier is subsequently sketched running for the hills once his ‘detainee’ picks up a nearby boulder, many a bibliophile should be smugly smirking in satisfaction at his evident fright.

The regular cover art of "RED HULK" #5 by Geoff Shaw & Marte Gracia

Red Hulk #4 - Marvel Comics

RED HULK No. 4, July 2025

It’s arguably rather rare for a writer to ensure that their readers can physically feel the unbridled anger of a comic book character. But that is precisely what Benjamin Percy somehow achieves with his narrative for Issue Four of “Red Hulk” once General Thunderbolt Ross discovers “that Doom has taken over the world”, and furiously declares the he now won’t rest until “there’s an American flag planted on Latverian soil.

Indeed, this promise to a somewhat startled Deathlok also does a great job in setting up the twenty-page periodical’s cataclysmic conclusion, as the former commanding officer of Desert Base risks all just so his emaciated physical form can finally be exposed to some more Gamma radiation and take a big step towards achieving his vow; “Direct the nearest kiloton tactical missile to these coordinates.”

Similarly as impressive is the American author's ability to repeatedly demonstrate just how military-minded the aging soldier still is by showing Ross utilising both extremely basic survival skills – in the guise of killing, eating and skinning deer so as to survive sub-zero temperatures – as well as raiding an armaments locker for much more modern-day technology, such as some Kalashnikov automatic rifles. Admittedly, the army officer does get lucky in stumbling upon a deserted dwelling on the outskirts of Doctor Doom’s nearest power plant. However, the computers and manufactured firearms provide a nice contrast to the almost caveman look Thaddeus has assumed in order to outwit the army of Doombots hunting for him and his two comrades-in-arms.

Equally as well penned though, has to be the personality of Luther Manning, which provides an otherwise rather seriously-toned publication with an occasional injection of much needed humour. The ever-complaining cyborg assassin’s internal monologue with his computer brain is particularly impressive, and should certainly cause many within this comic’s audience to have a smile across their face whenever the pair are at odds with one another as to the severity of the situation.

Lastly, Geoff Shaw’s layouts should also be given a ‘big thumbs up’ for repeatedly reminding any onlookers as to just how desperate Ross, Deathlok and Machine Man’s plight actually is. The draining, exhausted look upon Thunderbolt’s face proves especially good at showing the immense toll the trio’s physical exertions are taking. Whilst the illustrator’s ability to have the threat of discovery constantly hovering over the heroes’ heads is well maintained, courtesy of the odd panel reminding everyone that one of Victor’s deadly cloaked robots is always only a heartbeat behind them.

The regular cover art of "RED HULK" #4 by Geoff Shaw & Marte Gracia

Red Hulk #3 - Marvel Comics

RED HULK No. 3, June 2025

Considering that the basic premise behind this twenty-page periodical’s plot is simply to show Thunderbolt Ross running down a snow-covered mountain whilst being “relentlessly chased by an army of Doombots”, it is pretty incredible just how ‘unputdownable’ Benjamin Percy’s script for Issue Three of “Red Hulk” arguably is. In fact, many within this comic’s audience may well point to the American author’s enthralling insights into Thaddeus’ mental exercises during his long-term imprisonment in Latveria as this book’s biggest draw, as opposed to the decorated Air Force officer’s flight through a hostile, mountainous landscape.

Furthermore, the action sequences showing the three-star General coldly calculating how to battle his country’s numerous opponents across various inhospitable environments, whilst simultaneously keeping his somewhat emaciated physical form fit in a closely-confined dungeon cell, provides a splendid reason for the narrative to feature the crimson-coloured titular character throughout a storyline where “Rulk” himself doesn’t actually appear; “Most people have a map inside of them. That map starts with home. I’m not most people. The map inside me is bigger. Much bigger.”

Neatly complimenting so deep a dive into Ross’ militaristic mind is the main bulk of “Uncharted Territory”, which is cleverly penned to depict an unarmed Thunderbolt stoically using every scrap of information he has to hand, to stop a veritable army of Victor Von Doom’s heavily-armoured minions blasting him into oblivion. This lengthy chase scene is pulse-poundingly paced, and despite it becoming abundantly clear that the likes of Deathlok and a badly depleted Machine Man won’t escape the automatons’ sensors for long, still provides a modicum of hope that perhaps the old War Horse will pull something out of the bag at the very last minute.

Similarly as engrossing as this comic’s writing is Geoff Shaw’s highly energetic layouts, with the illustrator’s pencilling of the aforementioned Red Hulk montage providing this publication with a sense-shattering start. In addition, the artist somehow manages to maintain the illusion that the three, increasingly fatigued escapees are constantly under threat of discovery and death by their emotionless, artificially-powered pursuers, even when the mechanical monstrosities haven’t even appeared in a panel for a considerable time.

The regular cover art of "RED HULK" #3 by Geoff Shaw & Marte Gracia

Red Hulk #2 - Marvel Comics

RED HULK No. 2, May 2025

Rather cleverly steering this particular twenty-page periodical away from the cliché of simply having its titular character bash his way out of Doctor Victor Von Doom’s underground prison, Benjamin Percy’s narrative for Issue Two of “Red Hulk” should have completely held its readers’ attention when it first hit the spinner-rack in March 2025. Indeed, this comic’s main plot is truly focused upon Thunderbolt Ross utilising everything to hand so as to defeat his murderous foe - no matter how small or underpowered, rather than just depicting the former commanding officer of Desert Base boringly batter an entire legion of lethal Doombots to freedom.

Of particular note has to be the American author’s well-penned relationship between the veteran soldier and Machine Man. This partnership goes a long way to show how savvy Bruce Banner's long-term nemesis can be when needing help, and also assists in 'showboating' the abilities of the half-fried android whilst the pair face overwhelming odds, deadly gas and a seemingly unassailable dead end. In addition, the Oregon-born writer makes matters even more engrossing by subsequently introducing a rather disgruntled Deathlok into this mix, and by doing so imbues the prisoners' flight with plenty of extra entertaining dialogue and dramatic moments; “Heart’s got nothing to do with it. You computer’s right. It’s too later for her.”

Likewise, the armoured ruler of Latveria’s handling of this attempted break-out isn’t just restricted to him rather lazily sending out more and more robot guards. But actually shows how utterly merciless Doom can be when people oppose his plans for worldwide domination. The terrifying execution of a captive Cartel leader, along with the toxic poisoning of another inmate demonstrates the all-too high risks being taken by Ross and his “misfit crew” in defying the tyrant, and brings a whole new level of danger to the fast-paced storytelling once the group decide to save as many of the hostages as they can.

Ably adding even more nerve-wracking ‘zip’ to these pulse-pounding proceedings are the layouts of Geoff Shaw. The artist does a first-rate job in depicting Thunderbolt as if he truly has the weight of the world upon his shoulders, whilst his pencilling of Deathlok's mannerisms provides the human cyborg with loads of endearing personality as he battles to support his comrades-in-arms in their bid for freedom.

The regular cover art of "RED HULK" #2 by Geoff Shaw & Marte Gracia

Red Hulk #1 - Marvel Comics

RED HULK No. 1, April 2025

Announced by “Marvel Worldwide” in November 2024 as a new ongoing series which also has ties with the publisher’s 'One World Under Doom’ comic book event, Benjamin Percy’s tense, highly claustrophobic script for Issue One of “Red Hulk” arguably makes it easy to see why this twenty-five page periodical was the twenty-seventh best-selling title in February 2025. Admittedly, the actual, crimson-coloured behemoth himself doesn’t really make much of an appearance in this particular publication. But such is the American author’s mesmerising handling of an incarcerated Thaddeus E. "Thunderbolt" Ross that few bibliophiles will surely mind; “And I know its chip technology is the key to this prison. And to my power inhibitor.”

Indeed, the entire point behind “Think Tank” is to show the audience that the decorated U.S. Air Force officer can still outmanoeuvre his opponents using his coldly-calculating brain, rather than just utilising his considerable super-strength and brawn. Such a plot twist genuinely creates a thoroughly riveting read, especially once it becomes clear that the three-star general is in league with a number of other notable fellow prisoners, such as Deathlok and Machine Man.

Similarly as convincing is the premise behind Ross’ captivity, and just why a top-tier villain like Doctor Doom would be interested in holding him “in a cell deep below the ground.” Latveria’s armoured monarch has always been obsessed with undermining the world’s status quo so as to give his small country within Eastern Europe a chance of global domination, so building a prison complex which houses some of the planet’s most “brilliant military, criminal and political minds” makes perfect sense – as well as a compelling adventure once the inmates band together to outwit the Fantastic Four’s arch-nemesis.

Nicely complimenting Percy’s prodigious penmanship are Geoff Shaw’s proficient pencils, which do a very good job of showing Thunderbolt as a somewhat vulnerable, aging man, rather than an unstoppable wrecking machine. Furthermore, the illustrator somehow manages to imbue Thaddeus’ escape attempt with all the meticulous patience and timing an onlooker would expect from such a tactical genius, who knows full well that every ill-timed movement or wasted second could be the difference between life and death.

The regular cover art of "RED HULK" #1 by Geoff Shaw & Marte Gracia

The Incredible Hulk [2023] #19 - Marvel Comics [Part Two]

THE INCREDIBLE HULK No. 19, January 2025

Following on from Phillip Kennedy Johnson’s ‘main event’, Issue Nineteen of “Incredible Hulk” probably disappointed many of its customers due to "Marvel Worldwide" padding out the celebratory, super-sized special with a trio of arguably underwhelming side-shows. Sadly, none of these 'fillers' have been penned by this ongoing series’ guiding hand, and resultantly bear little relationship with the publication’s current “City Of Idols” storyline. Indeed, two of the “all-new tales” don’t even feature either the theoretical physicist or the Jade Giant at all, and instead frustratingly focus upon some minor exploits of She-Hulk and Thunderbolt Ross.

Leading the ‘charge’ is Greg Pak’s ten-page trek to some undisclosed American woodland, where Bruce Banner is suddenly attacked by a pack of peculiar-looking skeletons because “that’s what’s what these days.” Seemingly making little to no sense whatsoever, the long-haired scientist is unable to transform into his sensationally strong counter-part, and resultantly has to rely upon the ultra-convenient appearance of a laser-beam gun packing Amadeus Cho – who just happened to implausibly hear that his friend was being “hunted by ghosts and zombies…” Rather stiffly illustrated by Lan Medina, this tale is just plain odd, and rather shockingly ends with a smiling Banner mercilessly gunning down his would-be protector with Braun’s own wrist-mounted weapon.

Far more entertaining, largely on account of Torun Gronbekk’s tongue-in-cheek humour and Lynne Yoshii’s somewhat anime-like art style, is “Night Eternal”. Debatably emanating El Dorado vibes, this reasonably fast-paced little narrative hurls the reader to the mysterious frozen land of Henunder, and subsequently explores the distinctly dishonest behaviour of the late explorer Harold Dawson; “The family is convinced the items are cursed, which is why you’re tasked with figuring out what to do with them.”

Perhaps the best of the bunch though is Benjamin Percy’s “Prisons”, which within the space of just ten pages manages to quite beautifully encapsulate the cold-blooded, patriotic persona of disgraced American General Thunderbolt Ross. Admittedly, its plot is seemingly penned to be an enticing advertisement for the New York City-based publisher’s upcoming “Red Hulk” title. But alongside Geoff Shaw’s prodigious pencils, this covert penetration of a Russian penal colony makes for a truly mesmerising read.

The regular cover art of "THE INCREDIBLE HULK" #19 by Nic Klein