Fantastic Four #139
(VERY FINE-)
Miracle Man Appearance
"Fantastic Four #139," released in October 1973, is part of the classic Fantastic Four series from Marvel Comics. Written by Gerry Conway with artwork by John Buscema, this issue continues to explore the team's dynamic and the multifaceted challenges they face, both as superheroes and as a family.
The issue, titled "Target: Tomorrow!", features the Fantastic Four dealing with the aftermath of Reed Richards' loss of his stretching powers, adding a layer of vulnerability and tension within the team. As they grapple with this significant change, the story introduces a new villain, the Darkoth, also known as the Death-Demon, who was once a friend of the Fantastic Four.
Darkoth's backstory is deeply intertwined with that of the Fantastic Four, particularly with Ben Grimm (The Thing). Darkoth, whose real name is Desmond Pitt, was a former Air Force colleague and friend of Ben's, but through a series of tragic manipulations, he has been transformed into a demonic creature with no memory of his past life. His mission is to destroy the Fantastic Four, under the manipulation of Doctor Doom, who is revealed to be the mastermind behind Darkoth’s creation and amnesia.
This issue delves into themes of betrayal, identity, and manipulation, as the Fantastic Four not only have to combat a powerful new enemy but also face the heartache of fighting a friend who no longer recognizes them. The emotional depth of the story is matched by John Buscema’s dynamic and expressive artwork, which captures the high action and personal drama with equal skill.
"Fantastic Four #139" is a notable entry in the series for its introduction of Darkoth and the exploration of deeper emotional narratives, showcasing the vulnerabilities and personal trials of the Fantastic Four alongside their superhero exploits. It remains a poignant example of how personal relationships and superhero action can be effectively woven together to create a compelling story.
