This issue marks the second-to-last chapter of the Amazing Spider-Man: Torn mini-series, and honestly, that fact alone makes it feel a little bittersweet. I’ve really been enjoying this series — not just because it’s a fun retro throwback with a modern twist, but because it’s taken the time to slow down and really sit with Peter Parker during his college years. In a lot of ways, Torn feels like it’s ending too fast. Just when it found its rhythm, just when it really dug into the emotional core of Peter’s life, we’re already being told the story is almost over.
And that’s a shame — because I could easily read many more stories set in this era. Peter juggling school, friendships, love, responsibility, and the weight of being Spider-Man is such fertile ground. These college years were when Peter was really living as Spider-Man — bonding with Harry, Gwen, MJ, struggling with school, money, and identity. I truly hope Marvel finds ways to return to this period again in the future.
PROS
Evangeline finally gets her moment
One of the strongest aspects of this issue is how much space it gives Evangeline. She finally steps into the spotlight in a meaningful way. She admits that she’s not a good person — but she also draws a line. She may be flawed, damaged, and morally compromised, but she does not want to see the world destroyed.
That distinction matters.
What really makes this work is Spider-Man’s response. Peter doesn’t offer easy forgiveness. He doesn’t promise redemption. Instead, he does what Spider-Man does best — he reminds her that there is always time to change, to be better, to choose differently. It’s a quiet, deeply human moment between hero and antagonist, and it feels incredibly sincere.
A very human Spider-Man conversation
The interaction between Peter and Evangeline isn’t about punches or powers — it’s about responsibility, regret, and choice. Spider-Man doesn’t pretend to have all the answers. He just listens, challenges her, and encourages her not to give in to despair. These are the kinds of moments that remind you why Peter Parker stands apart from so many other heroes.
Peter juggling everything — science, magic, school, and life
Another great element is how Peter is working on the looming world-ending threat from multiple angles. He’s not just collaborating with Evangeline — he’s also working with his German professor, which creates a weird but charming dynamic. It really emphasizes how young Peter had to mix every part of his life together to survive as Spider-Man.
School.
Science.
Danger.
Responsibility.
It all bleeds together, and you can feel how overwhelming that is.
The weight of school, work, and Jameson
This issue does a fantastic job showing just how much pressure Peter was under during his college years. Balancing classes and studying is hard enough — but add in Jameson constantly breathing down his neck for Spider-Man photos, and it becomes suffocating. You can genuinely feel the weight on Peter’s shoulders. He’s exhausted. He’s stretched thin. And yet, he keeps going.
That’s Spider-Man.
Harry Osborn vs. Norman Osborn
Harry’s storyline is one of the most emotionally charged parts of the issue. Norman’s controlling nature is on full display, and Harry finally pushes back. What’s powerful here is Harry choosing his friends as his real family — over his biological father.
Harry even shows a ruthless edge, making it clear that he could expose Norman’s dirty projects and unethical practices. Norman, in turn, makes it very clear that doing so would have severe consequences for both of them. And yet — Harry still makes the decision to shut the door on his father.
It’s a huge moment.
And we all know where that road eventually leads.
A mystical, high-stakes adventure with heart
The story itself has a strong fantasy and mystical edge, with a looming threat ready to break into our world and take over. Watching Spider-Man and his motley crew of allies try to survive — while also trying to save the world — is genuinely entertaining. The stakes feel real, but they never overshadow the emotional core of the story.
Art and script — retro heart, modern execution
The art continues to be excellent — perfect for a throwback story while still feeling dynamic and modern. It captures the era beautifully without feeling dated. The script is especially strong when it comes to personal moments. It’s human, touching, and often painful in the best way. Peter Parker feels real here — vulnerable, stressed, hopeful, and flawed.
CONS
It’s ending too soon
The biggest con is simply that this series is ending next issue. Just when it feels like it’s fully found its emotional depth, it’s already wrapping up. I genuinely wish we had more time in this era.
FINAL GRADE: A
Conclusion
Amazing Spider-Man: Torn #4 is a strong, emotional penultimate issue that highlights everything this mini-series has done well. It’s intimate, character-driven, and deeply respectful of Peter Parker’s early years. I truly hope Marvel continues to tell stories like this — stories that take newer readers back to see what shaped Spider-Man into the man and hero he became. These early years, filled with friendship, hardship, love, and responsibility, are where the heart of Spider-Man truly lives.
English (US) · 