From Iron Man (Vol. 1) #128 (1979)
Tony Stark was in a rough place. His Iron Man suit was acting up thanks to a plot begun by Justin Hammer, his company was attempting to fend off a hostile takeover by S.H.I.E.L.D., and he was constantly fighting supervillains. As the weight of all these problems bore down on Tony, he retreated to his favorite escape: alcohol.
This page, with Tony drunkenly deciding to give up his civilian identity and become Iron Man full time, was plotted by David Michelinie and Bob Layton but scripted by Michelinie alone. John Romita Jr. and Bob Layton provided the art. It shows Tony at his lowest point. One of the smartest men in the Marvel Universe has become addled and not thinking through his decisions. It’s a strong character moment and one that gives Tony a piece of humanity. Even smart, accomplished people have hidden personal problems and acknowledging that fact allowed Tony Stark to become a little bit more human to the readers. It was a bold choice and one that is still influencing the character today.
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I feel drunk just reading that page! Is that normal?
The encoded visual alcholol into the black ink, so readers could identify with Tony Stark
I am being 100% serious when I say that I wish modern day Stark said the phrase “Ah, crud.” every once in a while. I don’t know why, but I would find that incredibly endearing.
this page is, unintentionally I’m sure, hilarious. From the over dramatic shot, crazy eyes drunk Tony, him talking to himself, and then that last panel where he’s “Oh shit, the window!”
Now that’s how to take a shot THE MARVEL WAY!
Yeah the guy has issues.