I have often thought in the last several years that comic books are better than ever, that the industry is going through another golden age.  The first two issues of the “Stark: Disassembled” story arc could be exhibit number one in why my impression of the industry is correct.  Matt Fraction’s use of a long, involved metaphor is brilliant, and something I do not recall ever being used in a comic before.  Tony’s vegetative state psychological struggle to save himself from a technological menace mirrors his friends’ efforts to use technology to revive him.  In his dream state, Tony’s parents are helping him, while in the real world his family of friends are assisting.  That it takes all of his friends to help him in their own ways is hokey and soap opera like, but still emotionally satisfying. 

            Fraction is also helping to raise the bar in terms of characterization in comic books.  I never understood the attraction between Tony Stark and Madam Masque.  It seemed to be one of those situations in which the male hero is thinking with his private parts when confronted by a sexy villainess.  Similar relationships are represented by the Batman/Catwoman attraction and the Spider-Man/Black Cat situation.  But Fraction is rounding out the character of Madame Masque.  She is crazy and obsessive, but she shows a sharp intellect in her schemes to destroy Tony.  The reader imagines that an attraction to Masque’s brains allowed Tony to overcome what must have been the off-putting effect of her scarred face.  Madame Masque could be a great part for an actress if she is ever introduced in the Iron Man film series.  Pepper Potts is being developed believably as a loyal friend who is feeling put upon.  Going under the knife for a friend is a big sacrifice, so it will be interesting to see how Pepper’s exasperation plays out in future issues.

            Salvador Larraca’s pencils continue to impress.  I love that when Madame Masque mentions Thor, a bolt of lightning flashes across the Manhattan skyline.  I suspect that was Larraca’s contribution, but if the lightning was in the script, it’s still cool.  The faces in this book are all very expressive.  I believe Larraca is responsible for the abstract cover with the Leonardo Da Vinci inspired anatomical sketch of Tony Stark inside of Iron Man’s helmet.  Very different.  Very original.  Very cool.