Doc Savage The Man of Bronze #1: Review

Additional credits: plotted by Roy Thomas a) Part one of an adaptation of the novel “The Man of Bronze” by “Kenneth Robeson” (Lester Dent); b) first appearance of Doc Savage in a Marvel title; c) the Autogyro and Roadster aside, the story is clearly set in the 1970s with modern cars and a laser rifle in evidence; d) Doc’s skimpy mini-vest over a bare chest would seem a bit impractical, but does give him more of a superhero look; e) Monk’s hair incorrectly colored black; this would be corrected by issue 3 due to reader reaction; f) Doc Factor: the story contains the first appearances or mentions of a number of familiar elements including the 86th floor headquarters, the Go-Devil (though not called by name), the Roadster, the Autogyro, Doc’s upbringing, the Fortress of Solitude, Hidalgo, Monk and Ham’s bickering, Ham’s wardrobe and sword cane, Ham’s legal expertise, Renny’s door-breaking, Johnny’s big words (including “I’ll be superamalgamated”), Doc’s impassivity, his golden eyes, his exercise regimen, his expertise in hypnosis, his calling his aides, “brothers,” and ending with Doc’s oath to fight crime; g) issue also includes a brief text article “Meet Doc Savage and His Amazing Friends!” giving capsule profiles of the six heroes.