Fantastic Four #557

Ever met the girl who, on paper, is perfect for you?  Attractive, clever, and shares your interests but still just isn't the one?

That's what this issue is about, and for me it really hits home.  I've been feeling a little lost with this arc, not enjoying it very much, but not hating it either, it's simply been another book in my stack.  With this issue I think I get it!  Millar has crafted some really nice story beats, with some fun (if a little ridiculous) robot fighting that wraps up the CAP story and a nice cliffhanger for next time.

It's in the characterizations that he hits it out of the park. With the occasional throwaway line like Johnny saying "High five for the Fantastic four" and some other clever lines that cause a chuckle or two.  To Alyssa "making her move" as it touts on the cover, there is a real sense of  reality to it, all wrapped up in tights.

The anniversary dinner that Reed cooks up comes off as genuinely sweet, as does he, not the jerk that people seem to perceive him as these days.  Even Sue's Bob Dylan CD just feels right.  It's the kind of comic I want to share with my wife, and, you know what I think I will.  Now when is my anniversary again?