Some of the funniest moments in this issue don't involve dialogue at all, but sight gags like Deadpool's slowly regrowing severed hand. He easily renders all the epic, larger-than-life superhero moments Kelly throws his way, yet he also gives the book a clear sense of humor and cartoonish vibe. McGuinness really is the perfect artist for this book. This isn't the first time Kelly and McGuinness have collaborated on Deadpool, but it's easily the most visually stunning. Kelly remains the gold standard when it comes to writing Deadpool and balancing the character's hilarious personality with the tragic man underneath. The series winds up achieving a very engaging blend of humor and pathos while also setting the stage for an ongoing relationship between the two characters. For Deadpool, it's his thirst for legitimacy and respect.

For Spidey, it's his struggle to balance his duties as a CEO and philanthropist with his selfish desire to remain a costumed superhero. It also taps into deeper emotional issues. This issue doesn't simply play up the partnership for laughs (though there's plenty of humor to go around). Mind you, this issue is completely accessible and welcoming to new readers, but the continuity does enhance the story that much more. And maybe it has, but it's notable how much Kelly's script digs into the post-Secret Wars status quo for both characters, right down to referencing how Deadpool funding the Uncanny Avengers is what finally drove Spider-Man to quit. One would assume given Kelly's various commitments and McGuinness' methodical pace that this book has been in development for a long, long time. Kelly has ample experience with both characters (even having previously written them together in the hilarious Amazing Spider-Man #611), and that experience pays off nicely in this first issue. Whether you enjoy the dynamic between these two characters, Kelly's impeccable sense of humor or McGuinness' slick, bold brand of superhero storytelling, this comic is for you. So it comes as absolutely zero surprise that Spider-Man/Deadpool #1 is well worth the price of admission. Launching a new comic that teams Spider-Man and Deadpool and features the creative talents of Joe Kelly and Ed McGuinness is about as sure a thing as you can find in this industry.

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