The Most Overrated Comic Book Writer in Marvel Comics: Tom King

Tom King's Polarizing Reputation in Marvel Comics:

Tom King, a prominent figure in contemporary comic book writing, has garnered significant attention in the Marvel Comics universe. While his work has been praised for its thought-provoking narratives and explorations of mature themes, King has also faced criticism from some fans and critics alike. This article delves into the reasons why some consider Tom King to be the most overrated comic book writer in Marvel Comics.

Comparisons with Other Overrated Writers in Marvel Comics

Tom King is often compared to other overrated writers in Marvel Comics such as Al Ewing and Jonathan Hickman. However, after carefully analyzing a vast array of works from King, one can argue that his writing style and storytelling techniques contribute to a perception of overrating. For those interested in exploring these comparisons further, consider reading the following links:

Al Ewing's Marvel Comics Writing Jonathan Hickman's Marvel Comics Writing Grant Morrison vs. Jonathan Hickman Favorite Comic Book Writer of All Time

Why Tom King is Considered Overrated

The reasons behind Tom King's overrated status are multifaceted. Let's break them down and understand why readers and critics sometimes find his work to be underwhelming.

1. Disrespectful Treatment of Heroes

Deconstruction of Batman:

One of the main issues many readers have with Tom King's work is his handling of Batman. In an era where comic book writers often deconstruct heroes to examine their vulnerabilities, King's approach can come across as disrespectful and damaging. For instance, in 'Batman/Catwoman,' Batman is shown to lose a fight to Phantasm, with his reasoning being that he cannot stop thinking about Catwoman. Similarly, in 'Batman Killing Time,' Batman is portrayed as inferior and cheats to win, essentially making him a punching bag. Such depictions can be seen as overstepping boundaries, as they fail to provide any form of redemption or satisfaction for the reader.

2. Overuse of Decompressed Storytelling

9-Panel Grid and Filler Pacing:

Tom King's use of the 9-panel grid often leads to decompressed storytelling, where stories are stretched out over numerous pages, resulting in filler content. Critics argue that this style can seem pretentious and cringey, as it often prioritizes showing off the writer's style over engaging storytelling. For example, scenes of characters merely eating chips or blinking multiple times can become repetitive and tedious for readers who prefer tightly woven narratives.

3. Lackluster Stories and Dialogue

Structural and Expository Issues:

Tom King's narratives often lack a clear structure, and his dialogue can feel clunky and over-expository. Characters are frequently burdened with quirky, exposition-heavy dialogue that can derail the flow of the story. For instance, in 'Omega Men,' extensive dialogue is used to explore complex themes, but the execution can feel lacking. Constant filler scenes, such as Batman's father eating a chip, can become tedious, as they do not significantly advance the plot and detract from the overall reading experience.

Personal Attitudes and Exceptions

Despite the criticisms, it is important to note that Tom King is still a skilled writer with undeniable talents. His work on 'Vision' and 'Omega Men' is often praised. However, for these reasons, some readers find his writing to be overrated and unsatisfying. It is these subjective experiences that contribute to a broader perception of overrating within the comic book community.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while Tom King is a highly accomplished writer, hisoe with heroes like Batman and his reliance on decompressed storytelling and weak dialogue contribute to a perception of overrating. Readers and critics can form their own opinions based on personal experiences and preferences, but it is clear that Tom King's work is not for everyone.