Spider-Man’s Relationships Are Strained In His College Years in Amazing Spider-Man: Torn #4

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The following contains spoilers for #4, on sale now from .

Something unique about Spider-Man ’94 is that J.M. DeMatteis focused so much on introducing new characters like Morlun and Kaine. This left little opportunity to explore the nostalgia fans might have for the original animated series and its existing characters.

You know, I really agree with DeMatteis on this one. His Formerly Known as the Justice League run with Giffen and Maguire was special – it really worked. But generally, I think comics are best when they move forward, telling new stories instead of constantly revisiting the past. I’m excited to see what creators come up with next, rather than just retreading old ground.

DeMatties has consistently found success with this particular story, making it perfect that his version of Kraven is significantly connected to the events of the animated series.

Issue #4 of Spider-Man ’94—written by J.M. DeMatteis, with art by Jim Towe, colors by Jim Campbell, and lettering by Joe Caramagna—continues adapting the stories of Morlun and Kaine for the animated series. This issue also reveals how Kraven’s backstory from the animated show connects to the comic, and explores how Kaine ends up becoming a clone of Peter Parker. DeMatteis also leans into some of the story’s more lighthearted moments, particularly with a focus on the concept of ‘Totems’.

How is the Clone Saga adapted into the story?

Morlun originates from an ancient society constantly attacked by creatures called “Totems.” He discovered he could gain immortality by absorbing the life force of these Totems. Over centuries, he traveled the world and, in the 1800s, took on the identity of Ezekiel Sims (a clever reference to the comic books, where Sims is an enemy of Morlun). He then established the Sims Corporation and maintained control for over a century and a half by continually replacing himself with his descendants – sons, grandsons, and so on.

Recently, Ezekiel Sims discovered he needs to consume an unusually large number of totems to survive, leading him to create clones of himself as a food source. Now, it’s revealed he’s also cloning the totems themselves. On top of that, he’s developed a new, advanced technology that could potentially benefit humanity greatly.

Morlun has a strange justification for his actions: he genuinely believes he deserves to live forever by feeding on the life force of others. He reasons that because he’s done so much good as one of the Sims, he’s entitled to sustain himself this way, viewing it as perfectly fair.

How does Kraven’s hunt tie into the story?

The previous issue suggested Kraven and Morlun were teaming up, hinting at a story similar to the famous “Kraven’s Last Hunt.” However, it turns out Kraven is actually hunting Morlun, driven by his own impending death. This storyline also connects to Kraven’s appearance in a classic animated series episode, where he first appeared with the character Calypso.

He suffered an injury, and his scientist fiancée used an experimental drug to save him, but it had a strange side effect: it fundamentally altered his mind and transformed him into the eccentric hunter known as Kraven the Hunter. Later, his fiancée was hurt and required the same drug, which similarly changed her into the unusual Calypso.

The individuals who seemed healed on the show have tragically suffered fatal side effects from the treatment. Calypso has passed away, and Kraven is nearing death. Accepting his fate, Kraven has decided to make Morlun the target of his final hunt in this world.

Knowing his time is limited, he’s determined to defeat a powerful enemy before he goes. The battle with Spider-Man against several cloned creatures is where the story really leans into its wild side. The artists, Jim Towe and Jim Campbell, cleverly bring the bizarre designs of these mutated animals to life.

However, DeMatteis also transformed Kaine into a version of Peter Parker. After a mental connection during a chase, Kaine became fixated on Peter. He even sought out Mary Jane, Peter’s partner (though their relationship is complicated – Peter initially married a clone of Mary Jane, and after she vanished, he found the real Mary Jane and intends to marry her).

Peter and Mary Jane’s deep love for each other has always been a powerful force, even inspiring others – as seen in stories like “Kraven’s Last Hunt.” This time, their love inspires Kaine to join the fight against Morlun, and in that moment, he finally embodies the spirit of Peter Parker, becoming a true clone in every sense.

The show cleverly connects Kaine’s story to her comic book roots as a clone of Peter Parker, referencing the famous “Clone Saga.” However, because this is a separate animated series, her attacks involve transforming into a strange, slimy creature, and the episode ends with a very unexpected cliffhanger.

This series successfully blends the feel of the original cartoon with fresh ideas from the talented writer DeMatteis, who’s been creating compelling stories for years. The result is a fun combination of exciting action and strong character development, all while staying true to the animated series. It’s a great concept, and hopefully, this won’t be the last we see of it.

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2026-01-21 15:09