The Human Torch Meets Paste-Pot Pete!
Featuring: Human Torch
Release: October 9, 1962
Cover: January 1963
12 cents
Plot: Stan Lee
Script: Larry Lieber
Art: Jack Kirby
Inking: Dick Ayers
13 pages
I think it goes without saying that Paste-Pot Pete is one of the greatest super-villains of all time. And that he has one of the greatest names. And therefore– I will say no more.
This is the first instance of a trope I am not a fan of. It is okay sometimes, but stretches belief if done too often, and smacks of lazy writing: having the hero happen to be where the villain attacks. Especially now– there are only so many superheroes and villains– what are the odds Paste-Pot Pete robs the exact bank with the Human Torch in it? Again, if this is the only time this happens, fine. But it won’t be the last.
Johnny is careful about his secret identity. So careful that he remembers not to sign his name “Human Torch” on a bank slip. Wait… what?
Paste-Pot Pete’s plan is to pilfer the army’s delta-cosmic missile to sell to a Red nation. The Torch defeats him and Paste-Pot Pete flees the country.
Rating: ★★★☆☆, 50/100
Significance: ★★★★☆
Characters:
- Johnny Storm/Human Torch
- Paste-Pot Pete
Story notes:
- Fickle public very quick to label Torch a coward
- Heat can revive Torch’s flame powers even if time is up
- Paste-Pot Pete escapes, on boat out of country
#37 story in reading order
Next: Fantastic Four #11
Previous: Fantastic Four #10
