I'll get this out of the way. Mysterio is a really cool, exciting villain. But when you explain all his tricks, it kind of lessens the appeal for me.

Throughout so much of this issue, I kept thinking about the Far From Home movie. It had to be because of how much of the plot was lifted from these early Mysterio appearances. I don't have that same sort of problem with Vulture, Green Goblin, Doc Ock, Sandman, Electro or the Lizard. It could also be because it's the most recent Spider-Man movie, and therefore it's the freshest in my mind. I don't know, but there's a ton of parallels. And the idea that Mysterio is using drones actually causes much less ruination in my opinion than spring-loaded boots and nylon firing guns. I don't want this review to just be a refutation on all the people pretending Mysterio is so much cooler when he uses ridiculous contraptions and 1960s special effects to achieve his stunts. I have a feeling these people have never read this issue right here, and that's fine as long as they don't pretend to know.

But let's not focus on that, let's focus on how ridiculously Mysterio gets beaten. Not the fight itself, but rather Spider-Man recording his evil monologue where he explains everything. That was so lame, but also the only quick way to clear Spider-Man's name...

The money troubles briefly return here but they're probably done away with for now! But they'll be back, they always come back.

JJJ was amazing as always. He's the best.

Quote of the issue: "A Miniature Recorder!! Bah!" more

(Cover Date: June, 1964)

They really knew how to give Spider-Man covers detail back then. Stan was on to something there too. I always wish he'd explored the concept of Spidey seeing a psychiatrist. I can imagine how the Doctor would've served as an interesting supporting character for years to come, becoming one of Spidey's most trusted friends, all the while not knowing his true identity.
I first read this tale in the form of a reprint. It was also the first Mysterio story I read. Since he's been a favorite of mine in Spider-Man's rogues gallery. I can't figure why Jameson supported the guy when he appeared to be a costumed "Vigilante" as well. It was a funny end seeing Spidey web him up. Was this the first time of many to come?