Review: Invincible #80
Marc Kusnierz | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 9:42AM 
Invincible #80 is the first issue I have ever waited for; that's right, I am fairly new to the Invincible universe. While the issue delivered on my anticipation, it felt far too crowded—so much happens in so little time and it all seems forced. It is impossible to discuss the issue without spoilers, so let this be a warning that everything past this point is meant for those who already read #80, or simply don't care.
The issue opens with Debbie and Nolan choosing to attempt reconciliation, which they plan to attempt on another planet. It was a great opening, if tad anti-climactic, but was immediately followed by a second curveball—the reveal that William is gay. I have no problem with a gay character or a longtime character coming out, but this seemed random and as if it was obvious and expected. I never suspected William of being anything but a whiner and of little importance to the overall story, so I was rather surprised. My curiosities also question if this was purposefully revealed in June.
Along with this quick and random reveal, there was a fairly fun and enjoyable interaction between Invincible and a reasonable "villain." Kirkman also used this issue to openly express his opinion on the DCU reboot and let's just say he's not wearing his happy pants. Along with all of this, there are hints towards other minor subplots and Eve moves in with Mark since his parents left the planet as soon as non-humanly possible. Everything mentioned to this point was fine and dandy, but the real meat was the return of Dinosaurus.
Dinosaurus' return was both underwhelming and extremely significant. I would have enjoyed more of a fight, but the discussion and following consequence more than made up for any disappointment with the action. Dinosaurus was wrecking havoc on Las Vegas for its unnatural existence and placed bombs throughout the city. Invincible came to stop the "big red guy," but he was too late to save the day--all of Las Vegas lay in ruin on the final page. It was a big way to end the issue and I can't wait to see what rises from the ashes.
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