In this episode:
Mike and Ed discuss Plantman’s attack on Johnny Storm in his own bedroom. Can we trust criminals to not attack heroes when they are sleeping? Why didn’t Reed Richards install better security? How can we prevent crimes like this in the future? Who is more at risk, superheroes or criminal prosecutors? Is this why heroes who have appeared after the Fantastic Four have been keeping secret identities, and if so, who can blame them?
Behind the Issue
Lee brings back Plantman for his second appearance. Now, in addition to communicating and controlling plants, Plantman can give plants “superhuman” [superplant?] abilities. This is part of a broader trend where the power levels of characters (both heroes and villains) inches up over time.
In this issue:
The villainous Plantman has figured out how to mutate plants into powerful weapons. Armed with this strange power, Plantman captures Johnny Storm, in his bedroom in Glenville, and locks him in his closet. He then goes on a crime spree, safe in the knowledge that teenager Johnny “the Human Torch” Storm is safely locked in his bedroom closet. Johnny escapes his closet, but it’s too late - Plantman has escaped after committing his robberies. Plantman then challenges Johnny to a fight in the Botanical Gardens. Johnny accepts and soundly defeats the villain.
Assumed before the next episode:
People are wondering about their own safety, given that a superpowered hero such as the Human Torch can be attacked in his own home.
This episode takes place:
After Johnny has defeated Plantman once more. And likely upped his home security system.
Episode 130: Supervillains in the Bedroom (Strange Tales #121) -- May 1964