Iron Man by Michelinie, Layton & Romita Jr. Omnibus Vol. 1

Background. When David Michelinie and Bob Layton took over Iron Man in 1978, they inherited a character with strong bones but no definitive creative statement. What they produced over the next several years — with John Romita Jr. providing some of the most technically accomplished art of his early career — is now regarded as the high-water mark of Bronze Age Marvel storytelling. 'Demon in a Bottle' addressed addiction in mainstream superhero comics with a directness that had never been seen before.

What's inside. The complete Michelinie-Layton-Romita Jr. run, centered on Iron Man #116–157, including the full 'Demon in a Bottle' arc (#120–128), the debut of Justin Hammer as Tony's corporate nemesis, the Armor Wars precursor storylines, Bethany Cabe as love interest and key figure in Tony's recovery, and the legendary 'Doomquest' crossover with Doctor Doom.

Why it's worth it. 'Demon in a Bottle' remains one of the most cited stories in superhero comics for good reason — it treated addiction as a real human failing rather than a plot device. The omnibus format gives you the full context that makes the arc land properly. Romita Jr.'s early work here is extraordinary. This is required reading for any serious Iron Man collector.

Edition details. Hardcover omnibus. US edition published by Marvel Comics. ISBN 9780785167129.