Movies

Gail Simone’s Uncanny X-Men is comic book comfort food

BBG News

Gail Simone’s Uncanny X-Men is comic book comfort food

As a lifelong X-Men enthusiast who’s seen more than a few mutant sunsets and rebirths, I can confidently say that the latest chapter of Uncanny X-Men is nothing short of phenomenal. It’s like being back in the good old days at the Jean Grey School for Higher Learning, but with more action and less homework!

The shift in the storyline titled “X-Men: From the Ashes” was a daring decision by Marvel Comics. After years of mutant prosperity, the idea of returning things to their original state wasn’t something X-Men fans were eagerly anticipating. The Krakoan Age marked a period where mutants appeared content, despite its flaws, as it was essentially a new nation finding its footing. It wasn’t until the events in the White Hot Room (as detailed in issues 4 of X-Men: Forever and issue 700 of Uncanny X-Men) that Krakoa truly came into its own.

If you’re Marvel Comics, when it comes to your most powerful mutant group, you assemble an extraordinary creative duo that serves as a reminder to comic book enthusiasts that Marvel’s Mightiest Mutants are unstoppable. This dynamic team comprises renowned writer Gail Simone, known for her work on titles like Batgirl and Deadpool, and artist David Marquez, celebrated for his work on Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man and All-New X-Men. To add more excitement, you bring in a team led by Rogue, featuring Wolverine, Gambit, Jubilee, and Nightcrawler. Moreover, five new mutants known as the Outliers – Jitter, Ransom, Ember, Deathdream, and Calico – are also introduced to the scene in this series titled Uncanny X-Men.

This current run of “Uncanny X-Men” appears to be shaping up as one of the finest. Admittedly, it’s still early days, and it’s not quite appropriate to label it a classic yet, given that we’re only on issue five. However, every iconic run has its origins, providing readers with a roadmap for the story ahead. Here, the narrative unfolds as the X-Men reappear in the world, and Rogue (Anna Maria) embarks on a “Don’t call it a comeback” journey, tackling new challenges from humans. Among the antagonists is a faction imprisoning mutants at the old X-Men mansion, with their warden being Dr. Corina Ellis.

Dr. Ellis is apprehending mutants similar to Charles Xavier, and it appears she may be utilizing Theresa Rourke Cassidy (Siryn) in combat against the heroic forces. While the X-Men have encountered adversaries that include former team members, Dr. Ellis stands apart due to her ruthless and emotionless demeanor. However, there seems to be something deeper at play with her, hinting at a complexity beyond simple job fulfillment. Unlike figures like Graydon Creed or William Stryker who harbor intense disdain for mutants, Dr. Ellis’s actions suggest a more professional approach, yet one cannot help but wonder about the underlying motives.

It seems there might be a particular reason Dr. Ellis prefers being addressed as warden rather than doctor. Moreover, if she harbored disdain for mutants, she wouldn’t have sought their aid regarding her ex-employee-turned-prisoner Sarah Gaunt. Instead, she would have chosen to handle the situation independently or at least tried to apprehend Rogue post-transaction.

To wrap up, I’d like to emphasize that this comic book captures what makes the X-Men so beloved. The relationship dynamics among them are richly portrayed, with Gail Simone making no secret of it. For instance, Jubilee and Rogue express their deep regard for Logan, viewing him as a mentor and father figure. Similarly, Gambit consistently highlights his unique bond with Anna Maria. Lastly, Nightcrawler embodies the role of a fun-loving uncle or big brother wherever he appears. The Outliers, new additions to the team, are more than just colleagues; they’ve formed an unbreakable bond and will fiercely support each other, ready to step in if any one of them is at risk.

Hey there fellow gaming enthusiasts! If you’re a fan of epic narratives, captivating characters, stunning artwork, and pulse-pounding combat, then you shouldn’t miss out on getting your hands on Uncanny X-Men every month. Trust me, nobody wants to be left behind as an X-fan in this exciting adventure!

Read More

2024-11-16 19:31

Previous post The Mandalorian: 5 game-changing uses of good storytelling