Wolverine, Uncanny X-Men, and the best X-comic books of the month

Wolverine, Uncanny X-Men, and the best X-comic books of the month

As someone who has been following the X-Men saga since the days of Chris Claremont and John Byrne, I can confidently say that the current run of stories is truly exceptional. The Krakoan Age was a fantastic chapter, but From the Ashes has taken the narrative to new heights. It’s not just about the little guy; it’s about survival, identity, and what it means to be an X-Man in a world that fears and hates mutants.

Although this author found the Krakoan Age of X-Men quite enjoyable, From the Ashes surpasses it in my opinion. It serves as a powerful reminder of the core values that define the X-Men and differentiate them from teams like the Avengers or Fantastic Four. They’re not just champions for the underdog; they’re engaged in a struggle for their very existence.

Instead of trying to line up the top comics of the last month in order from worst to best, I’ve opted to group them according to their unique qualities instead. This way, you can appreciate what made each comic book exceptional. Nevertheless, there’s one title that truly shines brighter than the rest and I’ll begin with that standout pick.

X-Comic of the Month

  • Comic book: Wolverine No. 3
  • Writer: Saladin Ahmed
  • Artist: Martin Coccolo

Saladin Ahmed’s portrayal of Wolverine finds him in the Canadian wilderness, not as a feral creature himself, but as a protector for a youngster who has been transformed into a wendigo. Unlike his usual instinct to eliminate such creatures, Logan understands that the boy is blameless and is struggling against the primal forces of the mystical entity he’s become.

One thing to pay attention to is how this ends. In issue No. 2 of Gail Simone’s Uncanny X-Men, Wolverine says that not all the kids he’s been around are still alive. Since this story takes place before Uncanny X-Men, Logan could be talking about the Wendigo he’s protecting.

“Because sometimes, all we can ask… is to see another sunrise.” – Wolverine

The Reveal of the Month

  • Comic book: Uncanny X-Men No. 6
  • Writer: Gail Simone
  • Artist: Javier Garron

It appears that Wolverine seems distant as of late, causing Rogue to suspect herself until he presents a bottle of alcohol meant for him and Gambit. However, Logan explains that the liquor is from his comrades, intending it for the survivor among them. Given his immortal status, he feels they should keep it. This is when Rogue points out that Wolverine might be suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and isn’t handling it adequately, considering all he’s been through in war.

“I been a little busted up inside…” – Wolverine

“Oh snap” of the Month

  • Comic book: Phoenix No. 5
  • Writer: Stephanie Phillips 
  • Artist: Alessandro Miracolo

At a point when you might believe that Jean Grey and the Phoenix have reached their maximum power, they astonish us yet again with another remarkable act. In this particular issue, instead of merely vanquishing Gorr the God Butcher (a task even the gods couldn’t accomplish), she transforms him into a sun! With this metamorphosis, she intends to sustain an entire cosmos of planets as reparation for the suffering he inflicted.

“I am not a god, Gorr. You were mistaken. A god has limits.” – Jean Grey

Return of the Month

  • Comic book: Exceptional X-Men No. 3
  • Writer: Eve Ewing
  • Artist: Carmen Carnero

In issue 3 of “Exceptional X-Men,” there were two significant events. Initially, Kitty Pryde returned to her role as a teacher. Although she felt that a part of her journey was complete, she took on the responsibility once more when three students, Bronze, Axo, and Melee, required her assistance. However, just as she was considering giving up teaching, another event occurred. Her former X-Men teammate and boyfriend, Iceman, made an appearance.

“I don’t want to fight you, Emma. I don’t do that anymore.” – Kitty Pryde

OH NO! X-Comic of the month

  • Comic book: Storm No. 2
  • Writer: Murewa Ayodele
  • Artist: Lucas Werneck

Previously, Storm was seen spitting out blood, which led many of us to anticipate a prolonged storyline. Surprisingly, she decides to seek medical attention and learns that she only has six hours left to live. Fortunately, Doctor Voodoo steps in ready and able to assist her.

“Miss, Ororo… you have perhaps six hours to live.” – Dr. Daye

The Biggest shock of the month

  • Comic book: Ultimate X-Men No. 9
  • Writer: Peach Momoko
  • Artist: Peach Momoko

Peach Momoko’s “Ultimate X-Men” series has consistently introduced new forms of mutants as the story progresses. The latest character added to this roster came as quite a surprise. In this particular universe, it isn’t Logan who holds the title of Mutant Zero, but Akihiro (Logan’s son in Earth-616). This twist makes one ponder if the Winter Soldier depicted in “Ultimate Wolverine” is actually Logan or someone else.

“Where is my divinity? When will I be free?” – Akihiro

Action X-Comic of the Month

  • Comic book: Psylocke No. 1
  • Writer: Alyssa Wong
  • Artist: Vincenzo Carratu

In terms of fight scenes this month, Psylocke Comic Issue 1 stood out as the most visually striking. The artist, Vincenzo Carratu, did an exceptional job in portraying Kwannon, making her battles against Skullbuster and Donald Pierce truly captivating. Yet, Alyssa Wong’s illustrations conveyed that Psylocke possesses a strong ability to kill, but it’s not something she takes pride in. This nuanced touch added layers of complexity to the depicted violence.

“I should feel horrified. But what scares me… is that I don’t.” – Psylocke

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2024-12-05 16:01

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