Uncanny X-Men 534.1
Written by Kieron Gillen
Penciled by Carlos Pacheco
Review by currentcomicguy
Kieron Gillen’s solo debut as scribe for Uncanny X-Men begins with this .1 issue. As we know, the .1 issues are “jumping on points for new readers.” So far, only a few .1 issues have actually lived up to the goal. This issue can be considered one such issue.
Unfortunately, the execution was lackluster. The action was low rate and the dialogue was boring. Long time readers know that Magneto has been living on Utopia for some time now. Widely considered as the most dangerous mutant terrorist in the world, Magneto is now a member of the X-Men. However, the X-Men know that the public won’t blindly accept Magneto as a hero. In an effort to avoid a public relations disaster, the X-Men employ a P.R. agent to improve Magneto’s image.
The idea makes perfect sense, but I just don’t like it. Magneto, as he even states in the issue, wants people to fear him. He dislikes homosapiens. Does his role on the X-Men really require him to become a public figure? Why can’t he be a guy who operates in the shadows? I’m all for Magneto being with the X-Men right now, but he is a villain.
In this issue, Gillen is given a chance to show off his storytelling. Using a seemingly dull threat, he exposes Magneto to the public as a hero. The art by Pacheco has a bit of an edge to it and I like it. The cover is probably my favorite part of the issue as it most likely showcases the new “team.”
The issue did its job as a .1 issue nonetheless. From here, new readers should have a grasp on what is going on with the core X-Men.
Secret Avengers 11
Written by Ed Brubaker
Penciled by Will Conrad
Review by currentcomicguy
Steve Rogers takes a literal trip down memory lane to try to figure out why John Steele turned against his country.
The first of a two part arc, the story does a nice job laying the foundation for part 2 to build off. An overly curious Steve feels the need to know what led John Steele, the first ever Super Soldier, astray. To do this, writer Ed Brubaker invokes a little bit of Inception; using one of Hank McCoy’s experimental devices, Steve Rogers enters John Steele’s mind. The trip takes him back to a mission the two had during World War II.
I have always liked Cap stories from World War II, especially when they fall into current continuity. The issue really sparks my curiosity in regards to John Steele. Prior to this issue, I really didn’t care too much about Steele. He was just another Cap antithesis. This story gives Steele’s character some uniqueness though.
I’ll have to get used to Conrad’s art though. It’s not bad, but its not Deodato. Brubaker’s writing is always good, here it is no different. Seriously though, how can you go wrong with Super Soldiers, Nazi castles, and Zombie looking things? Its really a shame he is leaving the book.