Review - X-Men: The Road to Onslaught Volume 3

Onslaught’s herald has arrived and he is determined to test the might of the X-Men. He kidnaps three of the X-Men’s strongest members – Storm, Cyclops, Wolverine, and Iceman – and forces them to battle against him. With no help from their allies against this monstrous foe, the X-Men must overcome seemingly impossible odds to defeat him. Meanwhile, the Beast is forced into a game of cat-and-mouse with his counterpart from an alternate reality and Archangel fights to save Psylocke’s life as she lays near-death after her encounter with Sabretooth.

X-Men: The Road to Onslaught Volume 3 collects Uncanny X-Men#329-332,Archangel #1, X-Men/Brood#1-2, X-Men Unlimited#10, X-Men #50-52, Wolverine#101, and Xavier Institute Alumni Yearbook. It features writing by Scott Lobdell, Jeph Loeb, Mark Waid, Larry Hama, and more. The art includes work by Bryan Hitch, Andy Kubert, Joe Madureira, and more.

Of the three volumes Marvel collected under the banner of The Road to Onslaught, this one is the weakest. The quality of the issues varies and very little of the stories included actually serve as a prelude to the Onslaught saga. This volume begins with a two-parter where Archangel and Wolverine team-up with Doctor Strange in order to seek a mystical solution to saving Psylocke’s life. It’s one of the better stories in this collection and features some fantastic artwork by Joe Madureira. Having Doctor Strange as a guest star also provides a nice change of pace as it gives the X-Men someone different to interact with. X-Men: Brood, a limited series by John Ostrander and Bryan Hitch, is another highlight. The art is expressive and the storyline itself has a nice weight to it. It also happens to give Jean Grey and Iceman an opportunity to show off their abilities, which I always appreciate. The narrative itself takes the X-Men to a small town where a woman has unexpectedly become a Brood queen and has been turning others in her town into her spawn. This has drawn the attention of another faction of Brood, which has been sent to the town to destroy her and her offspring. The X-Men get caught in the conflict and task themselves with finding a way to cure the woman of her affliction. It’s admittedly a little predictable, but it’s enjoyable. The main gripe here is that it has nothing to do with Onslaught and comes across as rather tangential in the grand scheme of things.

Oddly enough, the material that does connect to Onslaught ends up being some of the least interesting work included here. One of the main arcs includes the Beast from the 616 universe being replaced by his Age of Apocalypse counterpart. It begins in X-Men Unlimited #10 and carries into the main X-books as a subplot. The AoA Beast learns all he can about our Beast and then leads him into a trap in order to hide him away while he takes his place amongst the X-Men. He does so in order to escape the notice of Mr. Sinister. Overall, it’s an odd storyline that feels random and unnecessary. The AoA Beast isn’t an especially captivating villain and it takes a lot to actually believe that he could replace our Beast without being noticed by the X-Men, especially since he does some things that would be suspicious. The other major Onslaught-related storyline is the X-Men’s face-off with Post, Onslaught’s herald. Storm, Cyclops, Iceman, and Wolverine are spirited away to an unknown location and are forced to fight Post. He’s a big and powerful enemy for them, which means that most of the issue is spent with the X-Men in battle. The action-oriented narrative is quite nice, but it’s not as spectacular as it could be. It’s suggested that Storm’s powers are somewhat hampered, but even still she’s not utilized like she could be. Perhaps the best thing about this issue isn’t the comic itself, but rather the one that succeeds it. Iceman is left injured after the conflict and he opts to confront Emma Frost, as she was previously able to control his powers in a way that he’s been unable to. It’s a really fantastic character-focused one-off issue and it really gives us insight into Iceman’s character.

At its core, X-Men: The Road to Onslaught Volume 3 is just a collection of mediocre storylines that don’t benefit from being collected in a rather lengthy trade paperback. Some issues are better than others, largely due to the fact that the creative teams are not consistent throughout. Arguably, the issues written by Scott Lobdell are the strongest. They’re more engaging and have the right balance of action and character development. It also helps that he’s also teamed with the best artists in this collection – like Joe Madureira and Bryan Hitch. Conversely, the issues written by Mark Waid are the least entertaining. These are the ones more focused on the Beast/Dark Beast subplot. Overall, X-Men: The Road to Onslaught Volume 3 isn’t worth its cover price. My recommendation is to merely purchase the Uncanny X-Men issues digitally (or physically if you can find them) since they’re the best of the bunch, plus maybe the Brood limited series by Ostrander and Hitch.

RATING: C-

Review - Ultimate Spider-Man Volume 7: Irresponsible

When Peter and Gwen sneak out to attend a house party, they encounter a student named Geldoff from another school who possesses the ability of combustion. After an incident where Geldoff was causing cars to explode, Peter intervenes as Spider-Man in an attempt to get Geldoff to recognize the severity of his actions. Before he can sway him one way or the other, they are confronted by the X-Men, who are determined to bring Geldoff back with them to Professor Xavier.

Ultimate Spider-Man Volume 7: Irresponsible collects Ultimate Spider-Man #40-45, written by Brian Michael Bendis and illustrated by Mark Bagley.

One of the most notable aspects of Irresponsible is the total lack of supervillains within its narrative. Instead, Bendis and Bagley take a more human approach to storytelling as they present Peter with a dilemma instead of a full-blown superheroic conflict. This results in a rather slow and somewhat torturous read. The premise is basically “what happens when the awkward foreign student gets powers and becomes popular?” There’s no real stakes since Geldoff doesn’t come across as a real threat. He blows up some cars, but that’s about it. The majority of the issues that make up this arc are essentially characters standing around talking to each other. Aside from the fact that Peter and Mary Jane reconcile after breaking up for a while and Peter meeting the X-Men, it feels like nothing of import actually happens. That’s not to say there aren’t some memorable moments. The X-Men’s inclusion in this arc really adds some much needed energy to the otherwise limp narrative. From Kitty’s fangirling over Spider-Man to an impressive action sequence involving Jean and Storm saving Spider-Man, Kitty and Geldoff during an impending plane crash, the X-Men create a sense of urgency and dynamism that really intensifies the world that Spider-Man occupies.

Given my issues with this dialogue heavy arc, it’s a surprise that my favourite issue in this collection is one that features almost no action and that’s essentially start to finish dialogue. Set in a therapist’s office, issue 45 sees Aunt May reflecting on the current state of her life and making several revelations about her feelings towards Peter, Gwen, and Spider-Man. It’s a truly intimate issue that gives readers a rare glimpse into Aunt May’s world and shows us the remarkable interiority of this character. It’s shockingly quite riveting as a read as it offers us different perspectives on supporting characters that are otherwise only ever seen through Peter’s lens. Getting to see how Aunt May is dealing with the grief of the loss of her family members, of Captain Stacy, and how she’s “using” Gwen as a coping mechanism is absolutely fascinating.

In these issues, artist Mark Bagley had to ensure the characters were as expressive as possible. Since much of this arc relied upon the feelings and thoughts of the characters involved, he had to narrow his focus and illustrate a lot of close-up reaction shots. This is especially evident in the aforementioned therapy issue. He carefully crafts each of Aunt May’s facial mannerisms to accompany the dialogue, which helps plot how she’s feeling at any given moment. There’s also a scene where Peter and Mary Jane are passing notes in class. Each panel is kept tight on their faces as they react to what’s being written. It’s really engaging since we’re seeing how they feel without being told. Beyond that, we’re seeing Bagley allowing the characters to grow through the visuals. Mary Jane is adopting a shorter hairstyle that is more refined, while Peter’s odd wispy bangs aren’t quite as jagged as usual. It’s also worth mentioning that we get to see the Ultimate versions of the X-Men in Bagley’s style. For the most part, he does a great job. I quite like how he captures Kitty’s youth and he really makes Jean pop on the page, but he struggles to make Storm’s hair a consistent style since he gives her weird bangs and the colorist doesn’t make her skin dark enough.

Ultimate Spider-Man Volume 7: Irresponsible is a bit of a chore. It has a lot of pacing problems and it struggles to maintain the momentum that the previous arcs built upon. Since it’s very heavy in dialogue, it may be a deterrent to some readers who are looking for something that’s less introspective and has more in the way of action. The issues with the X-Men are the most entertaining, but the Aunt May-centric issue 45 is also worth reading. Otherwise, it’d be quite easy to skip over this collection.

RATING: C

Review - X-Men: The Road to Onslaught Volume 2

After months of imprisonment and attempted rehabilitation at the hands of Professor Xavier, Sabretooth escapes his confinement and leaves a path of destruction in his wake as he makes his way to New York City. With government forces on standby, the X-Men must track Sabretooth down before he can hurt anyone else. Then, Bishop struggles with holding onto his sanity due to reality and time hopping complications.

X-Men: The Road to Onslaught Volume 2 collects X-Men/ClanDestine #1-2, Uncanny X-Men #327-328, Annual '95, X-Men #46-49, X-Men Unlimited #9, and Sabretooth: In the Red Zone. It includes writing by Alan Davis, Larry Hama, Terry Kavanagh, Scott Lobdell, and Fabian Nicieza, as well as art by Roger Cruz, Gary Frank, Bryan Hitch, Andy Kubert, Joe Madureira, and Jeff Matsuda.

This trade reads as a compilation of largely unrelated stories, pulling both from the main X-Men titles at the same and from other books. As such, this leads to a variance in quality. The greatest example of this is the X-Men/ClanDestine two-parter that kicks off this collection. It’s a puzzling inclusion given how inaccessible it is for casual comic book readers. It features an obscure set of characters, the Destines, as they team up with the X-Men to defeat an otherworldly entity. While Alan Davis’ art in these issues is gorgeous, the storyline is random and disposable. The issue of X-Men Unlimited that was included is equally as random. It features Wolverine, Psylocke and Beast caught on a mission to the Bermuda Triangle, where they must stop the combined might of the Belasco and Bloodscream. While the story itself is penned by the talented Larry Hama, it remains an unremarkable adventure that’s further marred by subpar art.

Interestingly, one of the best stories in this trade is the one-and-done Uncanny X-Men Annual ’95. In this oversized comic, then-new X-Man Cannonball heads back home with Wolverine, Bishop, Storm, and his oldest sister in tow to investigate an anti-mutant cult that has recently recruited one of his siblings. Written by Terry Kavanagh and with art by Bryan Hitch and Bob McLeod, it’s a story that tackles zealotry and bigotry in a way that is reminiscent of the seminal God Loves, Man Kills graphic novel. The familial dynamic between Sam and his sister Paige helps to ground the story. We get a lot of great character moments with them, especially with Paige. Though more prominent in Generation X, we see references to her being ashamed of her upbringing (she tries to hide her Southern accent) and her overall drive to be a hero like Sam. Uncanny X-Men Annual ’95 may not have a whole lot to do with the arrival of Onslaught, but it remains a memorable and relevant story with some impeccable artwork.

The bulk of the material in this volume relies on and furthers the overarching plotlines that were present in the X-Men books at this time. Issues 46-47 of X-Men see Scott Lobdell and Andy Kubert tying up loose ends from way back in issues 10-11. The X-Babies have escaped the Mojoverse and a handful of the X-Men must protect them from extradimensional bounty hunters. These two issues fill readers in on what’s happened to the Mojoverse since the rebellion, which is great for Dazzler fans since she shows up towards the conclusion. Her presence (and attitude) is just about the only reason to tune in to this two-parter. Kubert’s art is sadly very inconsistent and the X-Babies are predictably rather irritating. There are some great scenes that punctuate the action, particularly between Jean Grey and Iceman. These quiet moments help to drive home how much of a family the X-Men are. Issues 48-49 are Bishop-centric, dealing primarily with what seems to be PTSD brought on by his time travels. While he’s struggling to hold on to his sanity, an assassin is sent after him. These issues deal tangentially with the aftermath of the Age of Apocalypse and attempt to give Bishop some layers, but their ugly art and dull writing really fail to leave much of a positive impression.

The other plotline that is further developed involves the continued captivity of Sabretooth. All the way back in X-Men Unlimited #3, Sabretooth willingly submitted himself for help from Professor Xavier as a means of receiving telepathic soothing that he had become addicted to. Though many X-Men disagreed with the decision, Xavier saw it as an opportunity to rehabilitate the villain. In this collection, we see the final resolution of this plotline. Sabretooth proves himself to be beyond redemption, prompting Xavier to make a deal with the government to have him incarcerated. In return, Sabretooth plots his escape from the mansion and leaves a trail of destruction in his path. Uncanny X-Men #328 is a standout issue in this saga. We get an emotionally devastated Boom Boom losing her cool once she discovers the truth about Sabretooth, as well as an intense action sequence that features a rematch between the villain and Psylocke (they pair first battled one another way back in Uncanny X-Men #213). It’s also worth noting that the issue is illustrated by Joe Madureira at the height of his popularity. His manga-influenced style is beautiful and dynamic. His Psylocke is especially iconic. Sabretooth: In the Red Zone concludes this arc. The original X-Men are sent by Xavier to apprehend Sabretooth, which gives us some great scenes of the O5 working together as a team. The synergy that they have is really electric, so it’s not hard to understand why this formation is so popular amongst fans. The combination of Fabian Nicieza’s dialogue and Gary Frank’s near-flawless art makes this issue incredibly cinematic. So much so, that it would make for a great animated film.

X-Men: The Road to Onslaught Volume 2 is really not worth the price of admission. It’s great for completionists and X-Men fans who loved the ‘90s, especially since it has a lot of cool extras. There are reprints of trading cards, for example, that are included after each issue. Uncanny X-Men Annual ’95 is a great read, as is the one-two punch of Uncanny X-Men #328 and Sabretooth: In the Red Zone. The writing on those issues is impeccable, but the art is even more impressive (arguably some of the best that Hitch, Madureira and Frank have done). Unfortunately, the rest of what is collected here is pretty forgettable. It’s probably better to buy some of the individual issues via Comixology than shell out the money for this hefty trade.

RATING: B- (buoyed mostly by the high quality of some of the issues included)

Review: Uncanny X-Men Volume 4 - Vs. S.H.I.E.L.D.

Following a heinous Sentinel strike, the war bubbling between Cyclops’ X-Men and S.H.I.E.L.D. reaches a fever pitch. Unwilling to sit idly by while more mutants are harmed, Cyclops takes the fight to the international spy organization apparently responsible for the Sentinels’ actions. Then, Dazzler is finally freed from captivity at Mystique’s hands. Angry and bitter over what she’s been through, she intends to get revenge on the shapeshifting femme fatale.

Uncanny X-Men Volume 4: Vs. S.H.I.E.L.D. collects Uncanny X-Men #19-24, written by Brian Michael Bendis and with art by Chris Bachalo and Kris Anka.

This collection is typical of Bendis’ ho-hum direction on the X-Men titles during the Marvel Now! initiative. It’s all build up with no pay-off. The X-Men’s conflict against S.H.I.E.L.D. had been simmering since the onset of this title and “Vs. S.H.I.E.L.D.” attempts to resolve that as a four issue arc. After a Sentinel attack, an incensed Cyclops determines to hold S.H.I.E.L.D. responsible for their actions. This leads to a blow out on the front lawn of the Jean Grey School and the discovery of who is truly pulling the strings. The climax is unimpressive and the reveal isn’t terribly shocking, so the arc feels somewhat deflated as a whole. As can be expected from Bendis, there’s a lot of dialogue and some great character moments (there’s a great scene telepathic exchange between Cyclops and Maria Hill, for example). The primary narrative itself just didn’t click for me. Personally, the more interesting story here involves Mystique’s usage of Dazzler as her personal mutant growth hormone factory, but this is relegated to subplot status and is only referenced cursorily in the aftermath.

The “Vs. S.H.I.E.L.D.” arc leads into the tie-in for Original Sin, which is framed as a two-parter named “The Last Will and Testament of Charles Xavier.” In it, She-Hulk obtains Xavier’s will and is responsible for reading it to those named in the contents. Cyclops is hauled back to the Jean Grey School, where several “shocking” revelations are made about Xavier’s past. The quotes are necessary as Bendis seems to be putting in overtime to really try and surprise readers with plot twists. The problem is the twists are unwanted in every possible way. I was rolling my eyes so hard I’m surprised I didn’t catch a glimpse into the back of my brain. Consider this a spoiler warning. The first big plot twist is that Professor Xavier is married to Mystique and so all of his property now belong to her. It’s a really unnecessary development that feels like it’s either a remnant of the Ultimate Universe or was inspired by the First Class trilogy. Either way, it feels out of place and is just plain messy. It’s bad enough that Bendis treats Mystique like she’s the only damn X-Men villain around. The other twist is that there’s this uber powerful mutant that Xavier has kept secret for decades and now the X-Men have to go find him before he destroys everything. It’s a revelation that left me with a feeling of a déjà vu since it seems like a re-packaging of Proteus and Jean Grey.

Uncanny X-Men Volume 4: Vs. S.H.I.E.L.D. doesn’t ever reach its full potential. It’s bogged down by far too much dialogue and exposition, as well as puzzling plot twists. The artwork done by superstars Chris Bachalo and Kris Anka gives the book a premium feel, elevating the quality above what we’re getting on the story front. Though the cast is likeable and the plot elements are interesting enough, Bendis seems to be spending most of his time setting up future plotlines and recycling old ones rather than creating a compelling arc with an explosive climax.

RATING: C

Review: Storm Volume 2 - Bring the Thunder

When Storm is wrongfully detained by the FBI following an attack on an airplane, she must escape and prove her innocence by finding the true culprit. Then, she faces the harrowing task of protecting those she loves most after a disgruntled student from her past returns to enact his revenge on her.

Storm Volume 2: Bring the Thunder collects Storm #6-11, written by Greg Pak and illustrated by Victor Ibañez and Al Barrionuevo.

Taken as a whole, Greg Pak’s Storm tells a full story with a complete and compelling character arc. The series finds Storm at a crossroads in her life, growing bored with the mundane activities that are required of her status as headmistress of the Jean Grey School and feeling uncertain in her role as the leader of the X-Men. What follows is an intimate study of her character and a narrative that sees her finally having some fun after being portrayed in a rather buttoned-up manner. I really enjoy Pak’s writing of Storm as she’s friendlier, more accessible, and more humorous than how most other writers tend to portray her. He also stays true to her mythos and continues to cleverly work in characters and plots that are relevant to her character. For instance, a particularly memorable adventure in this collection sees Storm and Gambit teaming up to steal an artifact from the Temple of Hermes before Gambit’s rival within the Thieves Guild can. It’s a story that acknowledges Storm’s oft-forgotten skills as a thief and makes use of her incredible chemistry with Gambit.

Like the preceding volume, Bring the Thunder is episodic in its structure. Each story is told roughly in three, two, and one issues (respectively), which can feel like filler when not executed correctly. Pak smartly links everything together not only through a consistent main cast, but also through an overall sense of connectedness with the narrative direction. Beyond that, I appreciate that this volume pulls in themes that are relevant to the current societal climate, with a particularly prescient scene occurring on an airplay where Storm is confronted with direct mutantphobia. It’s a jarring reminder of what happens in reality and it’s a sad reminder of how far we have yet to come as a society.

Storm Volume 2: Bring the Thunder is a bittersweet ending to Greg Pak’s Storm run. His take on the character is arguably the strongest since the Christopher Yost-penned X-Men: Worlds Apart mini-series. I like the direction he’s taken with her and appreciate his willingness to emphasize the fact that she’s more than just a superhero. While the issues not illustrated by Ibañez aren’t as consistent, the art is striking regardless. I wish that this title had sold better than it did and that this creative team could have continued onwards with more stories. However, the work they put out stands well on its own and is worth a read.

RATING: B+

Review: Storm Volume 1 - Make It Rain

As an X-Man and headmistress of the Jean Grey School for Higher Learning, Storm must find a balance between being a hero and mentor. From looking for missing children to aiding Forge with a machine that will relieve drought in Kenya, she is determined to make the world a better place on her own terms.

Storm Volume 1: Make It Rain collects Storm #1-5, written by Greg Pak and illustrated by Victor Ibañez.

In this volume, Greg Pak provides an intimate and informed character study of one of the X-Men’s most iconic heroes. There’s affection in the way he writes her, as a confident and competent woman who is also conflicted and flawed. His dialogue is on point and most of the standout moments from this collection occur in exchanges between the characters, especially those between Storm and Beast. Their longstanding friendship is felt in the way they converse with one another and he becomes the anchor for this otherwise episodic volume.

The plot of Make It Rain strays from the typical six issue arc formula used by most other modern superhero comics. Instead Pak takes the titular heroine on a series of adventures that see her travelling the globe in an attempt to be a more proactive force for good. He makes great use out of characters from Storm’s past – Callisto, Forge, and Yukio – as a means of highlighting her legacy and impact on those around her. Where Pak really makes his mark, however, is in the two issues wherein Storm grieves over the death of Wolverine. The opening pages of issue 4 alone are particularly searing as she is taken out of Earth’s atmosphere in order to release the sorrow and anger within her. The storyline that follows where Storm becomes Yukio’s champion in a gladiator ring is cliché, but Storm’s reflections on Wolverine throughout are memorable and poignant.

While Make It Rain is admittedly very light on plot, it is an incredibly well-written examination of Storm and who she is as a woman and as a hero. Pak provides readers with a multi-dimensional view of the character, which should hopefully be enough to convert a reader or two into fans. Victor Ibañez’s art is also a major selling point of this collection. It’s expressive, expansive, and sometimes even visceral. I love the way he draws Storm. He captures her elegance and her beauty without sexualizing her. If anything, this volume is worth a read just to gaze at his artwork. As a major Storm fanboy, Make It Rain gives me almost everything I could ask for – gorgeous art, great dialogue, and nuanced character work – all that’s missing is a higher stakes and more action.

RATING: B+

Review: Uncanny X-Force Volume 2 - Torn and Frayed

When Psylocke is spirited away to rescue Fantomex from Weapon XIII, she is forced to deal with her conflicting feelings towards Fantomex and his clones. Then, X-Force must overcome the darker reflections of themselves in the form of Revenants. With Storm, Psylocke, and Puck out of action, it may be up to Bishop to stop the Revenant Queen before she can reach her endgame.

Uncanny X-Force Volume 2: Torn and Frayed collects Uncanny X-Force #7-12, written by Sam Humphries and illustrated by Adrian Alphona, Dalibor Talajic, and Ramon Perez.

The Psylocke-centric issues that begin this collection are admittedly the most thrilling and engaging. She confronts her past and present as she is taken to Madripoor in order to square things with Fantomex, Cluster, and Weapon XIII. In a series of flashbacks, we see a glimpse of her life when she was entangled in a complicated relationship with Fantomex and Cluster in Paris, dividing her time up equally between pulling off heists and rolling around the sheets with her lover(s). Then, the present day action brings her into conflict with her ex-lover(s) as she must either spare Fantomex’s life or kill him. This arc provides a complex character portrait of everyone’s favourite purple-haired psychic ninja, revealing her to be sexually fluid and unable to give up the thrill that comes from larceny. While the Fantomex clones fail to be more than plot devices, I can at least applaud Humphries for using them in a way that expands Psylocke’s personality and explores her desires more fully. It’s a quaint and nicely contained arc that is somewhat diminished by lackluster art (and colour - seriously why is Psylocke's hair lavender?!) and the fact that it’s a diversion from the main thrust of this series.

The latter three issues of Torn and Frayed return to the narrative of Bishop and the Revenant Queen. Bishop is separated from his allies in a battle against their enemies, leaving Storm, Psylocke, and Puck vulnerable to the emergence of their Revenants. The trio is thus confronted with their deepest desires and worst failures. While I appreciate many of the elements to this storyline, particularly the reveal of who the Revenant Queen is, I’m disappointed by the disjointed way in which it is told and that it’s left as a cliffhanger when collected in trade form. I also find the exploration of the characters’ insecurities to be trite and expected. We’ve already seen these characters acknowledge and rail against their inner demons in other storylines, so it seems a bit clichéd to do so yet again here. It seems to me that it would have been more time effective to actually resolve the Revenant Queen arc and then perhaps move the Fantomex clone arc after it.

It’s clear by Torn and Frayed and its preceding volume that Humphries’ strength is in his depiction of Psylocke. She’s been the most consistently well-written and interesting character in his tenure on Uncanny X-Force, especially during the opening issues here. The rest of this collection could use a little more bite and originality, but it is entertaining anyway. Still, I’d recommend reading Torn and Frayed for the sake of completionism or if you’re a big fan of Psylocke or Bishop. Otherwise, this trade falls on the more disposable end of the X-universe.

RATING: C+

Review: Uncanny X-Force Volume 1 - Let It Bleed

The X-Men Storm and Psylocke team up with the pint-sized Puck to hunt down the sorceress Spiral, who is rumoured to be dealing psychotropic drugs on the west coast. They soon discover that she has become the guardian of a new mutant and has vowed to protect her from the ills of the world – which includes former X-Man Bishop.

Uncanny X-Force Volume 1: Let It Bleed collects Uncanny X-Force #1-6, written by Sam Humphries with art by Adrian Alphona and Ron Garney.

Superficially, Let It Bleed is a meandering story arc that has one too many plotlines. Humphries jumps between narrative threads throughout, which interfere with creating consistent pacing and make it difficult to follow. There’s Spiral and her new charge, the return of Bishop, Storm and Psylocke’s personal life drama, and Fantomex and Cluster’s search for Psylocke. Thankfully, Psylocke acts as the connective tissue between all of these dangling plotlines. She is the nucleus of the story and Humphries makes sure to portray her as the flawed, multi-faceted character that fans know her to be. He also has a clear understanding of her friendship with Storm and this becomes crucial to the overall enjoyment of the series. Their interactions with one another are perhaps the best thing about this collection and ultimately help to emphasize that the X-Men are family and that they genuinely care for one another.

Those hoping that this reboot of Uncanny X-Force is a perfect jumping on point for newer readers are certain to be disappointed, if not entirely lost. Humphries’ narrative is heavily steeped in decades of continuity and is a veritable buffet for hardcore fans. Unfortunately, this means it will leave more casual readers scratching their heads. It’s likely that people won’t understand why Psylocke detests Spiral so much unless they’re familiar with their past and Humphries’ usage of the Demon Bear from the old school New Mutants series only receives a passing reference in explaining what it is. There’s also the likelihood that people won’t be aware of who Puck is, considering the fact that he’s a member of Alpha Flight and hadn’t really been used in anything overly mainstream for quite some time. Finally, there’s the fact that this is the post-Rick Remender relaunch of Uncanny X-Force, so readers will benefit from having some working knowledge of the events from that series as well. As such, Let It Bleed reads as a for-veteran-fans-only style story.

Let It Bleed has its fair share of strengths and weaknesses. Overall, Humphries introduced a lot of interesting elements and is to be commended for crafting a story that is character-driven. He has a very clear understanding of both Psylocke and Storm, writing them quite well throughout. However, this arc also needed more tailoring in order to trim away some of the unnecessary fat that clogs the pacing. Simply put, it often takes too long to get to the point and seems to wander around directionless. In the end, Let It Bleed is an odd mix of being fantastically written on the character front, but weak on the story end of things.

RATING: C+

Review: X-Men - The Road to Onslaught Volume 1

The X-Men have been pulled into the ruthless machinations of the mutant terrorist group Gene Nation, whose leader Marrow has a decades-long grudge against Storm. Marrow intends to make Storm suffer for the neglect she felt when the X-Man led the Morlocks. Then, Rogue and Iceman go on a roadtrip to escape from the drama that surrounds their lives as X-Men. Their departure may prove to be ill-timed as a shadowy villain known as Onslaught seems to be closing in on the X-Men.

X-Men: The Road to Onslaught Volume 1 collects X-Men Prime #1, Uncanny X-Men #322-326, X-Men #42-45, Annual '95, and X-Men Unlimited #8, written primarily by Scott Lobdell and Fabian Nicieza with art by Roger Cruz, Terry Dodson, Bryan Hitch, Joe Madureira and more!

This collection pulls stories from a transitionary period of the X-Men books between the critically-acclaimed Age of Apocalypse and the companywide crossover Onslaught. As such, it shouldn’t be a surprise that the majority of the issues here are stuck between dealing with the aftermath of the former and setting up the latter. This creates an inconsistent tone that constantly shifts the narrative focus, leaving the reader with the sense that there doesn’t seem to be a whole lot of movement forward with the storylines being presented. For the most part, the issues that deal with the set-up of Onslaught are far more interesting than those that pull in some of the forgettable baddies from AoA (Dark Riders, I’m looking at you guys).

The writers tread a lot of water here as they place more of an emphasis on the interpersonal dramas between their characters than on action. For example, we’re treated to a date between Psylocke and Archangel and suffer through the continued melodrama of Rogue and Gambit’s tenuous relationship. Admittedly, I find the then-budding romance between Psylocke and Archangel to breathe new life into both characters. It helps to lighten Warren’s personality after being depicted in a grimmer manner following his transformation into Death at the hands of Apocalypse, while Psylocke gets to act as something other than just the team’s T&A. The drama between Rogue and Gambit is more contrived. The issues collected here occur after an incident where Rogue kissed Gambit, which ultimately left him in a coma and her with his memories. She’s thus left the X-Men and is travelling westward with Iceman in tow. This subplot is really engrossing, particularly as we get to see two characters that had previously never interacted much bond on a good ol’ roadtrip. Although, Rogue’s behaviour puts a damper on the two becoming overly close as she seems eager to remain closed off to all those around her. She is also contemptuous towards Gambit and remains judgmental over his past, which ultimately makes her look like a big flaming hypocrite given the fact that we know she’s no saint either (which both Carol Danvers and Dazzler can attest to). However, her icy rejection of Gambit does lead towards a touching scene with Storm consoling Gambit.

While a fair share of the stories in this collection read more as supplementary rather than essential, there are a few noteworthy issues that are worth discussing. Uncanny X-Men #322 sees Beast, Bishop and Psylocke going up against the Juggernaut, who is the first to reveal the coming of Onslaught. Uncanny X-Men #323-325 deals with Marrow and Gene Nation. This three-parter serves as a conclusion to a culmination of events that date back all the way to when Storm won leadership of the Morlocks from Callisto. Storm’s subsequent neglect of the Morlocks, the Marauder’s massacre, and Mikhail Rasputin’s teleportation of them into another plane laid down the groundwork for Marrow’s hatred towards humans and the X-Men. She returns in these issues to enact her revenge, but instead she finds herself up against Storm’s legendary will and ultimately underestimates her opponent. Finally, X-Men Prime is a beautifully poignant series of vignettes written by Lobdell and Nicieza with the help of roughly half a dozen of the decade’s most talented artists. Though it is a transitionary issue meant to wrap up the remaining threads of Age of Apocalypse, it is grounded by an incredibly (and depressingly) relevant story of a mutant who is viciously attacked by a group of humans while he is mere miles away from seeking refuge within the hallowed walls of the Xavier Institute.

X-Men: The Road to Onslaught Volume 1 is pretty much what you’d expect from a collection of comics from the middle of the 1990s. With significantly fewer pockets and shoulderpads than its early-‘90s predecessors, these issues are gorgeously illustrated by some of the best artists in the industry at that point. Those penciled by Joe Madureira are especially memorable. Amidst the many forgettable villains presented here, Lobdell and Nicieza make up for lackluster storylines with excellent dialogue and themes that remain relevant to today’s intolerant society. I’m especially left impressed by how multi-dimensional and dynamic the women they write are. Storm, Jean Grey, Rogue, Psylocke, Callisto, Trish Tilby, and even Marrow are all easily the most memorable characters in this collection. Colossus, Gambit and Beast also have their moments. If anything, The Road to Onslaught Volume 1 is perfect for fans of these characters (especially if you love Rogue and/or Gambit).

RATING: B-

Review: Ultimate X-Men Volume 3 - World Tour

While on an international press tour for his book, Professor Xavier is forced to confront a dark secret from his past when his homicidal son escapes from his confines on Muir Island. He sends the X-Men into the field to capture him, but it soon becomes clear that their powers may not be enough to stop his wayward son. Then, Jean Grey and Cyclops are tasked with bringing Colossus back into the fold after he leaves the team and heads home to Russia.

Ultimate X-Men Volume 3: World Tour collects Ultimate X-Men #13-20, written by Mark Millar and Chuck Austen with art by Adam Kubert and Chris Bachalo.

World Tour serves as an update of the classic Proteus Saga from X-Men #125-128. In this version, Proteus is reimagined as the twisted son of Professor Xavier and Moira MacTaggert. After years of being confined to Muir Island through sedation, David Xavier awakens from his sleep when he senses Professor Xavier’s presence in Europe and sets about enacting his revenge on the man who abandoned him when he was still a child. It’s a creative modernization of the story and the twist of Proteus being Professor Xavier’s son is actually something I would have liked to have been canon in the main Marvel universe. Millar is to further be commended for the way in which he infuses the theme of parental abandonment into this narrative. David Xavier is a complex villain because he commits unforgiveable acts of murder and yet has an upbringing that begs the reader to empathize with him. His father was neglectful and abandoned him when David needed him the most. This is made worse by the fact that his father has now created a surrogate family for himself with the X-Men, intensifying his feelings of loneliness and rejection. It humanizes both David and Professor Xavier, the latter of which used to seem more like an archetype than an individual who makes mistakes in his pursuit of his dream.

The validity and effectiveness of pacifism is another theme that permeates this story arc. Professor Xavier preaches a non-aggressive approach to the protection of human lives, which is something that doesn’t always seem to work in implementation. Colossus in particular doesn’t share the same views as his mentor and leaves the team because of this, though he has added reasons pertaining to his feelings of underappreciation and the endangerment he faces as a member of the X-Men. Colossus also vehemently disagrees with Professor Xavier’s psychic manipulation of Magneto. Indeed, many important questions are raised here. Are non-violent actions a viable solution when faced with aggressive opponents? Can one really claim they are a pacifist when they’re manipulating the mind of another person without their permission? World Tour doesn’t really provide any answers to either of those questions. Although, Millar comes close as he gives the X-Men an irredeemable foe that must be dealt with in as aggressive a manner as possible. Professor Xavier’s psychic surgery of Magneto’s mind creates a rift in the X-Men as well. There’s a growing distrust towards him, particularly from Beast and Colossus, the former of which suspects that his relationship with Storm may be a lie. These kinds of character explorations are really interesting and help to add depth to this collection.

The main storyline for this collection is really great. Millar pens a really cohesive narrative that is sure to resonate with readers and he continues to flesh out these characters so that they feel like complicated individuals. Kubert and Bachalo’s pencils are noteworthy, with Bachalo especially adding a touch of creepiness to the arc once things start to get topsy-turvy with David’s manipulation of reality. The two issues written by Chuck Austen, which introduce fan-favourite Gambit to the Ultimate Universe, are unfortunately quite weak and feel disjointed when collected in this trade. Regardless, World Tour is more of a hit than a miss and is a really fresh take on an iconic storyline from the X-Men oeuvre. Millar and co also get bonus points for their reimagining of Psylocke (a British S.H.I.E.L.D. agent? Yes please!).

RATING: B

Review: Ultimate X-Men Volume 2 - Return to Weapon X

After Colonel Nick Fury goes missing during a S.H.I.E.L.D. assignment, the secretive Weapon X program kidnaps the X-Men and forces them to help in the rescue mission. They are tortured by the sadistic renegade John Wraith and the unscrupulous Abraham Cornelius in order to ensure their continued submission. Having earlier evaded Weapon X, Wolverine is the X-Men’s only hope for escape.

Ultimate X-Men Volume 2: Return to Weapon X collects Ultimate X-Men #7-12, written by Mark Millar and illustrated primarily by Adam Kubert.

In Return to Weapon X, writer Mark Millar re-imagines the shady government-sponsored program that turned Wolverine into the iconic Adamantium-wielding assassin. In the Ultimate Universe, Weapon X is employed by the United States government as an off-the-books organization that enslaves mutants for the purpose of performing black ops missions. It’s run by the extraordinarily cruel John Wraith, who is responsible for giving the orders to capture the X-Men and turn them into his personal kill squad. He fulfills a role similar to that of William Stryker in X2, though admittedly much more unhinged and aggressive. Scientist Abraham Cornelius acts as Wraith’s righthand and plays a crucial role in turning Beast blue in this storyline, which is an interesting  twist seeing as most other versions depict Beast’s transformation as self-inflicted. Nightcrawler, Juggernaut, Sabretooth and Rogue also make appearances as Weapon X subjects. There’s little depth to their characters, especially when it comes to Juggernaut and Rogue, but Nightcrawler is a standout for his continued reluctance to do as he’s told. We’re shown that he’s attempted to escape before and that he still has a clear sense of right and wrong, even though Weapon X’s scientists have attempted to weed that out of them.

Morality is one of the central themes in Return to Weapon X. Professor Xavier has taught the X-Men to never take a life in battle, but they’re clearly shaken after apparently seeing their mentor do just that to Magneto. Jean Grey is especially rattled and her feelings are exacerbated when Wraith makes it clear that he intends to use the X-Men as his personal assassins. Being involved with Weapon X also begins to change Jean’s perception of Wolverine as she begins to understand his actions and is humbled by the fact that he chose to embrace Xavier’s dream in spite of all of Wraith’s programming. Millar adds layers to Jean in this respect and she becomes the emotional nucleus of Ultimate X-Men through her insight and ability to forgive. Jean is also sharply contrasted by Storm’s reactions to the events of this narrative. Where Jean’s resolve and dedication to Xavier’s dream is strengthened by Weapon X’s evils, Storm questions the X-Men’s passivity and seeks retribution for what has been done to them through Wraith and Cornelius’ schemes. This leads to a bit of a schism within the X-Men and helps to illustrate that not everyone reacts the same when faced with traumatic events.

Return to Weapon X is an excellent follow-up to The Tomorrow People. Millar and Kubert continue to show their synergy as a creative team by delivering an action-packed storyline that has both depth and poignancy. The narrative feels like an organic progression of the events that preceded it and helps to build on the personalities and motivations of the X-Men, with a great deal of work spent on further developing Jean Grey and the relationship between Storm and Beast. The inclusion of the Brotherhood in the fight against Weapon X is also a nice nod to their involvement in the previous arc and it also helps to illustrate how badass Scarlet Witch can be. Millar continues to reinvent characters as well, which works rather well with both Wraith and Nightcrawler. He’s a little bit less effective with Juggernaut and Rogue, the former though receives a nifty redesign. His dialogue is iffy at some points too. The filler artists are also subpar in comparison to Kubert’s pencils, which creates a bit of a visual inconsistency to this collection. Nevertheless, Return to Weapon X is a creative and entertaining storyline with a clear set of themes.  The action continues to be explosive and many of the characters are relatable three-dimensional heroes. In this way, Millar and Kubert deliver the goods in Ultimate X-Men.

RATING: B+