Review: UNCANNY AVENGERS #14

Writer:  Rick Remender
Penciler:  Steve McNiven
Inker:  John Dell
Colorist:  Laura Martin
Letterer:  VC’s Clayton Cowles

Uncanny Avengers #14 feels like half an ode to fans of Rick Remender‘s Marvel work over the years, and half an ode to fans of Marvel’s alternate future timelines.  This marks the beginning of “Ragnarok Now”, the second chapter in Remender’s master plan for the Avengers Unity Squad.  From the fallout of this issue, big things are in store.

Uncanny Avengers #14 interior art

What I Liked

This series by Rick Remender has been rapidly climbing the list of my favorite Marvel NOW! titles.  After a slow start, Remender has been building the tension between Avenger and X-Man.  Along with creating new villains the Apocalypse Twins while utilizing established foes Red Skull and Kang the Conqueror.

Steve McNiven is the pencilist.  Nowadays, if he is lending his talents to a book, you know it is a big deal.  He really excels at relaying the tension and drama on each panel.

Now let’s get down to the actual issue….wow do we get some action!  Remender has been building to this for months.  Rogue and Scarlet Witch have been arguing with each other and it finally comes to an end.

The various cameos at the beginning of the issue were fun too.  We get no immediate answers as to what part they will play in all this, but that is fine.  More setup for future plots.

Just the thought of  Scarlet Witch and Wonder Man’s secretly plan to double-cross the Apocalypse Twins has me giddy for the possible climax to the story.  If it actually happens, it should be one humongous, boss-level caliber fight.

What I Didn’t Like

We get some major deaths.  First thought is these won’t last, as is the case with death in comics.  I know many people will be enraged that their favorite character(s) are dead, which is their right.  I’d recommend continuing with the story until its finale.  Remender has a knack of reviving heroes after he’s killed them off.

Uncanny Avengers #14 cover

Summary

Marvel looks to be delivering on their earlier statement that Uncanny Avengers would be the flagship title for Marvel NOW!.  The actions in this book should have repercussions felt throughout the Marvel universe.  Marvel and Rick Remender have succeeded in one aspect….this issue will have people talking.  And it’s just the opening salvo.

This review is written in partnership with Pop Culture Network.  They can be found at their website http://www.popculturenetwork.com/

#ComicBookChronicles @CBChron founder. Editor-in-Chief of @thekliqnation. Comic book reviewer, podcaster #RABBLERABBLE