All-New X-Men #3 Review

Writer:  Brian Michael Bendis
Pencils:  Stuart Immonen

I can’t express how much I am enjoying All-New X-Men.  Each issue has included a new development, whether it’s finding out about Beast’s new mutation, to the original X-Men being plucked from the past, and the newest revelation in issue three regarding the “Phoenix Five”.  Issue one showcased the X-Men dealing with the repercussions of Avengers vs. X-Men, issue two dealt with the original X-Men coming to the present, and issue three deals with Cyclops and his mutant revolution.

What I Liked

We finally get the answer to how Emma Frost was freed.  She appeared alongside Cyclops, Magneto and Magik in All-New X-Men #1, but we never saw how that happened.  You would think that Emma would be thankful to Cyclops for rescuing her, but that is not the case as we see the end of their relationship.  Now there is dissension in their ranks that extends even past Cyclops and White Queen, as you’ll see below.

Bendis has done a good job of introducing new variables to established characters.  He does the same for characters who had direct contact with the Phoenix Force.  It is a new development that we will have to pay attention to going forward.  I like what Bendis is doing because it is something different.  Also the changes he’s making aren’t damaging the X-brand.  He’s adding to it.

The final image was a great way to end the issue and leave you anticipating #4.

What I Didn’t Like

During Cyclops and White Queen’s argument he tells her that it was the Phoenix that betrayed her.  This is opposite of what Cyclops claimed in the mini series AvX Consequences.  There he took full blame for his actions while possessed by the Phoenix.  Perhaps Cyclops had a change of heart, but he’s stayed pretty firm in his beliefs.  Of course the majority of women will have you changing your tune when they are about to walk out of your life.

We see how the Phoenix has altered Cyclops, Magik, Magneto, and White Queen, but what about Colossus and Namor?  Colossus will be a member of Cable and X-Force and Namor will be in New Avengers so perhaps their stories will be told there.

The true flagship of Marvel NOW! continues to not disappoint.  Bendis is taking the mutants on a journey where old alliances are broken, new ones are being forged, and time traveling interlopers are seeking answers.

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