Pick of the Week (PotW):
Exiles #12 was the last issue of a delightful and enjoyable escape from the banal often tedious mega events that plague most Marvel books, specifically X-Books. The scene that revealed Lil Wolvie’s nightmare timeline was the infamous 90’s cartoon (an unexpected and delightful nostolagic jab) had me in tears. Nate ultimately proved to be more noble than the original Iron Lad & Kang in the end and overall lessened my distaste for Kang (and Kang-related characters). Old Man Fury seems to finally work in his role as the Unseen IMO. Ideally, I want to see this property get the Big Hero 6 treatment and become an animated movie (visually based on Javier’s art and Ahmed on as a creative adviser). Kudos to the creative team (Saladin Ahmed, Javier Rodriguez, Alvaro Lopez, and Muntsa Vicente) for consistently solid work. If you were a fan of the original Exiles or just a lover of a great story, then do your self a favor and pick up these books NOW!
Coulda Been A Contender (For PotW):
Doctor Strange #12 impressed me that the overall management of magic had an Adjustment Bureau vibe. Also found it interesting that Strange’s power issues were the result of the Bureau‘s attempt to balance the ledger. I hope this view of magical management continues to be used after this story arc. (Mini Geek Rank: I just wished that the Time Variance Authority operated more like this).
The Terrifics #12 continues to be consistent with its Fantastic Four vibe with Rex Mason having to make a Ben Grimm sacrifice for the sake of his team. I am honestly surprised and not surprised that Plastic Man is a deadbeat dad (he does have that Johnny Storm “horn dog”/flake vibe after all).
Heroes in Crisis #5 illustrated how truly horrifying the life of hero is with the Captain Steel segment and addressed the trauma that comes with death & rebirth. That speech… this is why Clark & Co are the rock that their peers lean on.
Worthy Mentions:
Justice League Annual #1 adds another layer to what has been a consistently solid JL run.
X-Force #2 seems a bit odd to have Sam in the midst of the more murder-inclined X-Force Alums. Still not convinced that this kid is truly the young Nate unless all the timey wimey nonsense caused by Hank somehow changed Nate’s history.
Ms. Marvel #37 reminded me of Adventures in Babysitting but with superheroes.
The Silencers #13 finally revealed the origins of Honor and her relationship with Talia.
Weapon H #12 shows us how petty and vindictive Dario Agger is. Surprisingly he also has a warped sense of honor like Victor Von Doom.
Feeling Some Type of Way:
Age of X-Man Alpha #1 seemed just as insidious as the Age of Apocalypse in the sense that love is illegal and a punishable offense. Society seemed to be locked in a 60’s mindset. I am curious about how Piotr lost his arm and hope that is explained.
The Meh Pile:
Nada for this week
This review was written in partnership withPop Culture Network. They can be found on their website: www.popculturenetwork.com
