UNCANNY X-MEN #22 (MARVEL COMICS)
From the Age Of Revelation, the Uncanny X-Men return!
They’re not the only ones returning in this “Shadows Of Tomorrow” era. Mutina has found her way to New Orleans. After being involved in anti-mutant propaganda, the psychotic killer presents an offer The X-Men should refuse. The question becomes: Can they?
UNCANNY X-MEN #22 by Gail Simone, David Marquez, Matt Wilson & Clayton Cowles kicks off a new phase of the premier X-Team!
Let’s take a deeper dive into what unfolds now.
UNCANNY X-MEN #22 by Gail Simone, David Marquez, Matt Wilson & Clayton Cowles (Marvel Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Simone starts the chapter with a simple date night between Nightcrawler and Mackenzie. The writing keeps the mood light-hearted with the charm of Wagner leading the way. This unfolds into a birthday party to remember. Simone excels in bringing back the more “normal” elements of the team that connect them to readers. This is another great example of that storytelling. The mood shifts quickly when Logan catches wind of a party crasher. From here, caution isn’t the only thing being thrown.
Mutina’s “request” to join the X-Men is one that demonstrates how unhinged she truly is. Considering the number she did in issues 17-18, this was never flying with Logan. Their conversation escalates rapidly to exploding levels. Readers watch as Mutina throws in some mind games with how she approaches Wolverine. This moves events into a dangerous closing portion. Simone positions the unhinged threat in the center of the storm. One voice steps up to calm the waves being made. It is a perfect counter to Mutina’s manipulations. The fallout leaves events with a sense of question in its wake. A solid return that leaves doors open for a future uncertain.
Marquez and Wilson craft the optimism swirling around Kurt Wagner in the opening pages. The moments with MacKenzie capture the romance blossoming. This moves into a happier full page image. Celebrating Nightcrawler’s birthday in such a manner is vintage X-Men. The page floods with excitement as the reactions are nothing but smiles. This moment sours fast for Wolverine as he smells the party crasher lurking in the background.
Mutina’s half page entrance locks readers in with Wilson’s coloring. The dark setting is perfect for her face-off with Logan. Readers watch as his expression never budges as Mutina pleads her request. This carries to her breakdown of the Outliers. Panel structure makes the page stand out when presented. Action scenes move quickly to the final act of the book. Mutina’s duel with one X-Man is filled with sharp strikes and sharper dialogue. It results in a solid landing with a parting panel leaving room for more. Another fun visual ride.
FINAL GRADE: 8.8
Mutina returns with thoughts of delusions clouding her mind in this excellent read. Simone delivers on another strong X-chapter with the writing. Marquez and Wilson’s art showcases the ever-challenging world of mutants and humans. This creative team always delivers on what you want out of an X-Men title.
Let me know your thoughts on UNCANNY X-MEN #22 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
