Ultimate X-Men #2- An Eerie Look At the Mutants

Creative Team- Peach Momoko(writer, artist, cover artist). Zack Davisson(script adaptation). Travis Lanham(letterer). Mike Choi, Betsy Cola, Peach Momoko, Phil Noto(variant cover artists).

Published By Marvel Entertainment

Check out the review for Ultimate X-Men #1 HERE!

Before we get started, this comic does deal with the subject of suicide. Please read at your own discretion. Marvel Entertainment has included a note on the last page to reach out to someone you trust or dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Hotline.

A Little Recap

When we last saw Hisako Ichiki, the reader learned about her friend, Tsubasa’s death. Hisako met a sinister shadow that swore to take retribution on those that bullied Tsubasa into taking his own life. The shadow more than proved that it means business by the death of her childhood friend’s coach, who apparently was bullying Tsubasa.

A Day In The Life Of Hisako

This comic book starts out by showing us the guilt Hisako feels for not doing enough to prevent Tsubasa from taking his own life. She questions herself if she did enough. If she were to question Tsubasa decision about wanting to drop out of school, would he still be here? Very much keeping on theme with what she was feeling in the first issue of Ultimate X-Men. But this time, she isn’t alone in this.

She encounters a spunky young girl named Mei, sporting gorgeous white hair. Hisako perceives Mei as somewhat odd, yet odd in a way that resonates with her own struggles. Quickly bonding, Hisako extends an invitation to Mei to join her in confronting the vengeful shadow. During this encounter, the shadow issues another threat against those responsible for Tsubasa’s tragic demise. Amidst the chilling confrontation, Hisako discovers that Mei possesses abilities akin to her own.

A Memorable First Day Of School

Arriving at school the following day, Hisako discovers that Mei is also in her class, bringing her immense joy as she had previously felt like an outcast with no one to confide in. Having a friend by her side feels comforting. However, in the schools entrance ceremony, it becomes apparent that the threat from the shadow was not mere words. Hisako realizes the gravity of the sinister shadow’s intentions for vengeance.

My Review

I found this comic to be relatable when dealing with the emotions of being close to someone who died by suicide. It authentically portrays the feelings of guilt, the instinct to avoid confronting emotions, and the tendency to withdraw inwardly while coping with loss. The narrative beautifully delves into the shadows of Hisako’s life, offering insights that anyone who has experienced the mental anguish resulting from bullying can understand.

The artwork is gorgeous, which isn’t surprising when Peach Momoko is involved. Momoko just never misses. The subtle colors add so many layers of emotion to the story itself, it’s perfect. The art also does extremely well in depicting the haunting aspect of the story.

I Give This A 9 out of 10

Hey, it’s Megan! If you liked my review, be sure to check out my other reviews! Let me know what you think of Ultimate X-Men #2, or tell me what comics you’d recommend me trying out! Find me on my socials, and check out my Marvel podcast, Vigilante Vibes, by clicking here!