Amazing X-Men #2 – A duel of Truths

Words cut deep in Amazing X-Men #2 by Jed MacKay, Mahmud Asrar, Matt Wilson & Clayton Cowles, Marvel Comics

This comic had too much excitement in the Nerd Initiative Bullpen, so Amazing X-Men #2 will be reviewed by Yancy and Megan!

AGE OF REVELATION

Previously Cyclops and Beast’ consciousness were brought 10 years into an alternate future by the X-Men of the that time. Where a disease called the X-Virus has devastated large parts of the United States. Also, Cyclops learned the main culprit of this dystopian future was Dough Ramsey. Also known as Revelation. Once an X-Man and a brother in arms. Unfortunately, Ramsey took it upon himself to “save” the world in a very messiah complex driven campaign. Those who joined Ramsey’s campaign have perpetrated crimes and atrocities against humans and mutants alike. All for the glory of their leader. This is the Age of Revelation.

Catch up with Amazing X-Men #2 here!

*SPOILERS FOR ISSUE #2*

FROM SOLICITATION:

“OUT OF THE FRYING PAN AND INTO THE HELLFIRE! X YEARS LATER, the X-Men find themselves at the mercy of the Darkchild and her demon knight, the Juggernaut! Can the X-Men escape Providence, or will they join the residents of that cursed city in damnation? A new ally joins them, but new truths coming to light threaten to tear them apart!” (From Marvel Comics)

OLD FRIENDS REUINTED

After running from Revelation’s Angel of Death, the X-Men found themselves in a Providence, Rhode Island. The one place safe from Revelation and the X-Virus. All because this town was under the “protection” of the Darkchild. Just in case you don’t know, Darkchild is the ruler of the demon horde of Limbo. Ilyana Rasputina. Also known as Magik, shouldered the burdens of having Darkchild attached to her being. But there is no sanctuary. The citizens of Providence enjoy the protection of Darkchild as long as they work themselves to death for her.

HONESTY AMONG FRIENDS

   After they exchanged pleasantries, Scott asked the Darkchild for help. As expected, Darkchild would not do a favor for nothing in return. After all, she is still a demon. So, Cyclops decided to challenge Darkchild to a duel. Instead of having a duel of skill or abilities, this was a duel of truths. Hard hitting truths that is. It was at this moment that Scott Summers showcased all the qualities and attributes that make him the leader we all know and love him for.

HOW ABOUT THE ART?

Yancy – Mahmud Asrar & Matt Wilson continued the amazing dystopian world that is the Age of Revelation. The cunning attitudes from Darkchild are palpable through the visuals. Moreover, the unshakable convictions of Cyclops are believable. Because of the incredible craftsmanship of these artists.

Megan – Mahmud Asrar brings all the heat to Amazing X-Men #2, which makes the story hit in such a powerful way. The expressions of Darkchild throughout the comic are so clear and obvious, that it hammers home her cockiness. Cyclops shows many emotions of the comic, and you can see the exact moment when the tide changes just based on his stature. Matthew Wilson serves as the colorist, and brings a beautiful presentation of vibrancy, especially when it comes to Darkchild. Although her clothes are dark, her bright skin, fiery eyes, and starking white hair established her larger than life attitude.

Final Thoughts

Yancy: 10/10 – Jed Mackay brought to life the phrase “the devil you know” through this version of Magik. There’s a social and political commentary through the citizens of Providence. The decision of serving the demon Darkchild instead of testing their luck in any of the Revelation territories is relatable. As a reader you feel for those civilians trapped in the middle. But this is the brilliance of Jed MacKay in full display. This is an example of the Dilemma fallacy. Darkchild presents herself as the lesser of two evils. As if there were no other choices. However, here’s the X-Men, fighting to make a change for good.

Megan 10/10 – Jed Mackay was able to bring the factors that had me hooked to the first issue and elevated it completely. The use of Darkchild and her undeniable confidence was one of my favorite aspects of the comic, even though there were so many things to love about Amazing X-Men #2. Jed MacKay continues to mark his spot in the X-Men: Age of Revelation event in a big way!

OVERALL GRADE: 10/10