Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artists: Alex Maleev, Bryan Hitch, Butch Guice, Brandon Peterson, Carlos Pacheco, David Marquez & Joe Quesada
Finally the end of Age of Ultron has arrived, and the series that I was so looking forward to, to only be a huge disappointment comes to an end. The only hope is that this issue will end the bellow mediocre story on a high, and even more so have a spectacular ending.
Plot
Time is running out, and can the events that have happened in Age of Ultron be rectified?
Review
This was a decent issue, and an very interesting way to end the series, but it was still far from perfect, and didn't rectify the series' overall poor quality. I hate to hate Brian Michael Bendis for what he's done here, as although the last few years of his Avengers run were poor, the entire run was relatively good, having a phenomenal start. I also find it hard to hate him as his current work on Marvel NOW! although at times slightly poor, has also been overall brilliant. I do however feel that he's seriously dropped the ball with this series, and although I wouldn't go quite as strong as to say that I hated him, I will say that I am very disappointed, as well as frustrated about this series, which I initially had high hopes for, and I seriously wish I'd just left it alone. Anyway, there were some good things about this issue, and it probably was one of the better issues in the series. At the same time it felt a little anticlimactic at times, as well as also re-printing parts of Avengers #12.1, but I'll talk more on that later. There was however a lot of excitement, and suspense in this issue, something that the series hasn't given much of, and overall it was enjoyable, just not spectacular, or overly memorable.
There were a lot of artist working on this issue, with everyone from Bryan Hitch, Alex Maleev, Jackson Butch Guice, David Marquez, Joe Quesada, and more. Now due to this I won't go into detail on every artists work, but I will mention the artists who's work stood out the most, as well as my overall feelings on the style, and layout. Anyway my favourite art had to be from Hitch, as although it was just a re-print of his work from Avengers #12.1, it was still amazing, and some of the most amazing, and explosive art this series has seen. It was also much better that his art on the earlier issue of this series that he worked on, having a lot more detail. The other art that really stood out to me was the small double page from Marquez, and the final few pages from Quesada, which were both truly phenomenal, with ton's of detail, and vibrancy. I did however find the overall style of the art to be inconsistent, which is expected when many artists collaborate on the same issue, and is the reason I don't like this sort of thing. Now I don't mind montages, in Finale issues, but as this was telling the end of the story I felt it should have had as few artists as possible, or artists with similar style, as although there wasn't one artist who's work I hated, the overall style didn't allow the story to flow as smoothly as it should have.
During the last issue we saw Hank Pym being persuaded to help stop Ultron without affecting the timeline. Now we see a continuation of this as the Hank Pym of the present receives a message from his past self. Now I won't go into any more details, as to avoid spoilers, but what would happen during this was very intriguing. It also was a interesting way of setting up the end of this story, and although it wasn't the most exciting way to do it, it was still very interesting, and appropriate. Besides this I also loved seeing the current Pym's reaction to this message, as although it was as expected, it was still brilliant, and added more drama, and suspense to the issue.
As I said earlier this issue took parts from Avengers #12.1 to finish the story, adding additional text to make it look, and seem like a different encounter. Now I wasn't too sure if I loved or hated this, as although I didn't initially notice that it was nearly an exact copy of Avengers #12.1, when I found out I wasn't sure is this was a brilliant, or terrible decision on Bendis part. I say this as part of me feels cheated, having what is virtually a previous used sequence added to this final issue. On the other hand I liked how the whole story has went full circle, with it starting, and ending with nearly the exact same sequence, in the exact same moment.
We did also get to see a fight between the Avengers, and Ultron, and although I won't go into too much detail, as well as zero story detail, to avoid spoilers, I will say what I thought of the sequence. First off, finally the Avengers/Ultron fight I was hoping for in this story, and although some of it was from the Avengers #12.1 issue, I was still happy to see the fight, as well as the fact that it was expanded, with Guice continuing from Hitch's art from Avenger #12.1. The fight itself wasn't spectacular, but it was still exciting, and clever, and although it still doesn't make up for the lack of Ultron in this series, as well as the overall quality of the series, it was still nice.
Now this issue speculated that there will once again be change in the Marvel Universe. Now I will once again avoid going into much detail as not to spoil anything, but I will say my thoughts on this. Now this for me was what made this issue so interesting, and really has me hooked on what may happen in the future. I will however say that although I liked the change that was shown at the end of the issue that was drawn by Quesada, I didn't understand the need for secrecy, as although I won't say what it was, I will say that it was something that was already mentioned prior. I did however still love this addition, and felt it was perfect considering what's to come, and although I still question the need for secrecy, it was still a nice surprise, all be it, not as big a surprise as I initially expected.
WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILER AHEAD!
Now this is only me speculating, but I wonder if the events in this series have anything to do with the upcoming Infinity story arc. Now I very much doubt it, but I ask this question as there was a double page spread not long after the half way point, that had a similar smashed panel affect as the Free Comic Book Day Infinity issue had. Now this could easily be a coincidence, but with this also showing things to come, as well as the fractured timeline, it's a possibility, and although I personally feel that it is just coincidence, I felt it was worth sharing.
Final Verdict
This was a good way to finish the series, but at the same time it didn't make up for the previous down points during the series, and overall was itself not spectacular. It did however have some action, and excitement, as well as suspense, and drama, something that the series hasn't always had. It also showed that there will be some changes coming, which has me hooked, but still doesn't make up for the fact that this was a seriously poor series. I would only recommend this issue to people who have already been getting the series, as well as others who want to get a teaser for the upcoming changes, as although you should be able to find these changes on the internet, I found it more interesting finding them out through this issue.
Rating: 3/5
Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: David Marquez
I have really been enjoying this series so far, and it has been one of my favourite series in the Marvel NOW! concept. Although it's not been the most consistent of the Marvel NOW! series, it has been very fun, and there hasn't been one issue that I didn't enjoy.
Plot
The younger Angel gets to have some time with the current Angel, and isn't too happy with what he hears. Also HYDRA attack Avengers Tower, and the Avengers pay Wolverine's X-Men a visit.
Review
Another brilliant issue, and although not the best issue in the series it's still one of the better. After reading the disappointing Age of Ultron #1 I was happy to be reminded with this issue that Brian Michael Bendis isn't a rubbish writer all the time. Bendis has done a brilliant job of integrating the younger X-Men with the current, and I have enjoyed what I've seen so far. Bendis continues to give us plenty of action in this issue, and also gives us some funny moments, and some questionable ones. Bendis also did a not too bad job on the Avengers for many years, so it was nice to see him write them again. When I see his writing in series like this, and Guardians of the Galaxy I question why he produces comics like Age of Ultron #1.
David Marquez' artwork continues to amaze me, and I'm actually sad to see him leave this series (at least he'll be returning to Ultimate Comics Spider-Man). Nothing against Stuart Immonen's art, as I'm looking forward to seeing him back as the artist of this series, but I was really enjoying seeing Marquez' art on this series as it's phenomenal. Marquez' art is very detailed, and there isn't one panel that lacks detail. I also like the way that Marquez shows the emotions in the characters, as I liked that the sequence between the two Angel's had a lot of puzzled, and fun expressions, whereas the sequence with the young Jean Grey at the end was a bit more serious. I also love how Marquez draws action sequences as they are stunning. I really hope that Marquez get's put on one of the big Marvel NOW! titles on a permanent basis, as he is a brilliant artist.
The majority of this issue showed the confrontation between the two Angel's. Although this hasn't been the best confrontation in the series so far it was still very good, and probably the funniest, and most entertaining. Having read the The Dark Angel Saga I was able to see exactly what turned Angel into this mindless hippy that we have now, so it was very fun seeing him try and explain it. I also liked that we actually got to see more of the current Angel. Having dropped Wolverine and the X-Men (which current Angel featured in) I don't know if anythings changed in the Angel character since then, but when I was reading it nothing really changed since Dark Angel Saga, and Angel seemed to be a more complicated character than before, and didn't really interact much. Anyway the best part about this sequence was the reaction from the younger Angel, as he was a bit shocked to see what becomes of him. I also loved the fight sequences that involved the two Angel's working together.
HYDRA's involvement. To be honest I found the addition of HYDRA in this issue to be a bit random. Okay, it was a good way of having the Avengers make a cameo appearance, but still a little too random for me. Anyway as I said the Angel's get to fight HYDRA in this issue, which was brilliant. The only small complaint I have at this sequence, and I'm nitpicking here is, how can two superhuman's, one who's not all right in the mental department, and the other who's not got much experience beat HYDRA. Besides that the action was brilliant, and it gave for more brilliant interaction from the two Angel's.
Another thing that wasn't as good as I expected was the Avengers appearance. When I heard that the Avengers would be making an appearance in this issue I was very exited, but after reading it I was disappointed. The issue took way to much time showing the two Angel's interact, and fight HYDRA, and although it was a good sequence I'd have preferred to have seen more of the Avengers. The sequence involving the Avengers was however brilliant, and although we didn't really see much of them during that I loved Kitty Pryde, and Iceman making fun of Beast and Captain America, pretending to know what they're saying (which by the look of it was spot on). I also felt that the interaction between Cap, and the younger Cyclops could have lasted a bit longer.
Final Verdict
This was a brilliant issue, and although it's not the best in the series so far, it is not far behind. The series as a whole has been amazing, and I can't get enough of it. I'd recommend both this issue, and the series, and am looking forward to the next issue.
Rating: 4/5
Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: David Marquez
I have really been enjoying this series, and it's by far the Marvel NOW! series I most look forward to reading each issue. Brian Michael Bendis has really put some life back into the X-Men franchise, as I personally was loosing interest in the X-Men, and I'm glad to see them in brilliant stories once more.
Plot
This issue sees the younger Cyclops retrieving his ruby quartz glasses from a safety deposit box, whilst also finding something a little more shocking. He also gets a surprise visit from Mystique, who gives him some advice.
Review
This was a brilliant issue, and I'm starting to get the feeling that this series is done messing around. Although I've loved all the issues in the series so far the last two have probably been the most consistent the series has been, and I'm glad as that was the only thing I was disappointed with. Bendis continues to bring excitement to this series by adding something volatile, which always makes it interesting whether the end result is good or bad, in this case good. The issue however wasn't without it's faults as unlike last issue it wasn't quite perfect, feeling a little slow from time to time.
Just like last issue David Marquez' artwork has been astonishing. I've never disliked any of his art in previous series in the past, but I don't think I've liked his art as much as in this series. Although I love Stuart Immonen's artwork it's hard to say that it's better than Marquez', something I didn't expect as Marquez' has produced some of the best X-Men artwork I've ever seen, and I hope he finds his way to one of the top series'. Marquez' art is near flawless as the detail is phenomenal, and the emotion flows smoothly, whether shocked, happy, confused or upset. Marquez also gives the series a dramatic feel, giving suspense, and flair, and although Immonen did this previously in the series, Marquez has done as good a job of it.
I wasn't too sure what to make of Mystique's appearance in this series when I first heard of it, but I can't say I wasn't interested, as how couldn't I. Mystique always brings something to the table when she's used in series', and although it's not always good, it usually has a big affect on the series. Now this series doesn't show to much towards her plans, but it's safe to say that it won't be fun for the X-Men in the long run, and especially certain members. What I probably liked most about her appearance in this issue was Cyclops reaction, as she really had an affect on him, and it was easy to se the conflictions in his thoughts.
The bank sequence at the start of the issue was probably the most eventful, and it really set the tone for the rest of the issue. It was interesting to see that people have different perspectives on Cyclops, as most of the people see him as a mutant terrorist that is wanted by the police, whereas there is one person that sees him differently, and although it's obvious that his celebrity statues played some part in her actions, it also showed that not everyone had the same attitude toward him, which was nice, especially considering this Cyclops is innocent. It was also nice to see Wolverine use his Avengers members card in this issue, even if it was Mystique disguised as him. On a similar different subject, I'm also looking forward to seeing the Avengers reaction to these younger X-Men in next issue.
There was also a small sequence near the end of the issue which shows Kitty Pryde putting the rest of the younger X-Men through a training session. What was probably most interesting in this sequence was the younger Iceman's reactions to Kitty's training plan. It was also interesting to see the difference in Kitty's opinion between the younger Iceman, and the current Iceman, which she knows better. I look forward to seeing more of Kitty training the younger X-Men, as I've always liked her as a character, so it's nice to see her involved more.
Final Verdict
Although not quite as good as the last issue, this is still a very good issue, and is very interesting. I would highly recommend both this issue, and the series, and hope that it keeps this high level of quality, as it is one of the best Marvel series out the now.
Rating: 4.5/5
Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: David Marquez
This has been a fabulous series, and although I've been disappointed a couple of times it has still been brilliant, and the Marvel NOW! series I look forward to reading the most each month.
Plot
This issue sees the younger Cyclops run away from the school and Wolverine has to go after him. Kitty Pryde also helps Jean Grey cope with he recently found telepathic powers.
Review
This was a brilliant issue and one of my favourites in the series so far. Brian Michael Bendis has been doing an excellent job of this series, and although it's had a few down points along the way, overall it's been a very fun, and exciting series, and Bendis has me hooked to it. As I've said in the past I never expected that bringing the younger versions of the original X-Men to the present would work, but it's been the best thing about this series, and the thing I most look forward to seeing in each issue. This issue Bendis continues throwing spanners into the works when the younger Cyclops runs away not handling the knowledge of what he's going to do very well, which has created a brilliant issue, and has potential for further great things, but I'll talk more about that further on in my review.
I've really enjoyed Stuart Immonen's art in this series, but have noticed a few imperfections recently in his work, so it's nice to see David Marquez stepping in for him. I know Marquez is capable of doing brilliant artwork, as he's shown in Fantastic Four: Season One, and Ultimate Comics Spider-Man, but I never expected to like his artwork even more than Immonen's, but after seeing his art in this issue I have to say I much prefer Marquez' art. Don't get me wrong I still think Immonen is a fantastic artist, and look forward to seeing him return to this series, but I also hope that Marquez is put on one of Marvel's top titles as he deserves it. Marquez' art in this issue is simply phenomenal, and very detailed. I've really enjoyed his art on other titles, especially Ultimate Comics Spider-Man, but this has to be his best artwork to date. He draws all the characters perfectly, and the action sequences look amazing.
There were many brilliant moments in this issue, and along with issue 2 it is my joint favourite issue in the series so far. I actually half expected the series to go down hill after the announcement last issue that the young X-Men would be staying a while longer, but I'm glad that I was wrong, and even more glad to see that it's even better, and I hope it stays this good, but through past history of the series so far I'd be surprised. Still expect the series to be good though.
The thing I loved most in this issue was how the young Cyclops fled from the Jean Grey School for Higher Learning, and how he couldn't handle the fact that his future self would kill Professor X. I also liked that Wolverine, went after him, and that he was angry that he took his bike, and jacket. This was handled very well, as it would be easy to just have Cyclops run away, Wolverine run after him, and drag him back, or get straight into a fight with no set-up, but Bendis did a great job in this issue. It was slightly emotional at certain points, as Wolverine couldn't help but feel anger and rage towards Cyclops knowing that he would kill Professor X, but at the same time felt sorry for him due to the predicament he was in. I also liked the naivety of the young Cyclops not knowing that Wolverine had an Adamantium skeleton. I also liked that despite all this it leaded into a fight which should be interesting to see continued in the next issue.
I also liked the sequence that involved Jean, and Kitty, and especially the way it started. Jean has recently discovered that she has telepathic powers, which she can't control. It was very nice to see Kitty help out Jean, and the way they interacted was marvellous. Although I've never been the biggest Kitty fan I have enjoyed he role in the X-Men over the last few years, and especially since she returned a year or two ago in Uncanny X-Men: Breaking Point, and have especially liked seeing her have a bigger role in the group. The thing I mainly liked about Jean and Kitty's interaction was how Kitty felt towards Jean, as she couldn't help but think of the Jean she knew, whilst trying not to reflect that towards the younger Jean. I also liked how the roles are reversed, as when Kitty joined the X-Men Jean would have been her role model, whereas now the younger Jean is looking up to her, especially since she has helped her. It was also nice to see Storm make an appearance in this issue even though it was brief.
The thing I'm most looking forward to seeing carried forward into the next issue is the interaction between the current and younger Angel, as they met for the first time near the end of this issue. I won't speak much about this encounter due to it being near the end, and not wanting to spoil it but it was very interesting, and I look forward to seeing how it progresses. I'm aslo looking forward to seeing how the current Angel is acting now, as since dropping Wolverine and the X-Men I haven't read anything he's been in, and with everything that has happened to him over the last couple of years his development could get very interesting at any moment. There was also a shocking appearance at the very end of the issue, but I won't talk about that at all. All I will say is that anyone who's saw the cover for issue 7 will guess what it is.
Final Verdict
This was a brilliant issue and the joint best in the series so far, and I hope the series continues to be this good. I would highly recommend this issue, as well as the entire series so far, as it's been very exciting, entertaining, and fun.
Rating: 5/5
