X-Men: Battle of the Atom #2 Review

Writer: Jason Aaron

Artists: Esad Ribic & Giuseppe Camuncoli

Although Battle of the Atom has lasted longer than it probably should have, having some slow moments along the way, it has overall been a very entertaining story. It does however all come down to this ending, as although it's been good so far, a bad ending could ruin the entire story.

Plot

The X-Men and the future Brotherhood go at it one last time, with S.H.I.E.L.D. inadvertently attacking the mutants as well. 

Review

This was a very good issue as a whole, but it had quite a few problems, with the ending being one of the main problems. Also unlike solicited the issue would actually be written by Jason Aaron who did a brilliant job of making the issue very exciting. He did however not didn't do a fantastic job of ending the story, as although a certain part of the outcome was already spoiled, the ending wouldn't give much clarity to the overall story, making it feel rather unnecessary. Aaron would however add a lot of suspense and drama to this issue as well, with there being some very interesting dialogues, though the poor ending still overshadows all this quite a bit.

The artwork on this issue would be the other big problem, as although there were some very talented artists with the main artwork being done by Esad Ribic and Giuseppe Camuncoli, and the epilogue artwork featuring more of Camuncoli's work, also featuring art from Chris Bachalo, Kris Anka and Stuart Immonen. The main problem with the art was that it was clearly very rushed, with it being poorly detailed. There would however be the odd phenomenal panel, and the layout overall was amazing, but the roughness of the art made it very hard to enjoy it, even with the beautiful colours from  Ive Svorcina, Andres Mossa and Guru Efx.

The issue would start straight from where Wolverine and the X-Men #37 left off with the X-Men being attacked by S.H.I.E.L.D. missiles, that were fired by the Brotherhood. Now this would be a very exciting sequence with the fight between all the X-Men and the future Brotherhood taking up most of the issue. During the fight there would be some amazing interactions, but the best would be between Wolverine, Cyclops and  the future Jean Grey.  On top of this the younger X-Men would also add some fun to the sequence with what certain members had to say about the events.

We'd also get to see some Sentinels in this issue, though what bothered the X-Men most about this was the fact that they were S.H.I.E.L.D. Sentinels. Now naturally this wouldn't make the X-Men happy, and naturally so. The addition itself was however rather hollow, as it would have been nice to have seen a bit more action involving the Sentinels, as their appearance seems to be mainly to set up the future events of Wolverine and the X-Men. Other than that S.H.I.E.L.D.'s involvement in this issue was overall very decent, as although they seemed mainly background characters, they added a different tone to the issue, and overall I look forward to seeing the aftermath of this sequence.

The main story would be followed by four epilogues, two written by Aaron, one written by Brian Wood and the last being written by Brian Michael Bendis. Now I won't go into any detail about these epilogues, but story wise they'd be the best part of the issue, and did a fantastic job of giving a little bit of closure for the characters, setting up the future of the X-Men brilliantly. The epilogue that interested me the most however had to be the final one by Bendis that would see Kitty Pryde air her feelings over the event in a very exciting fashion.

Final Verdict

This was an exciting issue, but due to a poor ending and very rushed artwork it was probably overall the poorest issue in the story, with it making the story feel irrelevant and unnecessary. There would however be some explosive moments, and some shocking developments with the epilogues doing a fantastic job of setting up the future of the X-Men titles, but unfortunately it wasn't enough to overcome the sudden and poor ending. Due to this I'd only recommend this issue to anyone who's been following the story so far, or anyone that loves explosive action, as otherwise it's only essential for the epilogues.

Rating: 6/10

Uncanny X-Men #13 Review

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: Chris Bachalo

Battle of the Atom has on a whole been a very exciting story so far, as although it has had a few issues that were slightly disappointing, on a whole it's been very entertaining, with some amazing moments.

Plot

As Cyclops' X-Men and a group of X-Men from the future prepare to take the fight to the renegade X-Men team from the future they are stopped in their tracks.

Review

Though slightly disappointing this was a good issue, and Brian Michael Bendis did a great job of developing the story. I did however feel that there was too much going on for one issue, with too many sub-plots that didn't get enough development time, and cutting some would have probably made the others better. Bendis did however do a brilliant job of adding a lot of excitement and tension to this issue, though the many sub-plots did slightly take away from this. There was however some very interesting interactions, and the the development near the end was very interesting, making the last two chapters of this story look even more exciting.

The artwork that Chris Bachalo has been producing on this series has been overall very good, as although I am not a fan of his work in general, it suits this series brilliantly. I did however once again dislike it, as bar the style continuing not to fit as well as the other artists do, it also didn't help with the storytelling, as the style would make the story feel even more muddled than it already did. I did however as usual like Bachalo's layouts, as although they were partly to blame for the muddled feel at times, they also managed to add a lot of depth and excitement throughout the rest of the issue. I also loved how Bachalo handled the action in this issue, as his art would make the sequences much more explosive and exciting.

There would be two main fights/encounters in this issue, with one being Cyclops' team against Xavier Jr. Although this wasn't my favourite out of the two encounters, it was still very exciting at times, having a lot of tension throughout, also having a brilliant atmosphere to it. It was also very clever at times, as although most of the encounter was very predictable, there were a couple of points that were very interesting, showing that Xavier Jr. isn't a pushover. At the same time this clever development took away the amount of excitement that would be added if Cyclops' team was given a proper chance of fighting back.

The other fight would see the future Deadpool and Molly Hayes go up against Magik and the future version of her brother Colossus, with them both having Soul Swords. This was a much more entertaining sequence, and I really enjoyed seeing the sibling team-up, even if one of them is from the future. I also felt that this sequence was a lot more exciting, having a much better tone and atmosphere, with the dialogue also being much better. On top of that the fight felt much more organic, and spontaneous than the other, with some of the actions feeling very sudden and suspenseful.

Whilst all this is happening the future Jean Grey and Beast, along with Raze (who was revealed in X-Men #6 to be Wolverine's shape changing son from the future, who so far had been masquerading as a future version of Kitty Pryde) would get even closer to their goal of sending the younger X-Men back to their own timeline. Now I won't go into any detail as to what happens here, though anyone who followed the NYCC announcements can guess part of the development. The sequence was however very interesting and dramatic, and the developments were even more interesting, having me more excited for the final two chapters.

Final Verdict

Though not one of the better issues in the story so far, it was still exciting at times, and did a good job of developing the story as a whole. It did however have too much going on, and would have probably been better if some of the sub-plots were cut. There would also however be some very exciting moments, and the issue as a whole would have been much better if not for the amount going on. Due to all this I'd barely recommend it, and especially if you've been following the story so far, but otherwise wait for the trade.

Rating: 7/10

Uncanny X-Men #12 Review

WARNING: THIS REVIEW WILL SPOIL THE EVENTS OF BATTLE OF THE ATOM SO FAR!

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: Chris Bachalo

Battle of the Atom has been the crossover that I was looking forward to for a long time, and so far it hasn't disappointed, as although it's still to hit top gear, it has been extremely fun, and entertaining, and I'm always excited between each instalment.

Plot

The younger Cyclops and Jean Grey have reached Utopia where they try and gain the help of older Cylcops' X-Men.

Review

This was yet another great addition to the Battle of the Atom storyline, tough also the worst so far. Brian Michael Bendis did a great job of continuing from where X-Men #5 left off, but the issue itself didn't do a great lot to help the stories development. It did however still have some brilliant sequences, with yet again more amazing dialogue from Bendis, which added a lot of drama, and excitement. It did however also lag at times, trying to do too much set-up with nothing really paying off in this issue. Bendis did however leave the issue with a brilliant cliffhanger, and I really hope that this is followed-up properly in Wolverine and the X-Men #36, and that the series finally reaches a higher gear.

Although I've never been a huge fan of Chris Bachalo's artwork, I have been enjoying it on this series. I did however really dislike it on this issue, as a lot of the art reminded me of why I disliked it in the first place. For starters his artwork doesn't really go well with any of the previous artists in this story, and although I already knew this, seeing it made it more obvious. I also hated Bachalo's artwork on the future X-Men, and especially the future Beast and Deadpool. I did however once again love his layouts and colours, as the layout adds a lot of depth and tone to the issue, whilst his colours also added more tone and depth, being the best thing about his artwork.

This series has seen S.H.I.E.L.D. have a huge involvement in it, so it was no surprise that it would be the issue to introduce them to this storyline. Now to be honest I feel that it's a good thing to add S.H.I.EL.D., as it adds some diversity, giving a different possible path in the future stages of the story. At the same time I also liked how it was condensed in this issue to nothing more than set-up, as although I complained slightly about the issue having too much set-up, and not enough payoff, this is something that needs setting up whereas some of the other things could have lead into a payoff in the same issue.

The main focus of this issue would see Cyclops contemplating whether to help these younger X-Men, or to help the others in sending them back to their own time. To be honest I thought given the close call in X-Men: Battle of the Atom #1 that it'd be a no-brainer, but the way Bendis handled this decision was brilliant, showing that it wasn't actually as easy as you'd initially assume. Besides this I also loved seeing the different opinions that the other X-Men members had, and how this would show how much friction this situation has caused.

Whilst this was happening the future X-Men, along with Wolverine's X-Men would continue searching for the two younger X-Men. The sequence itself was interesting, but I would have much preferred them to have been closer to actually doing something a little more productive, as although I don't want things rushed, their search has been a little slow. I did however enjoy the interaction between certain characters, as well as the fact that the present Kitty Pryde still wanted them to stay, seeing her older self as something she doesn't want to become.

Final Verdict

Although this is the worst issue of the crossover so far, it was still very interesting, setting up things brilliantly. At the same time it was just a little too much set-up, and although this will probably help the story as a whole in the long run, it hurt this one quite a bit. I would however still recommend it, as it shows that the story still has a lot to give, and I'm sure the next instalment will be outstanding.

Rating: 7/10

Uncanny X-Men #9 Review

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: Chris Bachalo

This has been an amazing series, which surprised me, as I was sceptical about it, not getting it at first. It has however amazed me, as although it's not always been consistent, it's always been good, and I look forward to seeing how it's developed leading to Battle of the Atom.

Plot

S.H.I.E.L.D.'s newest agent, Dazzler pays Fabio Medina and his family a visit, hoping to get information on Cyclops's location.

Review

This was an outstanding issue, and the best from the last few issues. Brian Michael Bendis has done a fantastic job with this series, and he has proven to be the breath of fresh air that the X-Men have needed, producing stellar work on both this series, and All-New X-Men. With this issue I felt that Bendis did an excellent job of balancing everything, having enough action, whilst adding the right amount of development. He also wrote outstanding dialogue, which was extremely interesting, and at times entertaining. I do however still feel that for most of this series that Bendis hasn't quite found that high note, as phenomenal issues have been put down a peg for minor reasons.

The art from Chris Bachalo was once again brilliant, and although I doubt I will ever become a true fan of his artwork, I have been enjoying it on this series so far. Once again one of the best things about Bachalo's art is his layouts, which are so dynamic, with plenty of depth, also adding drama. There were however a couple of things that really bugged me about Bachalo's art this time round, and the main thing was that certain characters looked weird at times, with Cyclops appearing to have a Hulk sized neck at one point. Bachalo's colours were however once again amazing, and the best thing about his art, adding brilliant tone, as well as more depth.

Dazzler made her first appearance in this series during issue 6, returning during last issue. This however would be her first proper appearance, now being a member of S.H.I.E.L.D., helping them track down Cyclops, as well as with other mutant related problems. Although she's not the first person I'd expect S.H.I.E.L.D. to pick for this job, I'm still happy that she's now in this series, as although she's not one of my favourite X-Men characters, she is an interesting one, and hasn't really been seen much as of late. I did however have some problems about her appearance, with the main one being her uniform, as it's too similar to the style of Cylops' X-Men's uniform, and could have been more original.

The newest addition to Cyclops' X-Men would be David Bond who the X-Men recruited last issue. David was a character that interested me, and although this issue didn't do much to improve upon that, actually making me a little less interested in his character, there were other developments involving him that caught my interest. First off was his attitude, and how he didn't seem to feel like part of the team, being slightly lazy. The main thing that caught my interest though was that there was a small hint at a possible romance between him, and Tempus as both characters were interested in the others abilities.

Mindee Cuckoo would have a surprise for her fellow sisters, and although I won't spoil it, I will say what I though on the sequence. This was probably one of the most entertaining sequences in this issue, as although it may not have been the best overall, it was extremely funny. It also added more drama, and suspense to the issue, as well as adding atmosphere. The dialogue was also very interesting, and overall Bendis did a great job with this sequence, and I look forward to seeing how it develops.

Final Verdict

This was a brilliant issue, and the best out of the last couple, as well as being one of the best since the start of the series. It did however have a few minor faults, but overall it had plenty of drama, and suspense, as well as being exciting, and entertaining. It was also very fun, with some brilliant dialogue, and developments, and I look forward to seeing what's in store next for these X-Men. Due to this I'd highly recommend this issue, as well as the series so far, as it's been very good.

Rating: 4/5

Uncanny X-Men #8 Review

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: Chris Bachalo

This has been surprisingly an amazing series, as although I initially didn't get it cause I felt it'd not be good, after hearing the good things about it I decided to get the back issues, and the series since. I'm glad I've done so as it's been amazing, and although not always brilliant fairly consistent.

Plot

Back from Limbo (Hell) the X-Men deal with Fabio Medina wanting to leave the team, as well as helping another mutant.

Review

This was a great issue, and continues with the series' consistency. Brian Michael Bendis once again did a great job with this issue, as although it was generally much slower than most issues, it dealt with a lot of the tension that has built up over the series, with the emotion that comes with that, and although the slowness hurts the overall quality of the issue, the emotion, and dialogue makes up a certain amount of that. The issue didn't lack excitement, as although it didn't have any real fighting, or action it did have suspense, and drama, which made up for that, and although the lack of action was disappointing, it was nice to let the story step back for a moment.

Chris Bachalo returned to arts this issue after Frazer Irving took over for three issue. Now I've never been a huge fan of Bachalo's art, usually disliking it, but I have liked it on this series, as although it's not won me over, it has suited the series. They layout of his art is simply wonderful, as it really adds to the drama of the issue, making it feel that much more realistic. The emotions were also handled brilliantly, as although there was some awkwardness at times, it was extremely good for most of the issue. The fact that Bachalo does his own colours also really helps, as it gives him more control over the final work, which has ton's of tone, and depth.

This issue would see Fabio decide that he no longer wants to be with the X-Men, seeing fighting the liked of the Avengers, and Dormammu as too much for him, wanting to go home. This was a very nice development in the series, and although it was obvious that this wouldn't be the last we'll see of Fabio it sets-up future story points perfectly. I also really enjoyed seeing Fabio explaining that he was a mutant to his parents, and although this was a bit of a slow sequence, it had some really intense moments, with amazing dialogue.

This issue would also see a continuation of the development of the new mutant who can control cars named, David Bond who was introduced in issue 6. This was a very interesting, and exciting sequence, and I loved how it showed how certain police officers see mutants, which added more impact, and drama. I also found the way that the X-Men got involved to be interesting, as well as the actions of his girlfriend, and look forward to seeing the future development of this mutant.

The cover of this issue suggested that we'd get a fight between Cyclops, and Magneto, but unfortunately we didn't. Instead what we got was a discussion as to how they'll fix their powers, which followed the question of trust. Now this was very interesting, and the dialogue was once again perfect. The fact that there was no action was also probably the right decision as with all the teams been through in the short time frame this series has been in all the character's need a brake from action. At the same time I was still slightly disappointed, and this series has built-up possible fights that haven't met the mark, or in this case even happen, which isn't right, as although a part of me feels it was the right decision to have this not happen, it shouldn't have been advertised that way.

Final Verdict

This was a very interesting issue with some amazing dialogue. It also had ton's of drama, and suspense, and despite the lack of action it was a very good, and impactful issue. The cover is however misleading, so don't buy this expecting a big fight between Cyclops, and Magneto as you'll be disappointed. I would however still recommend this issue, as it was a nice break from action, but for people who are tight on cash, or sceptical about jumping on I'd recommend skipping this issue.

Rating: 4/5

Uncanny X-Men #4 Review

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: Chris Bachalo

I originally wasn't going to get this series, hence the reason I'm reviewing it so late. I did however decide to get it as it had decent reviews, but the main reason was the upcoming Battle of the Atom crossover which features this.

Plot

When Cyclops's X-Men visit the Jean Grey School for Higher Learning looking for new recruits, Emma Frost gets in a heated discussion with the Stepford Cuckoos. Also back at the New Charles Xavier School for Mutants the students pick their own dorms.

Review

This was another fantastic issue, and although I still feel this series is yet to hit it's full potential, it remains to be interesting, and entertaining. Brian Michael Bendis has been doing a cracking job of both his X-Men series', as both this, and All-New X-Men have been amazing, and although they are both very different, they still have similarities. Again like last issue this one wasn't exactly as I was expecting, but as was the case with that issue, Bendis once again made up in other areas. The dialogue throughout the entire issue was brilliant, and really made the issue very dramatic. It also added depth to the issue, which it really needed, as although the dialogue saved the issue from being poor, there were still points that bugged me. Mainly the fact that the events during this issue were a all over the place, changing settings without even a hint, or mention of the fact. There were however some fun points in this issue, and that came with the way Bendis handled the students in this issue, as the dialogue between these character's was simply amazing, and at times very funny, although I'll talk more about the students later on in my review. Bendis did however do an excellent job of adding some emotion to this issue, which yet again helped to pull the overall quality up.

I have to say that I seem to be enjoying Chris Bachalo's art even more with each passing issue, and although I still far from love it, I have been enjoying it throughout this series, and feel that his style really suits the series, as well as Bendis' style of writing. I really liked how Bachalo drew all the character's, both from Cyclops' X-Men, and Wolverine's, as although there were still small things about his artwork on these character's that bugged me, in general it was amazing, and much better than it's been in the past. I especially loved Bachalo's artwork during the sequence between the Stepford Cuckoos, and Emma, as although there were parts of this sequence that had plain white background, it really added mood, and suspense to the sequence, which really made it that much more exciting, and dramatic. I did however find the small panel that showed Emma, and Cyclops during the events of Avengers vs. X-Men to be slightly unappealing, as they looked very awkward, and unrealistic. Bachalo also did an excellent job of the minor action sequence that took place during this issue, showcasing the best of his skills, and why most people love his art. His colours were also once again superb, and the best thing about this issue, and I especially loved how every character apart from Emma, and the Cuckoos were whitened out whilst they were telepathically talking, as it really helped them to stand out.

The main thing that I was looking forward to was seeing how Cyclops' X-Men got on at the Jean Grey School for Higher Learning. Now it wasn't exactly the meeting that I was looking forward to, as it featured in All-New X-Men #10 &11, but rather the comparisons. Now to be fair this was actually nothing like the events of All-New X-Men, as besides the fact that they make their appearance, and end the issue leaving with some students, it doesn't go into much discussion, as Bendis obviously wanted to leave that till the All-New X-Men issues, not making both issues too alike. I do however see why fans were upset over the revelation as to who would join Cyclops' team, as with the big question over the All-New X-Men #11, for that question to have already been answered, and in a much less dramatic way would have upset me too, but luckily I read All-New X-Men first.

The main feature of this issue was actually the mental discussion between Emma, and the Cuckoos, with Emma trying to persuade the Cuckoos to come with her, and the Cuckoos unhappy with the fact that she left them here in the first place, wanting Emma to know that they weren't happy with her. Now this was a brilliant sequence, and this alone is what made up for the fact that the rest of the issue was all over the place. The emotion between both Emma, and the Cuckoos was brilliantly shown by both Bendis, and Bachalo, as you could see the mischief, and anger on the Cuckoos faces, whilst also seeing the regret, sorrow, and worry on Emma's throughout, and it really made the interaction that much more dramatic. It was however the dialogue in the end that made this as good as it was, and like he's been doing throughout this series, Bendis just hit the nail on the head with this dialogue, and he really can make up for a lot of annoyances with it.

Whilst this is going on the students back at the New Charles Xavier School for Mutants are deciding where they'll be sleeping. Although this wasn't much I loved the fact that we got to see more from the students, as their development has been what's intrigued me the most. The way Bendis writes these character's, and the dialogue he gives them is just amazing, and add the right amount of fun to the series, whilst the overall tone remains serious. It was also nice to see how they acted in a more relaxed environment, as so far they've been seeing some unusual thing stuff that they wouldn't see if it wasn't for being a member of Cyclops' X-Men. There was however also a little bit of excitement that centred around the students, and although I won't go into details, as to avoid spoilers, I will say that it was a nice addition.

WARNING: MINOR SPOILER AHEAD!

Final thing I'll talk about in this review is about Magik, and how she acted strange near the end of the issue. Now I may be wrong but the only member of the X-Men to have been a part of the Phoenix Force that hasn't shown any signs of difference has been Magik, so it was nice to see that she wasn't left out, and it just took longer. It was also a brilliant, and mysterious way to leave the issue, and with it continuing into the next storyline it was even more fitting, and I look forward to seeing the development of this.

Final Verdict

This was possibly the weakest issue so far in the series, but if so it wasn't by much, and was still overall amazing. The issue was all over the place, and once again slightly disappointed on the continuation of the previous cliffhanger. It did however make up in other areas, with brilliant dialogue, as well as some fun, and mysterious sequences. Overall the series is still not at it's full potential, but it's still interesting, and I'm sure it will reach it's full potential soon. I would highly recommend this issue, as although like all the issues so far it's lacking in certain areas, it was interesting, and I for one want to read more of it.

Rating: 4/5

Uncanny X-Men #3 Review

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: Chris Bachalo

I originally wasn't going to get this series, hence the reason I'm reviewing it so late. I did however decide to get it as it had decent reviews, but the main reason was the upcoming Battle of the Atom crossover which features this.

Plot

When the Avengers intercept Cyclops's X-Men whilst visiting Tempus' mother, a heated debate about who is in the right embroils, and it becomes apparent that someone is a traitor.

Review

This was a fantastic issue, but it wasn't exactly what I was expecting. Brian Michael Bendis is definitely doing a good job with this series, making it very different from his other X-Men title, All-New X-Men, but I have to say that so far although it's been good, it's still to really find it's feet, with the issues so far being very poorly paced, as well as not having any clear path to go in the future of the series. This issue has however continued to show that although slightly inconsistent when it comes to the overall quality, that Bendis can add lots of drama, making this issue which was slightly disappointing much better. The dialogue in this issue was also superb, as it really livened the issue up during certain sequences, whilst also showing humour in others, which yet again added drama, and kept me as a reader hooked. The emotion that Bendis put into this issue was also amazing, as you could see the passion, and resolve that certain character's had, which was brilliant. It did however lack the action that I was expecting given the way the last issue ended, as although all the drama, and emotion was brilliant, I was hoping for much more action.

The art from Chris Bachalo was once again decent, and although it will never win me over to becoming a fan of his, it does suit this series. There wasn't as many flaws to Bachalo's art during this issue, as most character's were drawn from the right angle, and mainly in uniform. I did however still find the way he drew Cyclops out of costume to be a bit awkward, but it was a big improvement over how he looked last issue, even when out of uniform. I also loved how second, and third page in he had a very bold image, showing the Avengers, and Cyclops' X-Men squaring of, with the character's closest to the edge being larger, but slightly out of frame, and the character's near the middle being smaller, but clearer. This double page panel really added a lot of drama, and suspense, making the opening of the issue that much more amazing, and awe-inspiring. The rest of Bachalo's layouts were also brilliant, once again adding more depth, and drama to the issue, which is something I always love from an artist. Bachalo's colours were once again phenomenal, and although that double page came close to being the best thing about his art, I still feel that it's his colours that are. They add so much life to the series, being very vibrant. They also add the perfect mood, and tone for this series, and although I may never fully love his art, I will probably always love his colouring.

This issue started showing Tempus prior to becoming a mutant in her former school talking about her hero, Captain America. This had to be a brilliant way to start the issue, especially given the fact that her hero ended last issue with the Avengers right in front of her doorstep. Besides this the small sequence was very dramatic, and emotional, with this girl who appears to be confident, although with not the best memory talking about her hero, and why her reason for liking him is much different from anyone else's. I also loved how this page was all in grey tone, with the small panel of Tempus in the present showing her reaction to the arrival of Cap at the bottom, which added more tone to the sequence.

The thing I was most looking forward to in this issue was seeing the Avengers square of against Cyclops' X-Men. Unfortunately we never really got a proper fight, as most of this encounter was dialogue, with both parties showing there feelings on the subject of Professor X's death. Due to that, this sequence which was very poor otherwise actually became very interesting, and dramatic, and although it was nowhere near as exciting as I'd initially hoped for, it was still very interesting, and gripping, having me hooked to each word, as well as the anticipation of what may come next. I also loved how there was an obvious atmosphere during this sequence, and that although they were both enemies, there were still certain members of each team that hoped for a peaceful outcome, showing that despite everything that's happened that they're still friends.

WARNING: MAY CONTAIN A VERY SMALL SPOILER!

We also got to see more of Tempus, and her powers during this issue. Now although we got to see her use her powers during issue 1, I never quite noticed how useful, and effective they were until now, as although I initially thought that they weren't the best powers you could get (which I still overall feel) they are much more useful than they originally looked to be. I also found it kind of ironic that the reasons she liked Cap was due to the way he's handled coming out of the ice, and being trapped in time, whereas now her mutant ability is to trap people in time. Now I know this would probably have been intentional, but I still found it coincidental, as if that wasn't case he must have put two, and two together quickly.

Due to all the events that happened during this issue, with the Avengers knowing exactly where to find Cyclops' X-Men, it is needless to say that they realised there had to be a traitor in their team. Now I won't reveal whether they found out who this traitor was, or if they argued amongst themselves, or whether it was something else as that would be spoiling. I will however as usual say my feelings on this development. This was brilliant, and I just loved the rising furry on Cyclops' face, as ever since it was revealed that Magneto betrayed them at the end of issue 1, I was really looking forward to seeing the rest of Cyclops' X-Men's reaction to this betrayal, even if they didn't know who it was (not saying whether they do or don't). I also found this entire development to be very exciting, and dramatic, and although the excitement didn't fully make up for the lack of action, it didn't hurt, and did make a difference to the issue as a whole.

Final Verdict

This was a very good issue, and although there were parts that were disappointing, it was still very dramatic, and gripping, with brilliant dialogue, and emotion. It was also nice to see some of the issue centre around one of the students, Tempest, as with all these big name's it's easy to not spend enough time developing new character's. I would recommend this issue, as despite the series not quite finding it's direction heading into the future, it has been interesting, and still shows ton's of promise.

Rating: 4/5

Uncanny X-Men #2 Review

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: Chris Bachalo

I originally wasn't going to get this series, hence the reason I'm reviewing it so late. I did however decide to get it as it had decent reviews, but the main reason was the upcoming Battle of the Atom crossover which features this.

Plot

Whilst Emma Frost tries to come to grips with the fact that her powers no longer work properly, Cyclops, and the rest of his X-Men have to introduce the new recruits that they picked up to their school.

Review

This was yet another brilliant issue, and a great continuation of issue 1. Brian Michael Bendis continues to show Cyclops' X-Men in a much different light than the other X-Men from All-New X-Men, with this being a much more serious series, with a much more unique style. This issue, like the last was however still lacking in places, and the series hasn't startled me yet, as although there have been some brilliant action sequences in the last issue, as well as both issues ending with fabulous shocking endings, the series is still lacking a bit in overall quality. Bendis did however do a brilliant job in developing the new mutants that were introduced last issue a bit more, and especially with the dialogue, showing the natural reactions that would come from suddenly becoming a mutant. He also did a decent job of continuing the development of the traitor, as although it wasn't by a great deal, the subtle development made for a perfect set-up for the next stage in this story development. There wasn't any proper action sequences in this issue, and although that wasn't a bad thing, I felt it was worth pointing out. It did however leave less room for excitement, meaning that the dialogue really needed to be interesting, which it gladly was for the most of the issue. There was however still parts that slowed the issue down, and the series still lacks consistent pacing, but overall it shows promise, and I'm sure the pacing problems will be fixed within a couple of issues.

The art was once again decent, but this issue reminded me more of the reasons why I dislike Chris Bachalo's art work. Now his art was still nowhere near as bad as it has been in the past, but the small things started to show through. The main thing that bugged me about Bachalo's art in this issue was how he drew Cyclops out of uniform, as he just looked very unrealistic, as well as looking much younger (almost like a teenager), as well as looking a bit too tin at times. The way he drew the rest of Cyclops' X-Men, who were in uniform was however once again brilliant, and although there was still the odd problem with how people looked from certain angles, overall it was decent. The layout of Bachalo's art was however still brilliant, adding more drama to it, as well as also helping set the mood, with one page showing Emma with her thoughts, that was very eye catching. I also really enjoyed how he drew the layout of the New Charles Xavier School for Mutants, but I'll talk more about that later. His colours where what once again stood out the most from his art, making it much more vibrant, and appealing, whilst also giving the series great tone, and mood.

This issue starts with Emma pondering over her power problems, and how life has changed for her. This was a very interesting way to start the issue, and although I'd have preferred to see development of the shocking conclusion to last issue, this was a very interesting, and different way to start this one. It was also interesting to see her play the blame game over her current predicament, and although her final decision on who to truly blame was probably the right one, it just didn't feel like the final answer that Emma would have normally given. I also loved how despite her usual strong attitude towards things we saw a more deeper side to Emma, actually getting lots of emotion from her, which was really nice, and shows that although she can been cruel, that she still has emotions, and feelings.

This sequence would also splice into a discussion between Emma, and Cyclops over their relationship status, after she accidentally projects her thoughts over the mater, allowing Cyclops to listen. The relationship between these two character's was one of the key things I enjoyed when I started reading X-Men, as you could easily tell that they loved each other, but due to Emma's past it was always questionable over her loyalties. That given the way they broke up, I found this a very dramatic, and in a lot of ways emotional sequence, as we get to see a different side to Emma during this, as she questions whether they should get back together or not.

When Cyclops, and Emma return to the school they have the job of reassuring new recruits, Fabio Medina, and Benjamin Deeds that this is the best place for them. Now it's this sort of sequence that shows how good a writer Bendis can be, as the dialogue was just golden, with each of them being freaked out whilst both having different attitudes towards the feeling. I also loved how Fabio was still questioning whether he was actually a mutant, which was brilliantly handled, adding ton's of humour to the sequence, and I'm sure his character will become a form of comic relief throughout this series.

I talked briefly about the New Charles Xavier School for Mutants earlier, but I loved the art from Bachalo that much that I felt I'd talk about it in more detail. Now to be fair it probably wasn't the hardest thing to draw, and cause of the type of thing it is, it'd be hard to make it look weird. The thing I loved about this piece of art however was how well planed out it was, showing you each room with enough detail as to tell what it is, without taking up too much room. I also liked that due to the way Bachalo laid this out, that we got to see the reactions from certain members along the way, which added a bit of emotion to the page, making it that little bit more special.

WARNING: THIS NEXT PARAGRAPH WILL SPOIL THE END OF UNCANNY X-MEN #1!

The last issue had a mysterious man who was talking about stopping Cyclops. The issue would finish to show that this man was none other than one of Cyclops' X-Men, Magneto. Now before I go any further I'll talk about Magneto's new look, as one of the things that made him harder to recognise was the fact that he's now bald. This is an interesting look for Magneto, and I can't help but question whether this is in tribute to his departed friend Professor X, or if it's just a coincidence added to make him harder to recognise. Anyway the betrayal part I wasn't too surprised about, as given Magneto's background I'd never be surprised at anything he'd do. I do however question where his allegiances lie, and whether he's playing both sides against each other, tricking S.H.I.E.L.D., or seriously betraying Cyclops. I for one look forward to seeing this, and how the X-Men will react when they find out.

Final Verdict

This was a good issue, and a decent continuation to the series. It has however still to wow me, as although the dialogue is good, with some decent emotion to it, the overall pace, and quality feels a bit inconsistent, and the series doesn't feel like it's planted itself firmly in one place. I would however still recommend this issue, as it was interesting, and had a super conclusion which has me for one wanting to read more.

Rating: 4/5

Uncanny X-Men #1 Review

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: Chris Bachalo

I originally wasn't going to get this series, hence the reason I'm reviewing it so late. I did however decide to get it as it had decent reviews, but the main reason was the upcoming Battle of the Atom crossover which features this.

Plot

When a mysterious man turns up at an unknown S.H.I.E.L.D. location, asking for Maria Hill, he gets his wish, and is here to talk about Cyclops, and his mutant revolution.

Review

This was a great issue, and a brilliant start for the series, but it just felt a bit lacking in certain areas. Brian Michael Bendis did a great job of starting this series, and although it's nothing like his other X-Men series, All-New X-Men, it was still interesting, and something different. Although it took another series to continue the story of Cyclop's X-Men, it was nice to have finally seen it, and how Bendis has developed them into their own unique series, as although they're not my favourite X-Men, it was a bit disappointing to see them suddenly no longer make a regular appearance in All-New X-Men. Another thing Bendis did brilliantly in this issue was add mystery, and in the right way, as it once again made this series stick out from All-New X-Men, whilst also keep me as a reader intrigued. Bendis also did a decent job of the action, as although it took a while to come, when it did the issue got much more livelier, which was good, as it was starting to become slightly dull prior to that. The dialogue in this issue although not perfect was also decent, and I especially loved the dialogue from the new mutants, which was really entertaining.

The art in this issue was also surprisingly good, and although I'm not a fan of Chris Bachalo, going as far as to hate it in certain series', it actually was very good in this, and really suited the tone, and style of the story. Now I'm still not won over to Bachalo's style, far from it, I just can't deny that there were parts of his art during this issue that I did enjoy. The thing about his art that most appealed to me had to be the layout, as it really added more depth, and drama to the issue, making it stand out more. I also loved how he drew certain character's like Maria Hill, and the X-Men, as although others look a bit weird (as do these character's at certain times) they looked much more realistic than most character's that Bachalo draws. It was however still far from perfect, as he still seemed to have problems drawing people side on, as well as drawing some funny looking ears, and although this was an improvement, there were still parts that were inconsistent. I also loved how he handled the action, as although it got a bit rough at times, it did give more excitement, and drama to the issue, whilst also giving some impact to it as well. The colouring that was also done by Bachalo was also fantastic, and one of the best things about his artwork, as it really made it stand out more, being very vibrant, and adding a great tone to the issue.

The issue starts with Maria Hill getting a call about an important visitor, who wants to talk about Cyclops. Now although it became clear early on in this issue, I loved how there was a aura of mystery about him, as although I got it early I'm sure there'd be some readers that wouldn't get it till the end. The conversation between this mysterious man, and Hill was also very interesting, and although these sequences slowed the pace of the issue down a lot, it was also where most of the drama came from. The fact that this person came to talk about Cyclops was another interesting fact, and one that would play a them throughout the issue, which again added drama, and mystery, as well as a little bit of suspense.

Now I know that I've seen this in All-New X-Men issues, and other issues to feature Cyclops' X-Men since this issue was released, as well as the concept art prior to Marvel NOW!, but I felt this would be the best time to say how I felt on the subject. I am of course talking about the new costumes that Cyclops' X-Men are wearing. When I first saw what they'd be wearing I felt sceptical, as it didn't really appeal to me on first glance, especially Magneto, who's helmet looked too small for him. After reading the issue however I have a different opinion finding it a quite clever, and interesting look for the team, as they stand out much more than the other X-Men, and they look more darker, showing that they are now the bad boy, rebels. It was however the uniforms of the students, Tempus, and Christopher Muse that stood out to me more. I also wasn't too sure on Cyclops' new uniform, as although I can see reasons to make his visor an X, it still doesn't feel right to me. I do however like how he stands out as leader, being the only one with red in their uniform.

This issue also continued to show new mutants, with Cyclops, and his X-Men continuing the work they started in All-New X-Men. The Marvel Universe having new mutants was one of the best things to have came out of Avengers vs. X-Men, and the fight between the government, and Cyclops' X-Men has been something I've been looking forward to. Now we didn't get to see any of this in this issue, but the fact that Cyclops is still set on "saving" as many new mutants as he can is brilliant, and just asks for friction. I also loved the reaction that we got from the new mutant, Fabio Medina, and how he was so freaked out about his new powers, and the fact that Cyclops, and the X-Men were here, which was very amusing.

Another story development that has been brought forward from All-New X-Men has been the fact that Cyclops, and the adult X-Men in his team are having trouble with their powers. To be honest it's been that long since I've read anything that's featured Cyclops, or his X-Men mainly in that long that I forgot about them having trouble with their powers. I did however like that it was continued in this issue, as it was a development that I found interesting at the time, and although this issue didn't go too far into that, I'm sure the series will in due course, and I look forward to seeing it.

We also got some action in this issue, as whilst Cyclops, and his X-Men arrived to help Fabio, the Sentinels arrived. Now every X-Men fan in the world is bound to love a good X-Men/Sentinel fight, and although this was far from the best, it was still very entertaining, and explosive. Another thing that made this fight more interesting was the fact that all of Cyclops' X-Men bar the students had problems with their powers, which would make the fight that more unique. I also loved the dialogue between the different members of Cyclops' X-Men during this, and it really made the sequence that much more lively, and dramatic.

Final Verdict

A decent start to the series, this issue shows Cyclops continuing to help the new mutants during his revolution. The issue had drama, excitement, fun, and action, and was truly a decent start to the series. It was however slightly slow at times, with the pacing being inconsistent, and the issue as a whole was lacking in overall quality. I would however recommend it, as it was a good read, and I'm sure the series will get better.

Rating: 4/5