Black Widow #3 Review

Writer: Nathan Edmondson

Artist: Phil Noto

Is Widow doing the right thing? Read on to find out.

The official description from Marvel:

The Finely Woven Thread - PART 3: "FOLIAGE" She's the kind of woman you call when you need to escape from a South American prison. Don't miss the book everyone is talking about (and it isn't even out yet!)

I've really been enjoying Black Widow so far, as it's been a very exciting and energetic series, that shows the character at her full potential.

Nathan Edmondson continues to give a terrific espionage story, which is something that a Black Widow centred series needs. Edmondson also continues to develop Widow as a character, as although she's been around for a long time, we're still learning new things about this deadly spy, with this series showing a more questionable side to her. This adds a lot to the depth and tone, and at the end of the day her key characteristics are shown perfectly, which is what really counts. The most intriguing part of this issue was near the end, with a discussion between Widow and S.H.I.E.L.D. Director Maria Hill showing promise of a proper story arc.

Phil Noto's art was once again wonderful, as despite the odd rough panels it was still amazing. Noto also continues to give a very smooth and energetic flow to the series, with his colours as usual adding the perfect final tone to the series (for the most part). Despite all this I was actually ever so slightly disappointed with Noto's art in this issue, due to the rough panels, and it's obvious that the short time frame between each issue has caught up with him. I do however not blame Noto for this, and now that the series is on a monthly schedule I'm sure he'll be back to his high standards throughout every panel.

Black Widow continues to be a exciting and explosive series, and although the art wasn't quite as good in this issue it was sill amazing. Highly recommended.

Rating: 8/10

Black Widow #2 Review

Writer: Nathan Edmondson
Artist: Phil Noto

What will Black Widow get up to in Shanghai? Read on to find out.

The official description from Marvel:

In fact, it's so good, that you won't want to wait another month for the next issue. And you won't have to!

Black Widow opened with a bang last issue, and despite not being quite as good as the first issue it still manages to be exciting and entertaining. It also continues to allow Black Widow to shine on her own, being the kind of solo series that she's needed for a while.

Nathan Edmondson takes the Black Widow to Shanghai in this issue, with her doing business with someone she already knows, making three mistakes along the way. Now I said that this issue wasn't quite as good as the first, but still Edmondson managed to show the espionage throughout this issue perfectly, whilst also projecting Widow's thoughts and emotions brilliantly as well. It is however ever so slightly too fast paced in my opinion, and although this doesn't hurt the issue much, it does slightly. Edmondson does however also continue to create some amazing narration and along with the suspenseful and mysterious build-up this looks to be a series that will continue to produce astonishing material time and time again.

Phil Noto yet again produced some phenomenal artwork in this issue, with it continuing to be some of the best art that I've ever seen from him. Noto's layouts were also once again superb, helping the flow of the issue perfectly, but it'd be Noto's outstanding colours that I'd continue to like the most. They add the perfect gritty tone that this series needs, and despite Noto always producing marvellous colours for his art these are by far some of his best. Noto didn't stop here though, as the breathtaking action simply leaped off the page, giving the kind of excitement that you expect from a Black Widow comic.

Black Widow continues to be an amazing espionage series, showing that some of Marvels best work come from their secondary characters. Highly recommended.

Rating: 8/10

Black Widow #1 Review

Writer: Nathan Edmondson
Artist: Phil Noto

How will the Black Widow's atonement start? Read on to find out.

The official description from Marvel:

You've seen Black Widow as an Avenger and even an Agent of Shield. But on her own time she searches for atonement for her past as a KGB assassin—in ways of which those teams just wouldn't approve. From the darkest corners of the Marvel Universe, Nathan Edmonson (Who is Jake Ellis?) and Phil Noto (Thunderbolts, X-23) bring you a new ongoing series as gorgeous and mysterious as Nastasha Romanov herself!

I personally am always a bit sceptical over series staring characters the likes of Black Widow, as despite loving the characters they can sometimes be handled very poorly. This however wasn't the case here with the style and tone of this first issue being brilliant.

Nathan Edmondson did an excellent job of taking this Avenger and putting her back into the environment that she's best suited to. I enjoy seeing Black Widow as an Avengers but as she doesn't really get used properly it's fitting that she's got her own ongoing series again. Edmondson handled the espionage part of this series perfectly, adding great tone and atmosphere. It was also nice to see Widow try to atone for her past sins, as it adding a bit more humanism to the story. On top of this I loved the amazing dialogue which was at times slightly amusing and others very gritty and serious.

Artist Phil Noto also didn't fail to impress reminding me why I love his artwork. The detail to Noto's art was simply phenomenal, being very consistent throughout and along with the smooth flowing layout it made this issue very pleasant to read. Noto also produced some very exciting sequences that were very lively, almost jumping off the page. The character expressions were also shown perfectly, adding a lot of emotion and realism to the story. It was however Noto's fantastic colours that I enjoyed the most as they suited the tone of the story brilliantly.

This was a terrific opening issue to Black Widow's new solo series and probably one of the best that she's ever had. I for one look forward to reading more from this series and hope that Edmondson does just as good a job in the upcoming Punisher series. Highly recommended.

Rating: 9/10

Marvel Teases "Atonement" and "Assassin" as Part of All-New Marvel NOW!

Marvel released yet another two teasers today for their All-New Marvel NOW! with another project written by Nathan Edmondson teased as "Atonement" featuring artwork from Phil Noto, and a project written by Zeb Wells teased as "Assassin" featuring artwork from Mike Del Mundo. Also like the previous teasers full details won't be released until the New York Comic Con.

My Thoughts

Now both of these are slightly more trickier than the previous teasers, though I do have a couple of ideas as to what they may be. Now the fist one "Atonement" could be a new Black Widow series as given the orange colour, and the fact that Edmondson is used to writing more spy/crime styled stories, and with the details being revealed at the Avengers panel it would seem that the Avenger spy may once again get her own series. The next one "Assassin" could be anyone, as with Marvel having many assassins in their universe there are a lot of possibilities. It is however the silver writing that narrows it down suggesting someone like Winter Soldier, but although I'd much love to see him once more in his own series I don't think it is him, as with it being revealed at the Superior Spider-Man panel it has to be a Spider-Man related character, and with the assassin Silver Sable still not being confirmed dead or alive this could very well be the answer to this, seeing her return to the Marvel Universe in her own series.

Thanks for taking the time to view this article and please leave any comments, as well as your thoughts on these teasers bellow.

Uncanny X-Force #35 Review

Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Phil Noto

This has been one of my favourite series since it started, and although I've not read the entire series (have read most of it though) I am sad to see it ending. This series didn't just shape the X-Force into something, better, and more unique than ever before, but it also drastically changed my opinion on Rick Remender's writing, having only read his work on the Punisher prior to this, which I felt was mediocre, and far from brilliant. This series however was brilliant, and Remender has continued this form of excellent writing throughout the series he's worked on since, doing a fantastic job on Venom, and Secret Avengers, whilst also starting his newest series' Uncanny Avengers, and Captain America decently, so at least he's moved on to decent series'.

Plot

This issue sees a conclusion to this X-Force series, with Deadpool consulting Genesis, Psylocke talking to her brother Brian (Captain Britain) about the death of Fantomex, and Wolverine morning over the death of his son Daken. There is also a shocking revelation involving Fantomex.

Review

This was a brilliant issue, and a terrific way to end this fantastic series. Although I felt this issue was a bit slow it was still superbly written. Usually this would be an average story, rating wise, but due to it concluding the series, and the amount of emotion in it, as well as the odd surprise, this story goes from average to great. Remender has finished this series in the same fashion he started it, with a great story, that has great surprises, that leaves questions opened. Although he does all this in this issue he also finishes the series in a way where these questions can be answered in other series, and doesn't make you fell like they need to be answered here. I also liked how he gave each character their own time, as after the events of Final Execution all the remaining members of the X-Force as well as Genesis have a lot to think about, or grieve over, so it was nice to give them their own space. I also liked how he brought the whole team back at the end of the issue, so that it still felt like a team book.

The art was once again phenomenal, and Phil Noto has really done an excellent job. I have loved his art over the Final Execution storyline, so was happy to see him finishing the series off. The art over the entire series has been good, but besides Jerome Opena, and Esad Ribic's art Noto's art has been my favourite throughout, and what really kept this series to the quality it was during the final story. The detail in his artwork is outstanding, and no matter what he's drawing he does it justice. I also loved the way he drew the emotions throughout this issue, as with everything that has happened over the last few issues, most of the X-Force will be carrying some emotional baggage for a while. I also liked that he kept the emotions in the character's to their characteristics, with Wolverine being very moody, and stiff whilst only showing a hint of sadness, whereas Psylocke who doesn't have to much of a problem showing her emotions lets it out, and appears to be in a confused state, as she loved Fantomex, but at the same time, still though that him killing the kid Apocalypse wasn't right.

Wolverine at Daken's Grave

Daken's death in the last issue was a bit of a shock for me, and since then I've personally not known how to feel. I've always liked Daken as a character so him dying was a bid annoying, and especially considering he wasn't long back from the dead as it was, but at the same time I understood why it needed to be done, and don't think the ending of the Final Execution story would have been as good otherwise. Anyway this issue shows Wolverine morning over the death of Daken, as after all he was his son. The emotion him was perfectly done, and I loved how Daken was buried next to his mother. I also liked that there was more of a reason to Wolverine killing Daken than just stopping him from turning Genesis into Apocalypse, and also loved that it involved stuff speculated earlier in the story.

Family Discussion

During this issue Psylocke speaks to her brother Brian about the death of Fantomex, and how she's sorry if her having feelings for Fantomex upset him. Brian then goes on to say that he's not upset as the Fantomex that killed the kid Apocalypse, and the Fantomex that she loved where different people. He then goes on to explain why, but I won't mention as I thought it was a nice surprise in the issue, so don't want to spoil it. The sequence however was very nice, as well as being emotional. I've always liked bothe Psylocke, and Captain Britain if written properly, and love seeing them together, as although they're brother and sister you don't actually see them together much.

Helping Words from Deadpool

Also in this issue Deadpool, in normal costume (due to X-Force being disbanded) visits Genesis who is practising some meditation to help with his Apocalypse problem. During this sequence Deadpool gives Genesis some advice, saying that he isn't Apocalypse, and that he wouldn't become him. He then goes on to say that everyone has the potential to do both good, and evil things, and that being the supposed future Apocalypse doesn't change that, it's the choices we make. I liked this sequence as we don't usually see Deadpool giving serious advice. Although this was a little surprising it wasn't totally, as like Deadpool said during this sequence they have been through a lot together. This was my favourite sequence in this issue, and it was a surprise, as I would have never have thought that I would like a serious Deadpool as much as I did in this. I did however also like that before and after this period of seriousness Deadpool acted his usual joky self, which made the sudden seriousness more natural.

There was also another surprise involving Fantomex near the end of the issue which I won't spoil. All I will say is I thought it was very well thought out, and that it was the surprise that this final issue needed, and whether you buy this issue or not you need to at least look it up, especially if you're a Fantomex fan.

Final Verdict

This was a tremendous issue, and the series couldn't have ended any better. I am sad that the series is ending but I am happy that it ended the way it did, and that Remender will be on decent series. I would highly recommend this to anyone whether you've read X-Force before or not, as it's terrific, and that if you're a new reader to this series I'd advice getting the other issues, whether in comic form, or the collected trade paperbacks, as it's a brilliant series, and you'd be glad you got it.

Rating: 5/5

Uncanny X-Force #34

Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Phil Noto

This has been one hell of a story and I have been enjoying it very much. After hearing how good this storyline was I decided to get the issues that were out with this being the only issue I got on release week, and I'm happy I did. Rick Remender has done a brilliant job on this series and I hope that he can put the greatness that this series will be leaving behind into another series.

Plot

This issue sees Genesis, now in his Apocalypse seek vengeance against anyone who is bad. The X-Force now have to try and stop him from succumbing to the evil nature of Apocalypse whilst battling the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants at the same time.

Review

This was a brilliant issue and one of the best endings to a story I have ever read. I have loved what Remender has done with this series, and he's written and understood the characters perfectly throughout this series. He has done an amaing job in this issue of ending what has been one of the best stories I have read this year, and I've loved how he's not just put ton's of action into this finally but emotion as well. I liked how he's started and finished this series in a similar fashion and although Genesis has been mostly used in Wolverine and the X-Men he has been able to bring the character back to where he started whilst adding the characters from the other series along with him.

Phil Noto continues to add amazing art to this series and I have been happy that he's been working on this story. The detail he puts into his art is brilliant and I love how it doesn't matter what he's drawing it's always highly detailed, as a lot of artists don't care about background or people in the background, whereas Noto put's detail into as much as he can. I also love the way he draws the characters and how he shows their emotions and expressions throughout his art. I like this because it doesn't matter if they're happy, sad or just been injured you can tell it easily leaving less need for thought bubbles. Frank Martin Jr. has also added some amazing colours to the last few issue which have been brilliant and kept the tone of the book the way I love.

Genesis turning into Apocalypse was one of the things I was most looking forward to seeing during this story, and it was very well done. It was only a matter of time before this kid snapped whether the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants were involved or not. I have however really enjoyed seeing this child who's wanted nothing but to fit in and be good, be manipulated into becoming what he was destined to be. I also liked during this issue it appeared that it didn't matter who's side you were on, as Genesis was reluctant to trust anyone.

The thing I was actually most looking forward to however was a fight between Wolverine and Daken, which happened during this issue and didn't disappoint. Wolverine and Daken have for me produced some of the best moments in Wolverine's history over the last few years, and I always love seeing them interact with each other whether fighting, talking, or very rarely working together. The fight between Daken and Wolverine in this issue was however one of the best I've seen and that was mainly due to the amount of emotion that has been built up by the two over the last few issues, whether it's Daken saying how he wished sometimes that Wolverine was there for him growing up or Wolverine being disappointed with the path his son has taken, and how he tried to kill him. This fight wasn't however that long but the way it was written and drawn as well as the build up made it a very good fight.

It was also nice to see E.V.A dish out to AoA Nightcrawler what she thought about his betrayal. I understand why AoA Nightcrawler betrayed his team members but E.V.A. still had the right to be upset with AoA Nightcrawler. It was also nice how E.V.A. showed no regard for AoA Nightcrawler's reasons and how her only concern was getting revenge on some who didn't only betray them but put them in harms way. It's also questionable whilst the two are interacting to how honest AoA Nightcrawler is, as although the deceased version from this universe was honest he also wan't a killer like the AoA version is. I also hope that we get to see AoA Nightcrawler in a series following this as I've actually grow fond of the character over this story, despite the betrayal, and he's the next best thing to having the normal Nightcrawler back (which I don't want to see any time soon a comics are to guilty for bringing people back from the dead not long after they've died).

Final Verdict

This story was brilliant and I can't thank Remender enough. I would highly recommend this issue as well as the entire story and am looking forward to seeing how he ends the series in the final issue.

Rating: 5/5

Uncanny X-Force #33

Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Phil Noto

I have really been enjoying this story and it has been one of the best I have read all year. Rick Remender has brilliant talent for writing great series, and you just need to look at this, Secret Avengers, Venom or Uncanny Avengers to notice that.

Plot

This issue sees Daken sitting down to have a conversation with his father Wolverine (who's tied up) about why he's never been there for him. Meanwhile Psylocke battles Shadow King, AoA Nightcrawler finally gets his hands on AoA Blob and Genesis is still confused about who to trust.

Review

This was a brilliant issue and the best in the story so far. Remender continues to make this story better with each issue whilst easing someone who hasn't read the story from the start with most issues. I love how he writes all the different characters involved in this series whether it's a member of the X-Force or Brotherhood of Evil Mutants, and like how he's managed to understand and write each character perfectly. I also enjoy how Remender drives a story and how he makes you think what he wants easily whilst slipping in a we surprise that makes you change your mind about what will happen next. I've also loved how Remender has managed to write all these characters as a team or individuals and how he's managed to

The art in this issue is amazing and Phil Noto has done a brilliant job producing some of the finest art I have seen in any series. The detail throughout Noto's artwork is simply astonishing and it doesn't matter what he's drawing which is nice. I also like the emotion Noto puts into the characters throughout his work which makes you understand what the character is feeling a lot more. I'm happy to see the emotion through Noto's artwork as I always like when an artist puts emotion into his work because you don't only feel the characters emotion but you feel the emotion the artist themselves have put into their work. Frank Martin Jr. has added some amazing colours to this issue which really help Noto's art stand out, and adds the tone that makes this series feel the way it does.

What I truly loved about this issue was how we got to see Daken and Wolverine try and sort out their troubles and talk about their relationship, or lack of one. One of the things I have loved the most about these two characters since Daken was introduced that it didn't seem to matter what Wolverine did Daken would always hate him and resent that he was never there for him. I have also liked how this story has seen Daken accept that he's upset that Wolverine was never around for him as although you could see it before he would never admit it and always said that he was better of without Wolverine.

The fight between AoA Nightcrawler and AoA Blob during this issue was amazing and the fight itself was one of the most unique fights I have ever seen even involving a shark at one point. Due to not getting the series after The Dark Angel Saga I haven't been able to follow the AoA Nightcrawler's character development, but whilst reading this story I've came to realise that AoA Blob killed his wife and that he has wanted revenge for it ever since. Because of this it was nice to see AoA Nightcrawler finally get his chance and although it wasn't necessarily right betraying his teammates at the end of the last issue you can kind of understand his reasoning for doing so.

The fight between Psylocke and Shadow King in the astral was very interesting and something very different for this series. I enjoyed the fight itself and it was different seeing Shadow King in his true form, which I haven't seen in a few years (mainly because besides this story I haven't read anything involving the character for years). I also like how Psylocke handled herself during this fight and how she showed Shadow King that she wasn't a pushover.

The lack of energy in Deadpool really showed in this issue and I was actually happy to see him involved less in this issue as he's taken a lot of damage over the last couple of issues, and how he's still alive now he's minus his healing factor is a mystery in itself. I have also found it interesting that Deadpool has became the person who's trying to advise Genesis that he can be anyone he choices to be and that he doesn't need to become Apocalypse. This was interesting as you wouldn't think of Deadpool has the first choice to advice anyone on life choice but he did a good job in this issue and due to the desperate nature of Genesis' decision we got to see a much more serious Deadpool this time.

Final Verdict

This was an amazing issue and with only another two left in the series I am looking forward to seeing how it concludes. I would highly recommend this issue, this story and the series and will miss it when it's finished.

Rating: 5/5

Uncanny X-Force #32

Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Phil Noto

This story has been amazing and each issue makes me question more and more as to why I didn't catch up on this series sooner. This series does what no other X-series could and that's due to the X-Force being able to do what no X-Man could do otherwise. This series has brilliant stories, great action and brilliant character development and I hope I see a series has good as this elsewhere, especially when this one finishes.

Plot

This issue sees the X-Force heading to help Deadpool rescue Genesis, which leads to a huge fight between the X-Force and the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants. Meanwhile AoA Nightcrawler confronts this universes version of his mother (Mystique), which leaves him with a hard decision to make.

Review

This was an outstanding issue and this story has just kicked into a higher gear. Rick Remender continues to make this series better and better with each issue and I can't thank him enough. I love how he's managed to not only keep the reader wanting to read more with the end of each issue bit also manage to develop the characters at the same time, even if it's only slightly. This issue he has done an amazing job of once again giving each character time to shine whilst incorporating it into a brilliant team story. I've also liked how he's managed to reveal something new with each issue, progressing the story with it and keeping it exciting, which isn't easy, especially with a story this length (Avengers Vs. X-Men showed that).

The art from Phil Noto in this issue was once again amazing and am very happy that he has done the majority of the artwork throughout this story. He continues to draw some of the most visually stunning artwork with ton's of detail. I also love how he continues to add ton's of emotion to the characters, which this issue showed a lot of. I've also liked how he's dealt with all the different characters throughout this story, keeping them to character whilst adding something unique, and I truly think he is one of these artists that could get moved to any series and produce brilliant work. The colours throughout this issue were also brilliant and Frank Martin Jr. continues to do an amazing job and it's his and Dean White's colours throughout this series that make this series feel the way it does no matter what artist is working on pencils.

Deadpool was hilarious in this issue and I'm happy to see that Remender is continuing to use him more in this series as I thought he'd drop back into the sideline now that the X-Force is up against the Brotherhood. I just love how Remender writes Deadpool and I hope that at some point during his career he gets to write his solo series. Although most Deadpool fans will notice the lack of inner voices during this series, that's what I think makes Remenders take on Deadpool unique and at some points better than Daniel Way ongoing series version. The way Deadpool interacted with Genesis at the start of this issue was brilliant and I loved how it didn't matter what he said Genesis was still reluctant to trust him. It was also funny that during this Deadpool tried to rush him whilst speaking, and although Genesis is a child I don't think it would have helped treating him like one.

This issue also had a brilliant fight between Deadpool and various members of the Brotherhood. His fight between the AoA Blob was probably the best and I loved how he used AoA Blob to avoid The Omega Clan's attacks. Seeing Deadpool square of against Daken was something I was happy to see during this fight, and although this part of Deadpool's fight didn't last long we did get to see Daken's claws which were lovely drawn by Noto, and brilliantly coloured by White producing probably the best drawing of Daken's claws I've seen.

One of the things I've been most looking forward to seeing since picking up this series was a fight between Wolverine and Sabretoot. This issue produced a brilliant fight between the two, and the fight that the Sabretooth Reborn storyline in the Wolverine ongoing series should have. Okay, Wolverine and Sabretooth have had ton's of fights over the years and loads that were way better than this fight but this was still good and much better than the fight in Sabretooth Reborn. I also enjoyed that Remender didn't waste time getting Wolverine into the fight with Sabretooth and how Wolverine let the berserker out earlier giving more time to show the fight.

AoA Nightcrawler's encounter with this universes version of Mystique was also very interesting and I liked how E.V.A warned AoA Nightcrawler not to listen to her. I also liked the emotion between the two characters throughout this sequence and although Mystique is probably just using AoA Nightcrawler for her own gains, at certain points it's hard to tell whether she cares for Nightcrawler or not, whether it's the deceased version from this universe who was her son or the current version from another universe resembling her son.

Final Verdict

An amazing issue in a awesome series. This issue has taken this story up to the next level and I wouldn't want to leave the series now and miss what is sure to be an epic final few issues. I would highly recommend both this issue, this story and the entire series and hope that once this series finishes there is something just as good to fill it's spot.

Rating: 5/5

Uncanny X-Force #31

Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Phil Noto

This has been a brilliant story and the series overall has been amazing. Rick Remender knows how to write great series and this series shows that. I have liked his work on most things but I don't think there has been anything he's written that I've enjoyed reading quite as much as Uncanny X-Force.

Plot

This issue sees the X-Force returning to the present aiming to rescue Genesis before anything bad happens. Meanwhile the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants who have Genesis are still tormenting the boy in hopes of turning him into Apocalypse.

Review

This was an amazing issue and although the side stories in the last few issues were good I am happy to see the main story back on track. I like what Remender has been doing with this series, and I love how he has the ability to take characters and series you don't usually expect much from and turn them into something as good as the top comics out. I also love how he progresses a story making you think something has either happened or will happen whilst revealing the opposite. He even writes side stories brilliantly as the last few issues which swerved away form the main story were still very good and added something different and worthwhile to the main story.

I was very happy to see Phil Noto doing the art for this story again and although both David Williams and Julian Totino Tedesco's art are brilliant Noto's art is even better. The detail in Noto's art is just outstanding and whether it's characteristics, equipment or surroundings there doesn't appear to be any lack of detail throughout his work. The emotion he puts into the characters is also superb, and I feel that emotion and expression in character faces help to explain the characters thoughts without a thought bubble. My favourite panel from this issue was near the start of the book with the X-Force returning to the present (pictured below). The background in this picture along with the tremendous colours form Frank Martin Jr. are what truly make this picture astonishing, and although due to the size of the characters there isn't a lot of detail, it's still a brilliant piece of art.

I loved the way this issue starts and it makes me question if the involvement of Genesis will be what everyone thinks it will be or will he turn out to be good. I say this because this issue starts three hours in the future and Genesis is in his Apocalypse armour. This doesn't necessarily mean that he's turned bad, the could be put in a position where the only way he can help is by using the suit but I like what I'm sure others will do and assume that he's went bad. I have loved Genesis' overall involvement in this series and am happy to see that the series is ending in a similar way to how it started, and that it appears that no matter what X-Force do the coming of Apocalypse will be inevitable.

I also loved how Daken and Skinless Man tormented Genesis into thinking that his Uncle Cluster (Fantomex) was still alive, only to reveal that he's still dead. It's interesting to see the lengths that Daken will go to to bring the Apocalypse out in Genesis and it will be interesting to see how far he is willing to go. I also find it interesting that now Skinless Man has gotten what he wants, with Fantomex being dead he just appears to be having fun torturing people whether physically or mentally.

The interaction between Sabretooth and Daken during this issue was also brilliant and I loved how Sabretooth was telling him all the things his father (Wolverine) should have. It was also interesting to see a different side to Daken than we saw before his death as he appears to be slightly annoyed and upset that Wolverine had nothing to do with him. Although Daken has shown hints of this in the past most of the time it was pure hatred towards his father whilst this time he shows it more. I also liked how Sabretooth uses this to make Daken more angry at his father.

The relationship between Sabretooth and Mystique that is developing throughout this story is also interesting and although it was revealed that they were together during Wolverine: Back in Japan story but this issue has had more time to develop this relationship. It's an interesting relationship as they have both been killed by Wolverine in the past so hold a grudge towards him, plus they have both been in prior versions of the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants in the past. It will also be interesting to see how long this relationship lasts as with both characters being very untrustworthy I would be surprised if this lasted long.

Final Verdict

A brilliant issue and I'm happy to see that the main story's back on track. I would highly recommend both this issue and the story so far and am extremely looking forward to seeing what Remender has in store for the X-Force next time out as he keeps adding a new surprise with each issue.

Rating: 5/5

Uncanny X-Force #27

Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Phil Noto

I have been really enjoying this storyline so far and have been enjoying seeing X-Force at a disadvantage. Rick Remender continues his brilliant run on this series and after his work on this and Venom he is become one my favourite writers currently working at Marvel.

Plot

This issue sees Fantomex continue his fight with Mystique whilst Sabretooth and AoA Blob are out to recruit Genesis to the new Brotherhood of Evil Mutants. The person behind the attacks against the X-Force and new leader of the Brotherhood is also revealed in this issue (warning I will reveal the identity of this person later in the review).

Review

This was another brilliant issue and my favourite issue in this story so far, as well as being one of my favourite issues in the series period. I can't praise Remender enough for this issue and how he keeps making this series better and better with each issue and story I don't know. The way he writes the action throughout this issue is outstanding and I loved reading all the individual fights throughout this issue. I also loved the way he revealed the person behind the attacks on the X-Force and leader of the new Brotherhood of Evil Mutants which had ton's of suspense.

Phil Noto continues to produce some of the best art I have ever seen in this issue and I'm very happy that he's the main artist working on this storyline. I love how he is able to add so much emotion to the characters and whether they're hero or villain it's not to hard to work out what kind of thing they're thinking. The detail in his art is also magnificent, whether it's the characters themselves, the surrounding location or even the panels showing impact like AoA Blob crashing to the ground or Fantomex breaking through a window and is a true joy to look at. The colour from Dean White in this issue is once again brilliant and the series wouldn't be the same without it. I love how he colours each character perfectly whilst adding amazing atmosphere and mood to the issue.

The continuation of Fantomex and Mystiques fight in this issue was brilliant and probably the thing I was most looking forward to see in this issue. The fight itself didn't disappoint and I loved seeing the back and forth progression to the fight. The conversation between the two during this fight was also very interesting and I liked how Fantomex had no shame in sleeping with Mystique even though he knew it wasn't Psylocke. Fantomex's run in with Shadow King and Skinless Man whilst looking for Psylocke later on in this issue was also brilliant and very well written.

I was also happy to see Sabretooth's involvement in this series confirmed and thought it was interesting to see that he and AoA Blob were sent to recruit Genesis to the new Brotherhood of Evil Mutants whether he's willing to join or not. After the disappointing Sabretooth Reborn storyline in the Wolverine series where Sabretooth wasn't even the main villain it was nice to see Sabretooth back in his proper role as a henchman. To be fair to Sabretooth he has had his fair share of great fights with Wolverine and other characters without anyone's help but most of his best appearances come whilst working for someone or in a group, whether that's Magneto whilst he ran the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants, Weapon X or the current leader of the Brotherhood. I also liked AoA Blob's involvement in this sequence as it showed that Sabretooth wasn't taking any chances whilst getting the kid by having backup with him.

I also liked seeing the progression of Quentin Quire quarrel with Genesis in this issue and that Quentin makes it clear to Gensis that he doesn't trust him and no matter how hard he tries he will eventually become Apocalypse. I am also looking forward to seeing how or if this will progress later in the story. This issue aslo makes me think eben more that this story will end similar to how the series started which should be interesting to find out.

WARNING SPOILER AHEAD!

My favourite part in this issue was who was revealed as the leader of the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants, Daken. I already knew whilst reading these issues that he was the person behind the attacks on the X-Force as well as the leader of the Brotherhood as that was the reason I bought the issues in this story that have already been released. I loved the Daken character throughouth the Wolverine: Origins series and when he had his two solo series, Dark Wolverine and Daken: Dark Wolverine and was upset when they killed him off. I am also interested to see what else he will have in store for his father (Wolverine) and his X-Force next issue and what role Genesis will play in this.

Final Verdict

This was an outstanding issue and my favourite of the storyline so far. I would highly recommend both this issue and the rest of the story, and with the leader of the new Brotherhood of Evil Mutants being revealed I am extremely looking forward to the next issue.

Rating: 5/5

Uncanny X-Force #26

Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Phil Noto

After reading the previous issue I have been starting to love this series once again and am extremely happy with how good it's been. I have also been enjoying what Rick Remender has been doing with this series and how he is making this the must own X-series out the now.

Plot

This issue sees Wolverine and AoA Nightcrawler at the mercy of The Omega Clan who have been programmed to believe that the X-Force killed their parents whilst Deadpool tries to save them. Meanwhile Fantomex is dealing with a fake Psylocke whilst the real Psylocke is dealing with a disapproving Professor X and Archangel.

Review

This was a terrific comics and a brilliant continuation to this great story. Remender continues to produce some amazing work on this series and is turning it into something special. I loved how this issue he's been able to split the story between the different groups giving enough time to each group whilst making the issue flow very smoothly. I also like how he leaves sequences on cliffhangers whilst switching between the individual stories adding more suspense and drama to the issue. I also like how he's been able to add to the character development throughout this issue as you can see the character and group changes due to the situations they are in.

The art in this issue is simply outstanding and Phil Noto has done a brilliant job. Besides Jerome Opena he has probably produced some of the best art during this series and is a pleasure to look at. I love the expressions he puts into the characters faces throughout the issue and even though some of them are a bit stiff looking I much prefer it to some of the series you see that have very little character expression or emotion. The way he drew both versions of the Omega Clan were brilliant and with Omega Red (not the Omega Red original) especially, you can tell that despite the ageing and the enhanced features, they are the same people. Dean White also continues to contribute some brilliant colours to this series adding tones of tone and mood.

I loved how this issue expanded on the Omega Clan's back story and was happy to see that the assassins created by White Sky last issue having created memories was relevant. I also liked that due to these memories it didn't matter what the X-Force said to them and that they would still do anything to get the justice they feel they deserve. It was also interesting to see that the member who goes under the Omega Red name was leading the group and doing all the talking. I though this was fitting as due to them getting their powers from the remains of the original Omega Red it made sense that the one that looked like him who was also using his name lead the group.

The reveal of the fake Psylocke (won't reveal who it is to avoid spoilers) in this issue was brilliant and I loved her reaction when she found out that Fantomex knew all along. I also enjoyed how this broke into a fight and although not much happend this issue it will be interesting to see how the fight between Fantomex and the fake Psylocke turns out next issue. Fantomex's involvement in this issue overall was also very interest and how he is dealing with his feelings for the real Psylocke and leaving the X-Force.

Psylocke's journey in this issue was also brilliant and almost as interesting as the events between the Omega Clan and the remaining members of X-Force. It was also interesting to see her encounter with two well known friends and her reaction to their reasoning for visiting her.

I have also been enjoying Quentin Quire quarrel with Genesis due to him being the child version of Apocalypse. It was also nice to see the sadness and disappointment how the teachers stick up for him as he never asked to be what he was and has been doing everything he can to prevent becoming Apocalypse. Seeing Genesis' involvement in this story reminds me of the first Uncanny X-Force story which is nice and it also gives me the feeling that the series is possibly going to end similar to how it started.

The bloated Wolverine in this issue was hilarious. I don't know if it was meant to get this kind of reaction but seeing what I would imagine a cross between Wolverine and Blob would look like is funny. Besides the humour to this I also liked that we see Wolverine in a vulnerable state and although we have seen Wolverine literally go through hell in the past (see Wolverine Goes to Hell) we have never seen Wolverine like this. It was different to see that despite all the effort Wolverine tried to attempt any form of attack that there was nothing he could do to defend himself leaving him completely at the Omega Clan's mercy.

Final Verdict

A brilliant continuation to what is shaping up to be a great story. With the introduction of some new villains with a classic conection I would highly recommend this issue as well as the story so far and am looking forward to seeing what's in store for the X-Force next issue.

Rating: 5/5