Friday, February 1, 2013

Wolverine & the X-Men #24



Ah, time for the “breather” issue. The time when a comic can take a break between bigger storylines. Of course, in Jason Aaron’s run, the stories have been action-packed, but never depressing. Even when things seem to be at their worst, there is still a sense of joy in this comic that really sets it apart. 

This issue is all about characters pairing off and maybe making a go of it as a couple. (Much to Toad’s dismay.) Aaron has been laying the groundwork for Iceman and Shadowcat for a while now, and they do seem to work nicely together. I’m not sure there is much of a future there; Shadowcat especially has too much on her mind. But I like that Iceman is even involved; he rarely gets in these love triangles. 

The weirdest pairing is the one featured on the cover. I never really realized (or perhaps it is a new reveal) that Storm and Wolvie have a bit of a romantic past. She sure insinuates as much when the two of them team up in the new Danger Room. When Wolvie gives her back the old Mohawk look, things really heat up. Poor Black Panther, I can only assume that the one person he didn’t want his ex-wife hooking up with was the ol Canucklehead. Or maybe Namor. Can’t be sure! 

One pairing that seems strange at first, but actually works, is bad boy telepath Quentin Quire and the young Jean Grey. Quentin is confident and a better guy than he lets on, and Jean is running from the whole Cyclops-type good guy. I don’t think the two of them will get far, but I like the idea that these two would find each other. They could probably be a good influence in each other’s lives! 

David Lopez really brings his A game to the book. I’ve always liked his work, but this really stands out. His Storm is simply stunning. He really sells the acting between Iceman and Shadowcat on their date, too. I can’t remember the last time I saw such expressive faces.

Good

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