Comic Review: Way of X #1

Marvel Comics

Writer: Si Spurrier

Artists: Bob Quinn & Java Tartaglia 

Letterer: VC’s Clayton Cowles

Some of the best issues of the new X-Men status quo have explored the more philosophical aspects of the Krakoan society. Way of X is a new series that aims to explore the darker aspects of Krakoa, with Nightcrawler leading the charge. The new series is written by Si Spurrier. Bob Quinn handles the art with Java Tartaglia’s colors and letters by Clayton Cowles.

All of the mutants being more-or-less mortal has brought an interesting dynamic to this X-Men line. Nightcrawler hasn’t gotten too much of the spotlight recently, but it makes sense that he would be the lead in a book like Way of X. Spurrier does a fantastic job of exploring the psychological impact of resurrection, and no one feels more conflicted about it than Nightcrawler.

Nightcrawler’s religious background makes him a fascinating case study on the traumatic implications of this status quo. The brutal death of a mutant teammate early on in this issue and some run-ins with Magneto do a lot to shake his faith. Kurt is fantastically written in this issue, with Spurrier balancing the character’s darker side with his heart of gold. Every action and monologue by the character is understandable, making this one of the best takes on Kurt in quite some time.

Bob Quinn’s art is wonderful, with tons of great scenery and action that flows well. The characters all look solid, with consistent facial expressions and body poses. The characters are positioned in a way that maximizes every panel. Whether there is humor, action, or melancholy, every panel ensures that the right tone is captured. Java Tartaglia’s art enhances the tone of each page, adding emotional weight to the panels. This is a great book that is full of atmosphere thanks to the creative team.

As entertaining as Way of X is, it isn’t too accessible to new readers. It’s dense and heavily leans on everything that Hickman and company have set up before it. Those who just want to pick up this book because it has Nightcrawler on the cover might find themselves lost.

For those who are invested in the rest of this line, this one is almost a no-brainer.

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