Cable #1
Writer: Gerry Duggan
Artist: Phil Noto
Cable #1 focuses on the young Cable as he settles into Krakoa. Writer Gerry Duggan does a fine job of introducing new readers to the character while giving longtime fans new stuff to digest.
This first issue is full of heart, and one of the better debuts in Hickman’s massive reboot. Cable obviously isn’t the only mutant in this book, and this issue puts the spotlight on other young mutants like Pixie, Armor, Curse, and Fauna. The small team here works together well with great chemistry, making this a fun book to read. The new look at Krakoa is also interesting, bringing in some new geographical and cultural quirks to the sovereign mutant nation. Duggan has a great foundation on his hands, so expect Cable to continue to improve.
Any series would be blessed to have Phil Noto on art, and this one is no different. Everything from the characters and backgrounds to the warm colors looks great. Krakoa is full of magic, adding depth and charm to this debut. This is easily one of the best looking X-books out right now, and Noto makes Cable #1 worth the price because of art alone.
Verdict: 8.5/10
New Mutants #9
Writer: Ed Brisson
Artists: Flaviano & Carlos Lopez
New Mutants is one of the most underappreciated X-Books out right now. The fun series brings some great characters into a few wacky situations and thrives off of entertaining banter.
New Mutants #9 features a massive shift in tone with tons of horror vibes and tense dialogue. Ed Brisson still manages to keep the heart of the series here, focusing more on the characters and less on the intriguing set-pieces. This issue also features some of the best action in the series so far, adding tons of excitement to the narrative.
Flaviano’s art allows for the action to move smoothly while still ensuring that the book looks good. This issue’s visual highlights are thanks to Carlos Lopez, who steals the show here. One spread, in particular, is a feast for the eyes. The issue’s horror-filled atmosphere is brought to life thanks to Lopez, making this another hit for the series.
Verdict: 8.5/10
X-Men #8
Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Mahmud Asrar
Coming off of the best issue of X-Men so far should be a steep undertaking for Hickman, but X-Men #8 still delivers an exciting issue. This is also the first issue in Hickman’s grand design to actually include significant ramifications from the events of New Mutants. The end result is a strong issue full of action that serves as a strong reminder that everything in this new line is connected.
This is an action-filled issue, and Mahmud Asrar does a stellar job at bringing a massive battle to the panels. There are multiple moments full of excitement and hype that are all made possible by Asrar. Sunny Gho’s colors are awe-inducing. Not every panel stands out due to the colors, but there are a few that will captivate readers. A few hiccups in the pacing hold this issue back from being another masterpiece by Hickman and company, but that doesn’t prevent X-Men #8 from being an entertaining read.
Verdict: 7.75/10