Writer: Stephanie Phillips
Art: Alessandro Miracolo, Yasmine Putri
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $4.99
Reviewed by: Anonymous
Release Date: July 17th, 2024
LIFE! FIRE! POWER! POSSIBILITY! PHOENIX! She is JEAN GREY. She is PHOENIX. She saves the world. She brings death. One woman, alone in space, who not only must do what no one else can: she yearns to. A desperate S.O.S. from NOVA brings the Phoenix to the edge of a black hole, where hundreds of lives hang in the balance…and whatever Jean does – or fails to do – will bring darkness to the universe and haunt her in ways she can scarcely imagine…
If you’re interested in this comic, series, related trades, or any of the others mentioned, then simply click on the title/link to snag a copy through Amazon as you read the Phoenix #1 Review.
THE DISPATCH
Phoenix #1 by Stephanie Phillips marks the fiery return of Jean Grey as the Phoenix. This debut issue dives into a cosmic mystery, reuniting Jean with familiar faces while introducing a dangerous new threat. However, the narrative stumbles at times, leaving some questions unanswered and the overall impact uneven. That said, Phillips offers a fresh take on Jean Grey, exploring the burden and power that comes with wielding the Phoenix Force. The issue delves into Jean’s internal struggles, showcasing her determination and the weight of her past.
Fans of the X-Men will appreciate seeing Jean interact with beloved characters like Cyclops and Emma Frost. The issue lays the groundwork for potentially interesting team dynamics. Plus, the arrival of a mysterious entity with ties to the Phoenix Force adds an intriguing layer of mystery to the narrative. This sets the stage for a potentially epic conflict. Nevertheless, Phoenix #1 struggles with pacing at times. Some scenes feel rushed, while others drag on without significant development. This can leave readers feeling disoriented. Moreover, the first issue throws a lot of information at the reader, explaining Jean’s connection to the Phoenix Force and introducing the new threat. This can be overwhelming for new readers unfamiliar with the character’s history.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Now, while the issue sets the stage for a larger conflict, the action sequences themselves are underwhelming. Readers expecting a high-octane adventure might be disappointed. Yet overall, Phoenix #1 is a promising but uneven start to a new series. While Phillips’ writing explores interesting themes and the return of the Phoenix Force holds potential, the pacing and exposition issues might hinder the overall experience. Diehard Phoenix fans and those interested in a character study of Jean Grey grappling with her cosmic power might enjoy this issue. However, readers seeking a fast-paced and action-packed adventure might be better off waiting for future issues to see if the narrative finds its footing.