Writer: Si Spurrier
Art: Bob Quinn, VC’s Clayton Cowles, Tom Muller, Marte Garcia, Java Tartaglia, and Giuseppe Camuncoli
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price:$3.99
Release Date: May 19th, 2021
The dark power concealed within Krakoa embarks to demonstrate its true colors. However, as Nightcrawler ventures forth, he discovers that the answers he’s looking for are hidden inside the Mindscape. But, not just Kurt’s Mindscape… someone else’s too. Let’s dive into WAY OF X #2 by Si Spurrier as we undercover the rebirth of one of the most dangerous mutants ever to tangle with the X-MEN in recent history.
If you’re interested in this comic, series, related trades, or any of the others mentioned, simply click on the title/link to snag a copy through Amazon. Or, click the links here for Dawn of X and Reign of X trades.
LIKE A SNOWBALL ROLLING UPHILL
Legion said it best this issue, “Too late. Can’t make a snowball roll uphill.” This little analogy perfectly describes Krakoa at this point. Spurrier is using Nightcrawler to take readers on what could be a guide to the destruction of this mutant paradise. However, the irony is that Nightcrawler is (maybe subconsciously) surrounding himself with some of the most destructive mutants to stifle this problem and at least stop the snowball where it’s at. Individuals like Fabian Cortez, Nemesis, and Legion oddly make up this extremely fascinating team with Nightcrawler smack dab in the center of it all.
Readers, the dynamic between Nightcrawler, Nemesis, and Legion is so strong and exciting. Each character is written so well and commands equal attention from the reader. Spurrier manages each personality well and provides these three heavy hitters their place to shine. This unique team may not be a “permanent” lineup but they appear to be working together in the short term. That said, I never would have anticipated my interest in these three characters together. However, I absolutely love it.
FAVOR FOR A FAVOR
As the last issue of WAY OF X came to a close, many assumed Legion was the Patchwork Man. Rightfully so, that made sense. However, we discover that there is more to that story than meets the eye as you dive deeper into the issue. Nevertheless, as Legion helps prove who’s really behind this new Patchwork Man, Nightcrawler is forced to cash in a favor he owes Legion almost immediately.
Nightcrawler, however, comes to a realization that’s a defining moment within even our civilization today. Sometimes to be reborn, sins need to be committed. Sometimes, violence is required for rebirth. Kurt had to do the unthinkable. Nevertheless, it’s oftentimes the unthinkable that leads us down the right path. Spurrier uses Kurt’s religious beliefs of Christianity as a parallel to ultimately tell the story this week in a masterful way.
God’s only begotten son had to be murdered on a cross to save humanity from sin. Something unthinkable and unimaginable. Still, it’s that same act of unspeakable violence that not only saved but led to rebirth. As Nightcrawler states, “an act that broke every piece of thoughtless conditioning… which catalyzed an act of creation.” Spurrier really gets the reader thinking rather profoundly before this installment of the WAY OF X comes to a close this week. And, there is no doubt you’ll leave this thought-provoking tale with many of life’s most intriguing questions on the tip of your tongue.
ART
Bob Quinn’s art is a tall glass of water. I can’t begin to tell you how refreshing it is to see in this genre of comic culture. WAY OF X #2 is dark, almost inky in texture, yet awkwardly friendly and easy to talk to. However, even with its darker tone, the color palette seemed bright and vibrant. Quinn’s style is somewhat edgy and unnerving at times which is perfect for a story ready to rock this mutant paradise. Quinn and his art team have found a path to add an eerie element to a superhero comic genre in an auspicious way that’s so inviting, especially to anyone on the fringe of checking out an X-MEN title in this new Reign of X era.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Spurrier and Quinn have found the perfect blend of narrative and art that collides two genres (superhero and thriller) together in a twisted tornado of literary delight. WAY OF X has a means of making readers feel uncomfortable yet wants you to ask those troublesome questions that are nagging at your insides. WAY OF X fights dang hard to roll that snowball uphill.
Is it murder if you’re able to be resurrected? Do you really have a soul? Mutants are not only creating their own nation but they’re also playing God. And at why cost? WAY OF X is merely taking a peek right now. However, as this issue comes to a close, the doors get blown off the hinges. This is definitely a must-read for X-MEN fans and I highly recommend jumping in now before it’s too late. Let me know what you think, have a great week, and God Bless!