Writer: Jed MacKay
Art: Netho Diaz, Sean Parsons, Ryan Stegman, JP Mayer, Marte Garcia, and VC’s Clayton Cowles
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price:$4.99
Reviewed by: Anonymous
Release Date: September 18th, 2024
THEY KILL FOR KICKS & THEY KILL FOR CLICKS! “Hello, internet – it’s your boy, Trevor Fitzroy! That’s right, Trevor Fitzroy and the Upstarts, out there delivering the content you crave: livestreamed, bespoke, mutant murder in high-def! And best of all, you, the viewers, are the ones rating the kills! So smash that like button, hit subscribe and tell us who the number-one killer is!”
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 X-Men #4 Review.
THE DISPATCH
X-Men #4 by Jed MacKay and Alessandro Cappuccio plunges readers into a horrifying new reality: the rise of the Upstarts, a group of mutant influencers who livestream their violent acts for online popularity. This issue explores the dark side of social media and the lengths people will go for fame and fortune.
MacKay’s writing is sharp and thought-provoking, exploring the moral complexities of the situation. The Upstarts’ twisted motivations and the shocking nature of their crimes are sure to leave a lasting impression. Cappuccio’s art is equally disturbing, capturing the brutality of the violence while also showcasing the characters’ emotional turmoil.
The issue focuses on Synch, a young mutant who finds himself caught in the Upstarts’ deadly game. His struggle to survive and maintain his humanity adds a layer of depth to the narrative. The supporting cast, including Cyclops, Jean Grey, and Havok, play pivotal roles in trying to stop the Upstarts’ reign of terror.
FINAL THOUGHTS
X-Men #4 is a bold and disturbing installment that pushes the boundaries of the X-Men franchise. It’s a commentary on the dark side of social media and the lengths people will go for fame and fortune. While the subject matter is disturbing, the execution is masterful, with compelling characters and a thought-provoking narrative. Overall, X-Men #4 is a powerful and disturbing exploration of the dark side of humanity.