Comics: Uncanny X-force #1

Following on from arguably the most critically successful X-force comic of all time, Sam Humphries was definitely in for a challenge. While he delivers a good story, as of yet it doesn’t live up to the series that preceded it.

Picking up six months after the end of Rick Remender’s run, the issue introduces several characters who are facing tough times in their lives; without uniting them in to a team as of yet. Psylocke has mysteriously returned, full of rage. Storm is recently divorced and working through some anger issues of her own. Sent by Wolverine to investigate a new drug that turns people in to slaves, they encounter the flirtatious Puck and Spiral, who as always is up to no good. Meanwhile in France we are introduced to the mysterious Cluster. The cover makes it quite clear that is the new X-force but so far only Storm and Psylocke feel like true members, the rest feeling like random additions. It will take a lot to convince readers that this is a worthy team, but it will definitely be an interesting one. Puck looks to be a fun addition, providing the issue’s comic relief while also having interesting dynamics with the cast. The rivalry between Psylocke and Spiral could easily rival that of Cyclops and Wolverine if handled well. We also get a one page reveal of the new villain, old friend Bishop who went insane several years ago and was abandoned in the far future; he’s not surprisingly seeking revenge. 

Ron Garney provides the artwork for the series, giving each of the characters a unique look. The return to Storm’s mohawk is an interesting move, while it is an obvious attempt to make her in to a more fearsome looking character it both fits the tone of the book and where her character is at. Action works incredibly well in the series, appearing kinetic and exciting. Marte Gracia and Israel Gonzalez provide the colors, giving it a neo-noir tone meshing well with the writing.

Kris Anka was given the task of redesigning the cast’s characters for the series and has done an excellent job. I’m a big fan of Storm’s new outfit, particularly liking the move away from the skimpier outfits I have seen her in recently. She is a very regal character, a bikini like outfit doesn’t suit her at all. The same is true for Psylocke, the look working with her ninja origins. The costumes are striking without being over-the-top, a rare skill. 

In focusing mostly on setting up the characters, there isn’t really much time for actual story in this issue - a problem I often find with premiere issues. While an interesting start, the second issue needs to give more of a sense of what the overall arc will entail to keep people interested.