Take a first look at the upcoming issue!
'Dark Reign-The List: X-MEN' #1
Written by: Matt Fraction
Art by: Alan Davis
How could I possibly pass up the opportunity to do an early review of a comic that is centered almost entirely around Namor? When Marvel gave me the opportunity to give an early review of 'Dark Reign-The List: X-MEN' I could not pass up the opportunity! I am glad I did as I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The reception of Fraction's take on the 'X-Men' as of late has been met with mixed reviews from what I have seen on Comic Vine; but I felt that the interaction between the characters was well portrayed, particularly the underlying tension between Scott and Namor. There is a great scene where Namor purposely mistakes a comment made by Summers ("Oh my Lord!") to be directed at him ("I am not your King, Summers") a scene which I felt, really encompasses the differences between the two characters. The use of the double entendre at the expense of Scott Summers is priceless, and really captures Namor's arrogant attitude. It is not often I find that Namor is written to his full potential, and I think that Fraction does a phenomenal job with this character. Fraction's characterization is perfect, in that he is cocky, arrogant, stubborn; yet he also utilizes Namor as a physical force to be reckoned with, which was refreshing and not something I get to see very often. There were, however, some awkward transitions which felt almost choppy. I felt some of the panels could have been drawn out a little bit more. The issue seemed short, and I would have rather seen more of this story than the re-print of Fraction's 'Dead Man Walking' toward the end of the book. Then again, I have never really been fond of Wolverine and as a result I could have passed on that story. The art, unfortunately, did not blow me away and I would have liked to see more detail. It was not completely consistent throughout, and some panels seemed a bit rushed. Fans of the X-Men of yesteryear might like the artistic style; however; I felt like I saw a limited number of expressions (the cover is a good example of this). Perhaps the details were lost in the inking and coloring? Regardless it was solid enough, I guess I just expect a lot from Alan Davis. I really recommend this issue as it struck me as one of the better X-Men stories as of late. Look for it on the stands tomorrow!