Generation X-23 #9: A Filler Issue Done Right

Issue nine of Generation X-23 is the epitome of a good filler issue. Jody Houser slows down the story just enough to allow these characters time to breathe, giving the Generated their time to shine as actual characters. The plot is extremely simple: little actually occurs in this issue prior to the cliffhanger at the end. Nonetheless, it’s the slow pace that finally gives the Generated the long-awaited defining traits these new characters once lacked.

X-99, known as Surprise! (the exclamation point is emphasized), possesses this child-like joyousness throughout the series. With the slower pace, Houser allows Surprise! to highlight their personality, making her the emotional heart of the issue. X-74, called Time Bomb, is the oldest of the current Generated; Houser makes Time Bomb act more like an emotional teenager rather than merely a background character. It’s Time Bomb who serves as the driver of this comic, and it’s Houser’s commitment to making her distinct from the other characters that allows this to work. X-92, called Port, is the silent type in this comic. Port’s lack of real dialogue makes this the least developed member of the Generated; however, their silence still adds to a unique personality, albeit an unengaging one.

Artist Marco Renna and colorist Erick Arciniega work together to deliver panels that are distinctively charming. Renna’s artistic talent is best shown with Surprise! simply by the nature of the character’s powers. Surprise! shapeshifts by tearing off their flesh to reveal different forms underneath, often either an alternate skin tone or a weapon. Renna draws X-99’s skin as if it were plastic being ripped, stretching and bending as it’s pulled. During the opening fight scene, Renna uses subtle horizonal lines to blend backgrounds together, adding an almost “motion-blur” effect to the page. It’s very impressive linework that, when combined with Erick Arciniega’s colors, sets the combat in this issue apart from the typical freeze frame and leading line effect that many comic artists default to.