ICYMI! Marauders #5: Recreational Murder

Steve Orlando’s writing has, so far, been a little bit inconsistent, but the balance has always tilted a little bit more towards the ‘good’ side of the scale. This issue tips the whole direction of the series all the way over into positive territory. It’s an ending, to be certain, but it’s one which promises a great deal of fun to come in the future.

Some of the things that I loved included the continued exploration of mutant synergy. Seeing Nova, Kwannon, Tempo and the healed symbiote working together to alter the past even as they preserved the future was undeniably cool. I love the surfeit of queerness shoveled into this title. Ten years ago, depicting casual on-panel gay sex would have been unheard of in a mainstream book. Here, it’s presented beautifully and casually, given the same space and importance as straight romance. I love that bisexuality is embraced within this title, and not intentionally or carelessly erased. I love that Kwannon is still involved with Greycrow and I love that Psylocke’s power seems to be returning after she was so unceremoniously nerfed during the atrocious Fallen Angels run. 

Most importantly, I love Andrea Broccardo’s art. I think that his clear, vibrant line work is far more suited towards the varieties of stories that Orlando likes telling. His action scenes are clear and visceral; his emotive scenes are tender and telling. I could happily stare at his work for hours, and I’m so glad to see him assigned as a permanent artist. Matt Milla’s color work is bright and clear, lavishing love equally on both blood and resurrection. 

This issue served as both a lovely ending to the arc which preceded it and also as some truly excellent stage setting for the new fun to come. It would be a shame to miss out on it.