Inglorious X-Force #7: Character Assassination and Character Apathy

As the cover would suggest, the primary protagonist of this issue is Domino, with a secondary protagonist in Cable. However, Domino is left without her memory, and she’s forced to navigate the forest while two hunters chase her for being a mutant. A dazed and confused Domino has sacrificed her personality along with her memories. Neena Thurman isn’t witty or clever; she’s reduced to a bumbling idiot. Domino’s side of the story is the action-packed side, with Domino rediscovering her powers during her forest escape. It’s a simple, almost demeaning side plot that certainly reduces (and almost assassinates) Domino as a character. 

Unfortunately, this comic still doesn’t know what to do with Hellverine. Daken, a notoriously arrogant character, remains silent for the majority of the issue. Archangel isn’t given much to do either, although his rivalry with Akhiro is furthered. The story is so apathetic toward the majority of the cast; only a few characters are given any attention. The standout character in the issue is Kamala Khan. Seeley gives Kamala a pretty distinct character moment where she can reflect on her condition. It’s not subtle, but it’s a welcome quiet moment in a series that seldom forgets to give its characters actual character. Ironically enough, the best characters in this issue are the ones who don’t feature on the primary Inglorious X-Force lineup. Several characters show up from other stories, and these characters completely steal the show. They have much more page-presence than anyone else. 

Michael Sta. Maria’s art is some of the best it’s been in this series. Each panel looks intentional, where even the most intricate details are not sacrificed. Most of the praise ought to be levied toward Romulo Fajardo Jr. and their color work. The colors are vibrant on one page and completely dull on another. Hellverine, Cable, and Ms. Marvel all look incredible here. During the aforementioned Kamala Khan character moment, Ms. Marvel’s emotions can be portrayed through the art alone; even without words, the linework and the colors tell the story. This is what good art should do, and it further cements a single conversation as the comic’s defining moment.