Marauders #21: Get This Party Started

This issue of Marauders served as an effective linchpin to what looks to be a wild X-Event. In many ways, this issue is unlike anything we’ve been led to expect (we see the gala through, from beginning to end — minus a few notable exceptions) and everything we’ve been promised. We are given hints of the stories that will unfold (that are unfolding) in all the other books during this event, and we see Emma Frost doing what she does best — completing intricate political machinations all while pulling off a plethora of precision costume changes.

We also see that the Gala, as a whole, is a success. We witness the close of the party, as well as the beginning. A number of fans guessed that the event would see the seeds of future drama, and not necessarily be a giant implosion in and of itself, and that certainly looks to be the case. 

I will say that it seems as though each individual installment of the story stands as a part of its own series. You don’t need to read X-Force to understand what is happening in Marauders. If you have the extra money, I would recommend it. But you needn’t feel as though you have to blow a hundred dollars on X-Books this month to enjoy the story.

Fittingly enough, this story was primarily composed of character-driven setup. It’s difficult to imagine anyone putting this down and feeling unsatisfied. The driving force, of course, was Emma. Her meticulous planning, her calculated grace. Her hubris. This story provided a fascinating look into the mind of the character (bolstered by the extra X-Men: Classic excerpt at the end, an extra that provides context and heft to an already great story) as well as providing a good gander at her wardrobe. 

The other characters in this series were not neglected. Everyone that is still a part of the cast had at least a few good moments. Everyone was well drawn — especially considering that this is an issue and not a series in and of itself. It was a brilliantly constructed episode.

Of course, I would be criminally remiss if I neglected to mention the art. These pages are absolutely dripping with details. The line work is lush, but not overwrought, adding nuance to small character moments and adding a splendid depth of emotion to the text. Plus, I have to say, seeing Lolli’s take on Emma’s glitter-gown was worth the price of admission alone. Lolli is a fantastic artist. Delgado’s lush color work was the polish on the jewel. These artists work together exceedingly well.

It’s a beautiful book and well worth picking up.