Resurrection of Magneto #4: The King is Back

Magneto is back. Brought to life by the sheer power that is his own will and Storm’s efforts. But what kind of man is this? Who is this new, cleansed Magneto? Let the reawaking begin.

It is fascinating the way Ewing and Vecchio link Magneto to his three helmet types, each one representing a different kind of man, a killer, a wannabe peacemaker, or something in between. The reality seems to be, as noted in the previous issue covered in shades of gray and the darkness must be fought, without ignoring it outright.

The comic sees Magneto rescuing mutants and taking on a sentinel on steroids with the help of Ororo and Dr. Bashir. The comic is fast-paced, and action-packed while still allowing Magneto time to think, to process. This is a Magneto working under a revised philosophy, a man who seemingly understands both his mission and that of his oldest friend Charles Xavier, while simultaneously comprehending the flaws in both logics. It’s the age-old question of what will help us accomplish our goals, what will liberal mutants from Orchis? Is sparing one life worth it? Well, this Magneto is under that impression.

It remains to be seen how Magneto will come to save the mutants from their current predicament. But one thing is for sure, the philosophies have combined. They have joined forces, to create, or remind us of the sheer power and self-control that Magneto has. But even he has his limits. Orchis is determined to make that happen.

The art, particularly Magneto’s design and helmet contrasts just enough from previous issues to let us know we are now in the real world, and that this is a brand-new man. Stylistically it is a brilliant choice of different tones and gives us a more grounded feeling compared to the various colors, or outright darkness of the previous three issues. This further cements this is the real world and the other is not. Magneto still has a lot to figure out. And he seemingly doesn’t have time to process being alive.

The action flows well and the art and panels help keep it moving. The stress the characters are under when faced against their foe in this issue is well illustrated.

Magneto is processing his actions and decisions in real time providing a continued narrative from the previous issues. But now with higher stakes. Although it is not as philosophical as the last issue, and at times felt like it was missing something, it still delivered a powerful announcement that yes, Magneto is back. He’s alive, and Orchis better watch out.