X-Men/Fantastic 4 #2: Mother, Mother

The second issue of X-Men/Fantastic 4 was easily one of the most entertaining books of the week. Zdarsky’s writing crackles and pops, but manages to do so without ever losing a sense of reality. This is especially apparent during the dialogue between Scott Summers and Sue Richards — both characters felt like real parents; knowledgeable and concerned, but projected through an idealized, cinematic lens. 

The character interactions were all largely spot-on (it was especially nice to see Ben calling Reed out for causing this whole mess through his fragile combination of ego and deep insecurity) and as such both the X-Men and the Fantastic Four felt like real, unified family units. In the case of the former, this was a refreshing break from the creepy, cultish atmosphere that Hickman has been fostering — though I felt a bittersweet pang at seeing Nightcrawler acting more like himself and not as the heretical, suicide-endorsing zealot that appeared in X-Men #7.

Doctor Doom I always at his best when his motives are complex — and they certainly are, here, but it is easy to believe that there is some genuine affection fueling his decision to help Franklin regain his true abilities. And it was nice to see that at least one writer is addressing the effect that the new mutant status quo is having on genetically blended families. 

It’s also important to mention the quality of  Dodson’s art. The tone fit the flavor of the book (it’s a little cartoony, in places, but beautiful) and he can draw a more adult-looking Kitty like no one else.

I was more satisfied, reading this, than I have been since the launch of DoX. The perfect balance of deeper themes and lighter tone contributed to this, in large part, Andi cannot wait to read the next issue.