X-Men from the Beginning

[david r]

My thoughts on Uncanny X-Men #193:

A classic issue, as everyone agrees here. Wow, 100 issues of the "new X-Men". It doesn't seem possible. I'm sure many readers thought Thunderbird was actually back from the dead. A clever twist from New Mutants-- the brother of John Proudstar wants vengeance. I wish Banshee had played a larger role, he didn't do much except get beaten up. And Ororo barely appeared. (I agree with Cub; I think the "visions" Storm saw play into her emerging sorceress powers.)

John Romita Jr's artwork is superb here. This may be my favorite JRJ work EVER!! I especially like how he depicts character's face; very expressive. Chris Claremont weaves a story that resurrects elements from the first 3 issues of 1970s X-Men, without tarnishing that era's legacy. This issue celebrates the first 3 issues of the 1970s X-Men, and the forgotten member, Thunderbird, who perished so early on. Claremont did an admirable job of looking back....while also moving the characters forward. His run is truly something to cherish.

I agree that John Proudstar is a sad story. He died so early, so many adventures and moments Thunderbird never got the opportunity to enjoy. This issue reminds us of him--without a gratuitous resurrection of him that would tarnish the original "Warhunt". I wonder where James Proudstar will go from here?

I love Thunderbird's costume though. Gorgeous stuff.

http://images.wikia.com/marveldatabase/images/5/54/Thunderbird_I_001.gif

As an inside joke, I've read a story that writer Chris Claremont wanted to put Charles Xavier in a dress. You know that phrase, "You can do whatever you want with the character....well, anything but put 'em in a dress." I've read that Claremont wanted to put Xavier in a dress in this story, when he awakens in Callisto's hideaway, as proof that he CAN do whatever he wants with them!! But Marvel said NO WAY!!

This issue ends with this dedication: To Len Wein and Dave Cockrum, who had the Dream...and Tom Orzechowski and Glynis Wein, who've been with us from the very beginning..."

[worstblogever]

My thoughts on Uncanny X-Men #193:

A classic issue, as everyone agrees here. Wow, 100 issues of the "new X-Men". It doesn't seem possible. I'm sure many readers thought Thunderbird was actually back from the dead. A clever twist from New Mutants-- the brother of John Proudstar wants vengeance. I wish Banshee had played a larger role, he didn't do much except get beaten up. And Ororo barely appeared. (I agree with Cub; I think the "visions" Storm saw play into her emerging sorceress powers.)

John Romita Jr's artwork is superb here. This may be my favorite JRJ work EVER!! I especially like how he depicts character's face; very expressive. Chris Claremont weaves a story that resurrects elements from the first 3 issues of 1970s X-Men, without tarnishing that era's legacy. This issue celebrates the first 3 issues of the 1970s X-Men, and the forgotten member, Thunderbird, who perished so early on. Claremont did an admirable job of looking back....while also moving the characters forward. His run is truly something to cherish.

I agree that John Proudstar is a sad story. He died so early, so many adventures and moments Thunderbird never got the opportunity to enjoy. This issue reminds us of him--without a gratuitous resurrection of him that would tarnish the original "Warhunt". I wonder where James Proudstar will go from here?

I love Thunderbird's costume though. Gorgeous stuff.

http://images.wikia.com/marveldatabase/images/5/54/Thunderbird_I_001.gif

As an inside joke, I've read a story that writer Chris Claremont wanted to put Charles Xavier in a dress. You know that phrase, "You can do whatever you want with the character....well, anything but put 'em in a dress." I've read that Claremont wanted to put Xavier in a dress in this story, when he awakens in Callisto's hideaway, as proof that he CAN do whatever he wants with them!! But Marvel said NO WAY!!

This issue ends with this dedication: To Len Wein and Dave Cockrum, who had the Dream...and Tom Orzechowski and Glynis Wein, who've been with us from the very beginning..."

david r!!!!

Stop the presses... it didn't occur to me in your summary of the issue, but you overlooked a real important little detail about when Xavier is in the Underground!

While Xavier is there, Callisto gets a report from Sunder, who comes in with the bodies of Annalee's four children! This is a heavy moment, and it's the first hint that somebody is seriously out to hunt the Morlocks! It should come into play again soon, not only when there's the X-Men/Power Pack crossover, but also about, say, seventeen issues from now during a pretty big event...

I'd say more, but I'd be spoiling. Still, that's far from a throwaway scene!

[CJ Lentze]

A classic issue, as everyone agrees here. Wow, 100 issues of the "new X-Men". It doesn't seem possible.As of the Brood Saga, Storm, Nightcrawler, Colossus, and Wolverine have been X-Men for a longer time than Iceman, the Angel, and the Beast. At the point we've arrived at now, there's a generation of readers that probably never read the original five, but did read the All-New All-Differents.I wish Banshee had played a larger role, he didn't do much except get beaten up.Me, too. I don't mind that he was the ex-X-Man in distress throughout the issue, but I would have preferred if they had given Banshee some conversation with his former teammates, at least in the final pages after his rescue. Similarly, in Uncanny X-Men 169/170, Angel doesn't speak at all, though I first thought that was because Chris Claremont couldn't get Angel's 'voice' right. John Romita Jr's artwork is superb here. This may be my favorite JRJ work EVER!! I especially like how he depicts character's face; very expressive.This is where our opinions differ. While JRJR's artwork accompanies some of my favourite stories, to me, his art can be very hit-or-miss. He consistently draws a great Nightcrawler, Storm, and Kitty Pryde, but I feel the expressions on the characters' faces sometimes convey the wrong emotion. Crying characters, for example, like Madelyne Pryor in Uncanny 181 and Xavier in 188, often look like they're tired instead of grief-stricken. But that being said, 187/188 had a lot of gorgeous panels, and when I think mid-80s X-Men, I see Romita Jr.'s depiction of them in my head. Plus, I'm no expert on art, so you can discard most of what I say.:tongue:I agree that John Proudstar is a sad story. He died so early, so many adventures and moments Thunderbird never got the opportunity to enjoy. This issue reminds us of him--without a gratuitous resurrection of him that would tarnish the original "Warhunt". I'm glad that, to this day, they haven't ressurrected Thunderbird- whether it's in a revenge story or not. I don't know that his ressurrection would have tarnished the original Warhunt in this issue, because his death was sudden and may have seemed pointless to some readers (it's difficult to see the 'gain' of his last act of heroism weigh up against the cost, especially since Count Nefaria escaped death), but as you said, his brother posing as Thunderbird was a neat twist, and a welcome variation to the 'you left me to die, now comes revenge' plot. Sure, the 'avenging relative' has been done elsewhere as well, but still.

[limerick]

david ,you're bringing the memories flooding back now.i vividly remember reading this for the first time while on holidays in the west of ireland-appropriately where banshee was from.
what was great about this issue was how it stood alone. there was none of the 10 issue set-ups involved.it would be a great jump on issue for anyone to read.
at the time i felt it was possible for warpath to join the x-men.his refusal was part of an ongoing "thawing" of the ice queen,emma frost.she was being painted in a positive light for the first time ,especially in the new mutants circa #40.it was laying the groundwork for her becoming the hero we love today.

[david r]

david r!!!!

Stop the presses... it didn't occur to me in your summary of the issue, but you overlooked a real important little detail about when Xavier is in the Underground!


GOOD CALL! I think I know what Big Event you're referring to. When I read about some mutant kids "murdered in cold blood" down in the Alley...I assumed it was just human vigilantes. But......could these murders be hinting to a bigger game going on here? A more dangerous enemy than mere vigilantes? I NEVER caught that, nice job Worstblogever! :smile:

I wonder if Marvel knew what they were doing here? If these seemingly random murders of Morlocks was setting the stage for a bigger epic down the road? Long-term planning!

Schuimend Mormel, As for Banshee, Sean was used as a device to move UXM #193 along. Like you, I've noticed older X-Men appear but do/say very little. Angel in #169/170 another fine example. It seems the newer X-Men take the spotlight most. I also noticed how the Beast vanished from this book once John Byrne left.

As for John Romita Jr. I can see the arguments you make. His earlier X-work was spotty, but starting with UXM #187, I think Romita has produced stellar work. Especially considering 2 issues were 25 pages, and he wasn't missing deadlines. He has his own unique style, which I don't always like. But it somehow "fits" this period of X-Men.

I'm glad that, to this day, they haven't ressurrected Thunderbird- whether it's in a revenge story or not. I don't know that his ressurrection would have tarnished the original Warhunt in this issue, because his death was sudden and may have seemed pointless to some readers (it's difficult to see the 'gain' of his last act of heroism weigh up against the cost, especially since Count Nefaria escaped death),

I felt Thunderbird's death did have meaning. John Proudstar was trying to prove he was worthy, and he succeeded. And his sacrifice emboldened the X-Men in a way the Original 5 never experienced. Thunderbird's death gave this book a feeling of suspense, of unpredictability that we hadn't seen before. So I give Claremont credit for reminding us of Proudstar, without ruining the importance of "Warhunt."

Limerick, West of Ireland? How cool is that? Is there a Cassidy Keep anywhere around there, perhaps?? I must admit, I would love to visit there & go searching! Also, I agree with you this was a superb "jumping-on" issue. As a double-sized anniversary issue, it's surprisingly unmarred in confusing backstory. You don't even need to have read Uncanny X-Men #94-95 to be "in" the story, and involved in the adventure. It was a high quality event. Done-in-one.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.193.GIF

Lots of great comments about this anniversary issue. Thanks to everyone for their thoughts! :smile: I must say, I LOVE that cover. It looks like Wolverine is practically climbing on top of Thunderbird!

Notice Kitty Pryde has a new costume. The mask reminds me a tad of a certain sidekick of Batman's.
Alas, Nightcrawler continues to struggle as new team leader. Just relax, Kurt. You'll do fine, don't let it get to you.

[david r]

I'd like to take a moment and congratulate another anniversary which hits now. With UXM #194, writer Chris Claremont hits his 100th consecutive issue of UNCANNY X-MEN. A pretty amazing achievement, as few writers make it 100 straight issues! These are other writers who have hit this milestone:

Stan Lee on Fantastic Four and Amazing Spider-Man
Peter David on Incredible Hulk.
Roy Thomas on Conan the Barbarian
Larry Hama on G.I. Joe

Can you think of any others? Claremont has made this book his own. A lot has happened in the 100 issues since #94. Some fairly mind-blowing tales here. And a high degree of quality in every issue. Any writer who commits so much time to one set of characters should be applauded. I thank him for such splendid work. :smile:

[Shade101]

I'd like to take a moment and congratulate another anniversary which hits now. With UXM #194, writer Chris Claremont hits his 100th consecutive issue of UNCANNY X-MEN. A pretty amazing achievement, as few writers make it 100 straight issues! These are other writers who have hit this milestone:

Stan Lee on Fantastic Four and Amazing Spider-Man
Peter David on Incredible Hulk.
Roy Thomas on Conan the Barbarian
Larry Hama on G.I. Joe

Can you think of any others? Claremont has made this book his own. A lot has happened in the 100 issues since #94. Some fairly mind-blowing tales here. And a high degree of quality in every issue. Any writer who commits so much time to one set of characters should be applauded. I thank him for such splendid work. :smile:

*standing ovation* :biggrin:

[mbm721]

hey guys, i don't really post here, just lurk, but this issue (193) came up and i just had to reply. this was my first issue of x-men ever. my first exposure to them was the cartoon, it was the collossus vs juggernaut episode, so i eventually wanted a comic. i was probably 6 or 7 years old, back in '91, when i got this issue, i picked it off the wall because it had an awesome cover, still one of my faves for uncanny. now i barely knew how to read but damn was this issue awesome. i dont remember it so much now, but i thought leather-daddy xavier was weird haha, you guys are gonna make me dig it out now. because of this awesome issue i became an x-fan, and this iwas the first issue of my comic collection.

[worstblogever]

I'd like to take a moment and congratulate another anniversary which hits now. With UXM #194, writer Chris Claremont hits his 100th consecutive issue of UNCANNY X-MEN. A pretty amazing achievement, as few writers make it 100 straight issues! These are other writers who have hit this milestone:

Stan Lee on Fantastic Four and Amazing Spider-Man
Peter David on Incredible Hulk.
Roy Thomas on Conan the Barbarian
Larry Hama on G.I. Joe

Can you think of any others? Claremont has made this book his own. A lot has happened in the 100 issues since #94. Some fairly mind-blowing tales here. And a high degree of quality in every issue. Any writer who commits so much time to one set of characters should be applauded. I thank him for such splendid work. :smile:

Brian Michael Bendis and Bagley on Ultimate Spider-Man comes to mind.

[david r]

Shade101, thank YOU! :smile:

Mbm721, That is interesting you posted that, as some of us were just talking how Uncanny X-Men #193 was a good "jumping on" issue for new readers. And the first issue of your comic collection?? That is great! I love hearing stories like this.

Worstblogever, Yes, I remember Bendis now. I cannot think of any other 100-issue writer runs, which shows how few have managed the feat. Which just underlines what a special occasion this was for Chris Claremont.

[david r]

I would like to say I hope new poster Cub is okay. Cub resides in New Orleans, Louisiana, and I hope he is out of harms way from Hurricane Gustav. Haven't seen Cub post in a few days and I just would like to send a message in hopes he made it to shelter and safety away from Hurricane Gustav.

[Cub]

Yeah, yeah, I'm fine. Kinda viewing the whole ordeal as a little vacation. Staying with friends in their FABULOUS home in austin till things get a bit more back to normal back at home.

Anyway, love this issue, it kinda begins my secret love affair with James Proudstar.

I loathe Rogue's hair this issue (but the costume is fierce).

Get it together Rachel...

[DDM]

Yeah, yeah, I'm fine. Kinda viewing the whole ordeal as a little vacation. Staying with friends in their FABULOUS home in austin till things get a bit more back to normal back at home.

Anyway, love this issue, it kinda begins my secret love affair with James Proudstar.

I loathe Rogue's hair this issue (but the costume is fierce).

Get it together Rachel...

Oh, Rachel becomes more unhinged after she becomes Phoenix...

[david r]

Cub, I am glad to hear that you're okay. Also very relieved that New Orleans didn't flood. I hope this doesn't keep happening for you all.

A secret love affair with James Proudstar? What do you see in the big lug? :smile:

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97890869422.1.GIF


X-Men and Alpha Flight #1

"The Gift"

1st appearance: We Who Sit Above in Shadow

At long last, the classic mini-series pairing the X-Men and the mutant team from the Great North, Alpha Flight! A massive triple-sized issue launches this awesome adventure! It all may be too good to be true!

The story begins with Cyclops and his new blushing bride Madelyne Pryor flying an environmental survey team across Alaska and into Canada. This is Scott Summers' current job, and he walks through the small plane, speaking conversation with all their passengers. One man is anti-mutant, and this talk disturbs Scott. A huge thunderstorm is soon surrounding the plane, and Scott returns to the cockpit. Madelyne is keeping things together, but then there is a blinding FLASH! The reader now leaps to Professor Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters. Illyana Rasputing and Doug Ramsey return from some fun in Salem's Center, to find the core X-Men team in a Danger Room session. Rachel Summers has a psi-flash and freaks out , and re-establishes the Danger Room's parameters, creating Sentinels who can actually hurt the mutants. The X-Men fight back, and it takes Charles Xavier's astral form to stop Rachel and this danger she created for them. Once the fighting is over, they learn why Rachel Summers freaked out. Using the Danger Room's own image-creating ability, she shows them the plane piloted by Scott and Madelyne Summers. It is slammed by a lightning bolt and crashes into the snowy wasteland. Cyclops rises from the ashes, on fire and collapsing before Rachel, and she screams DADDY!?!

We now meet up with Alpha Flight, the members are in Calgary and at Shaman's doctors office. Michael Twoyoungmen is treating Sasquatch, who is worried he is losing control of himself each time he transforms into his alter ego. Snowbird soon appears before them, sick and dying and collapses in pain. But before Shaman can treat her, he is assaulted by a firelike talon (reminscient of Phoenix) which slams him into a wall. One PO'd daughter has found him--Rachel Summers has arrived & thinks Shaman responsible for her father's death! The weather attack was the same as the one Shaman created in Uncanny X-Men #120, which ambushed the X-Men. Rachel tosses Shaman's medicine bag across the room, and Heather Hudson's arm falls into it. To Heather's shock, she cannot pull her arm out, and *something* is pulling her inside it! Rachel's doing a good job taking down Alpha Flight, as Sasquatch smashes through a wall to stop her! ENTER: THE X-MEN! Professor X, wearing the classic yellow-and-black training uniforms of the X-Men, grabs Rachel and pulls her to the Astral Plane. Where he angrily chastises her for attacking AF. Nightcrawler & Shaman succesfully pry the medicine bag from Heather's arm, much to her relief. Snowbird is still terribly sick, and Narya informs them that Cyclops was struck down the same moment she was. There is a terrible wrongness at Unguva Bay. The 2 mutant teams decide to unite to uncover this mystery.

Meanwhile, Thor's brother, Loki, stands before some Gods. If the gods can have Gods above them, then these are them. They are named We Who Sit Above in Shadow. Five shadow-encased figures sit in thrones, two females and three males. Looking like Norse Gods, and tiny Loki stands before these immense individuals. They have charged with Loki to do a good deed for the mortals of Midgard. Loki has done this, and now demands his reward. But the chief bearded God (who has a serpent's face on his helmet) says Loki must always show his worth. He has not done this. Loki leaves disappointed, but his schemes are still afoot. We now return to the heroes, all flying in Puck's own plane, headed for Unguva Bay. Heather Hudson walks among the assembled characters, and has a one-on-one discussion with Wolverine. Heather still wonders if she can handle the leadership role of Alpha Flight. Plus, Rogue and Northstar do some bonding, much to my surprise.

The plane soon lands in a field, and the 2 team shuffle out. What they see before them defies description--a HUGE, gorgeous city with high towers and beautiful, golden beams and archways. The city has no right to be hidden in the Canadian mountains, and the mutants are baffled over it's origins. A robed man appears and walks out to them; X-Men and Alphan alike preparing for battle. But it is none other than SCOTT SUMMERS! And better still, his eyebeams are cured and gone. Scott is overjoyed and everyone is happy to see him alive (all except Rachel Summers, who is stopped in her tracks at the sight of her father!) Scott escorts everyone into the golden city, (Northstar walks apart from the rest) as the heroes enter dumb-founded at the beauty around them. They now are greeted by Madelyne Pryor and the other survivors of the plane crash. They are all decked out in Norse-type clothing, and all have gained superpowers. All manner of sickness is gone from them. Madelyne is now called Anodyne, and the tall red-head touches Puck. Puck bursts into flame, but instead of burning, he grows to a normal man's height, and his physical pain leaves him! Puck is overjoyed, but falls down from his awkwardness.

Anodyne walks through the crowd, touching several mutants and healing them. Sasquatch is healed from his rages. Rogue is healed and for the first time in years, can touch another person and NOT absorb their minds. She grabs Northstar and kisses him! Charles, Madelyne and Scott sit and Xavier mindscans them. Charles suddenly learns that Madelyne is pregnant! Scott is shocked, but filled with joy and he embraces his wife. They are to have a son. But upon hearing of a son, Rachel Summers is heart-broken and runs out of the room. Charles wants to know the source of all this power, and is shown the "Magic Fountain". A white light which stretches from "the roof of the sky to the heart of the world". Heather Hudson walks out onto this light, and soon returns dressed in a Viking-style clothes. She feels "Better" and removes her glasses. She no longer needs them. But then, inexpicably, something goes wrong. Shaman's medicine bag ignites and dozens of monsters & creatures stream out of it, and attack Shaman, for no apparent reason. Anodyne breaks through the swarming masses, and flings the medicine bag to Aurora & Northstar, who race off with it. The monsters chase after them, but Shaman is in bad shape. Maybe this city of light isn't so perfect after all!

[Valjean999]

Love the XM/AF mini. And, even more, I loved the follow-up to this series, in the New Mutants Special Edition and the next XM Annual. Looking forward to reading your thoughts on that one.

[david r]

Love the XM/AF mini. And, even more, I loved the follow-up to this series, in the New Mutants Special Edition and the next XM Annual. Looking forward to reading your thoughts on that one.

I'm looking forward to reading them! :smile: But these issues are crushing. They're like 50 pages each!! I LOVE IT!!

[david r]

http://images.wikia.com/marveldatabase/images/c/c8/Xmenandalphaflight2.jpg

X-Men and Alpha Flight #2

"The Gift part 2"

The hugely-long finale to this memorable tale, as Charles Xavier's mutants and Canada's premiere super-team square off....with Gods and the fate of Earth hanging in the balance! It's another classic story, in a long line of classics. Though my favorite part is the end with Rachel Summers & Cyclops!

Rachel Summers is beside herself with grief. One, she's met her father, Cyclops, for the first time in our universe, and ran away rather than face him. Two, Scott's new wife, Madelyne Pryor, is pregnant..... with a boy!! Which means.....Rachel cannot exist. Or does she? Talisman and Shadowcat locate Rachel, crying and wanting to be left alone! Talisman finds a book, with several beautiful drawings of the very charmed city they are standing in. However, as the pages continue, the drawings become cruder, and finally downright amateurish. What gives? Meanwhile, Kitty talks Rachel out of her gloom, saying maybe her journey to *our past* might change the future for the better. Rachel starts to feel better. Soon, a cave-in begins to rock the place, and 3 female heroes run for their lives! Once they return to the main citadel, Kitty spies Madelyne Pryor--aka Anodyne-- sneaking out of Wolverine's room. Kitty enters and awakens Logan, who says that Adoyne burned off his berserker rage. For the first time, he is completely calm with no animal side of him! But Kitty reminds him that his berserker rage has saved their cans many times. Wolverine then remembers he was searching for Snowbird, sick and hiding in the mountains around them. Logan calls up Alphan Aurora and they race out into the snows, to find Narya. Find her Logan does, Snowbird curled up in a snow-cave, dying! Two of these "new gods" appear-- Pathfinder and Beastmaster. They plan to end Snowbird's life, and want her! Wolverine and Lockheed emerge from the cave, ready to brawl!!

Back in the main hall, Rogue is dressed in a very elegant dress, and asks Northstar to dance with her. Jean-Paul resists, but finally relents and they dance. Rogue says how she has never went to high school. Never went to the prom. This means a lot to her, and she laughs in delight! However, many of the heroes are wondering about the price being paid for their God-like powers. All magical characters present are dying--- Snowbird and Shaman. Soon, Wolverine bursts into the large chamber, carrying Beastmaster's bloodied body. Pathfinder is dead (!!) so Logan could protect dying Snowbird. Logan asks, "Is this the price asked for by this paradise?" Raised voices as the heroes begin to question this utopia. Sides are taken--those who are questioning this paradise of theirs---and the others who feel the sacrifice of a few is better for a paradise born on Earth. Colossus, Rachel Summers, Sasquatch, Anodyne, Puck and Aurora are those that feel the sacrifice of a few is worth it. Wolverine, Professor X, Kitty, Cyclops, Rogue, Talisman, Nightcrawler and Northstar in the group that feel this sacrifice is NOT worth deaths of innocents, and question continuing. Before you know it, X-Men and Alphans are fighting!!!

It is a wild and merry punch-'em-up!! Heroes and gods clash! But in the end, the God of Lies appears, LOKI ! Loki cannot believe his eyes! He has given them the tools for a paradise on Earth, and still, these misbegotten humans question it. So what if their individual creativity and dreams will be erased, as their transcendence to Gods seem to enhance their latent super-powers, but squeashes creative freedom! Cyclops questions Loki the most fiercely (Way to go, Scott!) Loki conjures up the Snow Giants, to defeat his erstwhile enemies on the field of battle. Soon, all the mutants are in heated fisticuffs with these Snow Giants. The mutants defeat their opponents, but in the end, it is We Who Sit Above in Shadow, who stop Loki. Up in the dark, bright Canadian sky, five Gods appear, bathed in darkness. They are above the Gods as we humans are above the amoeba. They tell Loki he has failed; even in giving Earth it's dream of peace and tranquility, Loki fails by not allowing humans their right to creative expression. Loki argues but it is to no avail. These cosmic entities will have no more argument, and their "deal" with Loki is ended. Loki is furious, and takes back all the positive changes. Puck reverts back to a dwarf, Logan regains his berserker rage, Rogue cannot touch another soul, and so on. Loki vows revenge on We Who Sit Above in Shadow, and the FireFountain fades. Shaman and Snowbird are restored to health, and thank them all for saving them. The freezing winter storm hits the golden citadel, and the heroes rush to their plane to escape!

As heroes rush in, Professor Xavier realizes one is missing. Rachel Summers is not present, so Cyclops head back into the freezing metropolis to find her. Rachel is crouching down on the ground, doing something. Rachel cannot BELIEVE Cyclops is the one sent to find him---the last person she wants to face. Her emotions are in turmoil s Cyclops approaches and says:

Cyclops: I'm told you're from the future.
Rachel: "A" future. We won't know if it's "THE" future...till we get there. And by then, it'll be too late. So why worry? My dad, he used to say...as long as you're alive, it's never too late."
Cyclops: Did...your father...die in that future?
Rachel: All the X-Men died.

Cyclops: You know, you remind me an awful lot of someone.
Rachel: That good or bad?
Cyclops: Good. She was very...dear to me. And when she died, all the light---the joy--went out of my life. A part of me will always miss her. I never imagined I'd ever be as happy---and fulfilled---again....until I met Madelyne. It isn't the same...but that doesn't mean it can't be as good. Or maybe even better.
As Rachel holds Scott's arm, she says: My mom had a saying: everybody deserves a second chance.
Cyclops: Smart lady.

And as X-Men & Alpha Flight depart, back in the crumbling fortress, a lone flower shines. Buried by Rachel, the beautiful rose, "a defiant patch of life amidst Loki's desolation. A reminder that humanity alone carries within itself the power to create paradise on Earth--on it's own terms, by it's own efforts---without the gifts or mechinations of greedy Gods."

[david r]

Some more of my thoughts on the 96-paged X-Men/Alpha Flight:

----This mini-series was intended to reunite Chris Claremont and John Byrne together. Bringing the 2 super-teams they were working on in the mid-1980s. Jim Shooter, Ann Nocenti (X-Men editor) and Denny O'Neil (Alpha Flight editor) made it happen.
----John Byrne passed on the project; so Paul Smith was brought on-board as artist.

----Poor Rogue. She finally gains her heart's desire, and has to give it up. I wonder if she was truly attracted to Northstar?
----Colossus changed sides pretty quickly. Peter even shed a tear, turning against Charles Xavier. Most of the X-Men stood with Xavier, and against this illusionary dream. While most of Alpha Flight were willing to let Shaman & Snowbird perish. Colossus and Rachel Summers stood with the latter group.
----Good to see Scott and Madelyne Pryor again. So, Maddie is pregnant! This should prove VERY interesting!
----The psionic talon that Rachel Summers summoned forth to attack Shaman reminded me much of the PHOENIX!

It was a very good series. Chock full of action and little character moments. I liked how the mutants became players in the Gods schemes. And I liked the powers given to Scott & Maddie's plane passengers. Pathfinder and Beastmaster I especially thought showed potential. Of course, the woman named Cornucopia had the power to create excellent food. Not sure how useful that would be long term. I hate to say it, but though Alpha Flight appear here, it was really the X-Men's show.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.194.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #194

"Juggernaut's Back in Town"

1st appearance: Fenris (Andrea and Andreas von Strucker)

The first page is cool, as we see Juggernaut walking towards the reader. Each panel illustrating Cain Marko approaching, with movement happening on the New York street. Kudos, John Romita Jr. As the title implies, Charles Xavier's stepbrother has returned to NY, and the city authorities are up in arms about it. An hour's drive away, snow has arrived at Charles Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters. Nightcrawler is still zonked out in bed, having watched The Crimson Pirate at 2 AM. Kurt awakens to hear a radio broadcast announcing Juggernaut.....and Kurt tiredly hides back under the covers!! WHY THIS MORNING! (I love seeing the individual X-Men's rooms, and the way each decorates the room illuminates something about that person.) Kitty Pryde and Illyana Rasputin share a room, with a teddy bear and textbooks on the floor. Lockheed curled up with Kitty. The alarm goes off, but Kitty phases her hand thru the clock to shut it up. (If only I had that power....!)

Colossus awakens, sore from the Hellions battle (in UXM #193.) Piotr hears of Juggernaut and readies for a fight. Rachel Summers lays in her bed, feeling alone. She clutches a photograph of Scott and Madelyne Pryor (though it should probably be a Jean Grey & Scott photo!) Rogue is taking a refreshing shower, and Wolverine is returning from a 10-mile jog. Logan enters the Mansion & learns of Juggernaut's arrival. He forces Kurt out of bed. Meanwhile, we now catch up with Storm, who has arrived in East Africa. Kenya, to be precise. She encounters a hunting party of Europeans at a bush-station. A blonde-haired man is inappropriately treating an African woman, and Ororo orders him to stop. Soon, a scuffle ensues, as Andreas (blondie) feels his pride is damaged. He jumps Ororo, but she elbows him. His blonde sister pulls a gun, but Ororo flings her knife and knocks the gun out of the girl's hand. Ororo takes a hunting rifle and orders them to depart. The African woman (a waitress) now recognizes Ororo as the Wind-Rider, the Goddess....and she has returned. She falls to her knees in worship, as Ororo simply stands & watches.

The main action of #194 takes place in New York, as the X-Men team reconnoiter to keep tabs on Juggernaut. Cain seems harmless though, until the robot sentinel Nimrod teleports in, ready to destroy Juggs and the mutants. A wild fracas explodes, as none of the mutants seem able to stop Nimrod. Even Juggernaut proves movable against the robot sentry. Cain's "unbreakable" helmet is knocked off his head----and even Wolverine's adamantium claws are incapable of breaking Nimrod's force field. (And here, I thought they could break ANYTHING!) Shadowcat phases Nimrod, with no effect. Rachel Summers lets loose her telekinetic talent, bringing down an entire building under construction,causing much destruction. But alas, Nimrod is unhurt and unscratched! In the end, only Rogue stands a chance against the futuristic Sentinel. She absorbs Kitty, Colossus AND Nighty's mutant powers, and goes one-on-one against Nimrod. Rogue phases just Nimrod's arm, which FINALLY causes damage to Nimrod. While Nimrod deals with a missing arm, Rogue/Colossus punches and Nimrod cracks. But just as quickly, it begins to repair itself. But at this instant, Nimrod decides to teleport away, and the X-Men have won. Juggernaut is furious he lost the fight, and wanders off, not in the mood for a skirmish with his step-brother's X-Men.

My thoughts: Another cool issue, as it was nice to see Juggernaut again. But Cain Marko is not the enemy in #194, but this mystery Sentinel named Nimrod who seems quite formidable. Only Rogue amassing several of her teammates powers had any chance against him. I am curious to see where the Nimrod plot heads. Nightcrawler continues to wrestle with his new leadership skills, as team leader does not come naturally to him. I especially enjoyed the scenes of each X-Man awakening from sleep and their demeanor. Humorously, "bad tempered" Wolverine seemed the most with-it. Just another quality issue here by Claremont/Romita. Keep it comin', boys!

[DDM]

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.194.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #194

"Juggernaut's Back in Town"

1st appearance: Fenris (Andrea and Andreas von Strucker)

The first page is cool, as we see Juggernaut walking towards the reader. Each panel illustrating Cain Marko approaching, with movement happening on the New York street. Kudos, John Romita Jr. As the title implies, Charles Xavier's stepbrother has returned to NY, and the city authorities are up in arms about it. An hour's drive away, snow has arrived at Charles Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters. Nightcrawler is still zonked out in bed, having watched The Crimson Pirate at 2 AM. Kurt awakens to hear a radio broadcast announcing Juggernaut.....and Kurt tiredly hides back under the covers!! WHY THIS MORNING! (I love seeing the individual X-Men's rooms, and the way each decorates the room illuminates something for that person.) Kitty Pryde and Illyana Rasputin share a room, with a teddy bear and textbooks on the floor. Lockheed curled up with Kitty. The alarm goes off, but Kitty phases her hand thru the clock to shut it up. (If only I had that power....!)

Colossus awakens, sore from the Hellions battle (in UXM #193.) Piotr hears of Juggernaut and readies for a fight. Rachel Summers lays in her bed, feeling alone. She clutches a photograph of Scott and Madelyne Pryor (though it should probably be a Jean Grey & Scott photo!) Rogue is taking a refreshing shower, and Wolverine is returning from a 10-mile jog. Logan enters the Mansion & learns of Juggernaut's arrival. He forces Kurt out of bed. Meanwhile, we now catch up with Storm, who has arrived in East Africa. Kenya, to be precise. She encounters a hunting party of Europeans at a bush-station. A blonde-haired man is inappropriately treating an African woman, and Ororo orders him to stop. Soon, a scuffle ensues, as Andreas (blondie) feels his pride is damaged. He jumps Ororo, but she elbows him. His blonde sister pulls a gun, but Ororo flings her knife and knocks the gun out of the girl's hand. Ororo takes a hunting rifle and orders them to depart. The African woman (a waitress) now recognizes Ororo as the Wind-Rider, the Goddess....and she has returned. She falls to her knees in worship, as Ororo simply stands & watches.

The main action of #194 takes place in New York, as the X-Men team reconnoiter to keep tabs on Juggernaut. Cain seems harmless though, until the robot sentinel Nimrod teleports in, ready to destroy Juggs and the mutants. A wild fracas explodes, as none of the mutants seem able to stop Nimrod. Even Juggernaut proves movable against the robot sentry. Cain's "unbreakable" helmet is knocked off his head----and even Wolverine's adamantium claws are incapable of breaking Nimrod's force field. (And here, I thought they could break ANYTHING!) Shadowcat phases Nimrod, with no effect. Rachel Summers lets loose her telekinetic talent, bringing down an entire building under construction,causing much destruction. But alas, Nimrod is unhurt and unscratched! In the end, only Rogue stands a chance against the futuristic Sentinel. She absorbs Kitty, Colossus AND Nighty's mutant powers, and goes one-on-one against Nimrod. Rogue phases just Nimrod's arm, which FINALLY causes damage to Nimrod. While Nimrod deals with a missing arm, Rogue/Colossus punches and Nimrod cracks. But just as quickly, it begins to repair itself. But at this instant, Nimrod decides to teleport away, and the X-Men have won. Juggernaut is furious he lost the fight, and wanders off, not in the mood for a skirmish with his step-brother's X-Men.

My thoughts: Another cool issue, as it was nice to see Juggernaut again. But Cain Marko is not the enemy in #194, but this mystery Sentinel named Nimrod who seems quite formidable. Only Rogue amassing several of her teammates powers had any chance against him. I am curious to see where the Nimrod plot heads. Nightcrawler continues to wrestle with his new leadership skills, as team leader does not come naturally to him. I especially enjoyed the scenes of each X-Man awakening from sleep and their demeanor. Humorously, "bad tempered" Wolverine seemed the most with-it. Just another quality issue here by Claremont/Romita. Keep it comin', boys!

Nimrod is an interesting character; he seems to be a more human-like Sentinel than any other Sentinel introduced at this point. Heck, in his human disguise, people think Nimrod is like Iron Man: A man wearing armor or a high tech suit when the cannot be more wrong.

Unlike other Sentinels, Nimrod also goes after other criminals such as drug cartels, the mob, etc al. And he will kill them just as easily as he attempts to kill mutants.

Shadowcat also thinks Nimrod is a man in armor until she phases into body to discover he is an advanced Sentinel.

Nimrod is big trouble for any mutants.

[CJ Lentze]

I especially enjoyed the scenes of each X-Man awakening from sleep and their demeanor. Humorously, "bad tempered" Wolverine seemed the most with-it. Those panels were cool. That, and reporter Mick Travis expressing that the X-Men have shown a lot of benevolence by protecting people who often fear and hate them, and hopes they won't decide that today it's enough (Val Cooper said the same in the Kulan Gath story). Logan tells Kurt 'We don't have to fight the villain. We NEVER have to.' They do it just the same, even if they'd prefer having a day off.Nimrod is an interesting character; he seems to be a more human-like Sentinel than any other Sentinel introduced at this point. Heck, in his human disguise, people think Nimrod is like Iron Man: A man wearing armor or a high tech suit when the cannot be more wrong.

Unlike other Sentinels, Nimrod also goes after other criminals such as drug cartels, the mob, etc al. And he will kill them just as easily as he attempts to kill mutants.

Shadowcat also thinks Nimrod is a man in armor until she phases into body to discover he is an advanced Sentinel.

Nimrod is big trouble for any mutants.No kidding. This issue does a good job establishing Nimrod as a threat, as he takes out four X-Men in only two pages, and then nearly kills one of their most dangerous enemies, who is the closest thing to invulnerable. Though it doesn't show yet in these issue, it's fun to see that the big bad Sentinel is living with Jaime Rodriguez and his family, has saved Jaime's life and has made friends with his son. His motivation is very much the protection of human life rather than taking over the world or something.

Speaking of villains getting more human, the Juggernaut would fit in that category himself, wouldn't he? In the 60s, it was established that the Juggernaut's main motivation was getting revenge on Charles Xavier, and generally wreaking havoc upon the world. Xavier even referred to him as 'subhuman' at one point, the result of Cyttorak's curse. Now we see him doing things like hanging out at a bar, and going to the bank in civvies. He's still a crook, but I find it funny to see Cain almost in the role of the Civillain (http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/Civillain), and to see the fight pick him out instead of him picking the fights. Do you think maybe Xavier's attempts at restoring Cain's humanity between issues 13 and 32 have slowly set something in motion that will eventually lead to the Juggernaut turning to the side of the heroes?

Kitty saves the day here, really. Having Rogue absorb her psyche and subsequently relate her strategy to defeat Nimrod was a shining moment for Miss Pryde. Rogue shouldn't blame using the word 'neat' on Kitty's influence, though; she thought 'neat' to herself a while back, when she was playing with Storm's thunderclouds.

They're also making variations on the classic Fastball Special, like Rogue tossing Colossus in the previous issue, and Rogue tossing Wolverine in this issue.

[limerick]

nimrod was dangerous!he was really powerful.you felt the x-men were in real danger there for a minute.phew!!they don't come along as threatening and menacing as this too often.in fact nimrod reminds me of the way juggernaut seemed when the O5 first took him on.forget defeating him-you just want to get out of there in one piece.

[david r]

DDM, Nimrod is definitely unlike any Sentinel I've seen up to this point. Iron Man is a good analogy. Nimrod comes across as a human being. And has a moral code (and very deadly.)

Schuimend Mormel, Frankly I was surprised how easily Nimrod beat up one of the X-Men most dangerous enemies---Juggernaut. Cain Marko certainly has matured, as you pointed out. Was this all deliberate, or has Cain actually mellowed in course with these tales?

I love the Fastball Specials and how our mutants keep changing members. :smile: Rogue throwing Colossus was GREAT.

Limerick, Nimrod does exude true menace. I was wondering how the X-Men could possibly stop him. He threw around Juggernaut with ease. I liked how Rogue teleported just his one arm, thus making Nimrod vulnerable. I hope they remember that for next time.

[BobfromHR]

[B] Limerick, Nimrod does exude true menace. I was wondering how the X-Men could possibly stop him. He threw around Juggernaut with ease.

Actually Nimrod threw his best attacks at Juggernaut and they did squat. he managed to temporally incapacitate him by attacking his senses. I don't think ole Rod would want a rematch.

[david r]

BobfromHR, that is true, up to a point. But then Nimrod sent Juggernaut packing, soaring out of the bank and into that construction yard. Cain Marko said he'd NEVER been hit so hard. Also, when Nimrod knocked off Juggernaut's unbreakable helmet----I think Cain got scared then.

Nimrod was holding his own against Juggernaut....and I feel could have defeated him. Even the combined might of the X-Men barely held out against Nimrod!!

http://images.wikia.com/marveldatabase/images/2/23/Nimrod_II_001.gif

[BobfromHR]

BobfromHR, that is true, up to a point. But then Nimrod sent Juggernaut packing, soaring out of the bank and into that construction yard. Cain Marko said he'd NEVER been hit so hard. Also, when Nimrod knocked off Juggernaut's unbreakable helmet----I think Cain got scared then.

The Juggernaut's helmet is not unbreakable.


Nimrod was holding his own against Juggernaut....and I feel could have defeated him. Even the combined might of the X-Men barely held out against Nimrod!!


Let's agree to disagree. Needless to say if they met again it would probably be a different story.

[worstblogever]

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.194.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #194

"Juggernaut's Back in Town"

1st appearance: Fenris (Andrea and Andreas von Strucker)

The first page is cool, as we see Juggernaut walking towards the reader. Each panel illustrating Cain Marko approaching, with movement happening on the New York street. Kudos, John Romita Jr. As the title implies, Charles Xavier's stepbrother has returned to NY, and the city authorities are up in arms about it. An hour's drive away, snow has arrived at Charles Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters. Nightcrawler is still zonked out in bed, having watched The Crimson Pirate at 2 AM. Kurt awakens to hear a radio broadcast announcing Juggernaut.....and Kurt tiredly hides back under the covers!! WHY THIS MORNING! (I love seeing the individual X-Men's rooms, and the way each decorates the room illuminates something about that person.) Kitty Pryde and Illyana Rasputin share a room, with a teddy bear and textbooks on the floor. Lockheed curled up with Kitty. The alarm goes off, but Kitty phases her hand thru the clock to shut it up. (If only I had that power....!)

Colossus awakens, sore from the Hellions battle (in UXM #193.) Piotr hears of Juggernaut and readies for a fight. Rachel Summers lays in her bed, feeling alone. She clutches a photograph of Scott and Madelyne Pryor (though it should probably be a Jean Grey & Scott photo!) Rogue is taking a refreshing shower, and Wolverine is returning from a 10-mile jog. Logan enters the Mansion & learns of Juggernaut's arrival. He forces Kurt out of bed. Meanwhile, we now catch up with Storm, who has arrived in East Africa. Kenya, to be precise. She encounters a hunting party of Europeans at a bush-station. A blonde-haired man is inappropriately treating an African woman, and Ororo orders him to stop. Soon, a scuffle ensues, as Andreas (blondie) feels his pride is damaged. He jumps Ororo, but she elbows him. His blonde sister pulls a gun, but Ororo flings her knife and knocks the gun out of the girl's hand. Ororo takes a hunting rifle and orders them to depart. The African woman (a waitress) now recognizes Ororo as the Wind-Rider, the Goddess....and she has returned. She falls to her knees in worship, as Ororo simply stands & watches.

The main action of #194 takes place in New York, as the X-Men team reconnoiter to keep tabs on Juggernaut. Cain seems harmless though, until the robot sentinel Nimrod teleports in, ready to destroy Juggs and the mutants. A wild fracas explodes, as none of the mutants seem able to stop Nimrod. Even Juggernaut proves movable against the robot sentry. Cain's "unbreakable" helmet is knocked off his head----and even Wolverine's adamantium claws are incapable of breaking Nimrod's force field. (And here, I thought they could break ANYTHING!) Shadowcat phases Nimrod, with no effect. Rachel Summers lets loose her telekinetic talent, bringing down an entire building under construction,causing much destruction. But alas, Nimrod is unhurt and unscratched! In the end, only Rogue stands a chance against the futuristic Sentinel. She absorbs Kitty, Colossus AND Nighty's mutant powers, and goes one-on-one against Nimrod. Rogue phases just Nimrod's arm, which FINALLY causes damage to Nimrod. While Nimrod deals with a missing arm, Rogue/Colossus punches and Nimrod cracks. But just as quickly, it begins to repair itself. But at this instant, Nimrod decides to teleport away, and the X-Men have won. Juggernaut is furious he lost the fight, and wanders off, not in the mood for a skirmish with his step-brother's X-Men.

My thoughts: Another cool issue, as it was nice to see Juggernaut again. But Cain Marko is not the enemy in #194, but this mystery Sentinel named Nimrod who seems quite formidable. Only Rogue amassing several of her teammates powers had any chance against him. I am curious to see where the Nimrod plot heads. Nightcrawler continues to wrestle with his new leadership skills, as team leader does not come naturally to him. I especially enjoyed the scenes of each X-Man awakening from sleep and their demeanor. Humorously, "bad tempered" Wolverine seemed the most with-it. Just another quality issue here by Claremont/Romita. Keep it comin', boys!

This is the first appearance of the von Strucker, or Fenris twins... and they get a big villainous push for the next few issues...

Seeing Juggernaut as a lesser evil really is a scary thought, isn't it? I can't help but wonder if Claremont was influenced by the Terminator for his use of the advanced Sentinel sent from the future to kill mutants in the past, Nimrod? I wouldn't be surprised. This comic shipped in June of 1985, the original "Terminator" came out in late October of 1984. Were Nimrod not pink, he'd be much scarier, though. :rolleyes:

[Imraith Nimphais]

During this, the Claremont/Romita jr. period, I quite liked that they were making an effort to really develope the characters' powers further, defining their skills and "fine-tuning" their character, who they are as X-men and their place in the Marvel Universe at large...I think this is the first time we see Rogue absorb the powers of more than one person at the same time...with spectacular results...this was a thrilling one-shot.

[david r]

Worstblogever, These 2 blonde people have a bright future ahead, you say? They sure were smug and snotty.

http://images.wikia.com/marveldatabase/images/6/68/Fenris_001.jpg


And Nimrod derived from 1984's The Terminator? Possibly. I have heard Nimrod was planned to be the Fury. (I grant you the "pink" thing, though! :smile: )

Imraith Nimphais, Yeah, these issues are GREAT! You said it best: the characters are growing and we're learning more about their skills. You truly get a feeling now that the X-Men are changing just like real people.....and I agree about Rogue absorbing multiple people at once. It was thrilling to see and I wondered about all those memories in her head at once! Poor child.

[worstblogever]

Well, from here to Uncanny #200 the Fenris twins do get into quite the manner of mischief, at least.

[DDM]

And Nimrod derived from 1984's The Terminator? Possibly. I have heard Nimrod was planned to be the Fury. (I grant you the "pink" thing, though! :smile: )

Chris Claremont's original plan involved Nimrod merging with Fury to become even more of a threat. Nimrod would be like a Super Nimrod with the Fury's parts, but still remain Nimrod. Nimrod was the intended villain for The Mutant Massacre, but I am glad Chris Claremont created the Marauders instead.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.195.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #195

"It Was a Dark and Stormy Night"

Those cute kids from Power Pack guest-star in a nifty little X-story. They are all very young, and it's past their bedtime. Put the girl down, Wolverine. This is unlike you. :mad:

Power Pack. Their names are Alex, Julie, Jack and Katie Power. They awaken in their parents bed, during a loud thunderstorm.

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/pages/97792366288.195.P1.GIF

To the children's dismay, their parents do not recognize them! The kids run to their rooms----but they are empty. The neighbor doesn't remember them either! So Power Pack flee their apartment, and out into the New York night. The raging storm causes even more problems for the pre-adolescent kids. To escape the rain, the 4 children find a manhole and descend into the sewer system. There, they are ambushed by the Morlocks! Masque deforms one of the children's faces, but she escapes. The child makes it to the surface, where a policeman locates her. Soon, the X-Men learn of what is happening, and Wolverine, Shadowcat, Rogue and Rachel Summers hit the hospital and take Katie out of there! (Nightcrawler is on another mission, and Kitty Pryde assumes temporary leadership.)

Rachel uses her telepathic talent, and learns of the Morlocks' involvement. The X-Men take Katie and enter the Morlocks tunnels, where they encounter the ragtag group of underground mutants. Soon, all sides are skirmishing!! Rogue and Leech have an interesting encounter---cancelling out each other's powers! But in the end, Callisto arrives, and learning what has transpired, orders the Morlocks to set things right again. A Morlock woman named Annalee had wanted the Power Pack children as her own. So the Morlocks had erased their memory from their parents. But Callisto orders them to undo the spell. Annalee is hugged by Katie, and there are no hard feelings. All seems right again.....until Rachel face darkens. She has received a distress call from the Mansion! A potential world-class catastrophe is approaching Earth! But it isn't Charles Xavier who is calling us! They're being summoned home--- by MAGNETO!!

My thoughts: I am a Power Pack virgin, and was completely unfamiliar with them. I found them very adorable, and spunky little fighters. I thought they looked cute in their costumes. I wonder if their own book is any good? As for this adventure, it was apparent this issue exists to advertise the Power Pack comic of 1985. And that is okay. I would say Chris Claremont did a fine job of uniting X-Men, Morlocks and Power Pack in a way that made sense with past stories, while moving things along in THIS book. Kitty Pryde takes temporary command, and does a nice job of it. Is Kitty a natural? It seems so. All her teammates were cheerleading her on. But I think the cliffhanger ending is pretty memorable. MAGNETO AWAITS!

[worstblogever]

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.195.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #195

"It Was a Dark and Stormy Night"

Those cute kids from Power Pack guest-star in a nifty little X-story. They are all very young, and it's past their bedtime. Put the girl down, Wolverine. This is unlike you. :mad:

Power Pack. Their names are Alex, Julie, Jack and Katie Power. They awaken in their parents bed, during a loud thunderstorm.

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/pages/97792366288.195.P1.GIF

To the children's dismay, their parents do not recognize them! The kids run to their rooms----but they are empty. The neighbor doesn't remember them either! So Power Pack flee their apartment, and out into the New York night. The raging storm causes even more problems for the pre-adolescent kids. To escape the rain, the 4 children find a manhole and descend into the sewer system. There, they are ambushed by the Morlocks! Masque deforms one of the children's faces, but she escapes. The child makes it to the surface, where a policeman locates her. Soon, the X-Men learn of what is happening, and Wolverine, Shadowcat, Rogue and Rachel Summers hit the hospital and take Katie out of there! (Nightcrawler is on another mission, and Kitty Pryde assumes temporary leadership.)

Rachel uses her telepathic talent, and learns of the Morlocks' involvement. The X-Men take Katie and enter the Morlocks tunnels, where they encounter the ragtag group of underground mutants. Soon, all sides are skirmishing!! Rogue and Leech have an interesting encounter---cancelling out each other's powers! But in the end, Callisto arrives, and learning what has transpired, orders the Morlocks to set things right again. A Morlock woman named Annalee had wanted the Power Pack children as her own. So the Morlocks had erased their memory from their parents. But Callisto orders them to undo the spell. Annalee is hugged by Katie, and there are no hard feelings. All seems right again.....until Rachel face darkens. She has received a distress call from the Mansion! A potential world-class catastrophe is approaching Earth! But it isn't Charles Xavier who is calling us! They're being summoned home--- by MAGNETO!!

My thoughts: I am a Power Pack virgin, and was completely unfamiliar with them. I found them very adorable, and spunky little fighters. I thought they looked cute in their costumes. I wonder if their own book is any good? As for this adventure, it was apparent this issue exists to advertise the Power Pack comic of 1985. And that is okay. I would say Chris Claremont did a fine job of uniting X-Men, Morlocks and Power Pack in a way that made sense with past stories, while moving things along in THIS book. Kitty Pryde takes temporary command, and does a nice job of it. Is Kitty a natural? It seems so. All her teammates were cheerleading her on. But I think the cliffhanger ending is pretty memorable. MAGNETO AWAITS!

I believe the other half of this crossover was Power Pack #12, and that after the "no hard feelings" ending goes down, the Power Pack agree to visit Annalee regularly, making good on that promise in Power Pack #19. There's a bit more to their story, including when Beautiful Dreamer starts modifying their memories so not just in body, but in mind, the Power Pack will think they are Annalee's dead children from Uncanny #193, and replace what she has lost. The Morlocks wish to help Annalee because her empathic powers were starting to go out of control due to her extreme grief over her kids' murders.

On a lot of levels, this story really looks at some moral grey areas, and the Morlocks really aren't as bad as you'd think.

The only downside? Katie Power is named an honorary X-Man, and even given a team jacket. UGH. There's an ugly blemish on X-lore.

[CJ Lentze]

I believe the other half of this crossover was Power Pack #12, and that after the "no hard feelings" ending goes down, the Power Pack agree to visit Annalee regularly, making good on that promise in Power Pack #19. There's a bit more to their story, including when Beautiful Dreamer starts modifying their memories so not just in body, but in mind, the Power Pack will think they are Annalee's dead children from Uncanny #193, and replace what she has lost. The Morlocks wish to help Annalee because her empathic powers were starting to go out of control due to her extreme grief over her kids' murders.

On a lot of levels, this story really looks at some moral grey areas, and the Morlocks really aren't as bad as you'd think.I am going to have to get Power Pack 12 at some point in the future, then. I like the panel where Katie forgives Annalee and asks her to be her friend a lot, but from your description it appears that Power Pack # 12 really completes the story.


Rachel was actually useful in this issue, yay! No screw-ups or breaking down. She's doing well in the role of team telepath, and she (like the other X-Men) did a good job trying to calm Katie Power down, make her feel comfortable. I liked that.
(Still no codename or costume, though. I do like her outfits.)

[Imraith Nimphais]

THE Bill Sienkiewicz draws the cover!!!!(inked by Dan Green)...this was a major plus fer me...and the story was another entertaining one-shot where individual characters are given a "defining moment" in the telling of the tale...(last ish. was Rogue, now it's Shadowcat...whose costume I loved...btw).
...LOL...be kind WBE..."ugly blemish"... indeed.

[Falconen]

The introduction of Power Pack into the X-Men mythos. I had forgotten about that, but now that I remember, the Powers end up showing up in X-Men quite a bit over the next few years. The introduction of Lady Deathstrike, the Mutant Massacre and even the X-Men/ FF mini (even though that was just Franklin)

I have always like Power Pack. Louise Simonson and June Brigman did a wonderful job with their stories and art. Pretty adult writing for little "kids" stories.

[DDM]

The introduction of Power Pack into the X-Men mythos. I had forgotten about that, but now that I remember, the Powers end up showing up in X-Men quite a bit over the next few years. The introduction of Lady Deathstrike, the Mutant Massacre and even the X-Men/ FF mini (even though that was just Franklin)

I have always like Power Pack. Louise Simonson and June Brigman did a wonderful job with their stories and art. Pretty adult writing for little "kids" stories.

Before she became Lady Deathstrike, she just appeared as Yuriko in Daredevil #197 & actually became Lady Deathstrike in Alpha Flight #33-34; Chris Claremont just transformed Lady Deathstrike into a cyborg in Uncanny X-Men #205.

I believe Power Pack & Thor played a role in The Mutant Massacre since Louise Simonson had already introduced some new Morlocks in Power Pack #11-12, she had already started X-Factor, & Walter Simonson was still on The Mighty Thor. Throw in Chris Claremont's Uncanny X-Men & The New Mutants then you have a loose crossover.

[david r]

Worstblogever, I liked how Uncanny X-Men #195 tied into the murder of those Morlock children you pointed out, from #193. How those killings lead to this story, with Annalee, and a future story.

As for Rachel Summers, she handled herself very well. No sobbing! But I wonder why there is no codename yet for her? Marvel seemed to struggle with female codenames. Rachel. Kitty. Illyana. Dani Moonstar switches names (Psyche to Mirage.) You don't see this problem with the lads...

---I liked the cover art. Though Wolverine's behavior on it seems very inappropriate.

---Reading this time period, I realize how often X-MEN gets tied into other Marvel events. Whether it's Secret Wars, the Dire Wraith war, Power Pack or Secret Wars II, it seems every other story is crossing over into some other adventure. Yet it all reads seamlessly well.

I may read Power Pack someday. This has heightened my interest level:

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/63125057422.1.GIF

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/72799610328.1.GIF

Secret Wars II #1

"Earthfall"

What is this book doing here? Well, the New Mutants and X-Men greet the otherworldly Beyonder to Earth. Magneto acts in a way I've not seen yet. Charles Xavier freaks out! And the mutants try to save a world which hates & fears them. Sounds like a mutant caper, to me!

The Beyonder, the entity responsible for the classic Secret Wars series, has come to our planet! God Help us ALL!! He/It crash-lands near Denver, Colorado. The Molecule Man and his girlfriend notice the debrief kicked up by his landing. Meanwhile, Professor X and the New Mutants are still on Muir Island, following the events from New Mutants #26-28: Xavier awakens in near hysterics, yelling the Beyonder has arrived! The New Mutants know not who this person is. Xavier frantically sends out a psionic SOS, but in his agitated and exhausted state, few hear his summons. ((Magneto hears it though, in NM #29.) Xavier then faints. One hero who hears the call is Captain America, on a commercial plane and Cap orders the plane to change course to Los Angeles.

Back in Denver, the Molecule Man and his girl casually greet the Beyonder. The Godlike being has taken a physical form, merging several superheroes (Cyclops, Iron Man, Thor, Klaw) into a human body. The Molecule Man mentions he should visit L.A. So off the Beyonder goes. The reader now goes to Charles Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters, where Magneto has arrived. Colossus and Nightcrawler are unsure how to handle their "guest", when Wolverine and Rogue burst through a window to attack the Master of Magnetism. This squad have returned from a Power Pack story in UXM #195, and are ready to rumble. After they are calmed down, Magneto tells them their own Charles Xavier contacted him, to lead them all against the Beyonder. They are all highly suspicious and unsure, but Kurt Wagner makes a decision and says they will follow him. They find a large limousine in the garage, and Magneto lifts the vehicle into the sky, headed for LA.

The Beyonder arrives in LA, in the form of energy. He finds an angry Hollywood writer, and transforms him into a super-powered being named Thunder-Sword. Thunder-Sword becomes the main antagonist of #1. Meanwhile, Magneto snatches up most of the New Mutants, (seen in NM #29) and the load of mutants discover Thunder-Sword smashing up the NBC Studios. This Hollywood writer REALLY hates modern 1980s culture, and now has the power to set things right. Thunder-Sword notices the limo flying in the sky, and smashes it in half with his power. The mutants leap into action. A McDonalds is visited (with Michael Jackson! inside for a cameo)!! Captain America arrives on the scene, to help with civilians. As the heroes battle this crackpot villain, Rachel Summers senses something nearby. Suddenly, the Beyonder appears before Rachel, assuming the appearance of the Molecule Man. However, the Beyonder notices Illyana Rasputin, and stares at her intensely. He approaches and his hand enters her, and Magik transforms into a full-body of armor, complete with red-devil tail and horse-like legs. Devil-horns adorn her head. [B] The Beyonder steps back to ponder, as Magik is awash with utter horror over what he's done to her!! Illyana creates a stepping disc and whisks herself, the New Mutants, Rachel and Kitty away to Limbo!

Wolverine sees this from a distance, and thinks the Beyonder has destroyed his friends. He launches himself at the Godlike being, and slashes him with his unbreakable claws. The other X-Men hold him back, as the Beyonder simply stares at them all. [B] Lila Cheney is present, and fearful the Beyonder will kill them, teleports the X-Men, and Magneto, away. This leaves just Captain America, who is soon joined by Iron Man in defeating Thunder-Sword. (They knock his sword from his grasp, which negates his power.) Cap tries to speak with the Beyonder, but he just *poof* vanishes away.

My thoughts: I'm a bit surprised by how much attention the mutants receive in this inaugural issue. But that is why I'm reviewing it. Seeing Magneto take such a commanding presence was fascinating to read. My favorite part of this whole thing. Magneto is completely in control and no sign of the arrogant super-villain from times past. The mutants reluctantly follow him, but he proves himself well. I also liked seeing the New Mutants & X-Men intermingling and fighting alongside each other like pros. The Beyonder himself is pretty vague, and we really don't learn much about him. Thunder-Sword was rather absurd, and his whole "anti-American, anti-establishment" schtick came across as rather funny for a major first issue of a hugely anticipated "Big Event". As Secret Wars II was a hotly desired book in 1985, Thunder-Sword dates this issue badly. I also didn't feel Al Milgrom's artwork does the book much favors. A real mixed bag.

[Falconen]

Ugh, the horror that was Secret Wars 2. I couldn't stand the Beyonder when he came to visit Earth. Unfortunately, he screws around with all the Mutants and a good part of the Marvel Universe at this time, so we had no choice but to endure. The whole Marvel universe was a big Tie In. There are some items that do occur in this series and the tie ins that do have some lasting effects... especially for the poor New Mutants.

[Valjean999]

hey, in a week or two, we will have the coming of X-Factor! Should we expect a brand new X Factor from the Beginning thread?

[Imraith Nimphais]

hey, in a week or two, we will have the coming of X-Factor! Should we expect a brand new X Factor from the Beginning thread?

YES!!!!....PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEASE, David R...pwetty pwease...*sniff-sniff*...(trust me, you don't want to see my pouty face)...but if u gots da time...X-factor "FTB" would be splendifertastic!...:biggrin:

[david r]

Falconen, I feel the first Secret Wars book is a classic. The sequel....not so much. The quality just wasn't there. It's like the Beyonder arrives on Earth, and does very little. People keep saying the New Mutants get screwed by the Beyonder, so I fear for them. :frown:

Valjean999, Imraith, Well, since you both asked so nicely..... :smile:
YES!

[Nevets F]

As always David, I am MUCH looking forward to it!

[david r]

An early John Romita Jr X-Men drawing:

http://comicartfans.com/Images/Category_18599/subcat_34448/JRJR_DazzBogart.jpg

A point-by-point page by Romita, from Uncanny X-Men #191's Kulan Gath arc:

http://comicartfans.com/Images/Category_6434/subcat_51288/xmen19102.jpg

http://comicartfans.com/Images/Category_348/subcat_27268/punyhuman2.jpg

[Imraith Nimphais]

YES! thank-uthank-uthank-u David...I will be SO looking for ward to X-factor: FTB...you sir, are "the man"...Now that I've seen it...was it not rumoured that Dazzler was originally intended to be a black female disco singer...a la Grace Jones?...as a GJ fan...that would have been all kinds of wonder-fullness.

[Nevets F]

I can't wait to have a fourth thread to follow. :) I love them so much.

At what point does X-Factor start? I mean, what issue will X-Men be on?

[Leirus]

YES! thank-uthank-uthank-u David...I will be SO looking for ward to X-factor: FTB...you sir, are "the man"...Now that I've seen it...was it not rumoured that Dazzler was originally intended to be a black female disco singer...a la Grace Jones?...as a GJ fan...that would have been all kinds of wonder-fullness.

Lol !! Where did you found that Sketch? is really a proof of Dazzler intended origin: a Grace Jones rip off, with the power of morphing into a black cat (or panther, maybe?)

[Imraith Nimphais]

Lol !! Where did you found that Sketch? is really a proof of Dazzler intended origin: a Grace Jones rip off, with the power of morphing into a black cat (or panther, maybe?)

THIS I believe...was the original intent for Ororo...based solely on an early set of artwork I came across in the "Ororo Munroe appreciation thread"...Shade101 (the arbiter of allthings Storm) should be able to clarify.

[Shade101]

THIS I believe...was the original intent for Ororo...based solely on an early set of artwork I came across in the "Ororo Munroe appreciation thread"...Shade101 (the arbiter of allthings Storm) should be able to clarify.

LOL

Yes indeed it was fellow 'Ro-Ho. In fact, I believe her original name was supposed to even be "Tabby" in reference of a tabby cat. Of course Tabby was short for Tabitha. I'm so glad they changed it to Ororo though.:smile:

[Imraith Nimphais]

garsh!..so busted...I try to deny it but...yeah..."hello everyone, my name is Imraith and I am a Ro-HO..." lol...I much prefer Ororo too...every time I see/hear the name Tabitha I think of Samantha's daughter on Bewitched.

[DDM]

THIS I believe...was the original intent for Ororo...based solely on an early set of artwork I came across in the "Ororo Munroe appreciation thread"...Shade101 (the arbiter of allthings Storm) should be able to clarify.

Storm is a synthesis of two separate characters:


Black Cat with the ability to shapeshift into a cat.
Typhoon, a male character, who could control the weather.


Dave Cockrum combined these characters to make Storm; he gave Ororo Typhoon's silver hair; whereas, he kept Black Cat's cat-like eyes & costume with a modified cape.

[worstblogever]

I can't wait to have a fourth thread to follow. :) I love them so much.

At what point does X-Factor start? I mean, what issue will X-Men be on?

X-Factor (vol. 1) #1 came out in February of 1986, the same motnh that Uncanny X-Men #202 was published.

[david r]

So you mean Dazzler was originally going to be a African Goddess disco-singer? I guess that makes sense, since that photograph was drawn in 1979 (the year Dazzler made her rollerskatin' debut.)

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.196.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #196

"What Was That?!!"

A classic cover. Magneto joins the ranks of the X-Men. Rachel Summers and Nightcrawler do more soul-searching. And Kitty Pryde smokes a cigar. This issue rocks. :biggrin:

Professor Charles Xavier has returned to lecturing at Columbia University (following his mugging). During his lecture before a packed crowd of college students, Charles overhears students planning a murder. His telepathic abilities are not working well (as well as taking drugs) so he is unable to pinpoint the students. But Xavier is worried. Meanwhile, Storm has returned to the Serengeti Plain, in East Africa. Ororo is home, and has found solace, relaxation and a chance to reflect on all that has happened to her recently. However, the calm is broken as a lion approaches her in the jungle plain. The lion is suddenly shot by a bullet. Ororo is enraged, but a bullet soon glances her face!!!! Knocking her backward and down. She collapses in the high grass. Andreas Strucker is the person responsible; smugly smiling at her kills. While her brother and others look on. She meant to shoot Ororo!

Jumping back to New York City, we find an X-Men team meeting in a deli (hey, why not!) Wolverine, Colossus, Shadowcat, Rachel Summers, Rogue, Lee Forrester and Charles Xavier are all in attendance. Sitting with them all at the large table, is Magneto!!! Wearing a black suit-and-tie, Magneto is the appearance of calm & collected. The rest of the mutants are quite nervous at the inclusion of their greatest nemesis, but are trusting the professor knows what he's doing. Wolverine is staring at Charles & Magneto, using his enhances senses to notice any tampering on Magneto's part. Charles is recounting his recent telepathic discovery that his students plan to murder someone. He wants his X-Men to find the students and stop them. Meanwhile, Rachel Summers sits at the table, and notices the Beyonder walk into the deli. He has the appearance of a blonde-haired man. Rachel stands and confronts him, but the Godlike being just disappears. At that same moment, in St. Anne's Church, team leader Nightcrawler is on a mission of his own. Kurt meets Father Bowen in his room, and Kurt spills his heart out. Kurt is worried the Beyonder may be God Himself. But how can that be? Kurt is worried about his religious faith, and the implications if this Beyonder is God. Kurt is badly shaken.

Later that night, the X-Men are scouting around Columbia University, attempting to make some kind of contact with these murderous students. The Beyonder continues to watch them, from afar. Kitty and Wolverine sit on some steps, leading into the university. Kitty wonders about the Prof and Maggs. Charles says Magneto has changed for the better. Does Logan agree? Logan replies we all have our doubts. He changed. Rogue changed. Maybe Magneto can change. Kitty wonders if he's fooling the professor. Charles doesn't look good, Kitty remarks. She snatches his cigar from him and takes a puff or two. Kitty is then coughing and gagging, as Logan smiles and places his hand on her back. Poor dear. After a few minutes, Kitty makes her way to a computer lab in the university, and finds several students acting suspiciously there. Kitty tries to play it cool, but soon a black student named Phil confronts her:

Phil: You a mutie then, Pryde--like HIM?!
Kitty: Gee, I dunno, Phil--are you a nigger?
Phil: Watch your mouth?
Kitty: Watch yours! Especially when you use words like that, and try to be intentionally hurtful. All of a sudden Phil, I don't much like you anymore, or your buddies. I think I'll be on my way.

Kitty tries to leave, but the students jump her and cover her mouth with a rag of chloroform. Kitty passes out. In another part of the school, Xavier, Rachel Summers and Magneto enter Charles' private office, and Summers the Beyonder inside the office. Rachel uses her telepathic abilities, which sets off a booby-trap placed in the office by those students. It sends out a PSI-SCREAM which sends Rachel into a psionic agony attack! She screams and cuts loose, shooting Charles & Magneto shooting out of the room! Rachel transforms into her Maori Mask and outfit---from her Hound days. She races across the campus to find Phil straggling Kitty Pryde!! Rachel smashes through the wall screaming "LEAVE HER ALONE!!! The students are all scattered, but Phil takes out a pistol and fires at Rachel. Summers mocks his effort and turns the bullet back on him. Magneto suddenly appears in the room, and stops the bullet directly in front of Phil's shocked face. Magneto begs Rachel to stop this madness. Rachel badly wants to end their lives, like the scum they are.

Magneto: "That was once what I believed and see what it has achieved. I am hunted the world over--my name has become almost a synonym for madness and evil. My children have disowned me. I am as feared, Rachel ,as I am hated. And worst of all, those whose lives I sought to safeguard, whose bright future to ensure, are no better off. Indeed, I have probably made their existence far worse."

Rachel wants to kill the students, they remind her of her "masters" from her future, that forced her to find and murder her fellow mutants. Some....she even loved. Magneto replies then slaughter Phil then. Kill him, end his life, prove yourself no better than they are. Show you can return hate for hate, blow for blow, life for life. Give THEM the final victory! Rachel hesitates. Finally, the bullet falls to the ground, much to sweating Phil's relief. Rachel reverts away from her Hound appearance, back to her normal look.

Kitty Pryde: Ray...?
Rachel: I don't want to talk, Kitty. Okay? I know you mean well...but I'm really not in the mood.
Kitty: I only wanted to say thanks.
Rachel Summers: You're welcome...I love you people. More than my life. I'll do whatever I have to, to protect you.
Magneto: That was a very near thing. But for all her bitterness...I believe Rachel will be all right.

As Magneto picks up Kitty and they leave the ruined office, Kitty asks, "How did you know what to say to her?"
Magneto: "An easy task, Katherine, for one who like Rachel...has dwelled too long in the valley of the shadow of death. In too many tragic ways, we are kindred souls--survivors of the Holocaust, children of the abyss."
Kitty: "Maybe the Prof's right after all--you DO have the makings of a HERO."
Magneto: "No. I am no hero, merely a man...who has seen and done and endured what can never be forgotten... or forgiven."

[worstblogever]

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.196.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #196

"What Was That?!!"

A classic cover. Magneto joins the ranks of the X-Men. Rachel Summers and Nightcrawler do more soul-searching. And Kitty Pryde smokes a cigar. This issue rocks. :biggrin:

Professor Charles Xavier has returned to lecturing at Columbia University (following his mugging). During his lecture before a packed crowd of college students, Charles overhears students planning a murder. His telepathic abilities are not working well (as well as taking drugs) so he is unable to pinpoint the students. But Xavier is worried. Meanwhile, Storm has returned to the Serengeti Plain, in East Africa. Ororo is home, and has found solace, relaxation and a chance to reflect on all that has happened to her recently. However, the calm is broken as a lion approaches her in the jungle plain. The lion is suddenly shot by a bullet. Ororo is enraged, but a bullet soon glances her face!!!! Knocking her backward and down. She collapses in the high grass. Andreas Strucker is the person responsible; smugly smiling at her kills. While her brother and others look on. She meant to shoot Ororo!

Jumping back to New York City, we find an X-Men team meeting in a deli (hey, why not!) Wolverine, Colossus, Shadowcat, Rachel Summers, Rogue, Lee Forrester and Charles Xavier are all in attendance. Sitting with them all at the large table, is Magneto!!! Wearing a black suit-and-tie, Magneto is the appearance of calm & collected. The rest of the mutants are quite nervous at the inclusion of their greatest nemesis, but are trusting the professor knows what he's doing. Wolverine is staring at Charles & Magneto, using his enhances senses to notice any tampering on Magneto's part. Charles is recounting his recent telepathic discovery that his students plan to murder someone. He wants his X-Men to find the students and stop them. Meanwhile, Rachel Summers sits at the table, and notices the Beyonder walk into the deli. He has the appearance of a blonde-haired man. Rachel stands and confronts him, but the Godlike being just disappears. At that same moment, in St. Anne's Church, team leader Nightcrawler is on a mission of his own. Kurt meets Father Bowen in his room, and Kurt spills his heart out. Kurt is worried the Beyonder may be God Himself. But how can that be? Kurt is worried about his religious faith, and the implications if this Beyonder is God. Kurt is badly shaken.

Later that night, the X-Men are scouting around Columbia University, attempting to make some kind of contact with these murderous students. The Beyonder continues to watch them, from afar. Kitty and Wolverine sit on some steps, leading into the university. Kitty wonders about the Prof and Maggs. Charles says Magneto has changed for the better. Does Logan agree? Logan replies we all have our doubts. He changed. Rogue changed. Maybe Magneto can change. Kitty wonders if he's fooling the professor. Charles doesn't look good, Kitty remarks. She snatches his cigar from him and takes a puff or two. Kitty is then coughing and gagging, as Logan smiles and places his hand on her back. Poor dear. After a few minutes, Kitty makes her way to a computer lab in the university, and finds several students acting suspiciously there. Kitty tries to play it cool, but soon a black student named Phil confronts her:

Phil: You a mutie then, Pryde--like HIM?!
Kitty: Gee, I dunno, Phil--are you a nigger?
Phil: Watch your mouth?
Kitty: Watch yours! Especially when you use words like that, and try to be intentionally hurtful. All of a sudden Phil, I don't much like you anymore, or your buddies. I think I'll be on my way.

Kitty tries to leave, but the students jump her and cover her mouth with a rag of chloroform. Kitty passes out. In another part of the school, Xavier, Rachel Summers and Magneto enter Charles' private office, and Summers the Beyonder inside the office. Rachel uses her telepathic abilities, which sets off a booby-trap placed in the office by those students. It sends out a PSI-SCREAM which sends Rachel into a psionic agony attack! She screams and cuts loose, shooting Charles & Magneto shooting out of the room! Rachel transforms into her Maori Mask and outfit---from her Hound days. She races across the campus to find Phil straggling Kitty Pryde!! Rachel smashes through the wall screaming "LEAVE HER ALONE!!! The students are all scattered, but Phil takes out a pistol and fires at Rachel. Summers mocks his effort and turns the bullet back on him. Magneto suddenly appears in the room, and stops the bullet directly in front of Phil's shocked face. Magneto begs Rachel to stop this madness. Rachel badly wants to end their lives, like the scum they are.

Magneto: "That was once what I believed and see what it has achieved. I am hunted the world over--my name has become almost a synonym for madness and evil. My children have disowned me. I am as feared, Rachel ,as I am hated. And worst of all, those whose lives I sought to safeguard, whose bright future to ensure, are no better off. Indeed, I have probably made their existence far worse."

Rachel wants to kill the students, they remind her of her "masters" from her future, that forced her to find and murder her fellow mutants. Some....she even loved. Magneto replies then slaughter Phil then. Kill him, end his life, prove yourself no better than they are. Show you can return hate for hate, blow for blow, life for life. Give THEM the final victory! Rachel hesitates. Finally, the bullet falls to the ground, much to sweating Phil's relief. Rachel reverts away from her Hound appearance, back to her normal look.

Kitty Pryde: Ray...?
Rachel: I don't want to talk, Kitty. Okay? I know you mean well...but I'm really not in the mood.
Kitty: I only wanted to say thanks.
Rachel Summers: You're welcome...I love you people. More than my life. I'll do whatever I have to, to protect you.
Magneto: That was a very near thing. But for all her bitterness...I believe Rachel will be all right.

As Magneto picks up Kitty and they leave the ruined office, Kitty asks, "How did you know what to say to her?"
Magneto: "An easy task, Katherine, for one who like Rachel...has dwelled too long in the valley of the shadow of death. In too many tragic ways, we are kindred souls--survivors of the Holocaust, children of the abyss."
Kitty: "Maybe the Prof's right after all--you DO have the makings of a HERO."
Magneto: "No. I am no hero, merely a man...who has seen and done and endured what can never be forgotten... or forgiven."

I told you that the Fenris twins would be up to all manner of shenanigans for a few issues to come! Ororo, BOOM! HEADSHOT! And the von Struckers are just warming up...

Meanwhile, Kitty Pryde has a second instance where she needs her mouth washed out with soap. Just... there are better ways to make your point, Katya.

And most importantly, a great issue for fans of Rachel Summers, who shows great strength in overcoming her Hound programming, as well as Magneto in this issue... it really makes you think that his redemption is, for the first time, truly complete. Magnus, even if he's contrite, and trying to be a better man, is still a flawed individual... how long will his journey to the side of the angels continue?

To quote Claremont: "Wait and see."

[DDM]

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.196.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #196

"What Was That?!!"

A classic cover. Magneto joins the ranks of the X-Men. Rachel Summers and Nightcrawler do more soul-searching. And Kitty Pryde smokes a cigar. This issue rocks. :biggrin:

Professor Charles Xavier has returned to lecturing at Columbia University (following his mugging). During his lecture before a packed crowd of college students, Charles overhears students planning a murder. His telepathic abilities are not working well (as well as taking drugs) so he is unable to pinpoint the students. But Xavier is worried. Meanwhile, Storm has returned to the Serengeti Plain, in East Africa. Ororo is home, and has found solace, relaxation and a chance to reflect on all that has happened to her recently. However, the calm is broken as a lion approaches her in the jungle plain. The lion is suddenly shot by a bullet. Ororo is enraged, but a bullet soon glances her face!!!! Knocking her backward and down. She collapses in the high grass. Andreas Strucker is the person responsible; smugly smiling at her kills. While her brother and others look on. She meant to shoot Ororo!

Jumping back to New York City, we find an X-Men team meeting in a deli (hey, why not!) Wolverine, Colossus, Shadowcat, Rachel Summers, Rogue, Lee Forrester and Charles Xavier are all in attendance. Sitting with them all at the large table, is Magneto!!! Wearing a black suit-and-tie, Magneto is the appearance of calm & collected. The rest of the mutants are quite nervous at the inclusion of their greatest nemesis, but are trusting the professor knows what he's doing. Wolverine is staring at Charles & Magneto, using his enhances senses to notice any tampering on Magneto's part. Charles is recounting his recent telepathic discovery that his students plan to murder someone. He wants his X-Men to find the students and stop them. Meanwhile, Rachel Summers sits at the table, and notices the Beyonder walk into the deli. He has the appearance of a blonde-haired man. Rachel stands and confronts him, but the Godlike being just disappears. At that same moment, in St. Anne's Church, team leader Nightcrawler is on a mission of his own. Kurt meets Father Bowen in his room, and Kurt spills his heart out. Kurt is worried the Beyonder may be God Himself. But how can that be? Kurt is worried about his religious faith, and the implications if this Beyonder is God. Kurt is badly shaken.

Later that night, the X-Men are scouting around Columbia University, attempting to make some kind of contact with these murderous students. The Beyonder continues to watch them, from afar. Kitty and Wolverine sit on some steps, leading into the university. Kitty wonders about the Prof and Maggs. Charles says Magneto has changed for the better. Does Logan agree? Logan replies we all have our doubts. He changed. Rogue changed. Maybe Magneto can change. Kitty wonders if he's fooling the professor. Charles doesn't look good, Kitty remarks. She snatches his cigar from him and takes a puff or two. Kitty is then coughing and gagging, as Logan smiles and places his hand on her back. Poor dear. After a few minutes, Kitty makes her way to a computer lab in the university, and finds several students acting suspiciously there. Kitty tries to play it cool, but soon a black student named Phil confronts her:

Phil: You a mutie then, Pryde--like HIM?!
Kitty: Gee, I dunno, Phil--are you a nigger?
Phil: Watch your mouth?
Kitty: Watch yours! Especially when you use words like that, and try to be intentionally hurtful. All of a sudden Phil, I don't much like you anymore, or your buddies. I think I'll be on my way.

Kitty tries to leave, but the students jump her and cover her mouth with a rag of chloroform. Kitty passes out. In another part of the school, Xavier, Rachel Summers and Magneto enter Charles' private office, and Summers the Beyonder inside the office. Rachel uses her telepathic abilities, which sets off a booby-trap placed in the office by those students. It sends out a PSI-SCREAM which sends Rachel into a psionic agony attack! She screams and cuts loose, shooting Charles & Magneto shooting out of the room! Rachel transforms into her Maori Mask and outfit---from her Hound days. She races across the campus to find Phil straggling Kitty Pryde!! Rachel smashes through the wall screaming "LEAVE HER ALONE!!! The students are all scattered, but Phil takes out a pistol and fires at Rachel. Summers mocks his effort and turns the bullet back on him. Magneto suddenly appears in the room, and stops the bullet directly in front of Phil's shocked face. Magneto begs Rachel to stop this madness. Rachel badly wants to end their lives, like the scum they are.

Magneto: "That was once what I believed and see what it has achieved. I am hunted the world over--my name has become almost a synonym for madness and evil. My children have disowned me. I am as feared, Rachel ,as I am hated. And worst of all, those whose lives I sought to safeguard, whose bright future to ensure, are no better off. Indeed, I have probably made their existence far worse."

Rachel wants to kill the students, they remind her of her "masters" from her future, that forced her to find and murder her fellow mutants. Some....she even loved. Magneto replies then slaughter Phil then. Kill him, end his life, prove yourself no better than they are. Show you can return hate for hate, blow for blow, life for life. Give THEM the final victory! Rachel hesitates. Finally, the bullet falls to the ground, much to sweating Phil's relief. Rachel reverts away from her Hound appearance, back to her normal look.

Kitty Pryde: Ray...?
Rachel: I don't want to talk, Kitty. Okay? I know you mean well...but I'm really not in the mood.
Kitty: I only wanted to say thanks.
Rachel Summers: You're welcome...I love you people. More than my life. I'll do whatever I have to, to protect you.
Magneto: That was a very near thing. But for all her bitterness...I believe Rachel will be all right.

As Magneto picks up Kitty and they leave the ruined office, Kitty asks, "How did you know what to say to her?"
Magneto: "An easy task, Katherine, for one who like Rachel...has dwelled too long in the valley of the shadow of death. In too many tragic ways, we are kindred souls--survivors of the Holocaust, children of the abyss."
Kitty: "Maybe the Prof's right after all--you DO have the makings of a HERO."
Magneto: "No. I am no hero, merely a man...who has seen and done and endured what can never be forgotten... or forgiven."

Uncanny X-Men #196 is really more foreshadowing about Rachel Summers as Phoenix. The Beyonder calls Rachel a newborn star that has just begun to glow. He is correct.

I also like the fact Magneto talked Rachel Summers out of murder. She is still consumed by guilt, anger, & sadness about her time as a Hound; ironically revealed for all to see, yet only Magneto & Shadowcat remember. I suppose when Rachel wiped out the bigots' memories, she did the same to the other X-Men who saw her in her Hound costume. Rachel also shows her Hound mask (her facial tattoos) she has carefully concealed.

[Darkchylde]

Uncanny X-Men #196 is really more foreshadowing about Rachel Summers as Phoenix. The Beyonder calls Rachel a newborn star that has just begun to glow. He is correct.

I also like the fact Magneto talked Rachel Summers out of murder. She is still consumed by guilt, anger, & sadness about her time as a Hound; ironically revealed for all to see, yet only Magneto & Shadowcat remember. I suppose when Rachel wiped out the bigots' memories, she did the same to the other X-Men who saw her in her Hound costume. Rachel also shows her Hound mask (her facial tattoos) she has carefully concealed.

Dude, what's with the spoilers? Granted, mostly everyone has read these issues, and even the most casual readers have enough of a working knowledge of the X-Men to know what happens to Rachel Summers in these issues, but still, David R. specifically asked that we avoid disclosing plot details. I'm all for discussing the events of an issue and referencing future plot points, but when the purpose of this thread is solely to comment on an issue without mentioning spoilers, I try to respect that.

You can disagree with me or not; I'm just sayin'...

[DDM]

Dude, what's with the spoilers? Granted, mostly everyone has read these issues, and even the most casual readers have enough of a working knowledge of the X-Men to know what happens to Rachel Summers in these issues, but still, David R. specifically asked that we avoid disclosing plot details. I'm all for discussing the events of an issue and referencing future plot points, but when the purpose of this thread is solely to comment on an issue without mentioning spoilers, I try to respect that.

You can disagree with me or not; I'm just sayin'...

These books are over 20 years old. Spoilers are for books that have not been published.

[Darkchylde]

These books are over 20 years old. Spoilers are for books that have not been published.

True, but I believe the author of this thread, David R., asked that plot details not be revealed in advance of issues he's already reviewed. You should be more mindful of that next time before giving away the ending.

[Nevets F]

Yeah DDM, you should really watch it with anything that David hasn't made it to yet.

[Valjean999]

X-Factor (vol. 1) #1 came out in February of 1986, the same motnh that Uncanny X-Men #202 was published.

FYI, the story of X Factor #1 starts in Avengers #263, continues into Fantastic Four #286, then wraps up in X Factor #1. Just thought I would share, in case you want to see if you can get your hands on those issues

[DDM]

True, but I believe the author of this thread, David R., asked that plot details not be revealed in advance of issues he's already reviewed. You should be more mindful of that next time before giving away the ending.

I gave examples--in The New Mutants thread--of the kids not being ready to be X-Men. Again, these books have been in publication for over 20 years. I'm not revealing anything that is not already known.

It's cute to pretend that these issues are new, but it's a fantasy--a weird one at that. If you want to play that game, then pretend you never read my spoilers for upcoming issues since you're already pretending to not know something you already know.

Now, if you want to talk about Uncanny X-Men #625 with spoiler tags, be my guest since it has not been published.

[Nevets F]

I gave examples--in The New Mutants thread--of the kids not being ready to be X-Men. Again, these books have been in publication for over 20 years. I'm not revealing anything that is not already known.

It's cute to pretend that these issues are new, but it's a fantasy--a weird one at that. If you want to play that game, then pretend you never read my spoilers for upcoming issues since you're already pretending to not know something you already know.

Now, if you want to talk about Uncanny X-Men #625 with spoiler tags, be my guest since it has not been published.

So in other words, you want to ruin the fun of these threads for no reason.

[Darkchylde]

I gave examples--in The New Mutants thread--of the kids not being ready to be X-Men. Again, these books have been in publication for over 20 years. I'm not revealing anything that is not already known.

It's cute to pretend that these issues are new, but it's a fantasy--a weird one at that. If you want to play that game, then pretend you never read my spoilers for upcoming issues since you're already pretending to not know something you already know.

Now, if you want to talk about Uncanny X-Men #625 with spoiler tags, be my guest since it has not been published.

Uh, no, sorry, I don't need to act as if I don't know what's to come in these stories when I already do; however, I will respect the fact that, because this thread is titled "X-Men from the Beginning" and that its creator specifically asked those who participate in this forum to avoid discussing upcoming plots, I will not mention events yet to come. I will make commentary on an issue and even point out allusions that were mentioned within the story, but I apologize if you mistook this as living in some fantasy world. Perhaps it's the same world in which you reside? You know, the one where you feel the need to give long-winded summations of stories that I've already read and know the outcomes / explanations for?

Example (and I'm paraphrasing): Darkchylde: "David R., Illyana Rasputin doesn't play a role in the "Legion" story arc in "New Mutants," but she is prominently featured in the next one."

DDM: "Illyana doesn't play a role in this story because her arc runs concurrent to the 'Legion' storyline; besides, her mystical Soulsword would have no effect on Legion because it can only affect mystical constructs. Illyana created the Soulsword after being abducted by the demon lord Belasco, ruler of Limbo, in Storm and Illyana: Magik, a limited series that details the events leading up to Illyana's rescue at the end of Uncanny X-Men # 160. The Soulsword was created out of Illyana's desire for vengeance following her cruel torment at Belasco's hands. Initially, the blade looked more like a lightsaber, then took on the appearance of a traditional medieval sword under Bill Sienkewicz's acclaimed run on The New Mutants. Incidentally, Illyana also meets the New Mutants as a child in the Magik limited series, and those events intersect with New Mutants # 14, which features a battle between the students and S'ym, Belasco's demon servant last seen in the Magik limited series. He is sent by Belasco to abduct Illyana as revenge for her defeat of Belasco at the end of Magik. Belasco himself is hardly seen in the pages of the X-Men or New Mutants again, and is not responsible for Illyana becoming the Darkchild and setting the events of "Inferno" into motion, but he does make appearances in an issue of Cable, where he attempts to seize control of the Nexus of All Realities; X-Men Unlimited, in which he forges an alliance with Wolverine's nemesis, Bloodscream, to free the N'Garai; an Excalibur issue reminiscent of Dante's Inferno; and X-Men: Black Sun, wherein he abducts the five original X-Men (with Polaris filling in for Jean Grey) in a plot to sacrifice their collective souls to his Elder Gods, the N'Garai. The timely intervention of Amanda Sefton, Nightcrawler's ex-girlfriend, proves critical in Belasco's defeat."

(Really?! No s**t, Sherlock! We've read the same freakin' stories!)

You have a penchant for doing this often; quite frankly, it's become way past tiresome. I don't need a talking-down to, nor do I need a play-by-play of stories I've already read even though you feel the need to give one. Are you trying to demonstrate your knowledge of all things 'X' and Marvel, because if so I am not impressed. In fact, I'd say you and I are on par when it comes to extensive Marvel Universe history, except I don't feel the need to prove it ad nauseum.

You're also missing the point of my messages, which was not intended as a personal attack, but merely a criticism of your inability to adhere to a fellow poster's request for non-disclosure of upcoming stories. I'm not pretending as if I don't know what's coming next, but I am encouraging someone to discover those stories for himself without ruining the suspense.

[Cub]

I kinda have to agree with Darkchylde, DDM. It's pretty much a d!ck move on your part to keep doing this, especially when numerous people have asked you to stop. I've come to consider your need to give a detailed analysis of every single thing mentioned sort of a tourette's type deal. You can't help yourself, I get it. But, even though, yeah, these issues are 20 years old, they are still new to some people. And you are ruining it for them. And for the other people who are reading this thread and trying to bring themselves back to the time when these issues were new and exciting and unpredictable. And the creator of this thread, who kinda works his ass off to keep this, as well as 2 other "from the beginning" threads (soon to be two... and i'm putting my request in now for an Excalibur From the Beginning Thread, DavidR!!!!!!!) going. I mean, to be honest, your rude behavior hasn't really affected me, considering i usually scroll through your posts anyway. But you're clearly ruffling a lot of feathers for absolutely no good reason.

[Nevets F]

I kinda have to agree with Darkchylde, DDM. It's pretty much a d!ck move on your part to keep doing this, especially when numerous people have asked you to stop. I've come to consider your need to give a detailed analysis of every single thing mentioned sort of a tourette's type deal. You can't help yourself, I get it. But, even though, yeah, these issues are 20 years old, they are still new to some people. And you are ruining it for them. And for the other people who are reading this thread and trying to bring themselves back to the time when these issues were new and exciting and unpredictable. And the creator of this thread, who kinda works his ass off to keep this, as well as 2 other "from the beginning" threads (soon to be two... and i'm putting my request in now for an Excalibur From the Beginning Thread, DavidR!!!!!!!) going. I mean, to be honest, your rude behavior hasn't really affected me, considering i usually scroll through your posts anyway. But you're clearly ruffling a lot of feathers for absolutely no good reason.


I agree with everything Cub and Darkcylde have said, they just say it a low nicer than I probably could.

Oh, and Cub, I have also asked David for an Excalibur from the Beginning thread! So we will have FIVE...Uncanny, Alpha, New Mutants, X-Factor, and Excalibur.

David deserves X poster of the YEAR.

[creaky]

I agree with everything Cub and Darkcylde have said, they just say it a low nicer than I probably could.

Oh, and Cub, I have also asked David for an Excalibur from the Beginning thread! So we will have FIVE...Uncanny, Alpha, New Mutants, X-Factor, and Excalibur.

David deserves X poster of the YEAR.

He really does. Here's just hoping he doesn't get himself burnt out by the workload! Take good care of yourself, David!

Also, good Lord, the Beyonder thing. I think this might be the only worthwhile religious-focused plot Kurt has ever had. It took me a good while to realize what Claremont was doing here and what the point was, but he's taking Kurt apart, piece by piece. First throw him into a leader position he's not ready for, then, when he needs his faith the most, undermine that. I think we're at act two in the Dark Kurt Saga, the epic no one noticed.

[david r]

I gave examples--in The New Mutants thread--of the kids not being ready to be X-Men. Again, these books have been in publication for over 20 years. I'm not revealing anything that is not already known.

It's cute to pretend that these issues are new, but it's a fantasy--a weird one at that. If you want to play that game, then pretend you never read my spoilers for upcoming issues since you're already pretending to not know something you already know.


DDM, You have been a constant poster in these threads and I appreciate your contributions to them. I realize YOU have read these issues and are not revealing anything that is not already known to YOU. Unfortunately, not everyone is YOU and does not know what is to be revealed in upcoming stories. True, I have read some of these issues before, but not all. This is especially true in the New Mutants and Alpha Flight threads in which I haven't read 95% of those stories.

Everyone of these threads clearly state to keep a lid on revealing spoilers to upcoming tales. Most of the time you respect this, but occasionally lapse and I ignore it. Hinting is okay, but you make detailed, long paragraphs giving away future plots and stories, and that is not okay. You waste your effort in arguing this point this time, as these are the stated rules to these From the Beginning threads. I'm sure Ignore Function is not a place you want to be. Don't try to argue the point. Respect the rules. It is as simple as that.

Thank you to Darkchylde, Cub and everyone who defended the rules. This has never really come up before, but I greatly appreciate your support!

[david r]

My thoughts on Uncanny X-Men #196:

Another triumph. So many memorable moments. The meeting scene with the X-Men in the deli is a classic scene. Charles Xavier and Magneto sitting side-by-side for the first time. It's a little unnerving to see. I like how Wolverine just sits, and watches. Is the professor a fool for rushing in to trust their greatest villain?

This issue echoes God Loves, Man Kills I feel. Racism is the true villain here, and one the mutants may NEVER be able to stop. I find Magneto stopping Rachel Summers from killing the punk a turning point in his life. He the very man who would have done that killing himself not long ago. (I also found it VERY interesting what Rachel says about her future-world and Magneto replacing Charles Xavier after...after...)

Creaky, the Dark Kurt saga! I think you figured it out. Kurt is on a personal journey, just like Ororo and Logan. And nobody noticed it except you! It seems Nightcrawler is far less jovial and fun-loving as he's been before, and it started with his assuming leadership. Chris Claremont likes putting them through the ringer, and now it's Kurt's turn! The Beyonder seems pretty pointless in this book so far, but in this one instance, Claremont found a whammy of a way to upset Kurt Wagner's world. Kurt's one of my favorites, too and I hope it doesn't darken his bright soul. :frown:

Rachel Summers: Rachel is doing a lot of soul-searching lately. This was another benchmark for her. Strange that a super-villain would be the one to stop her from going over the edge. I was especially shocked by Rachel's admission she had murdered people she LOVED, on Page 20. I see now why her soul is so tortured. (However, her Hound face, with that exotic design is quite striking.)

Magneto's last few words were menacing. "Forgotten...or forgiven." He hasn't lost his darker side. He's like Xavier, only with rougher edges.

[Darkchylde]

My thoughts on Uncanny X-Men #196:

Another triumph. So many memorable moments. The meeting scene with the X-Men in the deli is a classic scene. Charles Xavier and Magneto sitting side-by-side for the first time. It's a little unnerving to see. I like how Wolverine just sits, and watches. Is the professor a fool for rushing in to trust their greatest villain?

This issue echoes God Loves, Man Kills I feel. Racism is the true villain here, and one the mutants may NEVER be able to stop. I find Magneto stopping Rachel Summers from killing the punk a turning point in his life. He the very man who would have done that killing himself not long ago. (I also found it VERY interesting what Rachel says about her future-world and Magneto replacing Charles Xavier after...after...)

Creaky, the Dark Kurt saga! I think you figured it out. Kurt is on a personal journey, just like Ororo and Logan. And nobody noticed it except you! It seems Nightcrawler is far less jovial and fun-loving as he's been before, and it started with his assuming leadership. Chris Claremont likes putting them through the ringer, and now it's Kurt's turn! The Beyonder seems pretty pointless in this book so far, but in this one instance, Claremont found a whammy of a way to upset Kurt Wagner's world. Kurt's one of my favorites, too and I hope it doesn't darken his bright soul. :frown:

Rachel Summers: Rachel is doing a lot of soul-searching lately. This was another benchmark for her. Strange that a super-villain would be the one to stop her from going over the edge. I was especially shocked by Rachel's admission she had murdered people she LOVED, on Page 20. I see now why her soul is so tortured. (However, her Hound face, with that exotic design is quite striking.)

Magneto's last few words were menacing. "Forgotten...or forgiven." He hasn't lost his darker side. He's like Xavier, only with rougher edges.

I've said it before, but I'll say it again: The Beyonder leaves a huge impression on Rachel in Uncanny X-Men, and on Kitty and Illyana in The New Mutants.
Looking back, I am amazed that Claremont was able to not only juggle the plots of both books and keep them self-contained, but also reference them in both books or have them intersect when the occasion called for it. And the thing is, it always felt natural, like it wasn't forced by some editorial mandate. This will be seen again in upcoming issues of Uncanny, where Kitty makes a reference to the changes she and Illyana underwent in The New Mutants.

[david r]

Darkchylde, I'm seeing that the "Beyonder" is taking particular notice of Rachel Summers and Illyana Rasputin. I think he sees something in them no one else does. Not even themselves.

And he peripherally affects others, like Creaky noted about Nightcrawler. As for Chris Claremont's efforts, he really does an admirable job of weaving X-MEN And NEW MUTANTS into a story tapestry. I never noticed it until now, reading both books simultaneously. But he also takes other intrusions into his stories (Secret Wars, Dire Wraiths, Firestar, Secret Wars II) and instead of ignoring them, USES ingredients from them too. He's really earned his legendary status on these books.

----I found the passage when Rachel Summers says "I love you people. More than my life" very moving. UXM #196 is so remarkable.

[Imraith Nimphais]

Darkchylde, I'm seeing that the "Beyonder" is taking particular notice of Rachel Summers and Illyana Rasputin. I think he sees something in them no one else does. Not even themselves.

Spot on! David...as you will see in upcoming issues of both NM and UXM.

[david r]

---This here caught my eye: I notice in #196's letters page, it mentions that Storm's story will continue in the future Storm and Forge limited series by Chris Claremont and Barry Windsor-Smith. I'm fairly certain this never saw the light of day, and had never noticed this before. I have to wonder if this was where "Lifedeath 3" was going to happen. Interesting!


I truly love this cover. I like how lethal Wolverine seems, and yet all we see is his right fist, claws and his shadow.

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.196.GIF

[Cub]

Looking back, I am amazed that Claremont was able to not only juggle the plots of both books and keep them self-contained, but also reference them in both books or have them intersect when the occasion called for it. And the thing is, it always felt natural, like it wasn't forced by some editorial mandate. This will be seen again in upcoming issues of Uncanny, where Kitty makes a reference to the changes she and Illyana underwent in The New Mutants.

I completely agree. I had never read New Mutants, but when I would read these back issues, I always found it enjoyable when someone from the other team made a cameo. Or when someone like Kitty or the Professor would mention something that happened over in the other title. It left more mysteries for me to uncover (which I'm doing right now over in that other thread), and made the x-men feel like part of a larger whole. And Claremont didn't need those blockbuster summer crossover events, he just fluidly created this little x-universe. Really impressive.

As for this issue, it rocks hard. With Kurt's crisis of faith, and the knowledge of Rachel's past, it makes the x-men question if the dream is still worth fighting for, and, if it is, are they going to have change their tactics, and get harder, more ruthless.

I know Kitty's temper in this issue is a controversial subject. But I think it was warranted. Do I think that the "n" word is one of the most derogatory words possible? Yes, along with kike, chink, faggot, etc. Do I think Kitty is racist? Duh, no. She was making a point. Honestly, if a black person, (that apparently is trying to kill my mentor), called me a fag, i think i'd respond in kind. Maybe that's bringing myself down to his level. But a bad temper is something Kitty and I have in common.

Granted, this guy called Kitty a mutie, which, in the real world, doesn't really exist. But comics are an art medium. And art, at its best, is a mirror to show society at its best, and worst. It was a very shocking panel, perhaps even moreso today, in these politically correct times. But that was the point; it was supposed to be shocking, to make people talk and think about the subject of racism.

[david r]

Some very thought-provoking words, Cub. I think Marvel was trying to show us "mutie" is just as offensive to mutants as the "n" word is offensive to black people. It cuts very deep for mutants, and is NOT a word they take lightly.

As for Kitty Pryde, she certainly has matured lately. I've noticed since Kitty Pryde and Wolverine that Katherine is taking a more leadership role in the group. She is growing up, yet hasn't lost that innocent, youthful curiousity that is so tantalizing in the young. I think there are big things ahead for Pryde.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.197.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #197

"To Save Arcade?!?"

This issue focuses on two former romantic hearts, Peter Rasputin and Kitty Pryde. A lot has happened for these two recently, and their May-December romance ended with broken hearts and anguish. #197 tries to mend the wounds and forge a friendship.

#197 starts with Colossus having a horrible nightmare. Piotr obviously has tremendous guilt over breaking his Katya's heart, as well as Zsaji's death on the Secret Wars world. And then his sister, Illyana Rasputin, who became a demon-sorceress, and Rasputin feels it is all his fault. Peter awakens in his bed, screaming!! But to add on to it, he realizes he's not in his room. Kitty sleeps in the bed next to his, and they are in a strange room. Lunatic barnyard crazy Arcade bursts into the room! Arcade has apparently kidnapped these 2 young X-Men, and has a plan for them. What a wacky fellow, he is. :rolleyes: As the unapproachable Miss. Locke serves a meal, Arcade recounts to them that Doctor Doom is angry at him, and desires Arcade's death. As a bomb smashes into the room to illustrate this point! The bomb flies around causing much carnage, until Kitty & Colossus destroy it. Arcade convinces them Doom wants his hide, and then shows them around Murderworld, with it's holographic displays and other assorted gizmos, that can create any setting (like the Danger Room.)

Arcade tells them Doctor Doom is somewhere in Murderworld, and the 2 mutants reluctantly agree to aid him. Creating a holographic display of World War II New York City, Shadowcat and Colossus are joined by a robot version of the X-Men team, and do battle with various Doombots that seek to destroy them. The entire time, Colossus is soul-searching about hurting Kitty and losing Zsaji. In the end, the Doombots are obliterated, and Doctor Doom confronts Arcade! Kitty phases her hand through Doom, and he collapses to the ground. This is NOT Doom at all, but Miss Locke, who climbs out of the Doom robot. The entire operation was a game, as we learn every year, on Arcade's birthday, Miss Locke has 24 hours to murder Arcade, with his blessing!! It was all a game! That's insane! Arcade says yes, ain't it though! And LAUGHS!

The issue ends with Kitty & Peter dropped off on Graymalkin Lane, and they finally seem to have worked through their issues and come to terms with their past. The hurt feelings of the past are over, and Peter wonders "could this be the beginning of a beautiful friendship?" As they walk together on the road, back to the Mansion, Kitty replies, "Maybe, and takes Peter's hand in hers. On the final page, Ororo Munroe awakens in the blistering hot African grass, the right side of her face bleeding profusely from a rifle shot. Vultures are swarming her and she rises in angry protest, clutching her knife and staff and daring "death" to come claim her this day!!

My thoughts: Just another great, fun story, centering on Kitty and Peter and cementing their friendship. Colossus has a difficult time letting his feelings out, and so much is bottled up inside (thus, his nightmare which opened this issue showed.) I think Kitty and Rasputin are growing, and both in the right direction, and I'm VERY glad to see they will grow together. The panel where they hold hands gave me a small tear in the eye! As for the villains, Arcade has many detractors, but I think he's a nice "small" villain, which is cool to see when so many X-villains are all-powerful, all-evil and virtually unstoppable. Having a baddie like Arcade is cool because he's more human, with a passing resemblance to the Joker. I must say, Miss Locke doesn't gain much attention, but I wonder what her story is about? Do we ever learn anything about her? Why does she want to murder Arcade, but only gets the chance once a year? Another question....sigh.......

[worstblogever]

I love Arcade and Miss Locke. They had the best twisted boss/employee relationship. Just so crazy. And the Doombots... oh the Doombots. I wonder if this was a "mea culpa" about Claremont/Byrne's argument over the earlier alliance between Arcade, and Dr. Doom (Byrne was on FF and felt Arcade was "beneath" Doom's notice, right)?

And of course, Ororo survives being shot in the head. It won't be the last time an X-Man did so, but to my knowledge, the first mutant with the secondary power of surviving a bullet to the head was Scarlet Witch, back during the Avengers story where Magneto redirected a human's bullet to do so, as a means to sway Quicksilver. More recently, of course... there was... well, I won't say who, but the trick has been repeated. :redface:

[david r]

I love Arcade and Miss Locke. They had the best twisted boss/employee relationship. Just so crazy. And the Doombots... oh the Doombots. I wonder if this was a "mea culpa" about Claremont/Byrne's argument over the earlier alliance between Arcade, and Dr. Doom (Byrne was on FF and felt Arcade was "beneath" Doom's notice, right)?

I do believe Uncanny X-Men #197 was to resolve the Byrne/Claremont feud over Doctor Doom. The issue even retcons & tells us the Doc Doom from UXM #145-147 was a robot. (Which I'm not believing for a moment.)

I just love John Romita Jr's portrayal of Colossus. I really enjoy how he draws the big Russian.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.198.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #198

"Lifedeath: From the Heart of Darkness"

This issue is a long ways from the Vanisher, Stranger and Toad days. A sophisticated, mature story as Ororo Munroe fights for her life in an inhospitable African terrain. Storm brings in new life, and watches another pass away. And she finds her destiny. This is super-hero storytelling at it's greatest.

Once upon a time, there was a woman who could fly. Now, I walk...just like plain folks. Thus begins Storm's sojourn through the sandstorm of an east Africa desert. She has been shot. Her staff and knife are the only protection, as Ororo roams aimlessly in the blinding storm, her mind lost in a concussion. Ororo soon collapses from exhaustion, to be confronted by the apparition of Forge. At first Ororo takes him in her arms, embracing the man she loves. But then in the fog of her memory, she remembers what Forge did to her. She backs away from him and leaves. In her confusion, she falls and is nearly bitten by a pit viper! She crawls into a small cave, readying herself for death. It is there she finds the X-Men. Colossus, Nightcrawler, Charles Xavier, Shadowcat, Cyclops, Wolverine and Jean Grey appear in the darkened cave. Ororo fumes at them for taking her away from her homeland, where she was one with nature. She feels she has lost her soul. Phoenix crouches down and hugs her. Wolverine comes close and offers to pop his claws into her chest, thus relieving Ororo of this nightmare. Storm brushes him away, saying she is not afraid. Professor Xavier replies Ororo has ALWAYS been afraid. Her fear is why Charles took her from her African nest and forced her to fly. Ororo screams "Liar" and reaches out to strangle him. But then the X-Men all vanish, as if they'd never been.

Eventually, Storm crawls out of the cave, and wanders back into the desert. She locates an overturned truck, which lost control in the horrible sandstorm. She locates Shani, an African woman who was hit by the truck. Shani is pregnant. Ororo helps her to her feet (luckily Shani's wounds are just bumps and bruises) and they begin a long walk back to Shani's brush village. Once arriving, Ororo meets Shani's parents, and the elder of the village, named Mjnari. Mjnari offers bread, water and shelter to the exhausted women. Ororo collapses from her ordeal. As Ororo sleeps, she recalls the mountains she had seen in a vision, on her boat journey to Africa. She sensed at these mountains, she would discover her destiny. Ororo is awakened by Mjnari. Shani's baby will not come. Tribesmen are singing and dancing around a roaring fire, to aid the baby's birth. Ororo says she is not learned in birthing ways, but helps with the child's birth, nonetheless. In a finely drawn sequence, we see Ororo working with Shani, in the miracle and pain of birth, while tribesman continue to dance one-by-one around the fire. Soon, a baby is born. Ororo tells Shani she has a son! But the boy is not breathing! Ororo cradles the child in her arms, and breathes with all her might. Long, anguished seconds tick by, as Shani watches on in agony, as her son fights for its life. In the end, the baby breathes! He cries, and Ororo has saved a new life!

Shani's parents and Mjnari enter the hut. (Interestingly, Shani's parents never speak in the entire story.) Mjnari takes his leave, going outside and disrobing of nearly all his clothes and badges. The tribe follow Mjnari as he leaves the village; Ororo follows wondering what is happening. She soon realizes he will NOT be coming back. Ororo races through the crowd to Mjnari's side. Mjnari takes Ororo's hand, and they walk atop a high mountain. Mjnari recounts how fertile the land was, the village in harmony with nature. But soon, outlanders came and brought their technology and fertilizers. The village began to use these to make the desert bloom. For awhile, paradise was held in their hands. But soon, the land desired more & more fertilizer and technology. The land changed, and there was war. Soon, the village was cast into chaos, in disharmony with the land. It was decided that such a thing must never happen again. There must be balance with nature, and with each new life born, the eldest of the tribe must pass away. A place must be made. The very old make way for the very young. Ororo feels this is very harsh. Mjnari replies the balance must be maintained. They both now lay atop the mountain, with dazzling stars gleaming in the African night.

Mjnari: "My day is done, Ororo. But Shani's baby represents hope, a chance for the future, a new beginning! That is what makes this a good way to die, that, wind-rider, is why we celebrate."
And as Mjnari's body slumps to the grass, his eyes closed:
Ororo: "Not I. I shall mourn the passing...of a friend I hardly knew."

Ororo now thinks to herself: And yet, though he is gone, I still hear his voice..."Somewhere on these plains, it is said that, countless ages ago, the Human Race began. Now, two great cultures crash headlong into each other. The very old against the very new.....Technology is not inherently evil, merely the careless, stupid use of it. Neither tradition is wholly good. If it blinds us to ways of making our lives better and happier. A bridge is needed between these two halves of the world--a synthesis, a blend--a person who is born one and the other. Whose mind comprehends and whose hands command the machines...yet whose eyes--and soul--look upon them with the wisdom of the ages."

Ororo now realizes: "Me, Mjnari! YOU MEAN ME?!? Is this the mountain I was meant to climb, the purpose--the destiny I have so long sought? A bridge, not simply between old ways and new, but RACES as well--between humanity and it's mutant children! Oh, Mjnari--oh, my GODDESS--I AM NOT WORTHY!"

Ororo now stands and raises her arms to the skies, her eyes closed: I have no powers, my body cannot fly. But I no longer mind, for in my heart and soul--where it truly matters--I soar higher than the stars!

My thoughts: This was good. Yes indeed, VERY GOOD! Another triumph just as ambitious as the first Lifedeath. In the first one, Ororo Munroe was fighting for her sanity and grappling with the loss of her power. In this issue, Ororo transcends to a much higher learning and knowledge of her place in the world. (Strangely, it's not actually titled "Lifedeath II. As everyone refers to it.) Chris Claremont and Barry Windsor-Smith hopefully won awards for this issue; this is WAY better than your typical superhero fare. Hell, it's not even superheroes, this is so much MORE! I think I will go away from this dwelling on the implications revealed about Ororo Munroe. What this "bridge between two races" means; if it means what I THINK IT MEANS for Ororo and her future, this is a pretty ambitious, weighty path laid out for her. Wow, this is just another masterpiece. I really can't applaud this run enough.

[limerick]

Re:X-men 198.

David,I remember this was one of two copies of the X-men I bought after being away for a few years in the 1980's.I stopped reading not long after Byrne left.



Returning to #193 and #198 was a bit of a culture shock.#193 was very much a journey into the past returning to characters I was very familiar with such as Banshee and Thunderbird(same outfit,different brother).It's like i was never away ----or so I thought.

#198 was a shock to the senses.This was different to the traditional Marvel comic of the seventies and eighties in so many ways.No traditional superhero action and Windsor-Smith's unique art.But of course Claremonts storytelling shines through as always.the man was a genius.Due to the advent of trade-paperbacks you rarely see these character driven stand alone issues anymore--mores the pity.

[Shade101]

This issue, and the first part of Lifedeath, both transcend what a typical comic book was at that time. The sheer emotion that the two issues inspired in the audience is truly awesome. There has not been many other issues of any X-Men related comic book that has explored and demonstrated such human qualities and vulnerability in Storm. If anything these two issues of Lifedeath prove to the audience and herself that she's far from being a goddess in the divine sense.

It's entertaining to see Storm finally vulnerable and exposed when she believed she was untouchable for so many years. Here we see a woman stripped of all senses of security and left to endure life on her own. I can only imagine how much of an emotional rollercoaster she went through during that time. And what's truly amazing is instead of her sulking in depression and giving up on life, we see her struggle to attain the excellence she once had, only this time she's doing it from a somewhat "disabled" start. Ororo really grew as a character, woman, leader, and "goddess" in these issues. It was so good to see her rise from these devastating events with her head held up high, and a new outlook on life. All I can say is...shake what ya mama gave ya!!

[worstblogever]

One of the very best Storm issues, and one of Claremont's best. For me, this is was his peak of characterization. I can't think of an issue past this one where it's as emotional, and moving as this. This is Ororo, finding out who she is, without her powers, and overcoming amazing adversity.

In effect, it's almost like the bullet last issue killed her, and this is her being born anew.

[Justin K.]

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.198.GIF

Bought it last week, loved it :biggrin:

[david r]

Limerick, Wow, #198 must have been a HUGE culture shock to return to. But you make a valid point; we don't see these single-issue, character driven stories very much anymore. It's a shame. My soul soared after reading this.

Shade101, I agree with you totally. These Lifedeath stories take Ororo into incredible new places. She REALLY got lucky as a comic book character. For a comic writer to take the time to explore her in such rich detail. How many X-Men, (let alone super-heroes), get this amazing level of character growth?? Becoming team leader, losing her powers, falling in love for the 1st time-----these events have lead her to this mountaintop and realizing her true destiny.

Lifedeath 2 once again lets us know "Goddess" Storm was a charade. Ororo totally cut off from her emotions. It's like the Storm in #198 is COMPLETELY removed from the one who joined the X-Men in GSXM #1. But as you say, for the woman herself, it's a very rough road. "An emotional rollercoaster" is an apt way to describe it. Ororo Munroe must be struggling inside so much and it hurts to read her suffer so, yet realize that for her to mature she must endure such a difficult rite of passage. Just like we do in real life.

In effect, it's almost like the bullet last issue killed her, and this is her being born anew.

I think you may have something there. The bullet shot in #196 finished off, it "ended", the unapproachable, emotionless Goddess from UXM #94-184, and Ororo moved more to her true self, bottled up inside for so long. Chris Claremont reached his peak of characterization, as you noted and I agree. This is high praise from you. Ororo finds out *who* she is. Where does she go from here?

Justinkos91, And what a beautiful cover, eh? She flies again!

[david r]

A few more thoughts on Lifedeath 2:

----When Charles Xavier speaks about saving Ororo from her African "nest", and that she needed to leave to grow up,was Chris Claremont hinting to a broader picture? Referring to the X-Men needing to leave the Mansion (nest) someday if THEY need to one day grow up, and face the world without his wing to procect them?

----As Storm breathes life into the newborn baby, she is unknowningly signing Mjnari's death. This issue works on two levels.

----So now I know what that mountain seen by Ororo in UXM #193 was. It was the mountain shown at the end of Lifedeath 2. The decision made on that mountain may have longterm implications for Ororo Munroe!

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/pages/97792366288.198.P1.GIF

[Imraith Nimphais]

...as drawn by the incomparably talented Barry Windsor-Smith...that has got to be my very favourite UXM cover of all...(deep happy sigh)...

----When Charles Xavier speaks about saving Ororo from her African "nest", and that she needed to leave to grow up,was Chris Claremont hinting to a broader picture? Referring to the X-Men needing to leave the Mansion (nest) someday if THEY need to one day grow up, and face the world without his wing to procect them?

...it's funny you should mention this in light of the (highly debatable) direction in which Storm has been taken in recent years...I had this thought exactly in mind when she married T'Challa...I personally felt it was (the right) time for my favourite Wind-Rider to once more leave the safety of her home and venture forth...and although I would miss her as part of the x-men...I was SO looking forward to her growing further, and becoming the "bridge" that is her destiny, away from her x-family...but I digress...that's years to come...

keeping it in the moment...the depth and layers throughout this one tale: (in a sense Shani's journey away from, and back to her home, her family...is Ororo's as well, both from the a very personal perspective as relates to her ties to the x-men...and in the broader sense, of her leaving Africa to join the X-men...and once more returning to the continent so as to fully realise WHO she is and her role in the greater scheme of things), the "moral(s)" of this story (of humanity, society, family...how everything/one impacts on each other), the artwork, the dialogue, the character developement (Ororo's character in these twenty-something odd pages is completely re-defined and realised)...every aspect of this issue is so very well integrated...makes this issue a true definition of "classic" story telling...and one of my favourite x-issues, ever!

[david r]

...it's funny you should mention this in light of the (highly debatable) direction in which Storm has been taken in recent years...I had this thought exactly in mind when she married T'Challa...I personally felt it was (the right) time for my favourite Wind-Rider to once more leave the safety of her home and venture forth...and although I would miss her as part of the x-men...I was SO looking forward to her growing further, and becoming the "bridge" that is her destiny, away from her x-family...but I digress...that's years to come...

This "bridge" idea is really intriguing and promising. Chris Claremont is laying a path for Ororo here and brings it right out in UXM #198. You can really see it all right here. I don't think her marrying T'Challa was initially in the equation. But who knows??

And as Worstblogever mentioned, was this scene below the "killing stroke" to the original Goddess?

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/pages/97792366288.196.P3.GIF

keeping it in the moment...the depth and layers throughout this one tale: (in a sense Shani's journey away from, and back to her home, her family...is Ororo's as well, both from the a very personal perspective as relates to her ties to the x-men...and in the broader sense, of her leaving Africa to join the X-men...and once more returning to the continent so as to fully realise WHO she is and her role in the greater scheme of things), the "moral(s)" of this story (of humanity, society, family...how everything/one impacts on each other), the artwork, the dialogue, the character developement (Ororo's character in these twenty-something odd pages is completely re-defined and realised)...every aspect of this issue is so very well integrated...makes this issue a true definition of "classic" story telling...and one of my favourite x-issues, ever!

I think you nailed it. Imraith. In twenty issues time, Storm is completely redefined and becomes a new, fully-realized character. And the way it was meticulously handled, there is not a false note of characterization. It all flowed so smoothly. It really is a true defintion of "Classic" storytelling. A masterwork.

[Nevets F]

The next issue is such a personal fav of mine. I am excited to see your comments on it.

[Home made ectoplasm]

Me too. #199, Annual #9, New Mutants special #1 and then #200. I'll be very interested in the upcoming posts on the thread. These were the first American comics i bought.

[david r]

HERE IT IS!!

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.199.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #199

"The Spiral Path"

1st appearance: Freedom Force

Rachel Summers becomes the PHOENIX! 'Nuff said!! :eek:

#199 begins with Scott Summers returning to the Mansion, and taking on a Danger Room training session. Cyclops, an original X-Man, hasn't lost any of his prowess. While Rachel Summers watches, Cyclops blasts his way, and then meets with Moira MacTaggert and Wolverine in the control room. Cyclops is shocked to learn that Magneto has joined the School! Scott replies there is NO WAY he could ever trust that man! But Moira is more worried about Professor Charles Xavier's health. The man is pushing himself to the limit, taxing his entire body after his mugging in UXM #192. Moira feels Charles is dying. Meanwhile, in Washington DC, Mystique makes a surprise visit to the home of Valerie Cooper, special assistant to the President of the United States. Mystique transforms herself into the likeness of Ronald Reagan and has a proposition for Cooper. Let her and the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants become employees of the Federal government. Life is getting too touch for mutants, and she wants to change sides. America can use the servies of this "Freedom Force". Val is tempted, and decides to send this freedom force on a mission to see how they perform....they are to locate and capture Magneto!!

Back in New York, Rachel Summers is visiting the grave of Jean Grey for the first time. It is night, and a mist floats among the tombstones. Rachel is very confused. The Jean Grey that was her mother LIVED in her own timeline. Yet the Jean Grey of this time, died saving the universe. Rachel's emotions are running high, as she sees her grandparents leave their home. She enters it, and with her telepathic powers, replays the scene when Professor Xavier & the X-Men told Jean's parents she had perished. Rachel always replays the scene where Dark Phoenix confronted her parents during the Dark Phoenix Saga. Rachel runs into her grandparents bedroom, and finds the holempathic matrix crystal, a round globe which was a gift from the Sh'iar. It is embedded with the essence of Jean Grey, and Rachel brings it close to her and feels her mother's presence. Rachel is wracked with guilt, and asks forgiveness for the lives, the hope, she lost. The promise she feels she betrayed. As power and force emanates from Rachel, she loudly proclaims, "They say Phoenix was EVIL--that your power was too terrible to be controlled--and your human spirit too weak to withstand it's temptation. I say that's WRONG! I'm your DAUGHTER--first born and only child---AND I CLAIM THE POWER AND THE NAME OF PHOENIX....THAT ARE MINE BY RIGHT! The Phoenix Force erupts from Rachel, and she is consumed in fire! Her appearance dramatically changes (see the cover) as the matrix crystal floats before her. Phoenix says her people are threatened by forces of prejudice and hatred, including the Beyonder. Rachel means to safeguard them both! Once Professor Xavier is gone, there'll be no one strong enough to help new mutants, save her! This is her chance to make up for all the wrongs Rachel did in the future---and all the wrongs her mom did in the past! But now Rachel falls to the floor exhausted! The crystal matrix falling also, and shattering!

Now the reader switches to Washington DC, where Magneto, Kitty Pryde and Lee Forrester are attending a special reception at the National Holocaust Memorial. Many survivors or relatives of the Holocaust are in attendance, and Katherine Pryde stands before them to remember her grandfather, Samuel Prydeman, who died last year. She wants to be here for him. Magneto is reunited with a couple who he knew in Auschwitz. We learn Magneto was in that dreaded place, from the very start, and helped save many Jews. But suddenly, without warning, Lee Forrester metamorphses into Mystique who accuses Magneto of being a criminal, and Freedom Force are here to bring the Master of Magnetism into custody. Pyro, Avalanche, Destiny, the Blob and new member, a six-armed woman named Spiral, enter the complex and the battle begins! Soon, the X-Men arrive and a true fight commences! Destiny uses her future-seeing talent to predict when/where the X-Men strike, and forwarding that info to Freedom Force! Spiral does a commendable job of stopping Magneto's metal assaults! Shadowcat knocks out Destiny with an apparent Vulcan deathgrip! Colossus knocks out Pyro as Rogue slams Avalanche to the ground. In the end though, Mystique ends up with a gun to Magneto's head! Freedom Force are defeated, but Magneto orders the X-Men to stop fighting. He will willingly come with Mystique to pay for his crimes, no matter the outcome. Mystique slams handcuffs onto his wrists, with a smile on her face!

My thoughts: Another high-quality issue, as Rachel Summers apparently assumes the mantle of the Phoenix! Now I see why she's not been given a codename, as Chris Claremont was biding his time to make this big reveal. Does Rachel truly wield the cosmic Phoenix Force? Why hasn't she used this before?? I cannot wait for the answers! Also, Mystique and all her machinations continue to intrigue and impress me. HOW could Valerie Cooper possibly trust Mystique that she would join the "good guys"? PLEASE! Freedom Force are just the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants with a new name & coat of paint. This "Spiral" looks highly intriguing. Also, Magneto's road to redemption continues to be explored. Mags showed some of his old ruthlessness, but we continue to uncover more chapters in his life, previously unknown. Magneto in Auschwitz? Another cause of his bitterness. I can't believe I've made it to #199. I'll be sad to see this X-Men era end.

[worstblogever]

HERE IT IS!!

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.199.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #199

"The Spiral Path"

1st appearance: Freedom Force

Rachel Summers becomes the PHOENIX! 'Nuff said!! :eek:

#199 begins with Scott Summers returning to the Mansion, and taking on a Danger Room training session. Cyclops, an original X-Man, hasn't lost any of his prowess. While Rachel Summers watches, Cyclops blasts his way, and then meets with Moira MacTaggert and Wolverine in the control room. Cyclops is shocked to learn that Magneto has joined the School! Scott replies there is NO WAY he could ever trust that man! But Moira is more worried about Professor Charles Xavier's health. The man is pushing himself to the limit, taxing his entire body after his mugging in UXM #192. Moira feels Charles is dying. Meanwhile, in Washington DC, Mystique makes a surprise visit to the home of Valerie Cooper, special assistant to the President of the United States. Mystique transforms herself into the likeness of Ronald Reagan and has a proposition for Cooper. Let her and the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants become employees of the Federal government. Life is getting too touch for mutants, and she wants to change sides. America can use the servies of this "Freedom Force". Val is tempted, and decides to send this freedom force on a mission to see how they perform....they are to locate and capture Magneto!!

Back in New York, Rachel Summers is visiting the grave of Jean Grey for the first time. It is night, and a mist floats among the tombstones. Rachel is very confused. The Jean Grey that was her mother LIVED in her own timeline. Yet the Jean Grey of this time, died saving the universe. Rachel's emotions are running high, as she sees her grandparents leave their home. She enters it, and with her telepathic powers, replays the scene when Professor Xavier & the X-Men told Jean's parents she had perished. Rachel always replays the scene where Dark Phoenix confronted her parents during the Dark Phoenix Saga. Rachel runs into her grandparents bedroom, and finds the holempathic matrix crystal, a round globe which was a gift from the Sh'iar. It is embedded with the essence of Jean Grey, and Rachel brings it close to her and feels her mother's presence. Rachel is wracked with guilt, and asks forgiveness for the lives, the hope, she lost. The promise she feels she betrayed. As power and force emanates from Rachel, she loudly proclaims, "They say Phoenix was EVIL--that your power was too terrible to be controlled--and your human spirit too weak to withstand it's temptation. I say that's WRONG! I'm your DAUGHTER--first born and only child---AND I CLAIM THE POWER AND THE NAME OF PHOENIX....THAT ARE MINE BY RIGHT! The Phoenix Force erupts from Rachel, and she is consumed in fire! Her appearance dramatically changes (see the cover) as the matrix crystal floats before her. Phoenix says her people are threatened by forces of prejudice and hatred, including the Beyonder. Rachel means to safeguard them both! Once Professor Xavier is gone, there'll be no one strong enough to help new mutants, save her! This is her chance to make up for all the wrongs Rachel did in the future---and all the wrongs her mom did in the past! But now Rachel falls to the floor exhausted! The crystal matrix falling also, and shattering!

Now the reader switches to Washington DC, where Magneto, Kitty Pryde and Lee Forrester are attending a special reception at the National Holocaust Memorial. Many survivors or relatives of the Holocaust are in attendance, and Katherine Pryde stands before them to remember her grandfather, Samuel Prydeman, who died last year. She wants to be here for him. Magneto is reunited with a couple who he knew in Auschwitz. We learn Magneto was in that dreaded place, from the very start, and helped save many Jews. But suddenly, without warning, Lee Forrester metamorphses into Mystique who accuses Magneto of being a criminal, and Freedom Force are here to bring the Master of Magnetism into custody. Pyro, Avalanche, Destiny, the Blob and new member, a six-armed woman named Spiral, enter the complex and the battle begins! Soon, the X-Men arrive and a true fight commences! Destiny uses her future-seeing talent to predict when/where the X-Men strike, and forwarding that info to Freedom Force! Spiral does a commendable job of stopping Magneto's metal assaults! Shadowcat knocks out Destiny with an apparent Vulcan deathgrip! Colossus knocks out Pyro as Rogue slams Avalanche to the ground. In the end though, Mystique ends up with a gun to Magneto's head! Freedom Force are defeated, but Magneto orders the X-Men to stop fighting. He will willingly come with Mystique to pay for his crimes, no matter the outcome. Mystique slams handcuffs onto his wrists, with a smile on her face!

My thoughts: Another high-quality issue, as Rachel Summers apparently assumes the mantle of the Phoenix! Now I see why she's not been given a codename, as Chris Claremont was biding his time to make this big reveal. Does Rachel truly wield the cosmic Phoenix Force? Why hasn't she used this before?? I cannot wait for the answers! Also, Mystique and all her machinations continue to intrigue and impress me. HOW could Valerie Cooper possibly trust Mystique that she would join the "good guys"? PLEASE! Freedom Force are just the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants with a new name & coat of paint. This "Spiral" looks highly intriguing. Also, Magneto's road to redemption continues to be explored. Mags showed some of his old ruthlessness, but we continue to uncover more chapters in his life, previously unknown. Magneto in Auschwitz? Another cause of his bitterness. I can't believe I've made it to #199. I'll be sad to see this X-Men era end.

The reveals about Magneto and Auschwitz are really telling, and make him more sympathetic than he may have ever been, previously. Sure, it might not explain his kookiness during some of his Silver Age appearances in Defenders or Captain America Annuals, but it's a step in the right direction, anyway.

But for me, I'm more stoked by Freedom Force! They're such bastards! I mean, make no mistake... if they were heroes, maybe they would've waited for a more strategic time to move in and take Magneto by force than in the middle of the Holocaust Museum? What were they thinking? Even if they are to be part of a government team, it probably will be the crooked part of said government. Picture them as Marvel's answer to the Suicide Squad, but they just die much less often. :wink:

[Nevets F]

Such an awesome issue! Regarding Rachel...I don't think she knew she had access to these powers before hand, not until she claimed them in this issue.

I THINK Uncanny X-Men Annual #9 should come next...but I may be wrong.

[Valjean999]

I THINK Uncanny X-Men Annual #9 should come next...but I may be wrong.


That is correct...the X-Men are shown, in 200, returning from the events of the Annual

[david r]

Thanks for the heads-up on the Annual. That helps me out quite a bit! :smile:

About Rachel Summers, I wonder if Marvel planned her as the Phoenix from the get-go, or if Chris Claremont thought it up as he went along? I must admit, I've really missed the Phoenix in these pages, and that spectacular and memorable "look" she has!

http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/marveldatabase/images/f/f9/Phoenix_III_002.jpg

http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/marveldatabase/images/a/ac/Phoenix_Force_002.jpg

Worstblogever, I agree with you about Magneto. In fact, I'd say they've made him too sympathetic, too fast. It's disconcerting to see Magneto so casual, smiling and socializing at the Holocaust Memorial. (He even has his arm around a friend.) I DO agree with you on Freedom Force! This team has promise, like the Suicide Squad. Good point. I have to REALLY wonder about Val Cooper for ever believing Mystique and signing up the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants. She must be nuts!

http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/marveldatabase/images/1/12/Freedomforce_001.jpg

[Falconen]

Freedom Force is now introduced. They become a pain in the butt for all the mutant teams for quite awhile too. Harrassing, the X-Men, as well as the upcoming X-Factor... but you will get into all that since you started the new thread.

I agree that their time and place to arrest Magneto was poorly chosen. What if innocent bystanders we injured (more than probably already were). That wouldn't have looked good for a first outing as govt agents. But, hell, we are talking about a govt that builds giant killer robots to take care of mutants.

Next we go into X-Men Annual #9, but you must read New Mutants Special Editon #1 first! Both are pretty good, and a lot of fun to read.

[limerick]

I never really understood how Rachel took on the Pheonix force.It seemed a little forced as if Claremont was under time pressure.I feel it may have been the start of his storylines getting on top of him and not having sufficient time to develop his ideas fully.From now on he was under pressure to deliver something special for X-men 200,wrap up the Asgard saga in new mutants special ed. and X-men annual 9.he also would have to tie things in to a small extent with the upcoming new series of X-factor.I have a theory he was claiming "rights" on the Pheonix force before Jean returned in X-factor in case that book tried to retconn his Jean Grey/Pheonix saga any further.By giving the force to Rachel he was taking it out of their hands.That maybe why he was keen to rush her powering up.

The mutant massacre crossover and Excalibur weren't far away either.I think his writng began to suffer a little aS a result(see what Idid there!).His story ideas were still brilliant but story background and loose ends became more and more of a problem from here on.

[david r]

As for Rachel Summers, I guess here (purely a guess) that Chris Claremont wanted Rachel as the Phoenix all along. I bet Claremont wanted the Pheonix BACK in X-Men, only not Jean Grey. CC felt Jean Grey should remain dead, but he wanted the Phoenix Force back. So he brought onboard Jean's daughter, fully intending to eventually reveal she possessed the Phoenix.

What is the fun in revealing it at first? We readers need to get to know Rachel a bit. But Limerick, I think you may be on the money about Claremont not wanting the X-Factor Jean Grey to get the Phoenix. I suspect it's no coincidence Rachel gains the Phoenix right before X-Factor #1 debuted. Chris was laying claims to the Phoenix.

[CJ Lentze]

And most importantly, a great issue for fans of Rachel Summers, who shows great strength in overcoming her Hound programming, as well as Magneto in this issue...I would dispute that, wbe, I don't see Ray overcoming her Hound programming here, rather she breaks down. This isn't one of her prettier moments. In fact, she is the first X-Man to call someone 'puny, pathetic human'. Note the 'human' part in there, it's there to distinguish between baseline humans and mutants. Ray has a couple good moments in this issue (fighting alongside Rogue, for instance, and meeting the Beyonder at the beginning), but Magneto is the real champ of the issue. I know Kitty's temper in this issue is a controversial subject. But I think it was warranted. Do I think that the "n" word is one of the most derogatory words possible? Yes, along with kike, chink, faggot, etc. Do I think Kitty is racist? Duh, no. She was making a point. Honestly, if a black person, (that apparently is trying to kill my mentor), called me a fag, i think i'd respond in kind. Maybe that's bringing myself down to his level. But a bad temper is something Kitty and I have in common.

Granted, this guy called Kitty a mutie, which, in the real world, doesn't really exist. But comics are an art medium. And art, at its best, is a mirror to show society at its best, and worst. It was a very shocking panel, perhaps even moreso today, in these politically correct times. But that was the point; it was supposed to be shocking, to make people talk and think about the subject of racism.I completely agree with your last paragraph, but you have to remember that some of us may be called both 'nigger' and 'fag'.

I would say that Kitty wasn't calling Phil the n-word as much as she was illustrating something, exactly what you say, that words may be as hurtful as actions.



Issue 199: I only want to say that the battle between the X-Men and Freedom Force was sweet from start to finish. I said it before, I love it when these two teams clash.

I really like the lengthy part with Rachel claiming the name and power of the Phoenix. Her look as Phoenix is very cool. LOL, normally I'd have heaps to say about this. I don't care about the 'how' of Rachel becoming Phoenix as much as the 'why' of it. She seeks redemption, is offered a second chance, and grabs it with both hands.

[david r]

I really like the lengthy part with Rachel claiming the name and power of the Phoenix. Her look as Phoenix is very cool. LOL, normally I'd have heaps to say about this. I don't care about the 'how' of Rachel becoming Phoenix as much as the 'why' of it. She seeks redemption, is offered a second chance, and grabs it with both hands.

I like when you wrote Rachel "grabs it with both hands". Notice what Rachel is holding when she transforms into Phoenix? The holempathic Matrix Crystal, which held Jean Grey's "essence". Did Jean's essence enter Rachel at this moment, as Rachel holds the Crystal close? I think it did. Without the essence of her mother, Rachel couldn't ascend to Phoenix, maybe?

I also liked the symbolism when Rachel falls to the floor exhausted, and the holempathic Matrix Crystal falls and shatters. I feel it's a clear cutting-off line that Jean is NO LONGER the holder of the Phoenix. And Rachel has taken the Phoenix mantle from her mother. And the "Jean Crystal" shattering symbolized this.

[Henry T.]

What is the fun in revealing it at first? We readers need to get to know Rachel a bit. But Limerick, I think you may be on the money about Claremont not wanting the X-Factor Jean Grey to get the Phoenix. I suspect it's no coincidence Rachel gains the Phoenix right before X-Factor #1 debuted. Chris was laying claims to the Phoenix.

I don't think its that Claremont didn't want X-Factor Jean to get the Phoenix but that he knew that they wouldn't be using the Phoenix with Jean in X-Factor and that they would be trying to retcon Jean out of being Phoenix and trying to retcon the Phoenix into being an evil monster.

So I think making Rachel into Phoenix was a part of him staking claim over the Phoenix mythos and trying to preserve his view of it just as he also used his Classic X-Men backstories (notably #8, #42, #43) to try and preserve his view of Jean's relationship to the Phoenix.

[Darkchylde]

I don't think its that Claremont didn't want X-Factor Jean to get the Phoenix but that he knew that they wouldn't be using the Phoenix with Jean in X-Factor and that they would be trying to retcon Jean out of being Phoenix and trying to retcon the Phoenix into being an evil monster.

So I think making Rachel into Phoenix was a part of him staking claim over the Phoenix mythos and trying to preserve his view of it just as he also used his Classic X-Men backstories (notably #8, #42, #43) to try and preserve his view of Jean's relationship to the Phoenix.


Right, I agree. I think Rachel taking the name Phoenix was Claremont's way of preserving the heritage of that title. The Beyonder and Selene already stated at various times that Rachel possessed considerable power that she had yet to realize, and I think her ascension to Phoenix was the realization of that potential (or at least the start of her journey). I'm not sure that Rachel absorbed Jean's essence when she grabbed the holoempathic crystal, but I suppose that the influx of all things "Jean" could have instantly triggered Rachel's transformation.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97904389460.9.GIF

Uncanny X-Men Annual #9

"There's No Place Like Home"

A 46-page story that should be an essential part of every X-fan's collection. The second part that began in the New Mutants Special Edition culminates in this quintessential tale. Truly a work of art. And, well...let's just say a LOT happens in this one Annual.

The New Mutants are lost in Asgard, and through Kitty Pryde's mystery connection with Magik, the X-Men learn something bad has happened. Using Arkon the Imperion's lightning bolts (shown in a previous X-Men Annual), the team prepare to transverse to Asgard to save the younger team. The X-Men presently are Wolverine, Cyclops, Shadowcat, Colossus, Nightcrawler, Rogue......and Rachel Summers, who arrives wearing a new costume, and calling herself Phoenix. The whole team is dumbfounded, but none moreso than Cyclops, who wishes Rachel would change her uniform, as it bears a striking resemblance to Jean Grey's. Phoenix refuses. Scott grumbles, and kisses his wife, Madelyne Pryor, farewell. As Scott uses a lightning bolt to teleport the X-Men away, Madelyne says cryptically, "Good-bye Scott. Oh, Lord--why all of a sudden am I so afraid I'll never see him...we'll never be happy together, ever again ?!"

Meanwhile, in Asgard itself, Cannonball and Magma are staying with the master-smith Eitri. In a scene highly remiscient of The Lord of the Rings, when Bilbo Baggins gives his sword and armor-mail to young Frodo, Eitri offers his own sword & mail to young Sam Guthrie. The weapons hold magical properties, as the mail will withstand any blow. And the sword cannot hurt anything alive. As this is occuring, the X-Men descend into Asgard and many memorable and chivalrous battles take place. The young prince wolf that Wolfsbane's heart has fallen for is saved by the senior team. Illyana Rasputin wears a huge horns-helmet on her head, and begins to resemble the Enchantress' in demeanor. The lord of lies, Loki, easily defeats half the mutants, including Magik and Cyclops! Warlock and Cypher bond in a much closer way, as Doug Ramsey offers his own "lifeglow" to save the alien's life. And they seem to "merge" together. Wolverine, Shadowcat and Phoenix sneak into a village and cause all kinds of mischief for Loki. Wolvie gets bitten by a small dragon & the poison nearly kills Logan. But he keeps pressing on, not willing to stop for his own health until the caper is finished.

Warlock/Cypher swoop in to join the fun, in the shape of the Starship Enterprise! Karma & Magik unleash a battle of their wills, leaving both unconscious. Loki offers Storm her own Uru Hammer, which will win her back her mutant powers, and so much more. Ororo takes the hammer and the glory of STORM returns in all it's crashing BOOM pomp! But sick Wolverine steps forth to beg her not to be taken by Loki. Ororo does not recognize him and unleashes the fury of the Hammer full tilt in Logan's face. Logan presses forward, a face full of lightning power smashing into him! As Logan finally falls, Ororo realizes she's been told lies...by the God of Lies. Hela, the Goddess of Death, arrives to claim Wolverine's soul. But the mutants stand their ground to stop her. A lot more happens, but ultimately, Loki stands down and releases his grip on Storm & her mutant kin. As long as they ALL LEAVE ASGARD, he will remove all enchantments and curses the mutants gained in Asgard. Some desire to stay, others want to leave for myriad reasons. Loki offers Ororo one last chance to become a God and stand by his side. Ororo responds by having her Hammer utterly melted by lightning. Rahne tearfully says farewell to her newfound, wolfen love. Dani Moonstar relinquishes her standing among the Valkrie, and her flying-horse Brightwind. Wolverine is horribly burned, but will survive intact. Magma will return to human. And the magical Asgardian Wars comes to a close. It ends with Loki transforming the Hammer into a small statuette of Storm, and ponders it, and her very closely.

My thoughts: Where to even start? To anyone who hasn't read this Annual, and the New Mutants Special Edition which precedes it....all I can say is get up and find these two. The whole arc ranks as a milestone in the X-Men for pure fun and a rollicking good time. Not as emotional as say, Dark Phoenix Saga. Just a stellar adventure with Art Adams & Chris Claremont achieving levels of artistry and action that defines the 1980s X-Men probably better than anything else that entire decade. And that's saying a lot. I literally don't know how.... DON'T KNOW HOW Adams and Claremont found the time to put this thing together. All added up, these 2 issues alone contained 110 pages of art & story that would make many creators tremble to attempt nowadays. The story defines "swashbuckling adventure in the Marvel Manner." It should be treasured by mutant fans! If you don't have this story: BUY IT!

[david r]

More ramblings on X-Men Annual #9:

----Page 1 has a gorgeous shot of our cast of characters. Yum! :tongue:
----Felt like a New Mutants tale, though Storm and Wolverine play pivotal roles. The New Mutants really stole the show.
----Rachel sees Kitty Pryde's psychic images. Sent from Illyana Rasputin. Rachel says "Somehow, these two share a primal subconscious awareness of each other--like identical twins." Another subtle hint about the Kitty/Magik connection.
----Kitty's vision shows Storm versus Illyana's "Darkchilde"/ Yet, this battle DOES NOT occur in the story. Could it be from the future?

----Like a mention of Arkon the Imperion. It's like these X-Men Annuals have their own running thread, all their own.
---- Madelyne Pryor's words about she & Scott are ominous!
----I cannot figure Scott out. Does he realize Rachel Summers is his "daughter" from another timeline? Or not? And Rachel assuming the Phoenix mantle was a high-point here.
----Liked how events from Walt Simonson's Mighty Thor run are referenced here. Nice continuity touches.

---- Nightcrawler shines when he teleports & lets Rogue absorb he and Cyclops' powers. Kurt can think fast on the spot.
---- Wolverine's endurance is put to the test. Thank Odin for his healing factor.
----In the end, Karnilla was influential in toppling Loki's schemes. Was she created for this Asgardian tale? Or did she appear in Thor's monthly book?

[Darkchylde]

More ramblings on X-Men Annual #9:

----Page 1 has a gorgeous shot of our cast of characters. Yum! :tongue:
----Felt like a New Mutants tale, though Storm and Wolverine play pivotal roles. The New Mutants really stole the show.
----Rachel sees Kitty Pryde's psychic images. Sent from Illyana Rasputin. Rachel says "Somehow, these two share a primal subconscious awareness of each other--like identical twins." Another subtle hint about the Kitty/Magik connection.
----Kitty's vision shows Storm versus Illyana's "Darkchilde"/ Yet, this battle DOES NOT occur in the story. Could it be from the future?

----Like a mention of Arkon the Imperion. It's like these X-Men Annuals have their own running thread, all their own.
---- Madelyne Pryor's words about she & Scott are ominous!
----I cannot figure Scott out. Does he realize Rachel Summers is his "daughter" from another timeline? Or not? And Rachel assuming the Phoenix mantle was a high-point here.
----Liked how events from Walt Simonson's Mighty Thor run are referenced here. Nice continuity touches.

---- Nightcrawler shines when he teleports & lets Rogue absorb he and Cyclops' powers. Kurt can think fast on the spot.
---- Wolverine's endurance is put to the test. Thank Odin for his healing factor.
----In the end, Karnilla was influential in toppling Loki's schemes. Was she created for this Asgardian tale? Or did she appear in Thor's monthly book?


LOL, every time I've read these stories I think the same thing about Cyclops. Does he not realize Rachel is related to him in some way? She bears a strong resemblance to her AND her last name is Summers, for crying out loud! How dense can the man be?!?!?!?!?!

And yup, Karnilla did appear regularly in Thor's book. One of my very first issues of The Mighty Thor was circa issue 450, in which Karnilla and Loki secretly schemed to overthrow Odin by having Loki occupy Odin's body.

Or maybe Loki was scheming by himself, and Karnilla was in alliance with Mephisto... I forget. My details on those issues are very fuzzy. Needless to say, those issues are what first set me on my path to collecting the X-Men and various other Marvel titles.

[david r]

I can only guess that Cyclops doesn't want to complicate his life further. He knows Rachel is from another timeline, so she isn't REALLY his daughter. So Scott doesn't pry and open an old wound (Marvel Girl.)

And Darkchylde, thanks for the Karnilla info. I know zilch about Thor's title, so was in the dark whether she was a new or old character.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

There is another cool tidbit here, for the summer of 1985, a scorecard created by editor Ann Nocenti on how to read the X-Men and New Mutants during that voluminous period. It appeared in the Bullpen Bulletins & gave X-fans an issue-by-issue scorecard of how the issues flowed. Starting with New Mutants #34, X-Men #199, X-Men/Alpha Flight #1-2, then going into New Mutants Special Edition, X-Men Annual #9, X-Men #200 and finishing with New Mutants #35. Somehow, Chris Claremont "wrote ALL of it....bless his heart and may he rest in peace"--as Ann says.

Ann Nocenti states she, Claremont, John Romita Jr. and Dan Green all traveled to Paris, France to to get every detail right for the landmark UXM #200 issue. As it's set in Paris, I guess Marvel wanted it spot on perfect. Neat, huh?

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.200.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #200

"The Trial of Magneto"

1st X-MEN appearance: Mad Jim Jaspers, Neal Conan

200TH ISSUE!! 200TH ISSUE ANNIVERSARY!!!! We made it to 200 issues of Uncanny X-Men! :smile: Time to celebrate! But Magneto and the X-Men surely won't be. A trial is going down in Paris, and the Master of Magnetism stands before the world stage.

Magneto is on trial, before a special tribunal of the international court of justice, charged with crimes against humanity. To many, he is the symbol of evil. The greatest fiend since Adolf Hitler. It is taking place in Paris, France. Gabrielle Haller is his defense attorney. Assisted by Professor Charles Xavier. Prosecuting the case is England's attorney-general, Sir James Jaspers. Jaspers is appears quite gentlemanly in a suit-and-tie. Gabrielle Haller smokes a cigarette throughout the entire court proceeding. And Xavier is deathly sick and having chest pains! Feelings in Paris are running high, creating protests. Meanwhile, the X-Men & New Mutants teleport in, from their Asgardian War. The mutants are, at first, confused about their location, but realize Loki sent them to Charles Xavier's location. The New Mutants are sent to Muir Island, while the X-Men remain in Paris.

A few days later, a military attack occurs on a Red Army base in Poland--the attack blamed on the X-Men. This inflames worldwide anger at mutants. Charles Xavier lays in his Paris bed, listening to the NBR radio broadcast supplied by Neal Conan. Charles' heart suddenly seizes up on him, and he is staggered mortally. At that very moment, Scott Summers knocks on his door and enters. Scott can see right off that Professor X is dying. Scott questions Xavier's allowing Magneto entrance into his Mansion, and life. Charles asks that Scott respect his judgement concerning Magneto. The reader now heads to the court of justice, as Sir Jaspers begins prosecution's opening statement. Gabrielle Haller is succesful in striking from the record all of Magneto's acts of violence BEFORE he was turned into a baby by Mutant Alpha. The court finds in her favor, and all acts against humanity are to be ignored prior to Magneto's resurrection by Erik the Red. Meanwhile, a NATO base is attacked, again by armored warriors, and the assault is blamed on the X-Men. The true mutants realize they are being framed, and probably coincided to tarnish Magneto's trial. Storm decides the X-Men will hide out at several Parisian historical spots, in hopes of capturing these terrorists.

Back at the trial, Sir Jim Jaspers summons Admiral Gregori Mihailovitch Suvorov, Commander in chief of the Soviet Navy's Submarine Force. The Russian admiral recounts when Magneto sunk the USSR Submarine, Leningrad, seen in Uncanny X-Men #150. And the annihilation of a Siberian city. Meanwhile, the X-Men hit pay dirt, as the terrorists attack a hospital. The X-Men unite and attack the large-sized armored warriors. Much fighting ensues!! Magneto has now taken the stand, and calmly argues his case before the world court. Jaspers vigorously tries to talk him down. Magneto argues by what right do these "Great Powers" hold my life, and everyone's life, in their hands. Magneto was just defending himself, for the submarine episode. He points out us human beings slaughter ourselves off by the millions. Because of the color of skin, of faith or politics. Or for no reason at all. Magneto thought to impose sanity from above--by conquest. But there are too many of you. So he is trying another way. Humans cannot wish us away. We are your children. He has seen the error of his ways. Can humans say the same?

While the X-Men continue to battle the armored terrorists, Fenris blows a hole straight into the courthouse, abruptly ending the proceedings. The 2 Fenris siblings, holding hands to achieve their mutant power, confront Magneto, Haller and Xavier---and seek all their deaths. Magneto doesn't know who they are, or their vendetta, but he stands up to them mightily. Fenris blows up the floor, and the the combatants, as well as Jim Jaspers and the judges, fall into the basement. Jaspers is outraged at it all, as Fenris float down for the kill. A weakened Charles Xavier rushes Fenris and they lose their handhold. Jaspers grabs a rock to smash Andreas von Strucker's head, but Magneto forces him to stop. Rachel Summers enters and mind-reads Fenris. Rachel informs them that they are the children of Baron von Strucker, the German defeated by Xavier, Haller and Magneto in the classic Uncanny X-Men #161. Fenris are defeated, but suddenly Xavier is seized again by a heart pain! Distracted, Fenris join hands and send a power-bolt into the wall, sending gushing water into the basement and carrying Charles, Magneto and Phoenix into the catacombs!

Magneto locates Charles limp body in the rushing waters, and hoists him above, straight through grass into a garden. Xavier is terribly weak, as both men lay on the grass and Magneto sitting over him, Charles whispers:

Charles: "One certainty about Xavier and his X-Men...from the mess...you can generally tell...where they've been. That's a joke, my friend. You're sup--oh! OH!" Charles' heart seizes him again.
Magneto: "Stop talking nonsense. You're not going to die."
Charles: "Says who? Promise me, Magneto--you'll carry on in my place. Take over...my school. Look after my X-Men. Teach the New Mutants."
Magneto: "Impossible. They'll never accept me. Charles, I'm not worthy--of your trust, of this awesome responsibility. Please, do not ask for what I cannot give."

Charles: "PROVE yourself worthy! Remember--in Israel--when we were young---the dreams...ideals...we shared? After that, we walked tragically different paths. You say now yours was wrong. You seek to make amends--here is your chance! Do what no one believes can be done. It will stand as a far nobler monument---and better safeguard to mutantkind---than your martyrdom at this trial."
Magneto: "It will be hard".
Charles: "Consider the alternative. Well?"
Magneto: "I shall try."

As the 2 old friends lay on the grass, Princess Lilandra and Corsair teleport in from a Stargate, many galaxies away. Lilandra has learned of Xavier's worsening health, and plans to deliver him to the Starjammers robotic medic, Sikorsky. Quickly, the aliens teleport Charles away, as Magneto lies on the grass, tears in his eyes, promising to carry on the Dream for his departed friend.

My thoughts: It is interesting that this issue first mentions Charles and Magneto's Dream. As though Xavier is now sharing his dreams and ideals with his once-hated foe. Magneto stands for all to see, on trial for his life. The court segment was interesting, as Gabrielle Haller & Magneto calmly argue points with Sir Jaspers. Jaspers comes across here as an English lawyer with a strong hatred of mutants. Nothing more. Fenris were okay villains, though I wish'd for better coming from a 200th celebration. I liked their connection with Magneto and Xavier's past---their Nazi father. That was clever. And I like how so many of Magneto's past crimes come back to haunt him here. The X-Men really take a back-seat in their own anniversary, to the outcome of Magneto & Xavier. This issue represents a major sea-change in the lives of our mutants. Can Magneto, a man who once raved about world conquest and murder, now take on the mantle of Xavier and his Dream. Can he carry the generations of mutants on his shoulders who will look to him for guidance? Can he follow Charles Xavier's path? Time will tell.

[limerick]

Magneto is so cool and heroic in this issue--and so calm!What happened to the old ranting/raving Magneto.Seriously,this was a real sea change for The X-Men at the time.A couple of years previously no-one could have imagined Magneto in an heroic role but Claremont handled the build-up in a slow calculated way which made the character's transformation believable and entertaining.You can't help but root for 'neto at the trail.But will The X-Men and The New Mutants accept Xavier's decision to make him headmaster of the school?

[limerick]

Double post

[worstblogever]

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.200.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #200

"The Trial of Magneto"

1st X-MEN appearance: Mad Jim Jaspers, Neal Conan

200TH ISSUE!! 200TH ISSUE ANNIVERSARY!!!! We made it to 200 issues of Uncanny X-Men! :smile: Time to celebrate! But Magneto and the X-Men surely won't be. A trial is going down in Paris, and the Master of Magnetism stands before the world stage.

Magneto is on trial, before a special tribunal of the international court of justice, charged with crimes against humanity. To many, he is the symbol of evil. The greatest fiend since Adolf Hitler. It is taking place in Paris, France. Gabrielle Haller is his defense attorney. Assisted by Professor Charles Xavier. Prosecuting the case is England's attorney-general, Sir James Jaspers. Jaspers is appears quite gentlemanly in a suit-and-tie. Gabrielle Haller smokes a cigarette throughout the entire court proceeding. And Xavier is deathly sick and having chest pains! Feelings in Paris are running high, creating protests. Meanwhile, the X-Men & New Mutants teleport in, from their Asgardian War. The mutants are, at first, confused about their location, but realize Loki sent them to Charles Xavier's location. The New Mutants are sent to Muir Island, while the X-Men remain in Paris.

A few days later, a military attack occurs on a Red Army base in Poland--the attack blamed on the X-Men. This inflames worldwide anger at mutants. Charles Xavier lays in his Paris bed, listening to the NBR radio broadcast supplied by Neal Conan. Charles' heart suddenly seizes up on him, and he is staggered mortally. At that very moment, Scott Summers knocks on his door and enters. Scott can see right off that Professor X is dying. Scott questions Xavier's allowing Magneto entrance into his Mansion, and life. Charles asks that Scott respect his judgement concerning Magneto. The reader now heads to the court of justice, as Sir Jaspers begins prosecution's opening statement. Gabrielle Haller is succesful in striking from the record all of Magneto's acts of violence BEFORE he was turned into a baby by Mutant Alpha. The court finds in her favor, and all acts against humanity are to be ignored prior to Magneto's resurrection by Erik the Red. Meanwhile, a NATO base is attacked, again by armored warriors, and the assault is blamed on the X-Men. The true mutants realize they are being framed, and probably coincided to tarnish Magneto's trial. Storm decides the X-Men will hide out at several Parisian historical spots, in hopes of capturing these terrorists.

Back at the trial, Sir Jim Jaspers summons Admiral Gregori Mihailovitch Suvorov, Commander in chief of the Soviet Navy's Submarine Force. The Russian admiral recounts when Magneto sunk the USSR Submarine, Leningrad, seen in Uncanny X-Men #150. And the annihilation of a Siberian city. Meanwhile, the X-Men hit pay dirt, as the terrorists attack a hospital. The X-Men unite and attack the large-sized armored warriors. Much fighting ensues!! Magneto has now taken the stand, and calmly argues his case before the world court. Jaspers vigorously tries to talk him down. Magneto argues by what right do these "Great Powers" hold my life, and everyone's life, in their hands. Magneto was just defending himself, for the submarine episode. He points out us human beings slaughter ourselves off by the millions. Because of the color of skin, of faith or politics. Or for no reason at all. Magneto thought to impose sanity from above--by conquest. But there are too many of you. So he is trying another way. Humans cannot wish us away. We are your children. He has seen the error of his ways. Can humans say the same?

While the X-Men continue to battle the armored terrorists, Fenris blows a hole straight into the courthouse, abruptly ending the proceedings. The 2 Fenris siblings, holding hands to achieve their mutant power, confront Magneto, Haller and Xavier---and seek all their deaths. Magneto doesn't know who they are, or their vendetta, but he stands up to them mightily. Fenris blows up the floor, and the the combatants, as well as Jim Jaspers and the judges, fall into the basement. Jaspers is outraged at it all, as Fenris float down for the kill. A weakened Charles Xavier rushes Fenris and they lose their handhold. Jaspers grabs a rock to smash Andreas von Strucker's head, but Magneto forces him to stop. Rachel Summers enters and mind-reads Fenris. Rachel informs them that they are the children of Baron von Strucker, the German defeated by Xavier, Haller and Magneto in the classic Uncanny X-Men #161. Fenris are defeated, but suddenly Xavier is seized again by a heart pain! Distracted, Fenris join hands and send a power-bolt into the wall, sending gushing water into the basement and carrying Charles, Magneto and Phoenix into the catacombs!

Magneto locates Charles limp body in the rushing waters, and hoists him above, straight through grass into a garden. Xavier is terribly weak, as both men lay on the grass and Magneto sitting over him, Charles whispers:

Charles: "One certainty about Xavier and his X-Men...from the mess...you can generally tell...where they've been. That's a joke, my friend. You're sup--oh! OH!" Charles' heart seizes him again.
Magneto: "Stop talking nonsense. You're not going to die."
Charles: "Says who? Promise me, Magneto--you'll carry on in my place. Take over...my school. Look after my X-Men. Teach the New Mutants."
Magneto: "Impossible. They'll never accept me. Charles, I'm not worthy--of your trust, of this awesome responsibility. Please, do not ask for what I cannot give."

Charles: "PROVE yourself worthy! Remember--in Israel--when we were young---the dreams...ideals...we shared? After that, we walked tragically different paths. You say now yours was wrong. You seek to make amends--here is your chance! Do what no one believes can be done. It will stand as a far nobler monument---and better safeguard to mutantkind---than your martyrdom at this trial."
Magneto: "It will be hard".
Charles: "Consider the alternative. Well?"
Magneto: "I shall try."

As the 2 old friends lay on the grass, Princess Lilandra and Corsair teleport in from a Stargate, many galaxies away. Lilandra has learned of Xavier's worsening health, and plans to deliver him to the Starjammers robotic medic, Sikorsky. Quickly, the aliens teleport Charles away, as Magneto lies on the grass, tears in his eyes, promising to carry on the Dream for his departed friend.

My thoughts: It is interesting that this issue first mentions Charles and Magneto's Dream. As though Xavier is now sharing his dreams and ideals with his once-hated foe. Magneto stands for all to see, on trial for his life. The court segment was interesting, as Gabrielle Haller & Magneto calmly argue points with Sir Jaspers. Jaspers comes across here as an English lawyer with a strong hatred of mutants. Nothing more. Fenris were okay villains, though I wish'd for better coming from a 200th celebration. I liked their connection with Magneto and Xavier's past---their Nazi father. That was clever. And I like how so many of Magneto's past crimes come back to haunt him here. The X-Men really take a back-seat in their own anniversary, to the outcome of Magneto & Xavier. This issue represents a major sea-change in the lives of our mutants. Can Magneto, a man who once raved about world conquest and murder, now take on the mantle of Xavier and his Dream. Can he carry the generations of mutants on his shoulders who will look to him for guidance? Can he follow Charles Xavier's path? Time will tell.

Alright, I know everyone is going to talk about Magneto on this issue, and deservedly so. Accepting his sins, and presenting himself in court to face his crimes is phenomenal. His justification over the sinking of the Leningrad (to say nothing of the volcano he put in the Soviet Union) is heavy. Phenomenal anniversary issue. I don't think Uncanny #300, 400, (and definitely not) 500 met the bar set by this one.

I told you to keep your eye on the Fenris twins when they debuted, david! Well, honestly, they're never quite the same after this issue, only appearing and being foiled for being a couple of bastard von Struckers. But man, what a ride the past eight or so issues! Andreas tried to rape a girl, Andrea shot Storm in the head and left her for dead, and now they go on a terrorist rampage and nearly kill Xavier AND Magneto.

But their pseudo-incestuous wonder-twin powers never will reach the pinnacle of evil that it does here.

[david r]

Historical note: Chris Claremont had planned to kill Charles Xavier in #200. That final moment with Charles and Magneto was to be his death scene. (Looks pretty obvious.) I just assume that Marvel talked Claremont out of it, and instead, Xavier is whisked off into outer space.

[marvell2100]

You the Fenris Twins never lived up to their original shenanigans. Even if they didn't kill Xavier, the could have left him depowered and had Magneto have a longer stint(maybe until #300) as headmaster and then possibly returning Charles.

[limerick]

Historical note: Chris Claremont had planned to kill Charles Xavier in #200. That final moment with Charles and Magneto was to be his death scene. (Looks pretty obvious.) I just assume that Marvel talked Claremont out of it, and instead, Xavier is whisked off into outer space.
Cool fact-didn't know that about Xavier.It makes sense though-the storyline regarding him had been heading that way.Leaving Earth with Lilandra was a good out.Just as well they kept him alive as they would have just ended up retconning it later like they did with The Changeling "revelation" way back when

[david r]

Yes, isn't that an interesting fact. Another one concerns with Sir James Jaspers, who appears in UXM #200. I don't know all the details, but apparently, Jaspers was going to play a role in a future story that Chris Claremont was planning. But Jaspers creator, Alan Moore, was angered at Jaspers #200 scenes, and forbid his being used any longer in X-Men, or any other Marvel books. Thus, why Jaspers isn't seen again after #200. (I don't know the fine details here, if anyone can fill us in....)

---- Worstblogever, You were right about Fenris. What a mean-spirited pair. Just like their Nazi father. I notice the female, Andreas Strucker, seems to be the dominant one. She strikes fear into her brother's heart, when she discovers him in her bed in #200. :biggrin:

----The radio correspondent, Neal Conan, is based on the real-life NPR newscaster...

[Muggs]

Yes, isn't that an interesting fact. Another one concerns with Sir James Jaspers, who appears in UXM #200. I don't know all the details, but apparently, Jaspers was going to play a role in a future story that Chris Claremont was planning. But Jaspers creator, Alan Moore, was angered at Jaspers #200 scenes, and forbid his being used any longer in X-Men, or any other Marvel books. Thus, why Jaspers isn't seen again after #200. (I don't know the fine details here, if anyone can fill us in....)




http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix/madjimj2.htm

This give's us the whole story on Sir Mad Jim, Moore, Marvel and Claremont.

1986 was really a pivitol year for the X Men as far as future direction goes. With a few changes here and there, things could have very different today.

[Anodyne]

Feelings in Paris are running high, creating protests.
Kitty gets angry at the protesters; then someone (Ororo?) tells her they're carrying PRO-mutant signs. IIRC, that's when Kitty finally admits she needs glasses.

Scott questions Xavier's allowing Magneto entrance into his Mansion, and life. Charles asks that Scott respect his judgement concerning Magneto.
Evidently Scott couldn't do it. In Uncanny #201 (spoiler tags in case David R. hasn't read it yet) he refuses to trust Magneto, telling Madelyne that for all he knows Magneto may have murdered Xavier. That's Scott's reason --or excuse--for wanting to stay and lead the X-Men again. (Don't spoiler tags work any more?) (Edit: Spoiler tags fixed. Thanks, Steven F. :smile: )
Humans cannot wish us away. We are your children. He has seen the error of his ways. Can humans say the same?
Since humans evolved via mutation, Magneto could have said with equal logic, "You are our children."

As the 2 old friends lay on the grass, Princess Lilandra and Corsair teleport in from a Stargate, many galaxies away.
Actually, they teleport in from Westchester, NY. They first arrive at the X-mansion, where a very pregnant Madelyne Pryor-Summers tells them Xavier is in France. Lilandra and Corsair depart, and Maddie goes into premature labor.


---- Madelyne Pryor's words about she & Scott are ominous!
Very ominous. This is the first hint of trouble in their marriage. I suspect that Claremont was under editorial orders, here and in Uncanny #201, to prepare the way for X-Factor #1.

----I cannot figure Scott out. Does he realize Rachel Summers is his "daughter" from another timeline? Or not? And Rachel assuming the Phoenix mantle was a high-point here.
I don't think he wants to realize it, or at least not explicitly. At the end of X-Men & Alpha Flight: the Gift, Rachel decided not to tell Scott because she didn't want to hurt him and Madelyne by reminding them of what might have been. "Besides," she thinks, "I have a feeling I don't need to." (quoted from memory) That sounds to me like an unspoken agreement between Scott and Rachel not to mention the subject.

[Nevets F]

Spoiler tags are used by just using the SPOIL word, not SPOILERS, that should fix your spoiler tag issues. I think. :D

[david r]

Muggs, I greatly appreciate that link. :smile: That is a treasure chest of information. I expect to spend a few hours reading up on that. Gonna be fascinating (also looks complicated! )

Kitty gets angry at the protesters; then someone (Ororo?) tells her they're carrying PRO-mutant signs. IIRC, that's when Kitty finally admits she needs glasses.

I didn't mention it in my summary, but thanks for bringing this up. Katherine Pryde mentions for the 1st time, she may need glasses, in UXM #200. Ororo gets her an eye doctor appointment in #201. I like the fact they would give Kitty such a human trait, something UNHEARD of for most super-heroes. It's those touches that set X-Men apart.

Since humans evolved via mutation, Magneto could have said with equal logic, "You are our children."

Yes he could have. Though I suspect he was controlling his urge to get angry with his human accusers. I'm sure if Magneto had said that, prosecuting attorney Jim Jaspers would have cleverly used it against him.

Actually, they teleport in from Westchester, NY. They first arrive at the X-mansion, where a very pregnant Madelyne Pryor-Summers tells them Xavier is in France. Lilandra and Corsair depart, and Maddie goes into premature labor.

Yes, Anodyne that is all true. But after leaving Westchester, the 2 travel back to the Stargate , with the Starjammers on a far alien world, and inform them they need to recalibrate the Stargate for Paris. This happened on pages 21 and 22. :smile:

Very ominous. This is the first hint of trouble in their marriage. I suspect that Claremont was under editorial orders, here and in Uncanny #201, to prepare the way for X-Factor #1.

I agree 100%. It is common knowledge that Chris Claremont wanted Scott & Madelyne to retire to Alaska as a happy couple. X-Factor changed all that. Marvel's decision to resurrect Jean Grey threw a monkey-wrench into so much: Rachel Summers and Phoenix, Scott & Maddie, etc.

I don't think he wants to realize it, or at least not explicitly. At the end of X-Men & Alpha Flight: the Gift, Rachel decided not to tell Scott because she didn't want to hurt him and Madelyne by reminding them of what might have been. "Besides," she thinks, "I have a feeling I don't need to." (quoted from memory) That sounds to me like an unspoken agreement between Scott and Rachel not to mention the subject.

I think you have it. Scott "knows" but chooses not to go there. As you say, there is a subtle agreement between Cyke and Rachel to just "let it be". I think it was well-handled. I feel mostly sorry for Madelyne Pryor. But she HAD to have known marrying an X-Man might complicate her life terribly.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.201.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #201

"Duel"

1st appearance: Nathan Summers

The 100s are over. The 200s have begun. A new baby is born, to usher in the occasion. Coincidence? Perhaps. So much is changing in the X-Men's world. Professor Charles Xavier almost dies, and is gone from our world. Magneto has taken his place. Now, an original, core X-Man makes a very difficult decision. The times they are a'changin'.

#201 begins with the X-Men meeting a young baby boy. Madelyne and Scott Summers are the parents, and the X-Men crowd around to say hello to the bright-eyed baby. Wolverine says what's the flamin' deal? Colossus says "To think, Wolverine--you, also, once looked like that." Cute. Kitty and Rachel both hold the small child, nervously. Rachel allows both to "hear" the baby boy's thoughts, and the childhood innocence brings them both to tears. Scott Summers seems uncharacteristically aloof, and hangs back from the festivities. Madelyne Pryor takes Ororo into the next room, and shares her concern over Scott not contacting her while he was away in Paris, France (in Uncanny X-Men #200. ) Maddie is justifably angry and surprised at Scott's behavior. Ororo says Scott is a very private man. He does love her very much.

Scott goes out into the night sky, outside the Mansion. And wonders where Charles Xavier is. The X-Men need his guidance now. The reader now meets up with the professor, among the ragtag band of space pirates, named the Starjammers, millions of miles in deep space. Sikorsky apparently has healed Xavier of his mortal wounds, as he seems physically fit again, in a suit and tie. However, the Starjammer ship is in serious bad shape. Corsair replies they cannot risk another journey back to Earth, for Charles. And any Stargates are now too heavily defended to attempt that. Deathbird still rules the Sh'iar, and the Starjammers are on the run. (My god, I cannot believe how LONG this subplot has been brewing.) Xavier cannot return to Earth. Possibly ever! We now meet up with the Westchester mutants, who are playing a relaxing game of baseball on the School grounds. Colossus bats a pitch from Kitty Pryde, and sends it rocketing into the heavens. Rogue flies off to retrieve it, and meets President Ronald Reagan flying along on Air Force 1. I kid you not. Reagan notices a female "flying" outside, and Rogue kisses the plane window. Reagan smiles.

After the baseball game, Ororo informs Kitty Pryde she has an eye doctors appointment. Kitty is less than happy with wearing reading glasses. They overhear Scott & Maddie having an argument in Ororo's attic room. Scott wants to stay and lead the X-Men. He feels they desperately need him, now that Xavier is gone. Scott will NEVER trust Magneto and cannot sit by and let their most-hated enemy run the School. However, Madelyne says she has a life and career in Alaska. Maddie doesn't want to abandon it. She feels Scott has a responsibility to her and their newborn child. She asks why can't Storm lead the team? Scott replies that Storm has no powers. Ororo herself now climbs the ladder and says a decision must be made. She proposes a duel in the Danger Room, to decide which of them can lead the X-Men. Scott agrees. Thus, begins this issue's "Duel". Doug Ramsey programs the Danger Room to create a large, demolished city within the holographic environs of the room. Scott and Storm run and climb through the city, both taking each other's measure. Ororo has no mutant powers, so Scott feels she is easy pickings. Storm proves him very wrong. Scott's mind is more on Madelyne, the baby and other issues, and not really on the match. After several minutes of dangerous play, Ororo finally rips Scott's visor off, and he falls to the floor, holding his eyes shut to stop his optic blasts. Scott is helpless. Ororo has won the duel!!

Scott is rather stunned at his loss. He congratulates Storm, and shakes her hand. Scott thinks to himself, "I don't believe it. I'm dreaming! This isn't happening! I lost. I don't like it--but I'll have to learn to live with it. There's no more place for me here. I wonder, after all I've said and done, if there's any now with Madelyne." And with that, Scott walks out. #201 ends with Phoenix--Rachel Summers standing in her grandparents house late at night. John and Elaine Grey are asleep, and Rachel is reparing the holempathic matrix crystal which houses Jean Grey's *essence* within it. It was shattered in UXM #199. Rachel repairs it, and adds an element of her own essence within the crystal, to be shared with her mother. It's a glorious moment. On the moon millions of miles away, a bolt of light shoots from the moon and to Earth!! The Watcher observes closely, sworn never to interfere!

My thoughts: What was that thing on the moon? It shot to Earth. Does it have something to do with Jean Grey's recent resurrection? Curiouser and curiouser. #201 centers mainly on Cyclops. He may be a jerk, or he may be trying to juggle two responsibilities at once. This would be a difficult decision for Scott Summers to make. I felt a tinge of emotion on Page 18 when Scott likens Charles Xavier to being his father. "Shouldn't a son naturally want to take his father's place?" Scott feels tremendous responsibility to carry on Charles Xavier's Dream, now that Charles is gone. But Madelyne Pryor is pulling him in a different direction. People may criticize Scott, but at this stage, I can understand the load on his shoulders. I suspect the real reason Storm won the "duel" was because Scott was so conflicted. Don't get me wrong, Ororo is a first-class physical fighter, but at the end of the day, Cyclops' own inner conflicts were what defeated him. Not Ororo, IMO. As usual, this issue was PACKED with other memorable moments, like the new Summers boy. And the baseball game, etc. Another classic issue. The way Marvel handled so many characters and dramas so skillfully is truly astonishing.

[worstblogever]

Curious, but is it here, or later on that

it's said that Maddie telepathically influenced Cyclops to lose his duel with Ororo to pull him away from the X-Men?

Because, taking nothing away from Ororo, it's a little hard to swallow that depowered, she could best a fully powered Cyke. In a straight powers match, I could believe it, but not against these kind of odds.

[Anodyne]

Curious, but is it here, or later on that

it's said that Maddie telepathically influenced Cyclops to lose his duel with Ororo to pull him away from the X-Men?

Because, taking nothing away from Ororo, it's a little hard to swallow that depowered, she could best a fully powered Cyke. In a straight powers match, I could believe it, but not against these kind of odds.

Why not? All she needed was one instant of distraction on Cyclops's part. It doesn't really matter whether Madelyne used psionics or speech to influence her husband. Ororo showed that Scott's lack of control handicapped him as much as her lack of powers did her.

[worstblogever]

Why not? All she needed was one instant of distraction on Cyclops's part. It doesn't really matter whether Madelyne used psionics or speech to influence her husband. Ororo showed that Scott's lack of control handicapped him as much as her lack of powers did her.

It's just not the same Scott that sits and watches two Triceratops fighting in the Savage Land and starts planning tactics. It's really not him to not have his head in the game.

Thus, why I asked about the handicapping by the outside force.

[Imraith Nimphais]

I always thought that the "thing on the moon" was wot remained of the phoenix "essence" making its way to earth to eventually bond with Madelyne...as it seemed to have originated from the spot where Phoenix/Jean died...I may be wrong...or its Jean's "essence" awakened by Rachel making its way back to the crystal.

[Darkchylde]

I always thought that the "thing on the moon" was wot remained of the phoenix "essence" making its way to earth to eventually bond with Madelyne...as it seemed to have originated from the spot where Phoenix/Jean died...I may be wrong...or its Jean's "essence" awakened by Rachel making its way back to the crystal.



POSSIBLE SPOILERS:

I always thought the light thingy shooting from the moon was the remaining Phoenix essence making its way to Jean's cocoon. It couldn't have been after Madelyne since, as established in "Inferno," the spark of Phoenix essence in Madelyne awoke immediately following Jean's death. Literally, the day Jean died was the day Madelyne was born.

Secondly, to WorstBlogEver: I believe (though I could be wrong) that it was also during "Inferno" that Madelyne explained that her latent psychic abilities influenced the outcome of Storm and Cyclops's duel, as Madelyne wished for a life with Scott away from the X-Men.

[Imraith Nimphais]

POSSIBLE SPOILERS:

I always thought the light thingy shooting from the moon was the remaining Phoenix essence making its way to Jean's cocoon. It couldn't have been after Madelyne since, as established in "Inferno," the spark of Phoenix essence in Madelyne awoke immediately following Jean's death. Literally, the day Jean died was the day Madelyne was born.

You know...until this very moment...as you mentioned it...I did not make the connection...granted I did not read the FF issue where Jean's cocoon is found...but I can see how the two instances would be connected...thanx DC.

[Darkchylde]

You know...until this very moment...as you mentioned it...I did not make the connection...granted I did not read the FF issue where Jean's cocoon is found...but I can see how the two instances would be connected...thanx DC.

No problem, IN. It makes the most sense to me given the events happening at the time. Also, if I remember correctly, some of this stuff was touched upon in...

SPOILERS

... Excalibur # 52, in which Rachel's origin is re-told. That issue, narrated from the point of view of the Phoenix Force, explains that the Phoenix Force first discovered Rachel when her astral projection was hovering over New York City. Curious that Rachel bears a striking resemblance to Jean Grey, the Phoenix Force searches Rachel's memories to discern the truth. (Presumably, this takes place during "Days of Future Past" in Uncanny X-Men # 141-142.) The Phoenix Force follows Rachel's astral self back to the future (which would indicate that Rachel was already possessed of the Phoenix Force when she reappeared in our time in The New Mutants # 18) but says it left a small portion of its essence behind to return Jean Grey's life-force to her.

My guess is that the energy trail on the moon in Uncanny X-Men # 201 is probably the remaining Phoenix Force containing Jean Grey's essence, headed to Earth to restore Jean to life.

[CJ Lentze]

I don't think he wants to realize it, or at least not explicitly. At the end of X-Men & Alpha Flight: the Gift, Rachel decided not to tell Scott because she didn't want to hurt him and Madelyne by reminding them of what might have been. "Besides," she thinks, "I have a feeling I don't need to." (quoted from memory) That sounds to me like an unspoken agreement between Scott and Rachel not to mention the subject.I think you have it. Scott "knows" but chooses not to go there. As you say, there is a subtle agreement between Cyke and Rachel to just "let it be". I think it was well-handled.Very interesting words on what's going on between Rachel and Scott. Rachel doesn't know for certain that Scott is aware she's his daughter (she continues to worry back and forth about actually telling Scott the truth). Both Scott and Rachel are socially a bit awkward, and they bottle up their emotions; it's what they have in common, that's where Rachel resembles her father most. I think you're both completely right when you say that Scott and Rachel both prefer not to pry too deep; they don't want to hurt each other, but they don't want to end up getting hurt themselves either. But that's an evasiveness which neither can keep up forever.



Concerning Madelyne's part in the duel, it is indeed in an issue of X-Factor that it's revealed that Madelyne influenced the outcome of the duel with subconscious telepathy. It's in X-Factor 38

[Imraith Nimphais]

I always thought the whole "I influenced the outcome of the match with my burgeoning powers" to be a somewot wishy-washy and un-neccessary after-the-fact point...but that is just me...to the point of this post...did anyone else get a feeling of great expectation when, as Storm is battling Cyclops down below in the danger room, Maddie notices that the sky is all dark and cloudy where it was cleer just moments before...although it is not the first time it is hinted that Storm is not quite as bereft and disconnected from her powers as she/we believe...I think it is the most telling instance that something is afoot with our Wind-rider...which brings me to one of the things that infuriated me about Claremont...the plot threads that spanned years before they were resolved...granted the payoff (in some cases) were well worth the wait...but bloody 'ell!...if I had, by some ill fate, died in the 80's/early 90's, it would have been a miserable death indeed...because I would never have known how certain plots played out...(and I would have returned to personnally haunt CC, just fer making me miss-out).
ps. I LOVED Leonardy's art in this issue...I found it quite interesting and his form certainly more stylised and dynamic.

[CJ Lentze]

Well, I love the parts where suddenly the weather would change (rain, wind, clouds) when Storm's mood was intensifying during battles and such. The background setting it creates is nice. And I'm glad Chris Claremont kept this particular story thread hanging for as long as he did. Storm's loss of powers is something that isn't resolved so easily, and it brings aspects of her to the foreground we usually don't see that often. She gets to be creative.


I'm not a fan of Rick Leonardi's art, I must admit.

[Imraith Nimphais]

Oh, I agree with you SM on this particular thread...it had to be drawn out as long as it was for us (and Storm) to (plausibly) see, learn, experience, understand and accept who she is, who she has become (without her powers)...but lordy! it was torture!...because by now we all knew wot the outcome would be...just not when or how...maybe "infuriated" was too strong a word...perhaps "annoyed" is better suited.

[david r]

Thanks for everyone's thoughts. My feeling about that "mystery light" from the moon...it has something to do with Jean Grey's resurrection. Or maybe writer Chris Claremont was leaving himself an "out".

---Oh yes, I did notice that peculiar storm which appeared out of nowhere. It's seems odd though because Storm was not under that much stress in her duel. She's been under worse stress in other spots and no thunder-storm happened.

---No one commented on the birth of Nathan Summers. I find fascinating Nathan is the first child born in the Mansion. Right at the heart of Charles Xavier's Dream. An omen? And.... he is born, right as Charles Xavier "dies". Another omen? I think big things are planned for this young boy.

---I very much liked the panel of Madelyne Pryor holding her son, in Storm's attic, on Page 14. :smile:

[Cub]

I agree with Darkchylde about the reasoning behind the flash on the moon. When it came out Excalibur #52 was the most comprehensive and thorough explanation of the phoenix force up to that point. Since then, well, I don't think any writer alive is good enough to make heads or tails of it. But I digress...

I love love love this issue for many reasons. First off, when I was young, this was one of the comics that my local comic store had showcased on the walls. But it was 20 freaking dollars. I would look at it every time I came in, but I would never have enough money to buy it because I was always buying other comics, both new and back issues, instead. But then one day, after I got some money for Christmas, I went and finally bought it. And was scared to read it. I was worried I had hyped it up so much in my head that the reality couldn't possibly live up to expectations. But it did.

First off, the art. Count me among the fans that love Rick Leonardi's work. Think it's very dynamic, and unique (and marks Rogue's entrance into the world of babes, IMO). Plus, the little stuff like the baseball game, the team taking bets on who will win (and who'd have thought Kitty'd root for Cyke?), and of course, the duel. Regardless of what stress Scott was under, Ororo won that battle. It's one of the few times we have seen her labeled as anything other than woefully inferior to Scott as a leader. The retcon during Inferno really pissed me off, as it took away from Storm's victory.

I do feel bad for Maddie in this. But, whoever said that she should never have expected a normal life married to an X-Man is right. Like, hello.

The page on Jim Jaspers is very interesting. I knew nothing about him until that, and I kinda wish that whole storyline with bringing the days of future past into reality was, IMO, a missed opportunity. Still, without giving too much away about the upcoming storyline, I really don't have any qualms with how the mutant massacre went down.

[Imraith Nimphais]

---Oh yes, I did notice that peculiar storm which appeared out of nowhere. It's seems odd though because Storm was not under that much stress in her duel. She's been under worse stress in other spots and no thunder-storm happened.

I don't think she neccessarily needs to be under great stress for the weather to be affected...(though it has surely been prtrayed as such previously...atop Eagle Plaza fer example...and now that I think on it...the Sandstorm in Lifedeath 2)...it's just that in this instance she was using every bit of her abilities against Scott to win the contest...her entire being was focused on winning...which is why I hold to my earlier point that Maddie's "influence" is total bollocks.

[Anodyne]

It's just not the same Scott that sits and watches two Triceratops fighting in the Savage Land and starts planning tactics. It's really not him to not have his head in the game.
I agree: this wasn't the man Scott had been, just as the Goblin Queen was not the woman Madelyne had been. He was now a man with divided loyalties, and thus divided concentration.
I always thought the whole "I influenced the outcome of the match with my burgeoning powers" to be a somewot wishy-washy and un-neccessary after-the-fact point...but that is just me...to the point of this post...did anyone else get a feeling of great expectation when, as Storm is battling Cyclops down below in the danger room, Maddie notices that the sky is all dark and cloudy where it was cleer just moments before...although it is not the first time it is hinted that Storm is not quite as bereft and disconnected from her powers as she/we believe...I think it is the most telling instance that something is afoot with our Wind-rider.
I completely missed that at the time. I thought the weather reflected the turbulence within Maddie's (and Scott's) mind. Could it have been a combination of Madelyne's emerging, and Storm's returning, powers?
...the team taking bets on who will win (and who'd have thought Kitty'd root for Cyke?), and of course, the duel. Regardless of what stress Scott was under, Ororo won that battle. It's one of the few times we have seen her labeled as anything other than woefully inferior to Scott as a leader. The retcon during Inferno really pissed me off, as it took away from Storm's victory.
Not only that, it wasn't necessary. Maddie may have used her nascent powers, but I say again: she didn't need to. All she needed was to remind Scott--with spoken words--of his new obligations.

Did Kitty really root for Scott? I don't recall that at all. The only one I recall choosing sides was Wolverine; he thought Scott was no longer up to the job.
I do feel bad for Maddie in this. But, whoever said that she should never have expected a normal life married to an X-Man is right. Like, hello.
I disagree. Maddie understood that the X-Man were a cherished part of Scott's past; but when a man invites a woman to attend a friend's wedding with him, she doesn't assume he wants to go back to high school. Scott had left the X-Men before they met, with no definite plans to return. He proposed by asking Madelyne if she'd leave Earth with him; she didn't learn that he wasn't joining the Starjammers until they were on their honeymoon. And the decision to settle in Alaska was Scott's; Maddie was happy with it, but she would have accepted whatever he wanted.

http://www.uncannyxmen.net/images/spotlight/madelyne08.jpg


I agree that the light from the moon was connected to the resurrection of Jean Grey.

[Nevets F]

Anodyne...totally off topic, but I just had to say everytime I see your name, it makes me smile. That X-Men/Alpha Flight mini is one of my all-time favorite series.

[Nevets F]

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.110.GIF

X-Men #110

"The X-Sanction"

1st appearance: Captain Delaney

#110 begins with a game of baseball, with Colossus up at-bat. And Nightcrawler pitching. It's a relaxing, sunny day, much needed by our mutants. Piotr slams the ball and dives into 1st base, slamming into Wolverine. Peter sits atop him, looking happy, and Logan is very upset. It's Moira McTaggart's last day at the School, and she heads inside to let in a telephone repairman. His face is badly scarred. Unfortunately, he is really Warhawk, and he knocks her out with a dart. He then starts messing around with the Mansion's computers. A mental projection reels Warhawk with pain. Someone is controlling this guy. Xavier and Jean Grey enter and are knocked out by Warhawk. (Can Phoenix really be knocked out by simple darts?)

The other X-Men enter the Danger Room for a training session. The doors slam shut, and Colossus is unable to open them. Warhawk has locked them in, and turns on the devices inside, the safety locks turned off!! Colosso, the giant robot last seen in #22, attacks the new X-Men! Wolverine makes his way to the control panel, but he's attacked from behind by Warhawk. Wolvie tries to slice up Warhawk, but his skin is made of some kind of metal. The doors to the Danger room are finally destroyed, and the other X-Men break out. Colossus punches Warhawk in the face, knocked him unconscious. Finally, the police arrive, lead by Captain Delaney, and take Warhawk away.

Jean Grey is worried that Warhawk took her down so easily. Maybe she isn't as powerful as she thought. Jean asks to rejoin the X-Men. Charles Xavier is troubled that Warhawk could easily take down the team's two telepaths. Who sent this guy? Xavier says he senses great and powerful forces gathering all around them.

My thoughts: I really enjoyed seeing the team playing baseball. They seem to be turning into a family. All, except Wolverine. Who still is set apart from the others, and I don't like his unnatural liking for Jean Grey. As for Jean, I'm glad she rejoined the team. Though her power fluctuations is worrying.

I am quoting something from February, lol...but I thought this was the best place to ask...since David has read them all!

David...do you remember if this was the first time the X-Men had one of their softball games? Also, in the summary, you called it baseball...was it baseball back then? Isn't it always softball now?

One other question, this may sound silly...but for anyone that has the issue on hand and easily accesible...what positions did the X-Men play?

lol...I know this is random, but there is a point! I am helping someone who is writing something and needed some help with this little bit of research. I appreciate any help!

[david r]

Steven, yes this is the first baseball game we see. I don't recall any in the 1960s issues. And I guess the right word should be "softball". Though I'm a little unsure what the difference is between baseball and softball.

As for the X-Men's positions on the field, let's see............ Nightcrawler is pitching (hopefully, free of steroids!). Colossus is batter-up ( Manny Ramirez he AIN'T.) and Wolverine is on first base. I think Storm is a short-stop. I wouldn't call them the Yankees (or even the Tampa Bay Rays).....but this game of softball is fun!! :smile: I hope this helps you with that info.

[Muggs]

Worth noting that with Scott and Xavier having now left, this is the first time the X Men have had a line up that's consisted of none of the original members.

[Nevets F]

Steven, yes this is the first baseball game we see. I don't recall any in the 1960s issues. And I guess the right word should be "softball". Though I'm a little unsure what the difference is between baseball and softball.

As for the X-Men's positions on the field, let's see............ Nightcrawler is pitching (hopefully, free of steroids!). Colossus is batter-up ( Manny Ramirez he AIN'T.) and Wolverine is on first base. I think Storm is a short-stop. I wouldn't call them the Yankees (or even the Tampa Bay Rays).....but this game of softball is fun!! :smile: I hope this helps you with that info.

That is awesome! Thanks so much David! :D

[david r]

Steven, Glad to help out. :smile:

Muggs, A very good point. I really feel like UXM #200-201 was a big turning point, away from the past. Cyclops leaving the Mansion like he did, really hit it home.

I also noticed in #201, how Rachel Summers has gotten over her emotional feelings over the birth of Scott's baby. Remember how upset she was over the news? In #201, Rachel holds the child and doesn't show any resentment or hurt towards the baby boy. So I assume Rachel has come to terms with this.

[CJ Lentze]

Alternate dimension or not, he's still her baby brother. He gives her another motivation to safeguard the future (or present), because when Rachel herself was born, Scott and Jean thought she'd live in a happier world with more hope and less despair, and then everything fell down. Ray would want to be there to prevent that the things that happened to her, happen to the baby (and other babies like him).

But now that I think about that, that makes her actions in the next two issues of 'Uncanny X-Men' look even stranger to me than they did before.

[david r]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/greenred.jpg

George Perez draws some sweet X-Men.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/48948331862.1.GIF

Longshot #1

"A Man Without a Past"

1st appearance: Longshot, Spiral, Quark, Gog, Magog

The man with a lucky streak is here! Breaking women's hearts and 1980s hair-dressing rules, Longshot debuts in this macabre limited series. This first issue really is odd and something completely different.

Longshot has two hearts, which is good because he breaks many females hearts throughout #1. If only we could all be so lucky! This story begins with the blonde-haired, leather-wearing male running on some alien world, being chased by baddies. Some teleportation takes place, and he winds up in our 616 world, in upstate New York. (Quite frankly, this issue is a tad hard to follow on first reading.) The heart-throb saves a woman from getting hit by a car, which leads to more "good luck". A crowd surrounds him, but he high-tails it out of there. The poor fellow doesn't remember who he is, not even what he looks like. He peers into a business window (for Nocenti's Deli, an in-joke) and feels his "face" is not...quite right. He is soon befriended by a survivalist, who takes him to his shelter stock-piled with food and weapons, waiting for the "Big One" to hit between the U.S. and U.S.S.R. (remember them ?) Survivalists feel the world is on the brink of world war, and they must be vigilant and prepared to survive.

Soon, the police are on Longshot' trail,for that little fracas in the city (or are they after the survivalist? It's not real clear here.) Longshot and Eliot (the survivalist) leave his shelter and then confusingly, appear in some woman's house. The poor woman's baby has been stolen by "beasts". (How Longshot and Eliot find their way to the woman's home is not adequately explained. They just appear in the room.)Longshot uses some kind of alien power, all his own, to *see* the events leading to the babies' kidnapping. His left eye lights up with yellow light. He vows to find the child. Thus, we embark on the journey with Longshot, Eliot the Survivalist and Hester, the mother. The 3 charge into the surrounding woods, chased by the police. They soon come to an abandoned mill, which is the staging ground for these "beasts". The creatures are preparing to sacrifice the baby, it seems. But they are tied into the mystery of Longshot. All come from the same place, and were dragged to Earth along with Longshot. They want back to their world, and sacrificing the innocence of a child will open a doorway. One of them is a woman with six arms, and looking quite provocative. Her name is Spiral.

Dazzling and blinding lights flash at the mill's roof, as this inhuman ritual commences. Spiral doing many maneuvers with her six arms, to open the doorway. The baby is prepared for sacrifice. The leader of this band of aliens is Gog. A large, brown-skinned beast with a white mohawk. Longshot swears to save the child, and painstakingly climbs atop the mill. Several times he has trouble, but his "good luck" saves him from falling. Also, a small furry-covered beast helps him on his adventure. We later learn this smaller mammal is named Magog, and is the son to Gog. For some reason, Magog is helping Longshot. Longshot finally reaches the top of the mill, and flinges his ricochet at the beasties. As the ricochet hits them, Spiral and the others seem to dematerialize, and Longshot snatches the baby away. Gog is angered, and vows not to return to their world, until Longshot has been avenged for this dishonor. The beasts "fade away". Longshot returns the baby to Hester, and has won this particular fight. Eliot essentially names this blonde-haired stranger "Longshot" here, because he's so lucky. The newly-named Longshot bids them farewell; Hester especially appreciative. Longshot is joined by his new buddy, the furry beast Magog, and the 2 wander off into the night.

My thoughts: I wasn't really sure what to make of this. I liked Art Adams work. But I felt dropped right in the middle of a movie with no clue who the players are. Or the plot. Longshot seems interesting, but naive and difficult to understand his motivations. He really is a complete stranger. The execution of the story was clunky, and I often couldn't quite follow it (how did Eliot & Longshot appear in Hester's room?) On the plus side, a lot of exciting characters and beasts introduced here which I hope are expanded upon in further issues. This definitely appears unique.

[Nevets F]

Wow, how awesome that you are including Longshot's series! I am ashamed to say...even though I have the issues, and also the trade in our extra bedroom...I have never read this series.

Hey David...are you going to summarize Fallen Angels when the time comes? It is still a ways off, but wanted to bring it up to make sure it is on the radar. :) Considering it has two New Mutants, a couple X-Men related characters, and an X-Factor trainee, I was hoping you would.

[david r]

Yes, I plan to read and review Fallen Angels. I don't know anything about it, but people say don't forget it.

Steven, you have the Longshot issues and the trade, and haven't read it? The blonde-haired one beckons you to him!! :smile:

[longshot3]

Good call on covering this series!!! I have #1 cgc graded 9.8 (probably not worth so much, but it is my favorite character, don't ask me why???)

[Valjean999]

Although I liked the character, I didnt care for the Longshot series. I always thought it was overrated. Maybe its because I have never really cared for either Spiral or Mojo, I always thought they were both pretty lame.

Nice artwork, though...I will give it that.

[worstblogever]

This is the series that confirms Spiral isn't Ricochet Rita, but IS Ricochet Rita from a parallel universe.

I think.

I dunno, the script for Longshot is like Salvatore Dali wrote a comic book, or something. :redface: I can't seem to get two people to agree on Spiral's origin.

[david r]

I dunno, the script for Longshot is like Salvatore Dali wrote a comic book, or something.

I wouldn't say that's far off the mark. Longshot the mini-series is a bit odd. And characters say things which, quite frankly, don't add up to anything or don't make sense. But #2 is better. I like that yellow flash that appears over Longshot's left eye. A nice touch.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/48948331862.2.GIF

Longshot #2

"...I'll Wave to you From the Top"

1st appearance: Ricochet Rita

The unique limited series which launched the blonde heart-throb into a million hearts......continues. It's definitely something strange from mid-80s Marvel Comics.

The alien named Longshot continues his sojourn on our equally odd planet Earth. His sidekick is a small, brown-furred creature named Magog. Magog's behavior is changing, and Longshot loses him along the way. The meat of this issue takes place on a movie set, as Longshot becomes embroiled in a director's weird moving picture. The direction (named "Hitch") wears a Captain America shirt for no discernible reason. He is a primadonna, and is obsessed with finishing his movie opus. Longshot dazzles the director with his uncanny aerobics, and Longshot is hired as a stuntman for the picture. He then meets the female stunt-woman, a dark-haired risk-seeker named Ricochet Rita. Rita is immediately enthralled by his handsome good looks, and the 2 becomes friends on the set.

Longshot still has little memory of his past life, but he does recall an experience of flying on an alien world, embroiled in a space battle. His partner in this battle is named "Jackson" with more than a passing resemblance to the Gloved One, Michael Jackson. (Again, another in-joke which doesn't make a lot of sense.) Jackson gets blasted to death in the battle, and Longshot freaks out and launches himself at the enemy. But then his memory fades, and Longshot can't remember more. In the evening, Ricochet Rita and Longshot are passing the time in their motel room, when Rita gets close to Longshot and they are start smooching. Rita touches his skin and realizes it feels like leather. She reacts surprised, and thinks he's NOT HUMAN! But before the love-making can get started, Longshot is attacked right outside the motel room by a squad of large creatures. They are fellow outcasts from Longshot's alien world, and want to use Longshot to return to the homeland. In the nick of time, his furry pal, Magog, makes a timely entrance and vanquishes the enemy. Longshot invites Magog into the motel room, and Magog begins drinking down soda pop. Magog has grown bigger, and seems more hostile.

Magog is more than he seems, and is maybe not Longshot's friend like he thought. Magog punches him and storms out of the room, with a scheme to tap enough of this planet's power to beat Longshot. Magog is no friend at all! Finally, we get down to brass tax, and a climactic shot for the movie Longshot is working on. He & Rita are to stunt-double as fliers in an elaborate action sequence. Longshot & Rita don jet-packs and begin buzzing about, shot at by lasers. The lasers are real, and begin puncturing Longshot! His luck has run out....seemingly because he is doing this for $$$$, and not "pure motives". Longshot is seriously injured by the lasers, and comes falling from the sky, crashing his jet-pack and himself. He is near death. The director orders everyone away and takes matters into his own hands. He piles Longshot's unconscious body into his truck back, drives away, and dumps Longshot into a low-lying pond. Longshot floats to the surface, his eyes staring off. He appears dead.

My thoughts: #2 seemed to be a parody of the movie industry. Some of the bits were humorous, others were ponderous.Like "Michael Jackson's" cameo or the director wearing a Captain America shirt? I did enjoy Ricochet Rita and her daredevil ways. I wonder if she and Longshot become a romantic item? Seems to be headed that way. I felt a little closer to Longshot in #2 and am now intrigued about his mystery past and WHY these monsters are after him. I have a feeling his history is not good. The drawings by Art Adams are nice, but aren't blowing me away like Adams did on the New Mutants Special Edition/X-Men Annual #9 mega-adventure. I will say, I found this issue's cliffhanger alarming. Longshot floating dead in a pond. How does his luck get him outta this one?

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/48948331862.3.GIF

Longshot #3

"Just Let Me Die"

1st appearance: Mojo

Another strange issue of Longshot's debut series. This time, Longshot hooks up with a bespectled husband/father who leaves home, planning to commit suicide. The unhappy man discovers Longshot floating in a creek, and pulls our hapless hero out. Longshot recovers before his eyes. Soon, the odd couple head for a "Con Ed" power plant, to steal diamonds. Or something. It's all more wacky craziness. Once they sneak into the plant, they are discovered by the alien creatures that are hunting down Longshot. At one point, Longshot has a flashback to his origins. He, and several others, hooked up on grids with machinery and electrical wires hooked into them. Two fat, bizarre-looking creatures are watching. They are the "spineless ones". Longshot seems to be one of these specimens, and a spineless one wobbles over to him on a large, crate with several spider-like legs. The spineless says he owns him.

The memory flashback ends, and soon Longshot and his new suicidal pal, named Jinx are fighting for their lives against the alien creatures that followed Longshot to Earth in #1. The creatures defeat them, and soon use these Con Ed diamonds to open a portal to their home world. Spiral dances exotically with 6 arms. And before you know it...poof! They all vanish. All except poor Longshot, and hip "pup" Magog. Magog stayed behind for some reason, but still hates Longshot. Longshot still doesn't have his memory back, and he and Jinx part ways once they leave the Con Ed plant. Jinx decides not to kill himself and heads back home. Longshot heads for Manhattan.

My thoughts: I think I have this series figured out. It's like Howard the Duck, but with a blonde, beautiful male instead of Howard. This series has the same vibe as Steve Gerber's bizarre duck stories, with oddball characters, and macabre takes on modern (1980s) culture and sensibilities. Longshot is in a world he never made. This mini really does have that vibe. It's pretty off-beat.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/48948331862.4.GIF

Longshot #4

"Can't Give it all Away"

1st appearance: Major Domo

More bizarre hijinks, with Longshot visiting the Big Apple. He tussles with She-Hulk and the amazing Spider-Man. (She-Hulk thinks he's cute, natch.) :rolleyes: The lucky one also runs into a group of young kids who are just damn cuddly. They are dressed in costumes, like for Halloween. One wearing a Spidey mask. Another like Corsair. And another kid is the spitting image of Alfalfa from the Little Rascals. And....the only girl thinks Longshot is dreamy. Make me throw up, already. Longshot gives them some of those diamonds from #3. Longshot has arrived in Manhattan to give back, by giving strangers diamonds. All the while, mutating Magog is growing larger, and meaner, and following Longshot. He doesn't like the blonde beauty.

Impossibly elsewhere, Mojo is grousing about how ugly everyone is. Everyone except him. Listening, is his Major Domo who seems to be an assistant or something to Mojo. They have witty and spirited conversations. Mojo hobbles around on his spider-legs and spineless body, in a madcap rant about the "Market", you are an appliance! A utensil! A gadget! A toaster! A vacuum! A slave! Major Domo agrees, bored. Mojo seems on the verge of madness, sweating profusely and rambling from one thing to the next. The aliens who have just returned from Earth (in #3) inform Mojo of what transpired. Mojo is outraged to learn Longshot lives! OFF WITH HIS HEAD!! Mojo orders the 6-armed Spiral to dance & spin her spirals. She does, and soon she and Mojo are teleported away.

Mojo & Spiral appear in Ricochet Rita's home. Rita misses Longshot, but forgets him when the Spineless One appears. Rita is terrified, and Mojo orders her to take them to the runaway slave. Back in Manhattan, following Longshot's inconsequential fights with She-Hulk and Spider-Man, he meets up with the band of young kids and they are soon confronted by a raging mad Magog. The furry guy is getting bigger, and seemingly wants to take the hide ouf of Longshot. The feud continues.

My thoughts: Mojo is like Jabba the Hutt on a caffeine high. Or if you crossed Jabba with the Joker. He's quite gruesome (or pretty, depending on your preference.) Ricochet Rita reminds me of Ann Nocenti-- who writes this insane story. The group of tweens were a sweet addition to the cast of characters. But Longshot himself is a unorthodox enigma. His history is revealed a little bit, but it's like Star Wars on an LSD trip. I must say, all these females lusting after Longshot is turning me on.

[david r]

I guess this is a private conversation.






:tongue:

[limerick]

I guess this is a private conversation.






:tongue:
David,I guess Longshot doesn't have the following he used to have.This series was red-hot at the time because of the Art Adams art.However,I don't think the art is as good without Terry Austin inking.

In the UK this series became very expensive very quickly,especially issue #6 for some reason.Of course,Longshot was such a popular character he went on to bigger and better things(SPOILER ALERT!).

The story itself is a bit of a mixed bag but Igenerally liked it although the ending was a bit of an anti-climax.

As usual David,thanks for your great summeries.The lack of interest is probably due to poor circulation of the series and hence widespread lack of input.Normal service to be resumed when you return to the X-men.

cheers,Limerick

[Nevets F]

lol...I am still reading David, as I am sure most others are. I just don't have much to add since I haven't read them...and don't really know if I want to. :D I am still glad you are doing these though, and hope you continue with other minis that may not have quite the following of the main titles. I enjoy them, and appreciate you taking the time to do this!

Steven

[wolvie616]

lol...I am still reading David, as I am sure most others are. I just don't have much to add since I haven't read them...and don't really know if I want to. :D I am still glad you are doing these though, and hope you continue with other minis that may not have quite the following of the main titles. I enjoy them, and appreciate you taking the time to do this!

Steven

same here david:smile:

[Nevets F]

Oh, and to clarify, I was talking about not having read/not sure I want to read, Longshot. :D

[david r]

Thanks all for your comments. I was really just kidding with the "private conversation" thing. As you said Limerick, this mini seems to have faded, as Longshot himself has faded in the last 20 years. I can see why this mini caused a stir in 1985 as it's truly different and strange. I also agree with you about Art Adams work here not as good without Terry Austin inking. I have the actual issues, and some look murky.

As for the merits of the story, I don't know if I can recommend it. It is getting better. But it's like a Marvel story on an LSD trip. Very, very offbeat and esoteric.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/48948331862.5.GIF

Longshot #5

"Deadly Lies"

The subplot with the furry Magog comes to a head. Magog used to be small and cute and help Longshot. Now he has grown large from "consuming" Earth's magic. It's a little confused and not clear exactly WHAT is going on with Magog. But he wants Longshot dead, that's for sure. The band of young kids continue to help Longshot out, and bring a sense of innocence to the story. Ultimately, Doctor Strange is brought into the play, and he and Longshot confront the out-of-control Magog. Magog is using magic, so Dr. Strange feels compelled to take him down. A large "Goat-Man" named Quark, who debuted in #1, shows up and reveals he wants to aid Longshot. Quark is an exotic looking character; tall with a man-sized body, with a goat's head. His left eye also "lights up" and he seems to be a slave, like Longshot was. Quark helps out with stopping Magog.

Meanwhile, poor Ricochet Rita has been kidnapped by the "couch potato gone insane" Mojo, and the 6-armed beauty Spiral. Spiral is a slave herself, and admits she would rather stay on Earth, so she could be free of Mojo's slavery. But unfortunately, the crazed, smiling rotund Mojo poo-poos the idea, and they drag Rita from her apartment into a different dimension. In this other place, or "Elsewhen", awaits a large flying ship adorned with all manner of odd-ball things. Rita is tied to the front of the ship, and it flies off trying to locate Longshot. Rita screams are silent, but she cries and screams in utter horror of what's happened to her. Spiral and Mojo smile devilishly in delight.

Back on Earth, Longshot remembers a little more of his mystery past. As he escaped Mojo's control and fled into the alien world he was spawned from. He remembers meeting his creator, a man named Arize. Arize has a long beard and red hair and is very tall and gaunt. Arize replies that Longshot was "created and designed" yes. But he's not a robot and has independent thought. Arize now just builds little devices around his home. Anyway, the flashback ends and finally Longshot, Quark and Dr. Strange confront Magog. Strange actually begins feeding Magog more and more magic, until finally, the overgrown pup simply EXPLODES!!! Longshot is grossed out, but sad that his cute friend from #1 is dead.

My thoughts: The coolest revelation in #5 is that Longshot's "luck" runs 2 ways, causing a rippling effect. When he gains his good luck, it causes "bad luck" for those around him. Also, Longshot must only act from the purest of reasons, or his "good luck" doesn't work. Longshot seems to be maturing, as he finally realizes he's been stumbling around our world, causing people harm and mayhem. This issue ends with Longshot making a decision: he won't hide from his past anymore. He's got to clean this mess up himself...his way!!

[Nevets F]

Hmmm...I always knew about his luck power not working if he didn't have the purest of reasons at heart, but I had forgotten (if I ever knew?) that his good luck power also caused bad luck to those around him. That would suck to be a teammate...assuming, he joins a team. ;)

[david r]

Longshot seems to have several super-powers. A few I'd like to have myself. :biggrin: I rather like his "good luck" powers. And his oddly intricate past.

What is this talk of a team? As Mojo would scream "Rip out his TONGUE!!"

http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/marveldatabase/images/e/ea/Mojo_001.jpg

http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/marveldatabase/images/2/2c/Spiral_003.jpg

Quark: He befriends Longshot, but channels "negative luck":

http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/marveldatabase/images/9/9a/Quark_001.jpg

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/48948331862.6.GIF

Longshot #6

"A Snake Coils..."

The spine-tingling, spine-chewing (pathetic spined ones we all ARE!! :biggrin: ) and spine-busting double-sized finish to the powerfully weird but oddly absorbing Longshot limited series. Mojo may give me nightmares!!

The grotesque Mojo and his 6-armed warrior Spiral are on Earth. Mojo is a disgustingly fat monstrosity with eyes tied open (like Malcom McDowell's character in A Clockwork Orange. ) You DO NOT want to meet Mojo in the dark. Or anywhere at all. He can twist reality and do damn near anything, via magic. Mojo orders a temple built in his honor, and humans are transformed into slaves to erect this unholy temple of Mojo worship. The temple slowly is built, and it encompasses Mojo's power. But it is also his Achilles Heel. If the tower is destroyed, it could destroy Mojo. Longshot and his new-found companion, the goat-headed Quark, are hot on his heels. The reader learns Quark is a negative person, while Longshot is positive. Was it fate that brought their opposite "luck" together? The woman who has captured Longshot's heart, Ricochet Rita, is in a comatose state, her mouth wide open in a constant soundless scream!! The unimaginable sights, sounds, smells and HORRORS Rita witnessed in Mojo's domain has driven her mind into shut-down mode. The Master of the Mystic Arts, Doctor Strange, locates poor Rita and aims to help her.

Finally, Mojo & Spiral discover Longshot, and a hand-to-hand battle commences. Surprisingly, Spiral is ineffective at defeating Longshot (is there a PAST between them?? Hmmm? Does Spiral secretly not want to hurt the blonde cutie?) Longshot has his blade and gets right up close to Mojo!! But at the killing stroke....Longshot finds he cannot kill Mojo!! His change of heart may have doomed our planet! Mojo and Spiral teleport away, back to the constructed temple. Where Mojo's power is strong. Meanwhile, Strange continues to aid Ricochet Rita. When Rita hears Longshot's voice over a telephone, she starts to come out of her catatonic state. That is all well and good, as Mojo wanders around on his mechanical spider-like legs, pontificating how he will bring joy and death to this new world. Mojo desires to touch the sun and orders Spiral to build his temple to touch it! Spiral ignores Mojo's ramblings. In the end, Longshot and Quark mount a two-man attack on the rising Mojo tower. Longshot knows he was built to be a slave, but knows he is MUCH MORE! His creator Arize secretly gave him independent will, and Longshot plans to use it to bring down Mojo and his empire. Longshot attacks and again, he and Spiral duke it out. Longshot senses a past between them, which Spiral denies. But Spiral strangely seems unable to kill Longshot.

Dr. Strange & Rita arrive and Strange launches a magical barrage against Mojo. Mojo is annoyed! It is "good magic" and no harm to him. But Mojo plays into the heroes hand, as he battles Strange, Longshot gets his chance and leaps!! He kicks Mojo and the fat sicko falls backward and into a portal sending him back to his alien world! Spiral leaps after him! Having saved Earth, Longshot stands at the portal's precipice and declares he will return to his homeworld. He must return and spearhead a rebel revolution against Mojo. It is his destiny, and why he was created. Quark joins him, and Ricochet Rita wants to stay with him. Longshot refuses, but realizes he can prove that "Man" exists, with Rita as an example. It's pretty obvious Ricochet Rita is in love with him. The 3 heroes bid farewell to Earth and enter the portal, ready for their next adventure!!

My thoughts: I rather liked the way this story ended. The culminating battle with Mojo & Spiral was cool, though I'm sure Spiral could have killed them all. We learned that Longshot has a destiny to save his world, and eventually, bring the slaves to Earth. Mojo was insanely crazy, but amusing as he swings from dopey humor to sadistic monster, panel-by-panel. I liked the inclusion of Stephen Strange and it felt appropriate since magic plays a major role. I liked how Strange is determined to save Ricochet Rita, showing the human side to the man. Art Adams and Ann Nocenti created a fully-realized (though macabre) world here, and you probably will love it, or hate it. I ended up liking it and feel there is mountains of potential with these characters, and quite frankly, hope a sequel to this story happened. I honestly don't know. What happens to them after entering the portal?

[david r]

Today is the one-year birthday of this X-Men from the Beginning thread! I'd like to celebrate and thank everyone who has contributed over the last year. It's been a LOT of fun!! :smile: :smile:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/dd/Birthday_candles.jpg/800px-Birthday_candles.jpg

[worstblogever]

Today is the one-year birthday of this X-Men from the Beginning thread! I'd like to celebrate and thank everyone who has contributed over the last year. It's been a LOT of fun!! :smile: :smile:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/dd/Birthday_candles.jpg/800px-Birthday_candles.jpg

Has it been only a year? With all we've covered (up to #200+ of Uncanny, plus all the miniseries and annuals) I would've guessed longer. Regardless, we should be thanking you, david, for all your hard work. This, and all the other "From the Beginning" threads are great discussions.

I salute you, sir.

[david r]

Thank you for the nice words, Worstblogever. You and Schuimend Mormel are the two who have hung in there the longest. Since Day One. I've really enjoyed this year of X-Men From the Beginning.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/dd/Birthday_candles.jpg/800px-Birthday_candles.jpg

10/21/07-10/21/08

[limerick]

David,Happy Birthday of sorts!
Thankyou for your continuing great work on all the "From The Beginning" threads.I always check them first when logging on.

[creaky]

Thank you for the nice words, Worstblogever. You and Schuimend Mormel are the two who have hung in there the longest. Since Day One. I've really enjoyed this year of X-Men From the Beginning.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/dd/Birthday_candles.jpg/800px-Birthday_candles.jpg

10/21/07-10/21/08

Hey! Cake!<3

I'm not sure whether to say "congrats" or "thank you". Both, I guess. This is one of the best threads ever. *hugs*!

[CJ Lentze]

Coolness. david, this must have been a pretty wild year for you, comicswise, reading the X-Men comics from the very beginning in chronological order. It's fun to read your reviews. Keep 'em coming.

[wolvie616]

congrats david

one question? how you get all the comix? that cd with like 400 issues on it?

[Imraith Nimphais]

Thank you David!...this thread (all of them, actually) has certainly made my revisits to the past memorable, entertaining and enlightening...for all your effort, time and well thought-out insight, much kudos...you sir, as we say in Britain, are a genlemun an' a scholar.

[Nevets F]

Indeed...thank you David for doing this for an entire year! I bet there is not ONE person who thought it would last this long. :D You are an inspiration!

[david r]

HI EVERYBODY! It's been a lot of fun! I don't think even I believed it would last this long. But it's "forced" me to do something I've always wanted to do: read X-Men like an ongoing story. Each issue a new chapter. It's fascinating to read all the different eras.

It has been a wild year. Wolvie616, I don't have that X-Men DVD. I use a mixture of Essentials, Masterworks, Classic X-Men and the actual issues themselves. I prefer reading the old comics, because you get that "old time" feel. I just love that. (I even like how they smell. :tongue: )

[david r]

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/5769/longshotmw8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

I would just like to add that this Hardcover was released today. The Longshot series in it's entirety. Having just read it, if you are looking for something completely different from a Marvel book, then be sure to check it out. Mojo, Spiral and Ricochet Rita all make their debuts. Along with the mullet man himself: Longshot!

[david r]

The Lucky One:

http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/marveldatabase/images/5/57/Longshot_001.gif

Mojo

http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/marveldatabase/images/thumb/a/a2/Mojo_002.jpg/463px-Mojo_002.jpg

Spiral

http://comicartfans.com/Images/Category_14132/subcat_44778/spiral.jpg

[david r]

http://comicartfans.com/Images/Category_3222/subcat_20490/Adams%20-%20Longshot.jpg

[Shade101]

Congratulations!

[Cub]

Like someone else said, these "From the beginning threads" are the first thing I check when I hit the site. Now that I'm living in new orleans, and the majority of my posessions, including all of my comics, are still in storage in philadelphia, this has become something I really look forward to reading. So, thanks David.

[Nevets F]

Like someone else said, these "From the beginning threads" are the first thing I check when I hit the site. Now that I'm living in new orleans, and the majority of my posessions, including all of my comics, are still in storage in philadelphia, this has become something I really look forward to reading. So, thanks David.

These threads are the same thing I look for when I log on as well. :D

[david r]

Shade101, Cub, Steven and to everyone, I appreciate the support! :smile: I love reading your comments & posts, too. It's a team effort.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/98441328112.1.GIF

Heroes For Hope

A huge cast of talent are assembled to create this immensely powerful and moving tale of super-heroes faced with a villain they cannot defeat. Starvation. Hunger by the millions in East Africa. As the world had Live Aid and other causes to battle Ethiopia's agony, and other worldwide ills, Marvel Comics produced this issue to donate relief and recovery in Africa. It is also, an entertaining story which spotlights the X-Men and their deep-seated insecurities. Plus, where else will you see Alan Moore and Stephen King write the X-Men?? No where but in this one comic.

The issue begins at Charles Xavier's School, as some unseen "entity" makes it's presence known to the X-Men. One by one, their deepest insecurities and worries are dragged out of them, shown in often terrifying omens and nightmares. Colossus becomes truly "armored", cut off from his feelings & friends. In one sequence written by horror writer Stephen King, Kitty Pryde meets the Grim Reaper, a robed figure who brings Kitty a plate of delicious food. Kitty's hunger cannot be satiated, and she grows gaunt, thin and finally, nothing but a skeletal form of a girl. Once she grabs the plate from the Reaper, the food turns into sickening putridity and is uneatable. The Reaper removes it's robes to reveal a skeleton, and Kitty collapses. Magneto has a highly memorable sequence, written by Alan Moore, in which the Master of Magnetism dons the Cerebro helmet, but is spirited to another world. Here in this dream-world, Magneto and his legions of mutants have conquered the Human Race!! Distorted versions of the Toad, Mastermind, Scarlet Witch, the Blob, etc. stand in his ranks, as Magneto surveys his conquest. What he sees....sickens him!! The Human Race have been destroyed, and Adolf Hitler himself comes from the mutant crowd and says "So, Magnus! You have cleared out the genetic deadwood! What an apt pupil, you were. I SALUTE you!" Magneto is utterly disgusted by his "conquest", something he has always wished for. Then the rotting corpses of the humans rise up from their graves, and the masses rush Magneto. His mutant army vanishes like an illusionary mist, and Magneto is awash by starving, wasted human bodies reaching out to tear the despot apart! The classic Magneto helmet is soon bathed in blood!!

Soon, we are inside Rachel Summers' head, as she too is confronted by inner doubts. Rachel finds herself in the future of her alternate dimension, surrounded by Hounds which all look just like her. They throw whips on Phoenix, and she ushers forth her new Phoenix Force, but is now face-to-face with her own mother-- Jean Grey--Chaos-Bringer! Rachel weeps as Dark Phoenix burns Rachel's hands and blows her apart!! In another alarming sequence, acclaimed novelist Harlan Ellison pens Wolverine as he roams the surrounding forests. Logan is taken in by yet more visions, and soon Logan is stripped of all his mutant powers...and adamantium. Logan stands naked, finally free of the curse which has dogged him his life. But out of the bushes comes everything he has lost: the bestial side emerges from the underbrush... AND IT IS LOGAN VERSUS WOLVERINE!! Logan stands before the physical personification of his own animalistic self, and the beast grins at Logan. It tempts him, promising to fill Logan's empty memories and make him whole...all he has to do is beat Wolverine! The Beast attacks Logan, and the two flail about, Logan sliced and cut by his own inner demon. Finally, Wolverine punches his claw into a tree, and Logan takes the other hand and cuts Wolverine's throat! Logan beats his own animal-self, and stands tall as a whole human being!

More sequences follow, each penetrating into inner troubles of the X-Men. Finally, the whole X-squad assemble in the main room, and feel they must try to stop this invisible entity. Rachel senses the root cause, and the X-Men enter their Blackbird and fly!! Their destination: Africa! They land in the searing heat, and step off to find hundreds, thousands of dying and sick Ethiopians. The sight both shocks and unnerves them. They feel impotent to aid these masses. Relief planes land bringing food, water and supplies. The mutants help unload, but it is only a drop in the ocean to the help that is really needed. In a heart-wrenching scene, Rogue is feeding one dying African child, who reaches out in his agony and touches her face. Suddenly, Rogue absorbs his memories....but feels nothing but a lifeless void. The boy then dies in her arms. Rogue stands with tears and grief, and declares NO MORE! In the night, Rogue goes and absorbs the powers of each sleeping X-Man and takes off to locate this "entity" and destroy it. Her journey takes her to a some temple in the African desert. Rogue enters, filled with the assorted powers of her teammates. She is attacked by a gruesome, large green-lizard beast. Rogue tries to absorb it too, but she is overwhelmed by overload. The monster instead absorbs her... and all the X-Men's powers!! The powerless Storm has followed Rogue, and now confronts the entity. It chases her throughout this old temple, which has some connection with Ororo's African ancestors. The creature has a hard time taking Ororo down ,and soon destroys the temple in it's rage!

The X-Men team now come to the rescue! The monster loses it's powers, as Rogue's powers fade. However, it still possesses Rogue. The X-Men battle it, not wanting to permanently hurt their friend, Rogue. In the end, Rachel Summers sends a telepathic energy bolt into Rogue's head, which separates her from the entity. Rogue is saved, and the entity has gone. But the X-Men realize what "it" is, it still exists. And it feeds off human misery, which is why it's living in East Africa. It's feeding off the human agony there. The battle is over, but for days, the X-Men remain in the desert, helping the sick and bringing supplies to the starving masses of people. The X-Men realize their greatest tool in saving the people...and stopping the Entity's return... is HOPE! Their union and bond as X-Men, teammates and friends is just as strong as the hate and sickness forged by the Entity....and by life's miseries. The one-shot ends with the mutants knowing they cannot save all the people, but they will strive to try and remain vigilant in their promise.

My thoughts: This is a deeply affecting one-shot, which could have seemed rushed, but instead is a high-quality product and, I feel, a companion piece to God Loves, Man Kills. I felt it was that good, and in no small part to the amazing stable of talents brought together by Marvel. Look at the list of writers: Stan Lee, Alan Moore, Harlan Ellison, Stephen King, Louise Simonson, Chris Claremont, Ann Nocenti, Denny O'Neil, Steve Englehart, Jim Shooter and Archie Goodwin. The artists roster includes John Romita Jr., John Buscema, John Byrne, Berni Wrightson, Frank Miller, Steve Rude, Howard Chaykin. The project's idea was formed by Jim Starlin and Wrightson and Marvel made it happen. The issue's plot was by Claremont, Nocenti, Wrightson, Starlin and Shooter.

The actual story (fighting a bad guy) did not seem out-of-place when coupled with the horrors of starvation in Africa. The first half was more focused on the mutants, while the second half was in East Africa. My guess for the mystery villain is it was the Shadow King. I felt the segments written by King, Moore and Ellison were superbly handled, and stand-outs. Even with just 3 pages a piece, those three writers stole this book from the others and created deeply powerful moments. Moments that will linger. I think Alan Moore especially captured in 3 pages the horrific core of Magneto and where his super-villain ways could lead. Truly astonishing piece of work there. I also liked the "Logan vs. Wolverine" part. All I can say is this is a masterpiece hidden in a one-shot, and should be read by all X-Men fans as the treasure it is. I certainly hope it sold well in 1985 and raised money for the much-needed relief efforts.

[limerick]

David,glad you included this one-shot.The buzz at the time was that this would become a real collectors item.That didn't happen but it's a great read.It's amazing how well the story held together when each writer had only 3-4 pages before handing over.Wolud have been nice to have reunited Byrne/Claremont even for just a 4 page run.They should have gone with it as it would definitely have increased sales and all profits were going to famine-relief.
You're right--the Alan Moore section is standout.The Stephen King section is also interesting because it is such a typically King horror scene.

[limerick]

David, on another point ,how do you decide on the chronological order the minis should be read.Often there is a very precise point for these to fit in e.g.the asgard saga.But issues such as the Longshot mini and Heroes for Hope have less precise points of entry.Is there a website you are using or are you using publication dates?Thanking you in advance for any input.

Cheers,Limerick

[CJ Lentze]

I haven't read this 'Heroes For Hope' book, I never realised Stan Lee had ever written Rachel Summers. I wonder what he thought of her, since he's the creator of her mother, Jean. It's also funny that he was now writing a calmer Magneto who fought on the side of good guys, when to the best of my knowledge, Stan has always written Magneto as an evil villain.

I imagine that the part where Magneto faces his personal nightmare was indeed a highlight. From the sound of it, this is exactly what a lot of readers would have liked to see addressed, after he had defended himself in court in X-Men 200, and there was still the issue of Magneto going to such extremes in his days as a villain. So, I think it's good that Moore wrote it that Magneto is troubled by what he has done in the past, and how close he got -at times- to becoming the next Hitler.

[david r]

Limerick, To answer your question, (where to fit in the minis and specials), I use a combination of guess-work, publication dates, and other poster's advice. I don't have access to any website. Sometimes I sneak a peek into a future issue to see *where* it fits in continuity, and then make a decision where a one-shot special, mini, Annual should fit. Sometimes I get it right, sometimes wrong. But as long as I read the stories, I don't feel they HAVE to fit in precisely the right order. :smile:

Schuimend Mormel, This one-shot is well worth reading. There is a great scene where Rachel Summers confronts Dark Phoenix. It's funny you mention Stan Lee, as I was asking many of the same questions you posted. Stan is writing a very different X-Men than he ever knew. I feel he wrote them well. (The issue reads very seamlessly, even with multiple writers. Marvel really pulled it off with quality.)

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.202.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #202

"X-Men...I've Gone to Kill--the Beyonder!"

Leaving behind a 6-armed warrior, a blonde-haired good-luck charm and the famines of Africa, I now delve into another cool adventure of the Uncanny X-Men! For #202, Rachel Summers has assumed the name & power of Phoenix! The repercussions could be huge. First off, Rachel decides to locate and destroy the cosmic entity-- Beyonder! He is too dangerous to be kept on Earth.

The story begins with Rogue walking into Rachel's room at the Mansion, and witnesses a film of Rachel Summers in full Phoenix-signature power! Rachel declares she's gone to kill the Beyonder!! Rachel must have filmed it hours earlier, and is long gone. Rogue summons her teammates, and they assemble. (The roster right now is Storm--leader, Magneto, Wolverine, Nightcrawler, Rogue, Shadowcat, Colossus and the missing Phoenix. ) Magneto utilizes Cerebro (which is odd, 'cause I thought it could only be used by telepaths.) Cerebro finds Rachel's power pattern approaching San Francisco. The readings are exceptionally high. What has Rachel turned into?? :eek: Phoenix comes flying over the city by the Bay, and notices the Beyonder sitting on Alcatraz island. He is looking harmlessly at flowers. Rachel soars downward and Flares like a SUPER-NOVA!!! Destroying Alcatraz and the surrounding areas!!! (It is a stunning John Romita Jr drawing.) However, when the smoke clears, the Beyonder stands up completely unhurt, having contained her blast to just a small section of the island. It did virtually zero damage. Rachel continues to blast at her cosmic foe, with no reaction.

The Beyonder has dark hair, and white, baggy pants which were the rage in the mid-1980s (think Miami Vice.) He does not look or act like any cosmic villain, at all. Rachel and the Beyonder have words, and he then alters time/space. Rachel finds herself *seeing* images from her nightmarish "Days of Future Past" world. She sees Franklin Richards killed. As well as the few remaining X-Men members (scenes taken from Uncanny X-Men #141-142.) Rachel also learns Katherine Pryde was apparently, killed by the Nimrod Sentinel, after Katherine whisked her to the past. (Detailed in UXM #192.) This past. The past of this issue. Rachel is grief-stricken again, and falls to her knees. The Beyonder now gives her a taste of his cosmic power, enough to murder him. She can now choose: kill him, or save her fellow X-Men. At that precise moment, the Blackbird comes screeching in the sky, in danger. The X-Men have arrived!! Suddenly, Sentinels emerge all over San Francisco and the Bay, and begin battling our mutants!!

A wild and intoxicating battle fills up the rest of #202, with X-Men battling these Sentinels from the future. I liked the interesting ways writer Chris Claremont comes up with in destroying & stopping this latest round of Sentinels. In the end, after many cliffhanger moments, the X-Men's stand victorious over the Sentinels, and start cleaning up Frisco from all the damage. The Beyonder still remains on the prison-island of Alcatraz. Rachel returns to him and says she hopes he's satisfyed. Rachel chose saving her friends, over destroying him & possibly saving Earth. Rachel slaps his face, and says she feels like a toy, a puppet. She says the only thing he seems capable of---is HARM! And she flies away.

My thoughts: Another high quality story. It seems Claremont utilizes the Beyonder as a catalyst to showcase the mutants' weaknesses. Specifically with Rachel Summers and Illyana Rasputin, who are the 2 he keeps coming back to. The Beyonder really does very little in these issues, he sets things into motion, then sits back and watches the fireworks. Again, Rachel is confronted with her horrific future, but seems impotent to change it. Or in dealing with the Beyonder. However, she chose to save her friends, than destroy him. I think she made the right choice. I must admit, I LOVE seeing the classic Phoenix power-signature back in this book, and had missed it. I also felt this was one of Romita's best art jobs so far.

[limerick]

Re:Magneto using Cerebro.

There are 2 possible explanations I can think of.
1.Magneto altered Cerebro so it could be used via his Magnetic powers.I don't think scientifically this would be a huge leap.
2.In the very early issues of the X-men Magneto had shown limited telepathic powers.I can think of him "Astral projecting" to observe the Sub-mariner in issue #6.I think he is referred to in the editorial comment at about that time as "the world's 2nd most powerful telepath."Also,did he track down the Stranger in a similar way.Although not referred to for years perhaps he has enough telepathic power to operate Cerebro.

[Nevets F]

Re:Magneto using Cerebro.

There are 2 possible explanations I can think of.
1.Magneto altered Cerebro so it could be used via his Magnetic powers.I don't think scientifically this would be a huge leap.
2.In the very early issues of the X-men Magneto had shown limited telepathic powers.I can think of him "Astral projecting" to observe the Sub-mariner in issue #6.I think he is referred to in the editorial comment at about that time as "the world's 2nd most powerful telepath."Also,did he track down the Stranger in a similar way.Although not referred to for years perhaps he has enough telepathic power to operate Cerebro.

I think number one is the situation...I am guessing.

I remember reading that issue with Namor and being totally baffled with the telepathy, lol.

David, I too am so happy to see the Phoenix image back. I really enjoy Rachel regardless, but love the image.

[worstblogever]

Pimpslapping the Beyonder isn't something many Marvel characters can brag about. +1 point for Rachel. Actually, +2, since the Beyonder deserved it for wearing ugly pants.

This is honestly a great stand alone issue (you really need to have just heard about DoFP and the Beyonder to get it), and ties into Secret Wars fairly well. Romita's art is top notch.

[david r]

I chose #1 as the explanation, for how Magneto uses Cerebro. It makes the most sense. I don't really buy he's the "second best telepath"---we'd see him use it way more often.

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/pages//97792366288.202.P1.GIF

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/pages//97792366288.202.P3.GIF

[Darkchylde]

I chose #1 as the explanation, for how Magneto uses Cerebro. It makes the most sense. I don't really buy he's the "second best telepath"---we'd see him use it way more often.

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/pages//97792366288.202.P1.GIF

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/pages//97792366288.202.P3.GIF


Love that image, David R. Haven't read this story in ages, so it's good to see some of that old artwork. And I love Rachel as Phoenix. Back in the days before the Phoenix/Jean mythology turned into a hot mess, it really was a natural progression for Rachel to tap into her latent potential and assume her mother's identity.

Additionally, regarding Magneto: I could be wrong, but I thought it'd been established years ago that Magneto has latent psychic abilities. He may not be able to read minds like Xavier or Jean Grey can, but he has been able to enter the Astral Plane (didn't he? Or am I making that up?), such as when he fought the Shadow King (in a battle that was alluded to but never touched on).

[ExodusCloak]

http://img179.imageshack.us/my.php?image=hy3pg220vm.jpg
http://img258.imageshack.us/my.php?image=hy04pg043ze.jpg

Latent Telepathy
http://img129.imageshack.us/img129/6831/secretwars00513ct8.th.jpg (http://img129.imageshack.us/my.php?image=secretwars00513ct8.jpg)http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/7660/secretwars00514tu6.th.jpg (http://img291.imageshack.us/my.php?image=secretwars00514tu6.jpg)

A scan of him using telepathy:

http://img161.imageshack.us/img161/1174/uncannyxmen007pg08wv9.th.jpg (http://img161.imageshack.us/my.php?image=uncannyxmen007pg08wv9.jpg)http://img109.imageshack.us/img109/8620/masterworks07152mf6.th.jpg (http://img109.imageshack.us/my.php?image=masterworks07152mf6.jpg)

[ExodusCloak]

Astral Projection
http://img93.imageshack.us/img93/4841/ucxm00604bd2.th.jpg (http://img93.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ucxm00604bd2.jpg)http://img161.imageshack.us/img161/9981/ucxm00605uf6.th.jpg (http://img161.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ucxm00605uf6.jpg)
http://img48.imageshack.us/img48/9188/ucxm00606us4.th.jpg (http://img48.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ucxm00606us4.jpg)http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/4846/ucxm00607bi6.th.jpg (http://img179.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ucxm00607bi6.jpg).

[david r]

Darkchylde, Yes I like Rachel Summers becoming Phoenix, as well. I think it is her destiny. I also think Chris Claremont wanted the Phoenix back in the book. Phoenix had become such a staple here during the 1970s, and then it was gone. Rachel was a way to bring it back.....without Jean Grey.

ExodusCloak, Nice artwork. So it's confirmed Magneto has psychic abilities. This would also explain why Charles Xavier's telepathic powers never worked on the Master of Magnetism!!

Here are more pictures to brighten your Sunday:

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/pages//97792366288.200.P1.GIF

Magneto's sordid past:

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/pages//97792366288.200.P2.GIF

The page below introduces Sir James Jaspers to the X-Men's world. This is preceding Magneto's Paris trial. I like how intense Gabrielle Haller's eyes look, with wrinkles to show her years, but very dark and beautiful. She is Israeli and I think she was patterned after Golda Meir.

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/pages//97792366288.200.P3.GIF

[Cub]

I'm really glad they kind of nixed Magneto's telepathic abilities. I'm fine with him being naturally resistant to telepathy, and maybe a bit empathic, but first of all, there are already entirely too many telepaths running around. And secondly, Magneto is already ridicuously powerful without extra gifts, which don't even really fall into his power set.

[CJ Lentze]

The page below introduces Sir James Jaspers to the X-Men's world. This is preceding Magneto's Paris trial. I like how intense Gabrielle Haller's eyes look, with wrinkles to show her years, but very dark and beautiful. She is Israeli and I think she was patterned after Golda Meir.

http://image.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/pages//97792366288.200.P3.GIFWhen I read this issue for the first time, I got all excited when it said "Normally, the world court sits in the Hague..." and then it was quite a downer when it continued "but since this is a (...) it was decided to shift venues from the Netherlands to Paris..."

It's really a pity that DDM isn't around for these issues, because they're among his personal favourites.

I must admit, I LOVE seeing the classic Phoenix power-signature back in this book, and had missed it.david, don't you think Rachel's look as Phoenix is wholly unique and singular? Some people say that it gives Rachel an androgynous look, but I would say it has a gender-neutral look. Also, it makes her look 'abstract' somehow, if that makes sense, where Jean's costume actually resembled clothes (with the sash and the gloves/boots), Rachel's costume seems to touch closer to Phoenix as a concept, to what it represents in the intangible world. It's as though they took the Phoenix image of Jean's costume and just wrapped it around Rachel.

I think that makes it all the more curious that Rachel -much more than Jean (who wasn't really Jean at all, as is being told in concurrent pages of X-Factor now)- seems to follow her instincts and is grounded in the physical world. She chose to stand for what Phoenix represents in the universe (protection and safeguarding of life, no matter what), but she is still led by feelings of revenge and rage. It's all because her time in emprisonment and slavery and all the death she's seen have warped her, and it leaves a mark on her early Phoenix days here. It becomes more apparent/outrageous in the next issue.

[david r]

When I read this issue for the first time, I got all excited when it said "Normally, the world court sits in the Hague..." and then it was quite a downer when it continued "but since this is a (...) it was decided to shift venues from the Netherlands to Paris..."

I wonder Marvel moved the world court from the Netherlands to Paris? It does seem odd; I know the X-Men creative team travelled to Paris to sight-see and get prepped for UXM #200.....so Hague wasn't scenic enough for them?

It's really a pity that DDM isn't around for these issues, because they're among his personal favourites.

DDM is still here in spirit.

david, don't you think Rachel's look as Phoenix is wholly unique and singular?

Oh my yes I love Rachel's look as Phoenix! Just as you described she has her own distinctive Phoenix costume and appearance. I like the fact they DID NOT just simply replicate Jean Grey's Phoenix costume, but gave Rachel her own original look. And it's unlike anything else in comics.

where Jean's costume actually resembled clothes (with the sash and the gloves/boots), Rachel's costume seems to touch closer to Phoenix as a concept, to what it represents in the intangible world. It's as though they took the Phoenix image of Jean's costume and just wrapped it around Rachel.

That is an apt way to describe Rachel's new look; it looks like the clothes actually are apart of her. And I like the Hound scars still remain on her face, yet changed by the Phoenix. I wonder if those marks have a deeper meaning?

She chose to stand for what Phoenix represents in the universe (protection and safeguarding of life, no matter what), but she is still led by feelings of revenge and rage. It's all because her time in emprisonment and slavery and all the death she's seen have warped her, and it leaves a mark on her early Phoenix days here. It becomes more apparent/outrageous in the next issue.

I think Rachel is torn by several things, especially her horrific past (our future) where she was forced to hunt down and kill her fellow mutants. Just think about that---she killed mutants. That would be hard to deal with. Plus, she is driven to end her mother's curse as Phoenix. Rachel feels driven to make the Phoenix a force for good, and make up for the destruction her mother caused. Rachel is very complex, and I like that in comics characters.

[limerick]

Is DDM okay?

[Nevets F]

Is DDM okay?

I think he just got angry and left. He was spoiling things and didn't appreciate people telling him to stop.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/97792366288.203.GIF

Uncanny X-Men #203

"Crossroads"

A totally classic issue, where Rachel Summers takes matters into her hands...to destroy the Beyonder. The X-Men once again save a universe. And San Francisco is headquarters for the X-Men for a few issues. For the FIRST TIME, actually.

The issue begins with Rogue standing on the Golden Gate Bridge overlooking the gorgeous bay. She is remembering the night she absorbed Ms. Marvel--Carol Danvers' memories and powers. Which still remain with her. I'm glad this is mentioned as it isn't touched upon that often lately. Rogue recalls hoisting Ms. Marvel's body and throwing it off the bridge (which surely would have killed her.) I didn't know Rogue could be so cruel. :frown: Rogue returns to the home of Jessica Drew, where the X-Men are staying. She finds Kitty Pryde on the lawn. Kitty suddenly gains the Soulsword and eldritch armor which is owned by her bestfriend, Illyana Rasputin. Kitty is shocked!! Rogue says she has no memory of an Illyana! Colossus has NO SISTER! Kitty realizes her friend, and the New Mutants, have been erased from existence!!! Rachel Summers appears on the doorstep, in her full Phoenix look. She seems to remember them, and plans to do something about it. Namely, gain the spirit and "essence" of the X-Men, to be used to find and destroy the Beyonder for good. Kitty gives herself to Rachel. Rogue hesitates, but ultimately, she and Carol Danvers give their life force to Phoenix.

Rachel then walks from room to room, gaining the essences of her fellow X-Men. ( Nightcrawler is absent.) In a not-very-nice moment, Rachel TAKES Storm's essence, against her will. Rachel then transforms into the Phoenix-bird, and takes to the sky. She flies beyond our earthly realm and enters space. In the blink of an eye, Phoenix is out of the solar system. The Milky Way soon far behind her. The Starjammer ship soon picks up Phoenix's power signature, and Charles Xavier is summoned. Rachel speaks to him telepathically, and says she has no mercy within her! I think she takes Xavier, Lilandra and the Starjammer's essences as well. Rachel lands on the "world with no name" (last seen in Uncanny X-Men #108.) She easily knocks out little Jahf, protector of the M'Kraan Crystal, and enters it. Rachel and the X-Men materialize inside the M'Kraan Crystal. Rachel means to draw out of the power within the Crystal, and destroy their entire universe!! In the hopes of kill the Beyonder. Storm stands forth and tells Rachel she cannot, must not, do this. Rachel says they all helped her mother before. But Storm replies that was to save the universe, not destroy it. Phoenix says she won't be stopped, by anyone.

Rachel enters the core of the M'Kraan, a Neutron Galaxy, the ultimate black hole. Her power becomes limitless, and she touches upon every little mind in the universe!! Rachel touches each one of them, their hopes, terrors, loves, fears, their dreams. All they are and ever hope to be. Rachel hears Ororo's voice say:

Storm says: You see, TRULY SEE, what you intend? To kill, Rachel--not the cosmos, but PEOPLE. Living beings who know nothing of Phoenix. Nor the cause she champions. Nor the rationale she uses to justify their unwitting, unwilling sacrifice. Behold each individual--unique and special, because it has been granted the supreme gift, LIFE!
Weigh that life in the balance. Can you slay each one? Steal away that gift? That is whta this is all about--will you be their executioner? You face the ultimate choice. The ultimate test--as your mother did before you-now, MAKE IT!"

The next page shows Rachel and Storm holding each other, back on Earth and in San Francisco. Rachel couldn't do it. The universe is saved. At least, from them. The Beyonder remains. Rachel restored all the "borrowed" life essences and sent them back home. The X-Men question whether what they've done is right. Then, in a blinding light......the Beyonder appears, floating above them! He is disappointed in them. The One from Beyond seems a trifle irritated. He plans to end their lives now, and hopes they go down swinging. But it is Kitty Pryde and Rachel who save them all. Kitty points out how cruel he is; how they are mere toys to him. Rachel Summers says from now, she stands for LIFE. The Beyonder goes to retake the cosmic power he "loaned" Phoenix. But Rachel hits him with far more, sending tremendous levels of her own power into him! He becomes one with every mind that Rachel recently touched upon. The Beyonder is shocked and falls to the grass below. He seems changed by this, and says he is afraid of death. Wolverine points out all human life is framed by the shadow of death. If you understand that, then you come closer to being "human". The Beyonder absorbs this information, and says he almost "envies" them their humanity. He disappears. And the X-Men stand triumphant. Though Kitty realizes the New Mutants still do not exist, and only she remembers them.

My thoughts: A powerful issue, with the ultimate confrontation with the "One from Beyond". Perhaps the best Secret Wars II crossover they did. I was floored by Rachel-Phoenix and what she does in this issue. This time, the X-Men STOP Phoenix within the M'Kraan Crystal. Specifically, Storm rises to the occasion, and proves her worth to the team, even without super-powers. A hugely memorable moment. It was like from Uncanny X-Men #65, when Professor X tapped into every Earthly mind to stop the Z'Nox. Only here, Rachel taps into every living mind in the known universe!! Makes me realize how powerful she really is! I especially liked the sequence within the M'Kraan Crystal and how John Romita Jr depicted it. Very cosmic and otherworldly. I liked the outline of Rachel-showing her "Good side" and evilishly grinning "Evil side". A portent of things to come?? And if you take UXM #106-108, Dark Phoenix Saga and UXM #203 together as a common thread, this is a all masterwork!

[Imraith Nimphais]

Yes...another truly "stand out " issue...it underscores the absolute power of knowledge...up to that point the Beyonder was completely clueless, existing in a vacuum as it were, until Young Phoenix opened his eyes and mind to the universe...wot also impressed me about this issue is Storm's "voice of reason" her depth of understanding of wot Rachel intended and the repercussion had she been "brave" enough to see it through...that one page exemplifies to a large extent "who" she is and "why" she is/was the leader of the X-men.

[CJ Lentze]

I think Rachel is torn by several things, especially her horrific past (our future) where she was forced to hunt down and kill her fellow mutants. Just think about that---she killed mutants. That would be hard to deal with. Plus, she is driven to end her mother's curse as Phoenix. Rachel feels driven to make the Phoenix a force for good, and make up for the destruction her mother caused.I hadn't even considered that these two things press on her mind from two sides like a vice (I had always considered them separately). That's a great burden, living up to her potential as Phoenix (not just because of Dark Phoenix, but also because her mother [ignore retcon, Ray doesn't know yet] HAD saved the universe once); adding to her guilt about her past.Rogue recalls hoisting Ms. Marvel's body and throwing it off the bridge (which surely would have killed her.) I didn't know Rogue could be so cruel. :frown:I don't know that this can be ascribed to cruelty on Rogue's part; it was the heat of battle, and Rogue was a young member of a group of crooks. Very much like a young gang member in real life, Rogue wouldn't have considered the feelings of her opponent during the fight. All that mattered was coming out alive, and once she had won the battle, getting rid of the body was a cold part of it. Especially since Rogue was fueled by the anger over a previous (untold) battle with Ms. Marvel, and her mind was in flux after absorbing Carol's psyche. She didn't know what was happening to her, she was panicking, and she thought that killing Carol might make the voices stop.
I, too, liked that detailed flashback at the beginning of this issue, because it highlighted Rogue's feelings about what she had done again.

I also really love the cover of this issue. Nicely drawn, and the blurb "Phoenix versus the Beyonder! The universe isn't big enough for the both of them." That's promising the spectacular.

What happened in the M'Kraan Crystal this time around is stupefying in several ways, and not all positive, mind. I think this is the first time an X-Man has tried a stunt of this flavour (while fighting on the side of the good guys), I had to let it sink in: Rachel Summers intended to destroy the universe.

But you must understand where Rachel is coming from; the world she has known is one of despair, slaughter, atrocities, oppression. She is used to skulking around while giant robots and mutant haters are watching everywhere. Her reasoning is that she might as well erase the world (so as to destroy the Beyonder) and have it replaced with a new one, because she's used to the notion that the world sucks. And now that she's in the past, she looks around and sees that racism, war, poverty, still abound, and maybe she figures it might be heading to a dystopia similar to the one she comes from. (It's very Earth-centric thinking, and not considering the rest of the universe.)wot also impressed me about this issue is Storm's "voice of reason" her depth of understanding of wot Rachel intended and the repercussion had she been "brave" enough to see it through...that one page exemplifies to a large extent "who" she is and "why" she is/was the leader of the X-men.Very well put. What Storm does here, is remind Rachel that she'd not simply be snuffing out 'a universe', she'd be snuffing out gazillions of individuals, who each have their own lives, feelings, dreams. It's those individuals that the villains forget when they are taking hostages or threatening crowds, it's those same individuals heroes should consider when they're dealing with bystanders. In this issue, the bystanders were the population of the entire universe. It is great to see that Storm is gentle to Rachel once they've returned to Earth.

Imraith Nimphais, I back you on what you said about the Beyonder's eyes being opened in turn (after Rachel's), which was done by all the X-Men; I especially like the words Kitty had to say to him.

[CJ Lentze]

I hear a lot of positive words about Ms. Rachel Summers from the posters in this thread who read the issues as they came out... There's just a little something I was wondering: was Rachel well received or not with the majority of X-Men readers back then? When I read these stories as back issues, I always figured that Ray would not be much liked by some. She is very angsty, she is prone to rash actions and incalculable behaviour, her power set and codename are identical to the much-loved (and for a while, missed) Jean Grey... I don't know much about the feedback surrounding her character because the fan letters in response to issues 201-209 were not printed because the letters pages had fallen behind a year, and the readers were complaining about that.

I read one letter where a reader said they were skeptical about Rachel as Phoenix, and (slightly) upset about what she said to Phil the student when Magneto told her to stand down ('puny, pathetic human').



EDIT: For the record, I do like Uncanny X-Men 203 very much, and Rachel's part in it. To quote KiplingKat, just because you like a character, doesn't mean you always have to agree with them.

[Nevets F]

I hear a lot of positive words about Ms. Rachel Summers from the posters in this thread who read the issues as they came out... There's just a little something I was wondering: was Rachel well received or not with the majority of X-Men readers back then? When I read these stories as back issues, I always figured that Ray would not be much liked by some. She is very angsty, she is prone to rash actions and incalculable behaviour, her power set and codename are identical to the much-loved (and for a while, missed) Jean Grey... I don't know much about the feedback surrounding her character because the fan letters in response to issues 201-209 were not printed because the letters pages had fallen behind a year, and the readers were complaining about that.

I read one letter where a reader said they were skeptical about Rachel as Phoenix, and (slightly) upset about what she said to Phil the student when Magneto told her to stand down ('puny, pathetic human').



EDIT: For the record, I do like Uncanny X-Men 203 very much, and Rachel's part in it. To quote KiplingKat, just because you like a character, doesn't mean you always have to agree with them.

You know, I would also love to know how people felt about her back then. I love Rachel, and around these boards that is not very popular, lol.

[Imraith Nimphais]

Truth to tell...I loved Rachel the moment she showed up at the mansion's gates in NM 18...(it also helped that Bill S. drew that issue)...I was hooked on the complexity of her situation, that her past was just one of our futures...I loved that she had such great (power) potential because of who she was, who her parents were...her angst was a result of where she came from, wot she endured, wot she was forced to do...(very much like Illyana)...under CC's pen, she was quite interesting and "real", much like all the characters he wrote at the time...and to top it off, she is a red-head...:-))...imo, she was only made to take a back-seat because the original "fiery" red-head was back in the picture and when Rachael re-emerged I think CC did not know wot the heck to do with her...and it showed...even to this day, the writers still don't really have a focus and direction for the character...pity.

[david r]

Imraith Nimphais, I liked how Storm acted in #203, just as you said. She proved her worth, a thousandfold, standing up to Rachel "Phoenix" Summers. It must have taken guts to stand up to a God. And Ororo did it. (BTW, why do you like Rachel being a "red-head"?)

Schuimend Mormel, I enjoy your giant posts! Yes, a great cover! And the promise of the cover is actually fulfilled in the story! This was a truly cosmic, awe-inspiring tale. And just like you, I was taken aback somewhat that young Rachel was willing to destroy the entire multiverse, just to stop the Beyonder. It's fascinating how you pointed out Rachel's darker way of looking at life. Imagine someone with that mindset, and then you give them the awesome scope of the Phoenix Force. That might NOT be a good combination.

Onto whether 1980s fans warmed up to Rachel Summers....good question. I think they liked her well enough. I'm sure her attaining the Phoenix monicker was a hot topic. Rachel has an intricate life & history, which may have turned off some X-fans. Honestly, it seems this time-period was caught up with Storm/Wolverine/Magneto mostly. They were the ones most fans were gravitating towards (I think.). And a select few fans gravitated towards Rachel Summers. I believe her popularity increased with Excalibur.

I suspect Chris Claremont had a LOT of plans for Rachel. Jean Grey's return in 1986 changed that greatly.

[Cub]

The first time i read this issue, I didn't get it. All I saw was Rachel wanting to make the choice to kill the universe. It made me feel weird, so I put it away. Plus, I wasn't really feeling the inker. It looks like he used a marker that was running out.

Now, however, I love this story. I love how Rachel, on one hand, only wants to be accepted by her friends and family, to finally find security after a lifetime of insanity and cruelty. But, at the same time, the life she has lived, and the power that she possesses, will always set her apart. The idea of destroying the universe sounds, of course, ridiculous to a normal human. But Rachel isn't a normal human, or even a normal mutant. She's like a celestial being. She has to view concepts like this on a grander scale than the regular human race. The fact that she ultimately does choose her humanity is very telling, as is the fact that she has never been corrupted by the power of the Phoenix. Rachel, even before the Phoenix force entered her life, was constantly confronted with the dark aspect of her personality and powers, and has been strong enough to overcome it. Love her. Can't wait till she gets a bit sassy in Excalibur

[david r]

as is the fact that she has never been corrupted by the power of the Phoenix.

I highlighted this section, because I've been wondering this. Why won't the Phoenix power corrupt Rachel Summers, just like it did her mother? Seems to me the same human urge for power would have the same effect on Rachel, as Jean? So why has this not ever happened?

[david r]

Halloween X-Men:

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c306/maigen_rc/halloweenx.jpg

[Darkchylde]

I highlighted this section, because I've been wondering this. Why won't the Phoenix power corrupt Rachel Summers, just like it did her mother? Seems to me the same human urge for power would have the same effect on Rachel, as Jean? So why has this not ever happened?

Purely speculative on my part, but I think the reason (or part of the reason) why Rachel remained mostly unchanged by her role as Phoenix is because of the atrocities she endured (and committed) in her future timeline. That may have fortified her resolve to make amends in some way; it may also have strengthened her will so that her powers would be tempered with her humaity. Remember, the one constant in Rachel's time with the X-Men (and by extension, with Excalibur) was to atone for both her sins and the sins of Jean Grey. By claiming the mantle of Phoenix (and I'm of the fan base that preferred Claremont's original idea that Jean Grey WAS Phoenix, and that Rachel tapped into her own latent psychic potential to adopt the codename and imagery for herself - none of this "Phoenix Force" nonsense), Rachel intended to use her might as a force for good.

[david r]

But Darkchylde, if Jean Grey WAS Phoenix, and there's no cosmic entity involved, how do you explain Claremont/Byrne's original plan for Dark Phoenix? Namely, that the Phoenix would be expunged from Jean Grey. And she could go on living, free of it and not guilty of the crimes it committed. That wouldn't be possible if Phoenix was 100% Jean Grey all along, would it? :confused:

[Darkchylde]

But Darkchylde, if Jean Grey WAS Phoenix, and there's no cosmic entity involved, how do you explain Claremont/Byrne's original plan for Dark Phoenix? Namely, that the Phoenix would be expunged from Jean Grey. And she could go on living, free of it and not guilty of the crimes it committed. That wouldn't be possible if Phoenix was 100% Jean Grey all along, would it? :confused:

I get what you're saying, David R., but I think you might have misunderstood what I wrote awhile back about Phoenix/Jean and Claremont's plans for her. What was originally meant to happen, before it was decided Jean Grey would die at the end of the "Dark Phoenix Saga," is that she and the X-Men would lose the battle with the Sh'iar; the punishment would be a psychic lobotomy of Jean Grey, effectively removing her psychic abilities (which were the source of Jean Grey's Phoenix powers - they were the ultimate manifestation of Jean's psychic power) and ending the threat of Dark Phoenix, NOT severing her connection to a cosmic being. Keep in mind that Claremont intended for Jean to BE Phoenix; her transformation from Jean Grey to Phoenix to Dark Phoenix was a natural progression of her character because she couldn't completely cope with the awesome power she now possessed. In his original story, there was no "Phoenix Force" that corrupted Jean. Jean WAS Phoenix the same way Ororo Munroe is Storm; it's an identity she adopted, one that, because of the expression of her powers (as a bird-like energy construct) and the circumstances in which she became Phoenix (she died on the space shuttle, then reformed herself after the shuttle crashed, essentially rising from the ashes like a mythical phoenix), she chose deliberately.

In any case, Jean would have been lobotomized, yet alive, and returned to Earth with the X-Men. The lobotomy would have left her human - i.e. no powers at all - and unable to tap into her potential. Supposedly, Claremont was going to have Magneto offer to restore Jean's psychic abilities in Uncanny X-Men # 150, and Jean would have been faced with the choice of having her powers reactivated, knowing that she would have access to the power she once wielded.

Personally, I think the Phoenix/Jean concept has become too muddied over the years, and I prefer the original idea that Jean was a mutant with limitless potential who took the codename Phoenix.

[david r]

Thank you, Darkchylde. Don't be upset with me, but this whole time, I've assumed the Phoenix was a separate universal force. That's just the way I've understood it. Especially since it first appeared when Jean Grey was in outer space (in Uncanny X-Men #100-101. ) I assumed the Phoenix Force "contacted" Jean on the space shuttle. So I guess I was presuming and had it wrong.

I never realized there were different opposing views on this subject. I'd always taken it that Phoenix and Jean Grey were ultimately, 2 separate beings. I know Dave Cockrum & Chris Claremont planned it to be uber-Jean, but I always thought by the Dark Phoenix era, they had changed it so Jean was possessed by a cosmic force. (I think John Byrne considers Phoenix a cosmic entity.) This gets more & more interesting as it goes along.

[limerick]

I get what you're saying, David R., but I think you might have misunderstood what I wrote awhile back about Phoenix/Jean and Claremont's plans for her. What was originally meant to happen, before it was decided Jean Grey would die at the end of the "Dark Phoenix Saga," is that she and the X-Men would lose the battle with the Sh'iar; the punishment would be a psychic lobotomy of Jean Grey, effectively removing her psychic abilities (which were the source of Jean Grey's Phoenix powers - they were the ultimate manifestation of Jean's psychic power) and ending the threat of Dark Phoenix, NOT severing her connection to a cosmic being. Keep in mind that Claremont intended for Jean to BE Phoenix; her transformation from Jean Grey to Phoenix to Dark Phoenix was a natural progression of her character because she couldn't completely cope with the awesome power she now possessed. In his original story, there was no "Phoenix Force" that corrupted Jean. Jean WAS Phoenix the same way Ororo Munroe is Storm; it's an identity she adopted, one that, because of the expression of her powers (as a bird-like energy construct) and the circumstances in which she became Phoenix (she died on the space shuttle, then reformed herself after the shuttle crashed, essentially rising from the ashes like a mythical phoenix), she chose deliberately.

In any case, Jean would have been lobotomized, yet alive, and returned to Earth with the X-Men. The lobotomy would have left her human - i.e. no powers at all - and unable to tap into her potential. Supposedly, Claremont was going to have Magneto offer to restore Jean's psychic abilities in Uncanny X-Men # 150, and Jean would have been faced with the choice of having her powers reactivated, knowing that she would have access to the power she once wielded.

Personally, I think the Phoenix/Jean concept has become too muddied over the years, and I prefer the original idea that Jean was a mutant with limitless potential who took the codename Phoenix.
Eureka!You've summed it up brilliantly,Darkchylde.Thanks for finally explainin the Pheonix fiasco clearly---I had forgotten that the "Pheonix entity" was only created as a retcon and that the original Pheonix(as in the Pheonix #101-#137) was in fact just the ultimate expression of Jeans mutant powers i.e.-the shuttle accident forced her powers to supercharge to their ultimate expression.Again,thanks for clearing that up as it explains claerly Claremonts original plans i.e.circa #150

[Darkchylde]

Thank you, Darkchylde. Don't be upset with me, but this whole time, I've assumed the Phoenix was a separate universal force. That's just the way I've understood it. Especially since it first appeared when Jean Grey was in outer space (in Uncanny X-Men #100-101. ) I assumed the Phoenix Force "contacted" Jean on the space shuttle. So I guess I was presuming and had it wrong.

I never realized there were different opposing views on this subject. I'd always taken it that Phoenix and Jean Grey were ultimately, 2 separate beings. I know Dave Cockrum & Chris Claremont planned it to be uber-Jean, but I always thought by the Dark Phoenix era, they had changed it so Jean was possessed by a cosmic force. (I think John Byrne considers Phoenix a cosmic entity.) This gets more & more interesting as it goes along.

Oh, I'm not upset at all :tongue: But yeah, Claremont always intended Jean and Phoenix to be the same person. Phoenix was meant to be the ultimate manifestation of Jean's powers, and the more she used them, the more she became corrupted by them. It wasn't until the start of X-Factor that the concept of the Phoenix Force was invented, to a) bring back Jean Grey; and b) absolve her of the crimes she committed as Dark Phoenix. By saying it was a cosmic entity (the Phoenix Force) that assumed Jean's identity, Jean could not be held accountable for "her" actions.

[limerick]

Thank you, Darkchylde. Don't be upset with me, but this whole time, I've assumed the Phoenix was a separate universal force. That's just the way I've understood it. Especially since it first appeared when Jean Grey was in outer space (in Uncanny X-Men #100-101. ) I assumed the Phoenix Force "contacted" Jean on the space shuttle. So I guess I was presuming and had it wrong.

I never realized there were different opposing views on this subject. I'd always taken it that Phoenix and Jean Grey were ultimately, 2 separate beings. I know Dave Cockrum & Chris Claremont planned it to be uber-Jean, but I always thought by the Dark Phoenix era, they had changed it so Jean was possessed by a cosmic force. (I think John Byrne considers Phoenix a cosmic entity.) This gets more & more interesting as it goes along.
David,similarly to you I had been assuming Pheonix was a seperate entity to Jean but thats only because of the retcon.As Darkchylde explains the way the Dark Pheonix saga was originally told was with Pheonix as a supercharged Jean.

[Henry T.]

The Phoenix/Jean situation is complicated.

Originally Phoenix was simply a super-charged Jean. The solar radiation tore through her psychic shields allowing her to achieve her full potential as a psi.

This was explained in Uncanny X-Men #125

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/Phoenix1-1.jpg

When Dark Phoenix/Jean fought Xavier they actually reference that it was because Xavier had put blocks in Jean's mind that she reached her potential too fast on the shuttle thus creating Phoenix.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/xmtdps145kq5.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/xmtdps146so2.jpg

But in Uncanny #137 they say that Jean had become One with a force of passion.

Fantastic Four #286 says that the Phoenix Force took Jean's form and absorbed a portion of her consciousness and put Jean's body in a cocoon.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/2007-09-17_050554_13.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/2007-09-17_050524_12.jpg

Classic X-Men #8 says that the Phoenix Force's form, consciousness and ability to speak are derived from Jean. The Phoenix body was a shell for Jean and that she and the Force grasp hands and become One. Most of Jean is transferred to the Phoenix body with a spark of her consciousness left in the old body. Jean herself puts her original body in the cocoon just in case she needs it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/classic8-35.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/classic8-36.jpg

Classic X-Men #42 depicts the Phoenix as a subconscious aspect of 12 year old Jean's mind.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/CLSSC421.jpg

Classic X-Men #43 has Death tell Jean that her spirit is most closely carved from the Phoenix and that it is her unique ability to wield it and it will one day come to her children too.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/000305yr.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/00031tsd.jpg

Of course in X-Factor Jean had mysterious Phoenix Effect manifestations like in X-Factor #6 and Marvel Comics Presents #15...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/scan0066.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v40/newmsgt/scan0069.jpg

And of course there would be more raptor effects, interactions with the Phoenix Force, and other definitions of the Phoenix and its relationship to Jean and Rachel but those are too far ahead in the future for this thread right now.

[david r]

Henry T, Darkchylde and everyone, thank you for all these responses. I guess I had not known the full extent to the intricate and detailed views on Phoenix. Those scans and links are great. It's all cleared it up greatly. (I even bought Classic X-Men #8 recently to get yet another viewpoint on the Jean/Phoenix issue.)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

[david r]

I've been thinking about Magneto lately. Storm and Wolverine had both gone through major transformations of their character during the 1980s, and it flowed very seamlessly and you could follow a linear path for them. It doesn't seem to me, reading all these issues like I am, that Magneto flows quite so seamlessly.

What I mean is, I'm reading Magneto as Headmaster of the School now, over in New Mutants, and he's wearing a suit-and-tie and being very respectable and responsible. And yet......there seems to be something missing with his growth from arch-villain/super-madman, to this moral leader I'm reading now. This arc began for him in Uncanny X-Men #150, and then continued in the Graphic Novel God Loves, Man Kills. Then he was gone for a very long time, until Warlock smashed into his Asteroid M in New Mutants #21, where Magneto had been spending a lot of "alone time". I think it was during his sabbatical on Asteroid M that Magneto came to the realization that his current path (as world-dominator) was a failed strategy. I wish that Marvel had shown some of the soul-searching that occured during the many months he stayed on Asteroid M (before Warlock rudely destroyed his heavenly lair and sent Magneto falling back to Earth, barely alive.)

Perhaps even, the destruction of Asteroid M was the final "wake-up" call for the Master of Magnetism and his dreams of "world conquest". Maybe he realized his "Dream" was just as foolish and naive as he always believed Xavier's Dream was. At any rate, the next we see Magneto, he's rescued by Lee Forrester, and they begin a romantic relationship. This was definitely when he started his "return to grace". I just feel there is a key ingredient missing from his story. Seems to me he's become WAY too friendly and gracious, and a piece of the puzzle is missing from his story, that lead him to this state of mind.

[david r]

http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/marveldatabase/images/b/b5/Magneto_002.jpg

[CJ Lentze]

The first time i read this issue, I didn't get it. All I saw was Rachel wanting to make the choice to kill the universe. It made me feel weird, so I put it away. Plus, I wasn't really feeling the inker. It looks like he used a marker that was running out.

Now, however, I love this story. I love how Rachel, on one hand, only wants to be accepted by her friends and family, to finally find security after a lifetime of insanity and cruelty. But, at the same time, the life she has lived, and the power that she possesses, will always set her apart. The idea of destroying the universe sounds, of course, ridiculous to a normal human. But Rachel isn't a normal human, or even a normal mutant. She's like a celestial being. She has to view concepts like this on a grander scale than the regular human race. The fact that she ultimately does choose her humanity is very telling, as is the fact that she has never been corrupted by the power of the Phoenix. Rachel, even before the Phoenix force entered her life, was constantly confronted with the dark aspect of her personality and powers, and has been strong enough to overcome it. Love her. Can't wait till she gets a bit sassy in ExcaliburInteresting. You see Rachel's decision to not destroy the universe after all as a victory, coming from the strength of her personality; I see it as her being discouraged from going through with it, born from a private shame (after she realises what she's doing). You having read more issues of Excalibur than I have, you have a wider perspective on her development throughout the years. If the events in this issue 203 are a lesson for Rachel, I suppose it's a lesson she only learns later on.

[Imraith Nimphais]

David...(since you asked)...I've always found natural red-heads very attractive... from auburn to fiery and all the shades in between...my fascination I think started way back when I first started reading my aunt's Nancy Drew Novels...lol...and ever since, growing up I've always wished that I was a red-head (my wild "punk" teens don't count as that was just bright red hair spray..not the same at all)...now, Brightlady be Praised! I worship at the house of Revlon...lol.

[david r]

Imraith Nimphais reading Nancy Drew books? WHO KNEW??? :biggrin:

[Imraith Nimphais]

Imraith Nimphais reading Nancy Drew books? WHO KNEW??? :biggrin:

HEY!...don't knock the Drew (The Hardy Boys were somewot bland compared)...lololol...early on, I read everything and anything...it was only in my late teens I became more selective in my choice of reading material...and ND, is still some of my favourite stories to this day...:biggrin:

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/57294058176.1.GIF

Nightcrawler #1

"How Much is That Boggie in the Window?"

IT HAD TO HAPPEN!!! The most adorable furry elf of all time gets his own series, at long last! Written/drawn by Nighty's creator, Dave Cockrum, this is a pleasurable romp that brings out the Pirate in Kurt Wagner. It's a fun and innocent adventure, with Nightcrawler taking all the glory!

The issue begins in the Danger Room with Kitty Pryde and Illyana Rasputin in the Control Booth, as adventurerer Nightcrawler is practicing alone. The 2 female X-Men seem to have de-aged a few years, and look no older than they did when Cockrum was last pencilling the book. (Illyana wears a Michael Jackson shirt!) Kurt jumps through hoops and dodges missiles, all without utilizing his awe-inspiring teleporting power. Once the session finishes, Kitty wonders why Kurt doesn't use his teleportation. Kurt recalls once he wasn't able to use it, in a story I am unfamiliar with, taken from Bizarre Adventures #27, in which he was sent to an alien world, via the "Well at the center of time". For some perplexing reason, Kitty decides to program the Danger Room to create a duplicate simulation of this mystery "Well at the Center of Time". Sure enough, a tentacle soon leaps out and snatches the dragon Lockheed. Somehow, defying logic, the Well is working. Nightcrawler leaps forward to save Lockheed, and then there's an explosion!! Kitty & Magik stand alone in the Danger Room!! Kurt, Lockheed and the Well have vanished!

Thus, begins 'crawler's romp on another alien world!! He finds himself on a huge, squid-like creature with tentacles, floating so high in the sky Kurt cannot see the ground. He knows he's on an unknown world. He and Lockheed escape the squid, and teleport to a large, flying craft with massive sails above it, splendidly drawn by Dave Cockrum. Onboard, Kurt finds a ship full of pirates. Lots of "Arrr" to be had. These alien pirates (see cover) think Kurt is something called a Boggie and they attack him. But soon, Kurt befriends them and spends an entire week onboard ship. Kurt gains his own sword, and seems to be a mascot to the pirates. But once the pirates begin firing on another flying craft, Kurt doesn't like this, and takes matters into his hands. He commandeers a shock cannon and fires on his own ship. Thus, the pirates stop firing on and Kurt saves the other ship & the lives onboard. However, his fellow pirates are not happy with this intrusion. They attack him, and he (and Lockheed) teleport away to the other ailing craft.

This new crew (who look human, but oddly different) thank Kurt for saving them, but don't seem to want his help. Kurt learns this is a royal ship, and meets the princess Jinjav Sabree, but the crew desperately keeps her away from the "Boggie" Nightcrawler. Within hours, this new ship deposits Kurt in the port of Bel Amee' Anora a floating city in the clouds, stunningly drawn by Dave Cockrum!! Kurt wanders the city but eventually wanders back into the vengeanceful pirates, who hold a grudge against him. They knock him senseless, and when Kurt awakens, he's onboard YET ANOTHER floating ship, this time he and Lockheed have been sold...... to a giant shark-like creature!

My thoughts: A delightful side-story focusing on Nightcrawler and sending him on an Errol Flynn-type misadventure. You could almost call it "Nightcrawler & Lockheed" because the dragon plays a supporting role. Dave Cockrum had lost none of his zeal or adventurous spirit, and his love for Kurt & this crazy alien world shine through on every page. The art is quite nice, especially the shot of the port city of Bel Amee' Anora which was my fave panel in #1. Cockrum's plot & dialogue seem a bit dated for the mid-1980s, but still fun. The "Well at the Center of Time" seems absurd, but tongue-in-cheek fun. Paty Cockrum is the colorist. Dave Cockrum gets Wagner's personality spot on right, which is not surprising. I liked all the floating pirate ships and sword-play. I'm not entirely sure where this fits in chronologically, as Kitty & Illyana look like 13 again. But I look forward to more.

[Imraith Nimphais]

OOOOOH!...this sounds like so much fun...and I do like the fuzzy elf...lots!...Nightcrawler's presence always seem to make these adventures more fun and interesting: He was born to swash-buckle, fer damn sure!...(againfor some reason, I never saw this LS on the book shelf...so I completely missed it...is there a Trade available somewhere?)

[Cub]

I love that you're covering this mini, david. It really is a lot of fun, and one of the (unfortunately) few times Kurt gets to show off his potential, until Excalibur. Dave Cockrum really does get Kurt very well, though ive never been a huge fan of his art. Was surprised you included it here, because I just assumed chronologically it came earlier, since, as you mentioned, Kitty looks so much younger. Its definitely before they move to San Francisco though. Still, a nice, lighthearted mini is great before we get back to the really dark regular comic. BTW, are you going to be reviewing the X-Men vs. Fantastic 4, and the X-Men vs. Avengers minis? Both have pretty major storylines for the x-men, and I'd consider them required reading. Where they fall chronologically is slightly confusing though.

[david r]

Imraith Nimphais, Nightcrawler WAS born to swash-buckle! I agree with you there. And this LS captures that part of Kurt Wagner perfectly. (I don't believe a trade paperback exists for Nightcrawler, which is too bad.)

For such an innocent book, I was surprised to see, on Page 11, a picture with a woman's bare, naked breasts!! :eek: Dave Cockrum...you little devil!! :biggrin:

Cub, I've always liked Cockrum's art, though maybe it's too cartoony now. I thought it was great for it's era. As for this limited series, it is very lighthearted, but fun and reminds me of "Kitty's Fairy Tale" from UXM #153.

BTW, are you going to be reviewing the X-Men vs. Fantastic 4, and the X-Men vs. Avengers minis? Both have pretty major storylines for the x-men, and I'd consider them required reading. Where they fall chronologically is slightly confusing though.

I am going to be reading X-Men vs. Fantastic 4. That is a given. I'm not sure about X-Men vs. Avengers mini, I don't know much about it.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/57294058176.2.GIF

Nightcrawler #2

"A Boggie Day in L'un Dun-T'wn"

Avast thee! Heave to and strike y'r colors, me hearties! Give 'em yer broadside!! So says the crazy pirates from this series, as Nightcrawler's amusing solo adventure continues on a dazzling alien world. It's all tongue-in-cheek and childlike, but it brings a smile to your face more than once. :smile:

I believe "L'un Dun-T'wn" is meant to be London. Kurt Wagner and the dragon Lockheed are trapped in another world! A week has passed since they came here, a world where everyone lives on islands floating in the sky!! Kurt has been captured by a shark-like man named Shagreen. The creature uses magic and has "switched off" Nighty's natural teleporting power. Kurt is trapped, chained to a wall in Shagreen's huge fortress. Once Kurt is alone, 3 mystery figures appear in a large mirror across the room. These are the "Boggies, which the reader keeps hearing about. Everybody thinks Kurt is a "Boggie", but he only resembles them. The 3 materialize through the mirror, and all are very short blue creatures that strongly resemble Nightcrawler. They talk awkwardly and Kurt speaks with them. The Boggies wish to go "fastpoof" like Kurt can do, but first, Kurt must defeat Shagreen and his magics before this can happen. Kurt agrees to defeat the sharkman Shagreen if they set him free. The Boggies do, and Kurt & Lockheed head into the fortress to confront Shagreen.

It's "Jaws meets the Wicked Witch of the West", as our 2 hapless heroes are attacked by "Guardians". Two snake statues come to life and attack them. Kurt runs straight into Shagreen's inner sanctum. The shark-baddie is about to sacrifice the princess, Jinjav, introduced in #1. The Guardians utterly destroy the temple, and Kurt rescues the scantilly-clad Jinjav. At that instant, the pirates from #1 have arrived, and begin blasting Shagreen's fortress. Smashing big holes and set the place on fire. Nightcrawler finally realizes Shagreen's magic comes from his staff, and Kurt crushes it. Shagreen's magics are ended; Kurt can now teleport. But the fortress is collapsing around them in fire. Shagreen captures princess Jinjav, and escapes on his floating ship out into the clouds. Kurt teleports after them!

Kurt confronts Shagreen and the 2 begin a madcap sword-fight! Kurt uses three swords, two with his hands, and one with his tail!! They spar and sword thrust all over the ship, finally climbing to the top of the squid that powers the ship. Lockheed shoots fire at the shark-villain, and Shagreen falls off the craft and is lost in the clouds below! Nightcrawler won!! He rescues the beautiful Jinjav and takes her back to her home in the floating city of Bel Amee' Anora. Where her royal family welcome him and thank him kindly. Jinjav seems very "appreciative" and wants to show her rescuer her appreciation......alone! But just as they walk off together, another time-warp appears!! (Kitty and Illyana are back on Earth, trying to rescue Kurt. They cause another timewarp.) It grabs Kurt and Lockheed and send them spinning into unreality again. This time, landing on a planet with, what looks like, a real living Bamf Doll!! It smiles at Kurt and says "Daddy! You've come home!"

My thoughts: Another uproariously fun issue in this cute mini. If you want dark, intense X-Men....uh, this is NOT the book for you. It's sweet and light-hearted, and just what you should read to lighten your day. Kurt wins the girl, but naturally, he loses her. I still like Dave Cockrum's artwork, especially the shots of huge, floating cities in the heavens or massive pirate ships powered by high sails! Kurt finally gets to sword-fight, Errol Flynn-style and utilizes his tail and it's great. You'd never see Marvel put out a book like this now, but I like it for what it is. A great entertainment.

[limerick]

Imraith Nimphais, Nightcrawler WAS born to swash-buckle! I agree with you there. And this LS captures that part of Kurt Wagner perfectly. (I don't believe a trade paperback exists for Nightcrawler, which is too bad.)

For such an innocent book, I was surprised to see, on Page 11, a picture with a woman's bare, naked breasts!! :eek: Dave Cockrum...you little devil!! :biggrin:

Cub, I've always liked Cockrum's art, though maybe it's too cartoony now. I thought it was great for it's era. As for this limited series, it is very lighthearted, but fun and reminds me of "Kitty's Fairy Tale" from UXM #153.



I am going to be reading X-Men vs. Fantastic 4. That is a given. I'm not sure about X-Men vs. Avengers mini, I don't know much about it.
David,the Avengers vs. the X-men mini came out at a very similar time to the vs. Fantastic Four mini.It is very much about Magneto and raises a moral dilemma for him.If I remember rightly the art is poor but the story is quite good.If you decide not to cover it I can provide a storyline overview at the time it occurs chronologically.

re:Nightcrawler's mini.This is a great fun read following on from the Bizarre Adventures story which is quite frnkly BIZARRE!Like everyone else I feel this story occurs a while ago chronologically(circa 160-170?),although as it has zero effect on other events it could fit in anywhere really.I was nevera great fan of Dave Cockrums art but I always felt he nailed Nightcrawler perfectly.I advise anyone who enjoyed X-men #153 to read this as there are plenty of laugh out loud moments.

[CJ Lentze]

According to both uncannyxmen.net and the Marvel Chronology Project, this Nightcrawler limited series takes place somewhere between Kurt's appearances in Uncanny X-Men issues 194 and 196 (though it doesn't happen at the same time as Uncanny X-Men 195, because in that issue, Shadowcat mentions that Nightcrawler is on a mission). But I've only checked these two sources, and it's quite possible that uncannyxmen.net used the Marvel Chronology Project to determine when the mini took place. (The release date of the first issue is 'prox. half a year after Uncanny 194).

How is Lockheed in this mini? Does he get plenty of funny moments? Pairing Nightcrawler with Lockheed sounds novel to me.

[david r]

Limerick, Thanks for that overview of X-Men vs. Avengers. I must admit, I just read Magneto fighting the Avengers in New Mutants and would enjoy a second round. Does Magneto wear his classic "conquering colors", or his purple, helmet-less, uniform?

I appreciate your efforts and Schuimend Mormel's efforts on placing the Nightcrawler mini. :smile: I assumed it was placed here (since Kurt went missing from UXM #203) but I guess I am wrong. But Limerick is right, Kurt's LS could be placed anywhere,really.

As for that brave dragon, Lockheed, he indeed has many novel moments here. Like I posted, this mini could be Nightcrawler & Lockheed, that is how much screen time Kitty's pet gets. Lockheed is always at the opportune moment to save Kurt's hide when 'crawler needs it most! :biggrin: And everytime Kurt "bamfs" somewhere, Lockheed bites his tail so he can tag along. They make a great swashbuckling pair together.

[Imraith Nimphais]

YAY! Nightcrawler!...having never read these, I must say, I am quite enjoying yer reviews David...:-))

[limerick]

Limerick, Thanks for that overview of X-Men vs. Avengers. I must admit, I just read Magneto fighting the Avengers in New Mutants and would enjoy a second round. Does Magneto wear his classic "conquering colors", or his purple, helmet-less, uniform?

I appreciate your efforts and Schuimend Mormel's efforts on placing the Nightcrawler mini. :smile: I assumed it was placed here (since Kurt went missing from UXM #203) but I guess I am wrong. But Limerick is right, Kurt's LS could be placed anywhere,really.

As for that brave dragon, Lockheed, he indeed has many novel moments here. Like I posted, this mini could be Nightcrawler & Lockheed, that is how much screen time Kitty's pet gets. Lockheed is always at the opportune moment to save Kurt's hide when 'crawler needs it most! :biggrin: And everytime Kurt "bamfs" somewhere, Lockheed bites his tail so he can tag along. They make a great swashbuckling pair together.
David,i've dug the X-men vs. the Avengers mini out of storage to refresh my memory.Chronologically it does not occur for another while.The fisrt issue has a cover date of April 1987.So its probably 12-15 issues of Uncanny before these events occur.If you decide not to read it but would like a summary I would be more than happy to do that but it's probably a little early yet.

[limerick]

David,i've dug the X-men vs. the Avengers mini out of storage to refresh my memory.Chronologically it does not occur for another while.The fisrt issue has a cover date of April 1987.So its probably 12-15 issues of Uncanny before these events occur.If you decide not to read it but would like a summary I would be more than happy to do that but it's probably a little early yet.
Briefly summarising without giving anything away this mini explores what happens when Magneto is finally called back to trial.The A vengers come calling for Mags which raises an obvious conflict with the X-men(who have a very changed line-up by now).Magneto is wearing his new uniform but his classic helmet(iconic,i think)is very much involved in the story.Magneto recovers his old helmet from the remains of asteroid x.It contains mind-controlling microchips which magneto faces a moral dilemma over using.Prof X. had previously interferred with this circuitrys use.

The first few issues are so-so but the last is very strong especially the last 7-8 pages which deals with Magnetos moral dilemma and its outcome.

[ExodusCloak]

David I was just wondering whether or not you're going to look over the Classic X-Men issues and backstories? There were some minor changes to the issues eg Instead of Storm controlling Wind in space they changed it so she had a jet pack on her astronaut suit?

The backstories though are pretty cool though.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classic_X-Men

[david r]

Limerick, I will get back to you on summaries for X-Men vs. Avengers. It might be fun to see someone else post some reviews. :smile: Your comments on it make it sound interesting, so we'll see.

ExodusCloak, I'm in a quandary over the Classic X-Men back stories. I've read a few, but missed most of them. The quality on them is high. The problem is, they take place in the past from current continuity. Perhaps I could start a Classic X-Men from the Beginning thread. :confused:

[david r]

http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/marveldatabase/images/1/1c/Nightcrawler_000.jpg

Pirate Nightcrawler, by Dave Cockrum: (Notice Kurt uses three swords!!)

http://comicartfans.com/Images/Category_5594/subcat_10092/DSC00170.JPG

http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/marveldatabase/images/e/e9/Nightcrawler_001.gif

[Valjean999]

David,i've dug the X-men vs. the Avengers mini out of storage to refresh my memory.Chronologically it does not occur for another while.The fisrt issue has a cover date of April 1987.So its probably 12-15 issues of Uncanny before these events occur.

Going by the line-up of the X-Men in this mini, it should take place after #219 (unless my memory is failing me again, which is very possible)

[Imraith Nimphais]

PIRATE KURT (and his three swords) is coolness...and hawtness personified!...I would have myself captured by hooligans and miscreants just for the sheer pleasure (and fun) of being recued by him...I TOTALLY would.

[Cub]

Yeah, that's what I figured, too. Uncanny #219, then the X-Men vs. the Fantastic 4 mini, then the X-Men vs. Avengers mini, then Uncanny #220.

[Valjean999]

Personally, I wasnt impressed with the vs Avengers mini, but I LOVED the vs the FF. Looking forward to the discussions about that one.

But, I am getting ahead of the discussions, I know.

In regards to the Nightcrawler limited series, I am not a fan. It was just a little too silly, for my tastes. I have no problem with light-heartedness every now and again, but this one didnt do it for me.

[Yogaflame]

Originally Phoenix was simply a super-charged Jean. The solar radiation tore through her psychic shields allowing her to achieve her full potential as a psi.



This is the crux of the matter, is it not? However, I have always wondered, why was it that Jean had to fly the shuttle back to earth when, just in the last issue, we learned Storm was mistress of the cosmic storm as well? She could have modulated the solar flare, at the very least to create a protective field of calm around the shuttle with Dr. Corbeau piloting as normal. In this respect, Jean's sacrifise was not the only option and thus, a strange quark is thrown into the plot.

[david r]

Imraith Nimphais, you, Pirate Kurt and Selene all together in a threesome. Wouldn't that be hawtness? :redface:

Cub, Valjean999: Thank you both for where to place the two "X-Men vs..." limited series. That info is always helpful for me, as I'm not always sure where these specials fit in. :smile:

Yogaflame, I can only guess that Storm's weather power would not work in outer space. Or perhaps at that early stage, Ororo's power levels were not strong enough to control the solar flare.

[david r]

http://image2.milehighcomics.com/istore/images/fullsize/57294058176.3.GIF

Nightcrawler #3

"To Bamf or Not To Bamf!"

This mini now pays tribute to Uncanny X-Men #153 and the classic "Kitty's Fairy Tale" story. Several characters from that charming fantasy adventure join Kurt Wagner and Lockheed on their journey into alien dimensions. It's like Alice in Wonderland, but with the lovable elf in the role of Alice. Plus, the Bamfs come to life!

Nightcrawler and Lockheed find themselves on another alien world, confronted by a miniature-sized creature called a "Bamf". Bamfs looks like pint-sized versions of Nightcrawler. The little Bamf "Daddy! You've come home!" Kurt thinks "Mein Gott, it's a cabbage-patch Nightcrawler!" :biggrin: The little guy says he's a Bamf, and keeps calling Kurt his "Daddy". Kurt thinks he's fallen into "Kitty's Fairy Tale". The little fellow takes Kurt & Lockheed to his village, filled with Bamfs. They all come rushing out of their puffball-looking homes, yelling "Daddy! Daddy! DADDY!!!" Nightcrawler is dumb-founded at the masses of blue fuzzy elfs that swarm him! But at this moment of weirdness, the shark humanoid Shagreen, (the villain of #2) teleports onto the scene and attempts to capture Kurt. Luckily, Kurt is standing on a "Spell Stone"--which protects him from the shark-guy's spell. Angrily, Shagreen fumes at his failure, and instead teleports all the Bamfs with him away!! Leaving only Kurt, Lockheed and the original Bamf Kurt encountered. All standing on the Spell Stone.

Nighty decides he must rescue this village of Bamfs. They've been taken to the "Fangs of Doom". The 3 would-be heroes start on the journey, and are soon met by Mean. Mean looks like a cross between Wolverine and the Tasmanian Devil from those Looney Tune cartoons. Mean carries a six-pack of beer, chomps on a cigar and wears a tiny hat on his head. He looks like a scrunched-down version of Wolvie, and originally appeared in UXM #153. Mean says he'll help on the rescue operation, and soon they are also met by the huge, massive Lockheed the Dragon who looks like the X-Men's Blackbird. This huge beast can talk, and agrees to fly our band of misadventurers to the Fangs of Doom. The climb aboard, and the Blackbird Lockheed takes off!! Soon, Kurt, Bamf, Mean and Lockheed see a sailing ship over an ocean, and meet up with a Colossus and Kitty Pryde who debuted in UXM #153. Kitty is the captain of a pirate ship. Kitty says they haven't had a good brawl in ages, and Peter & Katya climb aboard the Blackbird to join the band.

The huge dragon is airborne, and hours later approaches the Fangs of Doom. But as Lockheed flies over the ocean, huge tentacles whoosh out of the ocean and grab Lockheed!! The heroes are thrown into the ocean, as their ride is attacked by tentacles and pulled under the ocean waves!! They make it to shore, wet and worried for Lockheed! But they have worries of their own--an attack of large bats. Kitty is kidnapped by the bats, and so she needs saving to. This leaves Kurt, Colossus, Bamf and Mean to journey to Shagreen's monstrous castle high in the Fangs of Doom, a mountain pass with a large high tower above. They enter and soon are assaulted by.... DARK BAMF!! A large red Bamf-elf who defeats them and ties them up for shark-man's amusement!! The fairy tale has turned deadly!!

My thoughts: It was cute to see characters from "Kitty's Fairy tale" back for an encore. Obviously, Dave Cockrum must have liked that charming caper, using ingredients of that fantasy world for this mini. The character of "Mean" is an amusing take on Wolverine. I found the cutest part of #3 were all the little "Bamfs" running up to Kurt pronouncing him their "daddy!" That was quite funny & the look on Wagner's face was priceless. I hope Lockheed the Blackbird didn't drown! This LS would be a great tpb for children to read and get them acquainted with the X-Men universe, without the dark tones which often pervade the regular X-Men books.

[Yogaflame]

Yogaflame, I can only guess that Storm's weather power would not work in outer space. Or perhaps at that early stage, Ororo's power levels were not strong enough to control the solar flare.

Be that as it may, it is strange that Claremont would include a scene in the previous issue with Storm being sucked out into space and discovering she can control the solar wind (million mile per hour stream of plasma from the sun) and vanquish a Sentinel with casual ease, only for, in the very next issue, have the team face a solar flare during their escape to earth.

Its like "look, Storm's so awesome she can control space weather too" one issue, then "oh no, the team might get roasted by space weather, too bad there's nothing anyone can do, wait Jean, try to block...".

Considering how good Claremont was at patiently developing plot threads over vast distances of time, this is a small, but poignant blunder that sort of mars the flow of his greatest story. Granted, he was only what, six issues into his run, so its understandable in a way, but it has always stood out in my mind.

[david r]

I'd like to celebrate something. Today would have been Dave Cockrum's 65th birthday. Dave contributed a whole lot to the characters we love!! Especially to Nightcrawler!

Promoting Dave's Nightcrawler mini-series, the cover below shows Kurt in his swashbuckling glory, Princess Jinjav, "Mean", Lockheed the Blackbird and all those cute "Bamfs".

http://www.davecockrum.net/MarvelAge_0031.jpg

More Nightcrawler love below: What a handsome devil!

http://www.davecockrum.net/nightcrawlerposter.gif

[CJ Lentze]

Imraith Nimphais, you, Pirate Kurt and Selene all together in a threesome. Wouldn't that be hawtness? :redface:
:eek: That sounds like something I would have posted. Has the X-Books forum finally taken away your innocence, david?
Be that as it may, it is strange that Claremont would include a scene in the previous issue with Storm being sucked out into space and discovering she can control the solar wind (million mile per hour stream of plasma from the sun) and vanquish a Sentinel with casual ease, only for, in the very next issue, have the team face a solar flare during their escape to earth.

Its like "look, Storm's so awesome she can control space weather too" one issue, then "oh no, the team might get roasted by space weather, too bad there's nothing anyone can do, wait Jean, try to block...".

Considering how good Claremont was at patiently developing plot threads over vast distances of time, this is a small, but poignant blunder that sort of mars the flow of his greatest story. Granted, he was only what, six issues into his run, so its understandable in a way, but it has always stood out in my mind.I can agree with this, especially because Storm is controlling the solar wind at a time of increased solar activity. I guess Claremont's reasoning is that the 'push' of a solar flare would be more difficult for Storm to handle than guiding a solar wind.

[ExodusCloak]

:eek: That sounds like something I would have posted. Has the X-Books forum finally taken away your innocence, david?
I can agree with this, especially because Storm is controlling the solar wind at a time of increased solar activity. I guess Claremont's reasoning is that the 'push' of a solar flare would be more difficult for Storm to handle than guiding a solar wind.

The story was changed in Classic X-Men

http://img154.imageshack.us/my.php?image=classicxmen0712oq0ic9.jpg