Al Harahap
Jun 27, 2003, 08:43 pm
<a href="http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/covers/myst03.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/covers/myst03t.jpg" align=left alt="Mystique #3"></a>Reviewer: Al Harahap, alharahap@xfan.cjb.net
Quick Rating: Good
Story Title: Dead Drop Gorgeous (Chapter 3)
Mystique heads off on her first mission for Professor X. Plus, meet the smallest psychic in the Marvel Universe!
Writer: Brian K. Vaughan
Artist: Jorge Lucas
Colourist: Studio F’s Daniel Perez Sanchez
Letterer: Virtual Calligraphy’s Randy Gentile
Cover Artist: Joseph Michael Linsner
Assistant Editor: Stephanie Moore
Editor: Mike Raicht
Editor in Chief: Joe Quesada
President: Bill Jemas
Finally!! Scribe Brian K. Vaughan cuts to the chase and lays down the groundwork for the direction of this new Mystique series. For the past two issues now, Vaughan has dangled the eventual exchange between Professor X and Mystique in front of readers, but never giving us the long-awaited event until now. What a great #1 this would’ve made. Did the first two issues really add all that much to what’s happening now? They made great single issues, but as the first whole third of a six-part storyarc, they seem somewhat detached. In any case, it’s all behind us. What’s important is that Vaughan and company have gotten the ball rolling with this issue.
This issue is chock full of all kinds of good stuff. There’s an insane amount of dialogue, all of which is necessary, and nothing that drags or beats around the bush. From the intertwined personal relationships of the three main characters (Mystique, Professor X, and Forge), to the mission briefing that involves highly sensitive global politics, it’s all here. And, of course, Vaughan throws in his wry sense of humour that seems to be made for Mystique’s personality. Not to mention the odd contemporary socio-cultural reference here and there.
The storyarc quickly changes gears into the main plot of Mystique’s first mission – to destroy a couple of those mutant-hunting robots of destruction, the Sentinels. Not too much to ask, is it? Actually, with this initial mission being so overwhelming in its magnitude, Vaughan keeps the mood and pacing of the book a thrilling rollercoaster ride to follow. But it’s not all “seek and destroy” either. Vaughan aptly lays down the background of this mission in its extremely sensitive nature, which have ramifications were Mystique to fail. And his use of real life political concepts/figures, such as the Bush Administration, and the political hotbed that is Cuba and its Fidel Castro, not only adds to the urgency of the situation, but more importantly, it also enhances the realism of the fictitious “mutant politics” of the Marvel Universe. It truly displays Vaughan’s intelligence and awareness as a writer.
Unfortunately, I can’t be as generous in praise with the art, this time around. Don’t get me wrong; I still awe over artist Jorge Lucas’ immaculate details. And his ultra neat, crisp, hairline style is very pleasing on the eyes. But at the same time, such neatness gives much leeway for the visibility of inconsistency. A lot of anatomy seems distorted (the proportions are fine, just the perspective), especially that of Mystique’s face in mid-shot to close-up panels. Also, the inks over pencil lines seem rushed and messy at times – at least, in comparison to the last two issues. If only editorial would just get a separate inker for this book, Lucas could focus his time and attention to improving his pencilwork.
Colourist Daniel Perez Sanches maintains great colouring quality, especially in gradation and separation. But the more I think about it, I don’t think such bright and colourful hues are the most appropriate for this book. For an espionage series, I’d like to see darker colours and moods, especially in mid-mission scenes. As for the cover, I’ve neglected to comment on Joseph Michael Linsner’s stunning poster-shots for the past two issues. So here it is. For those unfamiliar with Linsner’s work, he’s the creator of the very sexy, but very dangerous, Dawn. So I think he’s the perfect man for the job to bring out Mystique’s inherent femme fatale quality. But I find myself also wanting more variation in Mystique’s covers. The first two issues’ were very striking poster poses. This issue’s is slightly different. I certainly hope there’s more variation in the future – perhaps a little more to do with the interior story? Otherwise, the covers would get real old real fast, not to mention ironic for a book whose main character embodies constant change.
As for characterisation, I’m so relieved that Vaughan understands Mystique, Professor X, and Forge’s dynamics. They’re not as comfortable slipping into an ongoing (no pun intended) situation with each other quite yet. Moreover, Vaughan has solidly analogised the ménage-a-trois’ roles as Marvel’s version of James Bond/007 superspy (Mystique), the chief of operations M (Professor X), and the gadget guru Q (Forge). Now, I wouldn’t usually like such an unoriginal concept. However, with the way it all falls into place neatly, it’s hard not to warm up to the book’s premise.
The fanboy in me wishes there were more panels and dialogue dedicated to acknowledging Mystique killing Professor X’s love Moira MacTaggert, or Mystique and Forge’s past romance. And I know some of you hardcore continuity folks out there are still miffed that the Prof and Forge would work with a murderer and terrorist such as Mystique. But here, the series justifies itself. Simply put: The dream’s principles have been compromised and more radical measures need to be taken. Mystique even verbally acknowledges the Prof’s moral changes. In fact, with Magneto’s demise, it only makes sense that Professor X, as a social force, would gravitate towards the middle grey moral areas to balance out mutantkind’s interaction with humans. It’s the natural course of action for the Marvel Universe reality. I’m not sure if Vaughan has consciously made this as so, but it certainly works out perfectly. As for Mystique and Forge, well, they do spar physically, setting up a potential sexual tension that’s sure to be revisited now and then.
I’m not too sure, though, about this new Shortpack character, who is Mystique’s field handler contact person in Cuba. He is… original to say the least. You’ll find yourself surprised along with Mystique when you see the character. He does seem to be born right out of Vaughan’s science-fiction sensibilities. And not that that’s necessarily a bad thing for this book. But I feel like the odd combination of this particular physical mutation with these particular powers are just… bizarre and out of place. Whereas separately, they’re perfect for the book’s theme of espionage. I suppose that’s rather unfair seeing as there’s only been so little on-page time for the character. We’ll see how he develops. Nevertheless, having Mystique not go solo on missions was a smart move by Vaughan, as it opens up endless possibilities of a wide variety of character interactions. It makes me crave for other interesting field handler agents for Mystique for future missions.
As you can see, there’s so much in this issue, that I’ve totally forgotten to bitch about Marvel’s mandate for more TPB-friendly six-issue storyarcs and how it utterly constrains great writers’ abilities. Oops. It has been three issues and the mission has just started. Casual pacing with stop-time development may be appropriate for many books, but not all formulae work for all types of books. Time is an element integral to the whole nature of an espionage series. Could you imagine how much more exciting this book would be in three/four-issue storyarcs? Anyway, I hope Vaughan breaks out of the mould and just does his own thing at his own pace for future storyarcs. Meanwhile, for the remainder of “Dead Drop Gorgeous,” I look forward to issues as meaty as this one.
ART:
http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysnone.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysnone.jpg
STORY:
http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/myshalf.jpg
OVERALL:
http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/myshalf.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysnone.jpg
Buy this issue online now from X-World Comics and save! (http://x-worldcomics.com/yourvirtualstore/shopdisplayproducts.asp?id=586&cat=MYSTIQUE)
Quick Rating: Good
Story Title: Dead Drop Gorgeous (Chapter 3)
Mystique heads off on her first mission for Professor X. Plus, meet the smallest psychic in the Marvel Universe!
Writer: Brian K. Vaughan
Artist: Jorge Lucas
Colourist: Studio F’s Daniel Perez Sanchez
Letterer: Virtual Calligraphy’s Randy Gentile
Cover Artist: Joseph Michael Linsner
Assistant Editor: Stephanie Moore
Editor: Mike Raicht
Editor in Chief: Joe Quesada
President: Bill Jemas
Finally!! Scribe Brian K. Vaughan cuts to the chase and lays down the groundwork for the direction of this new Mystique series. For the past two issues now, Vaughan has dangled the eventual exchange between Professor X and Mystique in front of readers, but never giving us the long-awaited event until now. What a great #1 this would’ve made. Did the first two issues really add all that much to what’s happening now? They made great single issues, but as the first whole third of a six-part storyarc, they seem somewhat detached. In any case, it’s all behind us. What’s important is that Vaughan and company have gotten the ball rolling with this issue.
This issue is chock full of all kinds of good stuff. There’s an insane amount of dialogue, all of which is necessary, and nothing that drags or beats around the bush. From the intertwined personal relationships of the three main characters (Mystique, Professor X, and Forge), to the mission briefing that involves highly sensitive global politics, it’s all here. And, of course, Vaughan throws in his wry sense of humour that seems to be made for Mystique’s personality. Not to mention the odd contemporary socio-cultural reference here and there.
The storyarc quickly changes gears into the main plot of Mystique’s first mission – to destroy a couple of those mutant-hunting robots of destruction, the Sentinels. Not too much to ask, is it? Actually, with this initial mission being so overwhelming in its magnitude, Vaughan keeps the mood and pacing of the book a thrilling rollercoaster ride to follow. But it’s not all “seek and destroy” either. Vaughan aptly lays down the background of this mission in its extremely sensitive nature, which have ramifications were Mystique to fail. And his use of real life political concepts/figures, such as the Bush Administration, and the political hotbed that is Cuba and its Fidel Castro, not only adds to the urgency of the situation, but more importantly, it also enhances the realism of the fictitious “mutant politics” of the Marvel Universe. It truly displays Vaughan’s intelligence and awareness as a writer.
Unfortunately, I can’t be as generous in praise with the art, this time around. Don’t get me wrong; I still awe over artist Jorge Lucas’ immaculate details. And his ultra neat, crisp, hairline style is very pleasing on the eyes. But at the same time, such neatness gives much leeway for the visibility of inconsistency. A lot of anatomy seems distorted (the proportions are fine, just the perspective), especially that of Mystique’s face in mid-shot to close-up panels. Also, the inks over pencil lines seem rushed and messy at times – at least, in comparison to the last two issues. If only editorial would just get a separate inker for this book, Lucas could focus his time and attention to improving his pencilwork.
Colourist Daniel Perez Sanches maintains great colouring quality, especially in gradation and separation. But the more I think about it, I don’t think such bright and colourful hues are the most appropriate for this book. For an espionage series, I’d like to see darker colours and moods, especially in mid-mission scenes. As for the cover, I’ve neglected to comment on Joseph Michael Linsner’s stunning poster-shots for the past two issues. So here it is. For those unfamiliar with Linsner’s work, he’s the creator of the very sexy, but very dangerous, Dawn. So I think he’s the perfect man for the job to bring out Mystique’s inherent femme fatale quality. But I find myself also wanting more variation in Mystique’s covers. The first two issues’ were very striking poster poses. This issue’s is slightly different. I certainly hope there’s more variation in the future – perhaps a little more to do with the interior story? Otherwise, the covers would get real old real fast, not to mention ironic for a book whose main character embodies constant change.
As for characterisation, I’m so relieved that Vaughan understands Mystique, Professor X, and Forge’s dynamics. They’re not as comfortable slipping into an ongoing (no pun intended) situation with each other quite yet. Moreover, Vaughan has solidly analogised the ménage-a-trois’ roles as Marvel’s version of James Bond/007 superspy (Mystique), the chief of operations M (Professor X), and the gadget guru Q (Forge). Now, I wouldn’t usually like such an unoriginal concept. However, with the way it all falls into place neatly, it’s hard not to warm up to the book’s premise.
The fanboy in me wishes there were more panels and dialogue dedicated to acknowledging Mystique killing Professor X’s love Moira MacTaggert, or Mystique and Forge’s past romance. And I know some of you hardcore continuity folks out there are still miffed that the Prof and Forge would work with a murderer and terrorist such as Mystique. But here, the series justifies itself. Simply put: The dream’s principles have been compromised and more radical measures need to be taken. Mystique even verbally acknowledges the Prof’s moral changes. In fact, with Magneto’s demise, it only makes sense that Professor X, as a social force, would gravitate towards the middle grey moral areas to balance out mutantkind’s interaction with humans. It’s the natural course of action for the Marvel Universe reality. I’m not sure if Vaughan has consciously made this as so, but it certainly works out perfectly. As for Mystique and Forge, well, they do spar physically, setting up a potential sexual tension that’s sure to be revisited now and then.
I’m not too sure, though, about this new Shortpack character, who is Mystique’s field handler contact person in Cuba. He is… original to say the least. You’ll find yourself surprised along with Mystique when you see the character. He does seem to be born right out of Vaughan’s science-fiction sensibilities. And not that that’s necessarily a bad thing for this book. But I feel like the odd combination of this particular physical mutation with these particular powers are just… bizarre and out of place. Whereas separately, they’re perfect for the book’s theme of espionage. I suppose that’s rather unfair seeing as there’s only been so little on-page time for the character. We’ll see how he develops. Nevertheless, having Mystique not go solo on missions was a smart move by Vaughan, as it opens up endless possibilities of a wide variety of character interactions. It makes me crave for other interesting field handler agents for Mystique for future missions.
As you can see, there’s so much in this issue, that I’ve totally forgotten to bitch about Marvel’s mandate for more TPB-friendly six-issue storyarcs and how it utterly constrains great writers’ abilities. Oops. It has been three issues and the mission has just started. Casual pacing with stop-time development may be appropriate for many books, but not all formulae work for all types of books. Time is an element integral to the whole nature of an espionage series. Could you imagine how much more exciting this book would be in three/four-issue storyarcs? Anyway, I hope Vaughan breaks out of the mould and just does his own thing at his own pace for future storyarcs. Meanwhile, for the remainder of “Dead Drop Gorgeous,” I look forward to issues as meaty as this one.
ART:
http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysnone.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysnone.jpg
STORY:
http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/myshalf.jpg
OVERALL:
http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysfull.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/myshalf.jpg http://x-mencomics.com/xfan/images/reviews/mysnone.jpg
Buy this issue online now from X-World Comics and save! (http://x-worldcomics.com/yourvirtualstore/shopdisplayproducts.asp?id=586&cat=MYSTIQUE)