X-TREME X-MEN #36 REVIEW

[Brian Wilkinson]

<a href="http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/firstlooks/031210/xtxmen36.JPG" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/firstlooks/031210/xtxmen36t.JPG" align=left alt="X-Treme X-Men #36"></a>X-TREME X-MEN #36
Reviewer: Brian E. Wilkinson, bewilkinson@comixfan.cjb.net
Quick Rating: Good
Story Title: Challenger

Storm struts her stuff against some classic villains in a gladiator-style of combat!

Written by: Chris Claremont
Cover by: Salvador Larroca
Penciled by: Igor Kordey
Inked by: Scott Hanna
Colors by: Transparency Digital
Letters by: Rus Wooton
Assistant Editor: Stephanie Moore & Cory Sedlmeier
Editor: Mike Marts
Editor In Chief: Joe Quesada
Publisher: Dan Buckley

Didn't I just write this review?

I don't know whether or not to be pleased with this next story arc. Not that I mind having more X-Treme X-Men to read, but this isn't necessarily that. Storm: The Arena was originally solicited as a graphic novel or mini to come out at least a year ago. A nice coincidence was that Igor Kordey was the artist on that series, and so it makes sense in many ways to blend it into the current series rather than have it disappear forever or wait another year or so to see it in print.

The problem is that the story may not appeal to fans of X-Treme X-Men in that it's much more of a character piece and while obviously updated to fit into current events in the title, many, including myself, are a touch put off.

I'm faced with buying these issues to keep my collection of issues whole as well as not one, not two, but five issues of this series to buy in one of the most expensive months of the year. Granted it's a smart move as all the issues were already mostly done and the team isn't really hampering the storyline as its over so quickly, but still, there's a whopping $5 charge Canadian for this book, and when you times that by five, that's a decent amount of cash to pony up. I'm almost thinking they should have just released it as a trade. The cost would have been about the same, and it would fit on the shelves much more nicely.

But enough about that. Let's get into the story properly...

<table border=0 align=center><tr><td align=middle><a href="http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/firstlooks/031210/xtxmen36-1.JPG" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/firstlooks/031210/xtxmen36-1t.JPG" alt="X-Treme X-Men #36 Page 1"></a></td><td align=middle><a href="http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/firstlooks/031210/xtxmen36-2&3.JPG" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/firstlooks/031210/xtxmen36-2&3t.JPG" alt="X-Treme X-Men #36 Pages 2-3"></a></td><td align=middle><a href="http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/firstlooks/031210/xtxmen36-4.JPG" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/firstlooks/031210/xtxmen36-4t.JPG" alt="X-Treme X-Men #36 Page 4"></a></td></tr></table>

I'm grateful that Claremont found a way to work in the current stories going on in this series so as to not break the momentum that carries him into the arena plotline. Though a few nice new narratives and other thoughts from Storm make for a smoother transition, it becomes immediately obvious when the issue shows off Kordey's work from so long ago.

Right away his older style is apparent. All the learning curves that I've been appreciating so much in his monthly work have slightly regressed, but thankfully it comes at a point where I'm enjoying his style rather than comparing it to Salvador Larroca. The rooftop scene with Yukio in particular is well done and shows the level of detail that highlight his work. His characters could still use a little more work, especially in the faces, but most of the time they still come across clearly.

Another shocker of a panel is the nightclub that Storm and Yukio visit and the unveiling of the arena. If one needed further proof of Kordey's brilliance with backgrounds and details, look no further.

But aside from art, it's really the storytelling abilities of Claremont that need to drive this story. It's much stronger and more character driven than most of his recent work. Rather than a large cast that all need to be looked after, Claremont is getting right into Storm and Yukio and they leap off the page. The only detriment to Claremont in terms of this review are that I'm not a huge fan of either character, but I AM a huge fan of interesting stories, so it all balances out nicely in the end.

And this arc has all the makings of it. The only thing I don't like is how fast it all seems to happen. One moment it's dancing, then fighting, then a revered combatant. I'm still not entirely clear on why Storm is there, only that a condition of getting the X.S.E. going seems to include that she take down Tullamore Voge. Yet if the arena is as harmless (loosely used term) as it appears at first glance, I'm not sure what the problem is.

I guess that's what follow-up issues are for.

So, as Storm and Yukio are the central characters in this arc, with future appearances by Callisto and Voge on the schedule, then die-hard Storm fans and those who want to collect every issue of the series will want to pick this up. Be warned that it has very little, at least from what I can tell at this point, impact on the current storyline, but I'm sure that Claremont has been eagerly awaiting the debut of this series and will use its revelations and insights deftly in upcoming issues of X-Treme X-Men.

Myself, I just love Claremont and how well he writes the X-Men so I'm always in no matter what. He's yet to ever let me down with an issue of this series. While not every issue can be my favorite, I've yet to read anything 'bad' by this master writer.

I'm thrilled about his new job on Uncanny X-Men and I can' t wait to see what the future has in store.

A few requests?

How about a few appearances by supporting characters like Courier or X-Corp members? Maybe a few old Gen X or New Mutants members? Ah, that would be heaven.

Also, I really need a grand adventure. Something truly epic that I've always associated with Claremont and the X-Men. The 'Invasion from Dimension X' was close, but I need more, more, MORE!!!

Pick up this issue today!

ART:
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STORY:
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OVERALL:
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Buy this issue online now from X-World Comics and save! (http://x-worldcomics.com/yourvirtualstore/shopdisplayproducts.asp?id=51&cat=X%2DSTATIX+%28X%2DFORCE%29)

[D4773T]

Rogue looks like a midget in that picture and storm looks like a frail invalid. This is really terrible to look at.

[Eric Travis]

Amazing. D4773T hates the artwork. Who would've guessed? :p

I picked it up, I skimmed through it, but thanks to work, I haven't had to read it all the way through, but at first glance, I have to say this arc looks very very promising. It's been too long since I've seen Yukio, and the Rogue/Remy scene more than makes up for Remy being stuck by a lake for the last five issues. ;)

$3.50 (US) a pop every week for the next four weeks does seem a bit much, but..on the other hand, I haven't had a chance to go into serious XXM overdosage in a long time. :D

[Youri Zoutman]

I personaly love Kordey's art!!Especially my fav. Gambit!!!

[NicholasRogue]

How does Rogue look lke a midget? :mad: This story was exciting and good, although 3.50 is way too much and 5 times in one month including last week's issue, is a little overboard. The inking's not my favorite, I like Storm's new costume, the scenes with her and Yukio were the best although I have no idea if that Japanese person named Masato Koga was a man or a woman. Kordey's arwork had its ups and downs. Overall good issue, even though its more expensive than usual I'm glad we're getting 4 issues this month!

[Riliss]

Looks to be Kordey's best work yet. Unfortunately, Claremont still bores the hell outta me.

[xmanson2.0]

Apparently, issues 38 and 39 were rescheduled to January.

[Ruiner]

Originally posted by Riliss
Looks to be Kordey's best work yet. Unfortunately, Claremont still bores the hell outta me.

Indeed. I'm going to pass on this. Issue 40 and that Bogan arc sound interesting enough.

[cityof02]

an annoying thing, storm has long hair on the cover, short hair in the book. i'm sure sal has had these covers done for a while, but the insides aren't even the same. just disappoints me that the inside can't reflect the cover and vice versa.

[Red Licorice]

i agree, Rouge does look like a midget, or even a child...but everything else was cool

[NicholasRogue]

Originally posted by xmanson2.0
Apparently, issues 38 and 39 were rescheduled to January.

Where did you hear this? Because that kinda sucks if its true, because I wanted the Arena to be over by the end of December and to jump into "Eyes of Fire" in January.

[Vector]

Argh. I should have gotten mine in the mail today. :(

[cicada rosa]

$3.50 american, transfer rate to australia is like 5.50, 6 dollars. i'm gonna be so poor... Lets just get this over with in a month so that the universe of budget can return to normality.

[Marvel Dude]

Originally posted by D4773T
Rogue looks like a midget in that picture and storm looks like a frail invalid. This is really terrible to look at.


I agree. I ani't much on Igor kordeys work, but I can it. I liked larroca work much better an can't wait for his run on uncanny.

[The MAYO]

since Chris Claremont has a new job on Uncanny X-Men, does that mean X-TREME will be canclled? or what? i hope it wont get cancelled!!
:?

[Blake]

Originally posted by cityof02
an annoying thing, storm has long hair on the cover, short hair in the book. i'm sure sal has had these covers done for a while, but the insides aren't even the same. just disappoints me that the inside can't reflect the cover and vice versa.

CC has said that the long hair will be explained.......

Somehow......

[NicholasRogue]

Originally posted by The MAYO
since Chris Claremont has a new job on Uncanny X-Men, does that mean X-TREME will be canclled? or what? i hope it wont get cancelled!!
:?

CC already stated that he and X-Treme are not going anywhere in the X-Treme thread.

[Iceman Xtreme]

Originally posted by Spriteguy16


CC already stated that he and X-Treme are not going anywhere in the X-Treme thread.

He hasnt said it isnt.
so I wont take that as its safe just yet. He has said things but nothing is as clean cut as you say. things can change in the blink of an eye.

[Wolverine]

didn't this have to be partially re-drawn to remove storms long hair?

[Marty P]

Originally posted by Iceman Xtreme


He hasnt said it isnt.
so I wont take that as its safe just yet. He has said things but nothing is as clean cut as you say. things can change in the blink of an eye.

Indeed. I'd like for Marvel to just make an official announcement. I see no reason for them being so secretive anymore...Besides, CC has been the last to know about/change other things at the last moment (remember Beast?)

Thank's to the reletivly good position of the Euro, the price we have to pay isn't as high as for some countries, but in this month, and times 4, ouch! Thank god I slimmed down my comicbook series, so once in a while I can afford these kind of special things :D .

[alias2001x]

I thought this issue was fantastic. Ever since the Invasion arc, Storm has grown on me. It was always Jean and Rouge as my Favorite x-ladies but since that story line i cant get enough of Storm. I even enjoyed Igors work in this one. I dont even care that i have to pay 3.50 for the next 3 weeks, i would pay anything for xtreme.

[Natester]

anything for extreme... thats the attitude hehehe

[dreamer]

Originally posted by Brian E. Wilkinson

How about a few appearances by supporting characters like Courier or X-Corp members? Maybe a few old Gen X or New Mutants members? Ah, that would be heaven.



wait a minute! is this the courier from gambit's solo series? has he (err.. she) made an appereance in this book already? don't tell me i have to buy yet another x-title...

and those of you complaining about storm seeming invalid, well it is not storm, it is halle berry imposturing her! :p

[Alex Guillen]

$3.50 (sorry we haven't been getting X-Treme over here since GLMK II) wow, I guess when I'm paying $2.00 for New and Uncanny isn't enough, damm Marvel price hikes for foreigners.:mad:

Well the story sounds interesting, i'm not sure if i'kll pick it up but probabaly will.

[Al Brown]

Not a huge Kordey fan, but I like him better than Tan.

I thought the story was pretty cool. Classic Claremont. And I also think writers should be encouraged to write solo arcs in the books - like this one and Bendis' Blockbuster (which was a great arc, although I really don't need any more solo Wolverine(. The cast of characters is so big now, it's nice to just focus on one person for a little while.

Response to Mayo: No one's really sure whether X-Treme will be cancelled. Claremont himself implies that it won't be but carefully stops short of promising it won't be. He does promise that it's his book, and if it lives it'll live with him writing it. He's certainly capable of writing two books at once. Me, I don't need to follow three X-books at once (4 if you count Ultimate), but that's just me.

Seriously, they could cut the books down to two and let the writers rotate them a little bit: this story involves Bishop and Iceman and whoever, and the next story involves Storm and some other folks. Why not? I think some variety would be cool. Anyone agree? (No one ever agrees with me, I know.)

[Kevin Sutton]

Originally posted by kotsin
$3.50 (sorry we haven't been getting X-Treme over here since GLMK II) wow, I guess when I'm paying $2.00 for New and Uncanny isn't enough, damm Marvel price hikes for foreigners.:mad:

Well the story sounds interesting, i'm not sure if i'kll pick it up but probabaly will.

The $3.50 is because its got extra pages.

[ursabearX]

When is CC going to jump on to UXM, and will Sal still be penciling.
OOOHHHH please say yes.

[Merlin]

I enjoyed this issue it goes with Chris's X-treme style of writing.

One concern I have with Chirs and Alan Davis on Uncanny is will it still have the same direction of X-treme X-men??? I don't now but I hope so.

As well I was prepared to see Kordeys old pencils and not expect what I saw in the last X-treme issue.

As well while this comic costed me 5 buck as well (Hey at least marvel lowered the Canadian price) I quite enjoyed the length of this issue, compared to Avengers 75 which I read before which as only 21 pages (not including recap or letters) and that comic went by fast while X-treme was nice and long.

And I only have to wait 1 week for the next issue, and not a month like the other comics I got.

[Kevin Sutton]

Originally posted by ursabearX
When is CC going to jump on to UXM, and will Sal still be penciling.
OOOHHHH please say yes.

CC is gettin' with Davis. Sal will probably be working with the new guy.

[Michael Fisch]

Want a surreal X-Men experience? Try reading Xtreme X-Men #36 immediately followed by Uncanny X-Men #434. Talk about opposite ends of the spectrum.

[DeadXman]

I would like to know how yaiko can walk, since the last time we saw her she was parilzed in the pages of wolverine(vol.1) and was demanding logan to do her in.:?

[DeadXman]

Originally posted by Blake


CC has said that the long hair will be explained.......

Somehow......


let's hope it's soon

It took CC nearly 20 yrs to explane the mohawk.:p

[Kizmet]

Originally posted by lockheed
Want a surreal X-Men experience? Try reading Xtreme X-Men #36 immediately followed by Uncanny X-Men #434. Talk about opposite ends of the spectrum.

Or how about Ult-X #40 followed by UXM #434 for a surreal experience. They've both got commentary on Angel and Nightcrawler's biblical appearances, but they couldn't be more far apart in thematically and IMO Bendis makes his point with a lot more punch, not to mention clarity.

[Eric Travis]

Originally posted by DeadXman
I would like to know how yaiko can walk, since the last time we saw her she was parilzed in the pages of wolverine(vol.1) and was demanding logan to do her in.:?

If I remember correctly, a while back, CC said something to the effect of: "She got better."

His point being, she's still alive, and in the world of comics, there's about fifteen thousand different ways to get effective medical treatment. From a guy with wings bleeding on you to evil cybernetic implants to plain old recovery. The details of how Yukio recovered is an interesting tidbit, sure, but in the bigger scheme of things, not terribly important.

[Michael Fisch]

The hair is explained very simply: she's wearing a wig. An attempt at a disguise that failed pretty thoroughly. I thought the disguise was rather cool looking, though.

[gambitX]

Good issue (written)... the "art" I could do without... just can't grasp how people can like it.

[Mayhem]

I must say that I am excited to read this, especially after the good review.

However, I must admit that Rogue does indeed look like a midget when she jumped into Remy's arms; her limbs were dwarfed for some reason. On the other hand, Bishop's facial features are better than they've ever been (under Kordey), and I must admit to liking Storm's new outfit. Viva la Arena.

[D4773T]

Originally posted by Mayhem
I must say that I am excited to read this, especially after the good review.

However, I must admit that Rogue does indeed look like a midget when she jumped into Remy's arms; her limbs were dwarfed for some reason. On the other hand, Bishop's facial features are better than they've ever been (under Kordey), and I must admit to liking Storm's new outfit. Viva la Arena. The costume designs are nice and his face looks better in this issue but you dont know what he will look like in the next issue. There is no consistency in the art. One panel rogue looks sexy and then another she looks like a midget with a long top half. I dont dislike the art because its kordeys art. I dislike it because to me it doesnt look good. For an xbook like this the art should be consistent every issue if its the same artist drawing it. Someone like Alan davis or jim lee are popular artists because almost every book they draw has the same level of quality no matter who is the inker or what type of paper is used.

[xmanson2.0]

This issue was nice, but it felt like not much happened.......

[Dholcrist]

Very pleased with CC, but as usual, terribly disappointed with Kordey. Why must we be stuck with... with... with THIS?? His art really takes the story down a few notches, in my opinion. Sigh... I miss Sal. :(

[Zachary J. Morrison]

Great review, Brian. I enjoyed reading this ish. It was cool to see the return of Yukio, after she nearly died at the hands of Sabretooth before Wolverine revamped its book into a third season. My favorite scene was when Ororo saw Yukio jumping off a building and almost killing herself. I knew that would happen. I can't wait to see what happens next.

[atxbomber]

Hrm...

Lot's of anti-Kordey stuff here.

Guess I'll be the dissenting opinion then, as I personally thought the art this issue was gorgeous. Igor's best output on the book so far.

[Mike Gonzalez]

I'd like to see a Claremont-Bachalo team-up eventually. Imagine how amazing that would be.

[D4773T]

Originally posted by Travis Mercer
Hrm...

Lot's of anti-Kordey stuff here.

Guess I'll be the dissenting opinion then, as I personally thought the art this issue was gorgeous. Igor's best output on the book so far. If thats his best out put so far than i guess his art wont get any better. I dont care if Sal comes back to this book i just want to have good consistent art. I look at Silvestri,Davis,and sals upcoming art and then i look at this book and its a shame.

[dreamer]

Originally posted by Alx

Seriously, they could cut the books down to two and let the writers rotate them a little bit: this story involves Bishop and Iceman and whoever, and the next story involves Storm and some other folks. Why not? I think some variety would be cool. Anyone agree? (No one ever agrees with me, I know.)

i could agree to a two-book cut down IF x-treme was going to stay. i like the book, it's got a concept and an attitude.

(oh, well, the hypocrite i am :rolleyes: ; i don't read the book, i just like it, like to glance trough it once in a while and know that it is there...)

[2Claws]

I thought Kordey's work in this issue was leaps and bounds over the regular X-Treme pencils. I was taken away by the magnitude of detail particularly in the club. Koga's (which seems to be a nice play on the Iron Chef guy) appearance was creepily androgynous(sp) and the club's decadence stood out well. I will be spending a lot more moneys on this.

[Tomaniac]

I've got to add myself to the many who are unimpressed with Igor Kordey. Don't get me wrong -- I hate hate HATED him on New X-Men (he very nearly ruined Imperial in my opinion), and now I just have a throbbing discontent whenever I view his work.

There are two reasons for this, one of which is my fault. Admittedly, I need to get over my Salvador Larroca fixation -- he was too amazing on this book for too long. Did everyone have the EXACT same nose as everyone else? Sure, but his human shapes are second to none. My big hangup about Kordey himself, though, is related to the reason i praise Larroca -- his people don't look like people! They're gel-based people -- they distort in way that normal folks don't.And it's not even especially stylistic. I just looks slightly sloppy. And I hate Storm's short hair, even on the Larroca cover to Intifada Pt. 5. I also hate the new uniforms the team will be sporting, if that cover accurately portrayed the uniforms.If you want your characters to walk around in plain black, why not just given them all form-fitting unitard things and save yourself the trouble of drawing clothing -- the effect is the same (boring).

And on the topic of bad uniforms, Storm looked ridiculous in that red thing.

Wow, I feel much better now. To summarize -- Kordey=Bad, or so-so sometimes.

[D4773T]

Originally posted by Tomaniac
I've got to add myself to the many who are unimpressed with Igor Kordey. Don't get me wrong -- I hate hate HATED him on New X-Men (he very nearly ruined Imperial in my opinion), and now I just have a throbbing discontent whenever I view his work.

There are two reasons for this, one of which is my fault. Admittedly, I need to get over my Salvador Larroca fixation -- he was too amazing on this book for too long. Did everyone have the EXACT same nose as everyone else? Sure, but his human shapes are second to none. My big hangup about Kordey himself, though, is related to the reason i praise Larroca -- his people don't look like people! They're gel-based people -- they distort in way that normal folks don't.And it's not even especially stylistic. I just looks slightly sloppy. And I hate Storm's short hair, even on the Larroca cover to Intifada Pt. 5. I also hate the new uniforms the team will be sporting, if that cover accurately portrayed the uniforms.If you want your characters to walk around in plain black, why not just given them all form-fitting unitard things and save yourself the trouble of drawing clothing -- the effect is the same (boring).

And on the topic of bad uniforms, Storm looked ridiculous in that red thing.

Wow, I feel much better now. To summarize -- Kordey=Bad, or so-so sometimes. Do we have to keep talking about the same thing. It doesnt matter what you think about the art because everyone knows Kordeys art is the best and thats why hes on the book. Millions of people love his art. His people look beautiful mishappen or not. Sal made the people look to pretty anyway and you know thats just wrong. No more complaining this is a message board not a place to voice your opinions. Now everyone listen to your moderators praise this art or be quiet.;)

[atxbomber]

Originally posted by D4773T
No more complaining this is a message board not a place to voice your opinions.

Tomaniac backed up his opinion, something you often seem incapable of doing. You should definitely take some notes.

[Eric Travis]

Originally posted by Tomaniac
I've got to add myself to the many who are unimpressed with Igor Kordey. Don't get me wrong -- I hate hate HATED him on New X-Men (he very nearly ruined Imperial in my opinion), and now I just have a throbbing discontent whenever I view his work.

There are two reasons for this, one of which is my fault. Admittedly, I need to get over my Salvador Larroca fixation -- he was too amazing on this book for too long. Did everyone have the EXACT same nose as everyone else? Sure, but his human shapes are second to none. My big hangup about Kordey himself, though, is related to the reason i praise Larroca -- his people don't look like people! They're gel-based people -- they distort in way that normal folks don't.And it's not even especially stylistic. I just looks slightly sloppy. And I hate Storm's short hair, even on the Larroca cover to Intifada Pt. 5. I also hate the new uniforms the team will be sporting, if that cover accurately portrayed the uniforms.If you want your characters to walk around in plain black, why not just given them all form-fitting unitard things and save yourself the trouble of drawing clothing -- the effect is the same (boring).

And on the topic of bad uniforms, Storm looked ridiculous in that red thing.

Wow, I feel much better now. To summarize -- Kordey=Bad, or so-so sometimes.

I think it's really the Larocca Fixation which a lot of us had to come to terms with. And that's okay, too. There should be a support group or something. :yes:

It's the second point you bring up where feelings still seem to be split, and that is the objective take on Kordey's work. You aren't too keen on the way he draws people, while I happen to think he does a pretty darn good job. Since it's a purely subjective spin on things (despite D4773T's brilliant sarcastic retort), artwork is something that most fans can agree to disagree on. I won't say Kordey's a perfect artist, but by and large, I very much enjoyed the art on this first Arena issue. Except for a couple of places where Ororo seemed to have baseballs instead of cheekbones, and a handful of odd facial expressions, I thought the main work was very nicely drawn, with a good eye for angles and details. Since his beginning on GLMK2, he's gotten into his groove, and he and CC work very well together, I think.

But that's just my opinion, of course.

[Queen Artemisn]

In my opinion, it actually turned out worst than I thought. The first issue of Arena is simply a retelling of Claremont old stories from the eighties. Even the style of dressing had me feeling as if I was watching VH1 exploring the 80's.

Now be honest, how many times do we really have to watch Yukio jump off of a building to prove she's wild? How many times do we have to watch Ororo catch her and call her crazy? How many times do we have to have Yukio tell Ororo she needs to live on the wild side more and how many times do we have to listen to Ororo thoughts as she says she likes the wild side?

We've been there and done that.

Compared to the other icon series (i.e. Cyclops, Iceman, Nightcrawler, and Rogue) Arena is better. But the other icon series sucked so bad being better isn't a huge accomplishment. This story had me yawning the entire time and I actually put the book down a couple of times to shake myself awake.

We should expect more. Did we learn anything new about Storm? Was there anything that happened that made you want to wish away the days until the next issue? To be honest, I'm disappointed. The art was medium and the writing wasn't anything new. If I wasn't already a Storm fan, there is nothing in this book that would turn me into one.

[Phil Hunn]

Originally posted by D4773T
Do we have to keep talking about the same thing.

No, but apparently you do.

Originally posted by Queen Artemisn
In my opinion, it actually turned out worst than I thought. The first issue of Arena is simply a retelling of Claremont old stories from the eighties. Even the style of dressing had me feeling as if I was watching VH1 exploring the 80's.

Sounds like it could have benefitted from a dose of steel chair :)

[NicholasRogue]

Originally posted by Phil Hunn

Sounds like it could have benefitted from a dose of steel chair :)

Phil those don't sound very comfortable, wouldn't you rather have it a cumfy one ;)

[Kizmet]

While a nice reclining arm chair might be more comfortable to sit in, I think Phil might have some difficulty weilding it in his prefered manner :)

[Queen Artemisn]

Seriously, did anyone else get the feeling of being transported back to the scary 80's. Not the cool 80's but the 80's that you try to forget.

[UMichWolverine]

Originally posted by Travis Mercer


Tomaniac backed up his opinion, something you often seem incapable of doing. You should definitely take some notes.

I am really sticking my neck out here but...oh well.

While I personally think Igor's art is very well done, I don't think its fair to force someone to give reason's for disliking his art.

It really is a fine line. Saying "Igor's art sucks" maybe crossing the line. Saying "I want to eat Igor's children and his heart" to paraphrase a great orator of our time, is definitely crossing the line. (I exagerate to make a point and ease some tensions).

However, saying "I don't like Igor's art, never have, never will, it just doesn't do anything for me the way Larroca's does" seems to me is a fully justified statement.

It is an opinion, nothing more, nothing less. We are entitled to dislike something for "no real reason."

That's what I think. But, it is just my opinion. ;)

[Ryan Day]

Originally posted by UMichWolverine


While I personally think Igor's art is very well done, I don't think its fair to force someone to give reason's for disliking his art.

...


It is an opinion, nothing more, nothing less. We are entitled to dislike something for &quot;no real reason.&quot;



You're perfectly right, of course, in that one certainly can't force someone to back up an opinion. Of course, saying "Igor Kordey's art sucks" isn't an opinion; it's an incorrect statement of fact. Igor Kordey does not suck; he's a highly-trained and respected artist who has more talent than a) 99% of the population of the planet Earth and b) just about anyone who posts around here.

So saying "I don't like Kordey's art" is, ultimately, acceptable. But really, what's the point? It doesn't lead to anything. You can't discuss or argue anything with someone who's simply throwing forth opinions.

"I hate Kordey."
"I like Kordey."
"I like Liefeld."
"I like cheddar cheese."
"I like gouda."

It doesn't make for a very interesting board; for all the intelligent conversation it will generate, we may as well just stay off-line and write our opinions in Word.

Yeah, it comes down to opinion eventually, but the interesting opinions are the ones people are willing to back up with facts.

[UMichWolverine]

Originally posted by Mogwai


It doesn't make for a very interesting board; for all the intelligent conversation it will generate, we may as well just stay off-line and write our opinions in Word.

Yeah, it comes down to opinion eventually, but the interesting opinions are the ones people are willing to back up with facts.

Don't get me wrong. It is difficult to discuss something with someone when they flat out say "That sucks" and leave it at that. This is a "discussion" board after all.

However, people should not be blasted for saying "I don't like" Artist X or Writer Y, and leaving it at that. I'm sure we have all been in a situation where something just doesn't quite work for us and we can't put our finger on it.

I'm just trying to have people cut each other a little slack, thats all.

[Tomaniac]

A quick thought --- no one should ever be blasted, period. If we are really a community of readers, and I'm inclined to think we are, we should always seek to elevate each other in order to elevate the level of the conversation in general. Our communal dialogue can only grow when we stop blasting "lesser" commenters and start making them into higher or greater commenters constructively.

Second, just because Kordey is a talented artist doesn't mean his word on X-Treme is up to snuff. He's done some fine work. Example -- I really enjoyed that two page number where Storm and Gambit land at Rogue's house in CA. By the way, Rogue owns too many homes for a member of a mobile anti-terrorist squad. Anyway, a lot of his stuff IS quite good, but he is not maintaining the calibur of art I expect from a comic book, period, nevermind it being an X-Book (I will not resort to the idea that X-Books are 'better' or deserve better creators simply because of the first letter of their titles). I don't think I'm stepping too far out of line when I say that we need art that properly conveys both the story and a continuous strong portrayal of the characters. It is along these lines that I happily wait two or three months for "The Ultimates."

My point, since I do have one, is that a very large part of this issue, and entirely too many of the recent issues of X-Treme X-Men, is a problem in Comicbookdom in general -- weak art from strong (or potentially strong) artists.

And perhaps the first challenge Kordey should face, and I believe this whole-heartedly, is drawing his own covers. The picture on the front should represent a one image snapshot of the action inside, and the only way this truly happens is when the interior artist does the covers (I think this is always the case).

[Telepath]

i really liked this issue. i liked storms clubbing outfit but yukios was just plain hideous i'm surprised the bouncer even let her in. igors artwork can look pretty good when he's given time to work on it, like the beautiful scene of the club or ororo flying over the buildings. but unfortunetly it seems that whenever igor draws something beautiful he has to compensate by drawing something equally if not more ugly like in that two page panel where storm tried to catch yukio. as for the poster who wanted to known if matso toga or whatever is a man or woman its a man.i was really surprised to see storm getting turned on by watching the battle in the arena i think its an intresting development and i have no doubt chris will follow up on that.

[atxbomber]

Originally posted by UMichWolverine
I don't think its fair to force someone to give reason's for disliking his art.

Ok then. Is it fair to creators to often not give a reason for criticism?

Also, make a quick search through D4773T's posting history, then get back with me. If someone's going to make criticizing another's work their only purpose for coming here, they better bring more to the table then: "It looks like smudges on paper".

[Phil Hunn]

Originally posted by UMichWolverine
While I personally think Igor's art is very well done, I don't think its fair to force someone to give reason's for disliking his art.

True, but when that person's entire contribution to the boards is effectively "why hasn't Marvel fired Igor Kordey yet, he's the suckiest suck that ever sucked", with nothing to back it up and nothing else to accompany it, then that tends to get a little wearing after a while. Hence, some justification is needed.

[theEYESofFIRE]

I really don't understand what people's problems with Kordey are. Sure Intifada part 4 looked rush, but the final chapter recovered nicely especially with the mystery telepath visual.

Plus, in the opening pages inparticular of Arena, his Storm and Bishop rival Salva's. His Sage improves every issue and his Rogue and Sam were incredible from issue 31. I even like his Vange, Marie, Emapth, Amara, Roberto and various other characters during Intifada. However, his Remy is awful. He switches inadvertantly between Ashton Kutcher wannabe to night of the living dead. I dunno if its the inker but Gambit never looks consistent sometimes from panel to panel(issue 35 fight with Stormy).

I'll be the first to admit when Kordey came on board i was furious and considered dropping the title. This books worst arc(GLMK 2) didnt help matters but Intifada recovered nicely. Claremont and Kordey both love these characters and it's clear on every page. Some people just need to give Mr.Kordey a chance and realize he's growing as an artist.

[Telepath]

yes gambit does look rather like a zombie under igors pencils :LOL:

[Marcina Riley]

Originally posted by theEYESofFIRE
I'll be the first to admit when Kordey came on board i was furious and considered dropping the title. This books worst arc(GLMK 2) didnt help matters but Intifada recovered nicely. Claremont and Kordey both love these characters and it's clear on every page. Some people just need to give Mr.Kordey a chance and realize he's growing as an artist.

After viewing the sketches from his page for Storm Arena, I have to admit I rather think Kordey is doing a good job. It looks like he is really fleshing out Storm's look. It's true he does have problems with faces, but all things considered he does really well with still shots, body movement, and style. In fact, he has a great eye for individual style, but doesn't over do it. I love the new costumes, cohesive yet individual. True, his artwork isn't as vibrant and smooth as Larroca's was, but the new edge does fit the direction of the book more. He is growing on me as an artist, and I think now he has finally developed a partnership with Claremont. Though, I love Larroca's work, I just wish people would accept that he is no longer on the title and move on. Kordey is going to be on the book till at least October, accept it.

Mouse~
---
P.S. Was I the only one that like GLMKII?
P.P.S . 34 was probably a bit rushed because Amara wasn't not originally intended for it

[theEYESofFIRE]

anoinemouse,

I love X-Treme and think its the best title currently produced by marvel, but i downright hated GLMK 2. The first part showed promise but it will all downhill from there. Kordey's interpretation of Kitty was the highlight of the arc and admittedly it wasnt that great.

It makes sense about the Amara parts since those were the weakest scenes in issue 34. However, in issue 35 the stuff with Berto and Mara were the strongest in the book. Especially when Empath is controlling them and TMT is controlling Empath.

[xstormfan]

seems like everytime storm has a mini(i know this isnt really one) its by a artist i dont really care 4..oh well, this iss is ok it seemed like very standard fair i could swear ive read this storyline 100 times before.... i'm still waiting 4 a definative STORM storyline to come along (not counting the old ones)

[Queen Artemisn]

Originally posted by xstormfan
seems like everytime storm has a mini(i know this isnt really one) its by a artist i dont really care 4..oh well, this iss is ok it seemed like very standard fair i could swear ive read this storyline 100 times before.... i'm still waiting 4 a definative STORM storyline to come along (not counting the old ones)


Me and you both- Although I'm starting to think we will never see a great exploration story of our favorite weather goddess instead we'ver forever caught in rerun central of storylines where Ororo is concerned.:rolleyes:

[Al Brown]

Remember when Storm used to be a total tough guy? I loved issue 201, where she (still powerless) fought Cyclops for leadership and beat him because she's such a badass.

Then her powers came back and she was all earth goddess whatever for a while, like the years of leading the X-Men without powers had never happened.

Point being, I love that Chris remembers Storm is tough with or without her powers (and he's been pointing that out since he started on X-Treme).

But I still miss the mohawk.

I'd love to see her resolve the whole "leadership of the Morlocks" situation - which, given that Callisto's supposed to be showing up in this storyline, might even be a possibility.

Kordey's not my least favorite artist ever, but...well, his pros and cons have been discussed ad infinitum. When Storm and Yukio are supposed to be dancing, they look more like they're playing bondage twister.

[dredweezul]

Originally posted by Alx
Remember when Storm used to be a total tough guy? I loved issue 201, where she (still powerless) fought Cyclops for leadership and beat him because she's such a badass.

Then her powers came back and she was all earth goddess whatever for a while, like the years of leading the X-Men without powers had never happened.

Point being, I love that Chris remembers Storm is tough with or without her powers (and he's been pointing that out since he started on X-Treme).

But I still miss the mohawk.

I'd love to see her resolve the whole &quot;leadership of the Morlocks&quot; situation - which, given that Callisto's supposed to be showing up in this storyline, might even be a possibility.

Kordey's not my least favorite artist ever, but...well, his pros and cons have been discussed ad infinitum. When Storm and Yukio are supposed to be dancing, they look more like they're playing bondage twister.

What ever is so wrong with bondage twister?!?!?!? :}
Stormy is still a bad a$$...Iv'e been waiting a loooooong time for a story like this with her...Tho' I still want to see more of her and Remy theifing about :) they're getting some cool kinda tension going between them. :D

Dredweezul

[ine6139]

Love the covers, still not to thrilled about the inside art work. I cannot wait until gambit and rogue get their powers back.

[Queen Artemisn]

Originally posted by Alx
Remember when Storm used to be a total tough guy? I loved issue 201, where she (still powerless) fought Cyclops for leadership and beat him because she's such a badass.

Then her powers came back and she was all earth goddess whatever for a while, like the years of leading the X-Men without powers had never happened.

Point being, I love that Chris remembers Storm is tough with or without her powers (and he's been pointing that out since he started on X-Treme).

But I still miss the mohawk.

I'd love to see her resolve the whole &quot;leadership of the Morlocks&quot; situation - which, given that Callisto's supposed to be showing up in this storyline, might even be a possibility.

Kordey's not my least favorite artist ever, but...well, his pros and cons have been discussed ad infinitum. When Storm and Yukio are supposed to be dancing, they look more like they're playing bondage twister.



But if you remember, Ororo only fought him because she knew what his leadership was doing to his marriage to Maddie. She didn't just fight him for the heck of it, she was trying to do the right thing- thus the whole compassion thing.

And yes, we all know Storm is tough- heck she grew up on the streets of Cairo, but she also had a compassionate side- remember she was a goddess to her tribe. This new Storm is pretty much dropping everything that she had become and reverting her back to when she lost her powers, her connection to nature and in essence she lost herself.

Storm is pass the point where she takes off on her own especially when she has been told by two of her best friends (Logan & Remy) that she isn't up to par.

And while Storm's behavior is a turnoff for me, the biggest turnoff is easily the retelling of the same story for Storm and constantly revolving Ororo's stories around Yukio and Callisto.

[mavok]

Although I was initially annoyed that this issue was $5.00, I was surprised to find myself enjoying it.

Good improvement from Intifada in my opinion.

mavok