Uncanny X-Force #28 Review

SPOILERS.

The previous issue of X-Force ended with the full reveal of the Brotherhood of Evil Mutant and the deaths of Fantomex and Gateway, with the rest of the team apparently following as Cavern X exploded. How does one follow up such a grim chapter? By heading to the future, of course. Rick Remender continues the venerable tradition of placing the X-Men in dark, futuristic landscapes. The premise isn't terribly unique, but it sheds a great deal of light on where Final Execution is heading. As much as X-Force and the Brotherhood are motivated by personal rivalries in this fight, Remender adds a greater sense of context to the conflict by showcasing its rippling effects decades into the future.

Naturally, this setting allows Remender to contrast the surviving X-Force members with their future selves. That proves entertaining, particularly with multiple Deadpools spewing their shtick. Remender also works in several members of past X-Force incarnations and even an aging Frank Castle. But the character interaction isn't all light and entertaining. Remender does some really great, serious character building with Deadpool as he explores the ramifications of Wade's power loss. Meanwhile, Betsy's reaction to her recent batch of trauma is a key emotional factor in the script. As much as Remender has noted his desire to make Wolverine the star of Final Execution, Psylocke still remains the most fascinating and heartbreaking character in the series.

Julian Totino Tedesco steps in as guest artist this month. As has always been the case on this series, Dean White's signature color palette ensures that the transition is a smooth one. Totino Tedesco's style is a bit more loose than we've seen from Phil Noto in previous issues, but not to the point of unnecessary abstraction as with Greg Tocchini's issues. There's a palpable sense of energy and strong design work that helps define this latest alternate X-Men future world. One minor quibble is that Totino Tedesco doesn't seem to reflect Wade's newly healed appearance when his mask comes off.

This issue makes for an unexpected but very enjoyable detour from the Brotherhood conflict. And as bloody as issue #27 was, this issue's ending manages to shock and unnerve even more. The wait for the next issue now seems more difficult than ever.

Source : feeds.ign.com