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Gail Simone’s Uncanny X-Men #18, with fill-in art by Luciano Vecchio, arrives on the heels of the “Mutina” storyline, picking up a long-running narrative thread and featuring some surprising cameos. As the “Age of Revelation” looms, Simone wisely uses this time to build her world and characters, paying off story hints she’s laid since her 2024 run began. For the most part, she succeeds.

One disappointing aspect of the “Mutina” story was its illogic. The idea of a mutant slasher film fueling anti-mutant sentiment was intriguing. Still, the execution, particularly the depiction of the movie scenes and Mutina’s abrupt about-face, undercut its potential. Uncanny X-Men #18 addresses this by showing how Calico grapples with the nightmares and horror of the character. These touching interactions highlight Gambit’s intuitive nature and Rogue’s warmth as a mother figure to these young mutants.

Marvel Comics

The bulk of the issue centers on a festival in New Orleans, designed to foster human-mutant solidarity. The X-Men attend, wary of a trap, yet choosing to demonstrate trust and good faith. What follows is a series of warm, amusing interactions as characters connect with human friends, play games, and soak in the vibrant carnival atmosphere. There’s a twist, but it might not be the one you expect. While readers and the X-Men themselves might anticipate a dark turn, the biggest surprise is its absence. Instead, Uncanny X-Men glides along with sweetness and warmth, concluding on a triumphant note.

Despite its earnest and often sugary tone, the issue isn’t without its flaws. A major X-Men character, previously at odds with the team, makes an appearance, and while tensions thaw considerably, it happens so suddenly that it feels unearned. The lack of significant drama beyond a natural disaster may also disappoint readers hoping for more action. Additionally, there’s limited follow-up on Mutina for those intrigued by her character.

Luciano Vecchio’s art, coupled with Matt Wilson’s consistently excellent colors, perfectly captures the bright lights and neon hues of the festival. Vecchio, with his extensive X-Men experience, and Wilson’s vibrant palette beautifully illuminate the issue’s setting.

Marvel Comics

This issue shines with its pervasive warm, cozy vibe, offering a refreshing sense of human-mutant solidarity in what has largely been a somber era. The charming character interactions consistently add to its appeal. However, readers seeking action will find little to none, and the sudden, weightless appearance of a prominent X-Men character feels inorganic to the story.

Uncanny X-Men #18 offers a heartwarming, character-focused story that emphasizes human-mutant solidarity. While its charming interactions and refreshing change of pace are highlights, some minor plot points feel rushed or underdeveloped. Readers looking for action or high drama, however, might find this issue falls short.

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Gail Simone’s Uncanny X-Men #18, with fill-in art by Luciano Vecchio, arrives on the heels of the “Mutina” storyline, picking up a long-running narrative thread and featuring some surprising cameos. As the “Age of Revelation” looms, Simone wisely uses this time to build her world and characters, paying off story hints she’s laid since her 2024 run began. For the most part, she succeeds.

One disappointing aspect of the “Mutina” story was its illogic. The idea of a mutant slasher film fueling anti-mutant sentiment was intriguing. Still, the execution, particularly the depiction of the movie scenes and Mutina’s abrupt about-face, undercut its potential. Uncanny X-Men #18 addresses this by showing how Calico grapples with the nightmares and horror of the character. These touching interactions highlight Gambit’s intuitive nature and Rogue’s warmth as a mother figure to these young mutants.

Marvel Comics

The bulk of the issue centers on a festival in New Orleans, designed to foster human-mutant solidarity. The X-Men attend, wary of a trap, yet choosing to demonstrate trust and good faith. What follows is a series of warm, amusing interactions as characters connect with human friends, play games, and soak in the vibrant carnival atmosphere. There’s a twist, but it might not be the one you expect. While readers and the X-Men themselves might anticipate a dark turn, the biggest surprise is its absence. Instead, Uncanny X-Men glides along with sweetness and warmth, concluding on a triumphant note.

Despite its earnest and often sugary tone, the issue isn’t without its flaws. A major X-Men character, previously at odds with the team, makes an appearance, and while tensions thaw considerably, it happens so suddenly that it feels unearned. The lack of significant drama beyond a natural disaster may also disappoint readers hoping for more action. Additionally, there’s limited follow-up on Mutina for those intrigued by her character.

Luciano Vecchio’s art, coupled with Matt Wilson’s consistently excellent colors, perfectly captures the bright lights and neon hues of the festival. Vecchio, with his extensive X-Men experience, and Wilson’s vibrant palette beautifully illuminate the issue’s setting.

Marvel Comics

This issue shines with its pervasive warm, cozy vibe, offering a refreshing sense of human-mutant solidarity in what has largely been a somber era. The charming character interactions consistently add to its appeal. However, readers seeking action will find little to none, and the sudden, weightless appearance of a prominent X-Men character feels inorganic to the story.

Uncanny X-Men #18 offers a heartwarming, character-focused story that emphasizes human-mutant solidarity. While its charming interactions and refreshing change of pace are highlights, some minor plot points feel rushed or underdeveloped. Readers looking for action or high drama, however, might find this issue falls short.