In Uncanny X-Men #20, writer Gail Simone and fill-in artist Luciano Vecchio deliver a rewarding issue that delves deeper into a new core character while pulling back the curtain on the mysterious Greymalkin story. With the “Age of Revelation” event beginning next month, this comic wisely uses its time to develop characters and set up future events. Unlike the main X-Men title, Simone manages to densely pack this issue with rich exposition, narration, and character development, making for a satisfying read.
The issue opens at Greymalkin Prison, a former X-Men headquarters now run by the cruel Warden Corrina Ellis. Greymalkin was one of the first elements introduced in the “From the Ashes” era, but has become a baffling and maligned storyline. The Raid on Greymalkin and X-Manhunt crossover events were frustrating and erratic, and the story has been so disliked that Simone had to reassure readers on social media that a strong conclusion was coming. In this issue, she follows through by focusing on Ellis and the rarely seen Monet, a member of Generation X and the X-Men.
Their revealing discussion offers some important insights into Ellis, though her character remains a confusing mix of reprehensible actions and moments that try to make her seem almost human. The conversation also teases Inmate X, a powerful, sleeping prisoner whose awakening could be disastrous.
The issue then shifts focus to Haven House and the Outliers. Rogue’s narration highlights the peaceful, familial atmosphere of the new X-Men team, including a surprise gift from Spider-Man for Jitter. We also get a deeper look into Ransom, the Outliers’ “big brother.” The issue reveals his surprising backstory: he grew up in a cult compound where his half-brother still resides. This prompts Wolverine and Gambit to head to Buenos Aires to help. The narration gives significant focus to Ransom, revealing his “tough guy” attitude is a front for a deeply wounded young man who feels his family never cared for him and sometimes doesn’t want to be alive.
Luciano Vecchio’s art, with colors by Matthew Wilson, is a reliable fit for the issue. Vecchio is a true X-Men workhorse with a knack for depicting youthful characters. Wilson’s colors create a nice, warm touch for Haven House and a sterile feel for Greymalkin. The only critique is that Vecchio depicts the X-Men in their uniforms while eating a meal, whereas main series artist David Marquez often draws them in civilian clothes during such moments.
Overall, this is a strong issue, and the jump between three stories effectively adds new dimensions to every character. The main setup for the Greymalkin follow-up is compelling, and the smaller threads (Jitter’s gift, Ransom and Wolverine’s trip, and Deathdream’s emotional state) are all engaging.
Uncanny X-Men #20 is a rich issue packed with character development for Ransom, Rogue, Gambit, Wolverine, and Monet. While some in the online community dislike the Greymalkin story, this comic adds a new layer that leaves readers wanting more. Ransom is given the bulk of the story, and we get a strong look into the wounded heart of a young man who feels he needs to be tough and strong. The setup for the next issue is engaging, and it’s almost a shame that this atmosphere Simone has cultivated will be interrupted by the “Age of Revelation.”
‘Uncanny X-Men’ #20 Review: The Greymalkin Redemption
Uncanny X-Men #20 is a rich issue packed with character development for Ransom, Rogue, Gambit, Wolverine, and Monet. While some in the online community dislike the Greymalkin story, this comic adds a new layer that leaves readers wanting more.
