This month’s instalment of Uncanny had its moments, but overall failed to impress me much more than any of the previous five issues.
Part Five of Quarantine carries on with two storylines:
1. A highly contagious virus known as HX N1 inflicts the mutants on the island of Utopia both weakening them and sapping their powers.
2. Emma Frost struggles to figure out a way to rid herself of Sebastian Shaw once and for all.
Both storylines had potential, I just think they lacked the real meat and potatoes to make them memorable story arcs. For instance, engaging in a huge battle royal with a bunch of rich snobs illegally endowed with mutant powers, only to have them say their sorry and they learned their lesson at the end of it....just doesn't cut it in my books!
The Emma Frost story had some cool visual panels. One for instance begs the question, "Is Shaw really that strong?" In a way, this story was more important than the actual "Quarantine" storyline.
The conclusion to Emma's story could go either way. My worry is that it will take the road forgotten. I would like to see this represent the beginning of something darker for Emma. I mean, ethically speaking, what she did to Sebastian Shaw is, "not what the X-Men do!" And with Kitty along for the ride, it should get back to Scott and the X-Men. I guess only time will tell.
Land's artwork was tolerable but nothing to get excited about. His cover however was very attractive. I think this is more his strength, still images that aren't trying to depict too much action. None of the people on the cover were smiling either which was a step in the right direction.
I think the next issue will be pivotal in determining the future of this book. This is a fresh start X-creative team, don't mess it up! The comic book represents my longest running series and the book that got me into comics. But if it needs to be rebooted (a la FF) I for one will be out!