Review: ‘X-Men Red’ #12 Tells The Tragedy Of The White Sword
by Tony Thornley
Over two years ago, the X-Men line introduced one of the most interesting groups of antagonists in decades- the Swordbearers of Arakko. In X-Men Red #12, they return, making for one of the most interesting set-ups in a very long time.
Al Ewing, Jacopo Camagni, Federico Blee, and Ariana Maher tell the story of two of the Swordbearers.
The White Sword has been passed on. Genesis is coming to the 100’s Ivory Spire. After they fall, it’s only a matter of time before they come for Arakko. When they do, Storm and her Brotherhood must be ready.
I enjoyed this issue, but it definitely had some weak points. The tale of the White Sword and his warriors is a welcome one. The Swordbearers were fascinating parts of the first year of Krakoa, but only a couple of them have gotten any development since then. We get that here, as well as hints of what happened to Genesis and the First Horsemen after X of Swords.
But really, that’s it. It’s surprisingly slight, and is probably the first Ewing issue ever that made me say “is that all?” It’s also set-up with almost no plot development and that makes it feel like a letdown, especially after so many strong single issues in the last year and a half.
Camagni has a strong eye for figure work and layouts. The characters have great body language, with a sense of power inherent in their movement. The faces are bland though, with a lot of very samey expressions. Blee’s colors are generally pretty decent, but they don’t pop off the page here.
X-Men Red #12 is available now from Marvel Comics.
Overview
This issue is fine and the series has shown enough quality, that I’m willing to give it some leeway. Hopefully next issue picks up.
