Dark Web: X-Men #3 is published by Marvel Comics, written by Gerry Duggan, art by Phil Noto and Rod Reis and letters by Cory Petit. This is part of the Dark Web crossover. After the Goblin Queen held Jean Grey and Magik in a spell, Jean is now out to settle the score.
Get BWT in your inbox!
Get BWT in your inbox!
After an issue of frustration and tension, this issue has an explosive plot for much of it. It’s a one-on-one fight between Madelyne and Jean. There are only a few breakaways, to New York or within the minds of these brilliant women. There is fast pacing and intensity to the issue, with a fight scene that is a combination of powers and hand-to-hand combat. But there is more personality to the book than just a massive brawl. This is also a comic about motherhood and healing, adding sensitivity to the hardcore elements. The ending is actually positive and wholesome in its conclusion.
Dark Web: X-Men #3 has some superb dialogue that delves into X-Men history. The most integral point that this issue leans on is the birth of Cable. That is a large point of pain and is a key part of the whole crossover. Through this, the vulnerability of the comic’s villain is blown wide open, making me feel incredibly sorry for her. That rage and sadness mix together and is brilliantly scripted by Duggan. On the other side of this issue is Jean, with multiple aspects of her own personality shining through. At the forefront is her immense power and determination, with a passion that can very quickly turn to rage. But she also has sensitivity and kindness, with a want to help. The exploration of both characters is so vast in this book, making for a thrilling read.
The art is stunning. The cleanliness of both artists is extremely warm and positive. But the artists, especially Reis, have the ability to get scrappy and rough when a fight calls for it. In the middle of the issue, that feature is more poignant, as the battle between Jean and Pryor gets more emotional. The fight is constantly changing and expressive as a release of anger and hurt explodes. Elsewhere, the chaos in New York is wrapping up but it is still a delightful sight.
The colors are crucial to the storytelling. With the powers of the two women unleashed, that trademark pink is spread across the panels. But there are also brilliant usages of glowing colors that help denote magic and make it extravagant. The lettering is the standard font for all X-Men comics, but the SFX is used brilliantly.
Dark Web: X-Men #3 shows a mother’s strength and vulnerability. It is a story steeped in specific history, which has left pain and scars. It’s an exciting issue, with a fantastic fight between two of Marvel’s most powerful women. The sensitivity and embracing of other ways to end a conflict provide the book with a heart and genuine warmth. And the artist pair is close to flawless.
Dark Web: X-Men #3 is available where comics are sold.
Dark Web: X-Men #3
TL;DR
Dark Web: X-Men #3 shows a mother’s strength and vulnerability. It is a story steeped in specific history, which has left pain and scars. It’s an exciting issue, with a fantastic fight between two of Marvel’s most powerful women.
