REVIEW: ‘Uncanny X-Men’ Issue 33

Uncanny X-Men Issue 33 is published by Marvel Comics. Written by Gail Simone, art by Luciano Vecchio, colours by Matthew Wilson and letters by Clayton Cowles.

As Haven House struggles to embrace change, Rogue and Gambit seek help from an exorcist in Uncanny X-Men Issue 33. This issue has two stories, and they’re no longer connected as they once were. Rogue is seeking help for Gambit, with something evil inside him. She goes to someone who has experience with this kind of thing. Enter Father Gabriel, also known as Gabriel the Monster Hunter, a very deep cut from the depths of Hellstrom and horror comics.

The horror genre that has always existed within this series shifts in Uncanny X-Men Issue 33, turning into the religious, demonic side of the concept. It’s insidious and genuinely creepy, finally dragging out the monsters that reside within Remy. But then, in Haven House, the atmosphere is just as frosty. Everything is new, with M and Quicksilver trying to settle in and struggling to gain the trust and respect of the young New Mutants. Simone brilliantly recreates the atmosphere that began in the early stages of her run, when the X-Men first adopted the runaways.

Both sides of Uncanny X-Men Issue 33  suddenly get an injection of pacing, ferocity and intensity. And whilst that’s understandable considering what Rogue and Gambit are facing, it’s surprising considering the Louisianan X-Men don’t even battle anyone threatening. The ending is very sad, especially with a potential heartbreak on the horizon.

What makes this Uncanny X-Men run shine, or one of many reasons, is the inclusion of so many small character moments and avenues. There are little quiet places where the characters go to reflect or be by themselves, and it creates a sweet demeanor within many of the stories. However, the atmosphere in Uncanny X-Men Issue 33 is dark, angry and unsettled.

The most interesting character within this chapter is Calico, but there are issues around almost all the newer characters. M and Quicksilver have just strolled in, and don’t understand the intricacies and specificities within this particular family. There isn’t just the New Mutants; they are living among civilians, and that presents its own unique challenges. Becca, aka Calico, took so long to build trust with the adults, and had made huge progress feeling safe.

But that was with Gambit, and he’s gone now. Even when the new incumbents try to do something similar, which shows incredibly emotional intelligence from the likes of Pietro, it’s not the same. The dialogue is cruel, cutting and severe, which is very different from how Simone has written the previous relationships. The love is gone, and needs to be rebuilt.

The art is fantastic, completely crafting two stories within the Uncanny X-Men Issue 33.  In Louisiana, a new set of powers has been entered, but the rest of the location is familiar. M takes the kids to the makeshift Danger Room, and an energetic training session erupts. The movement and action are incredibly fun, especially when it gets out of hand and dramatic. Every once in a while, the kids demonstrate just how powerful they can be, and Vecchio superbly conveys this in terrifying fashion.

And speaking of terrifying, the art with Father Gabriel and the LeBeaus is much darker and more sinister. There are more lines on Gabriel’s face, which creates a rough and intimidating exterior. When he starts his exorcisms, he looks haunting and frightening. But that’s nothing compared to what will appear from Gambit. The design is extraordinary and creative, with an otherworldly approach. It’s like a living shadow, and the different textures of how that darkness moves are fascinating.

The colors are also terrific during the exorcism moments, like with Deathdream. The use of black is exceptional. Wilson is brilliant at utilizing jet-black, as solid and ominous as it could possibly get. Around the edges is a purple hue, and that means that Gambit starts to fit the darkness quite well. The lettering is very clear and easy to read.

Uncanny X-Men Issue 33 removes any form of comfort that had started to set in. In many reviews of this series, references are made to warm campfires and the feeling of coming home. And that feeling is suddenly at risk with the kids given such a big shake-up. Rogue and Gambit are desperate in their own way, fighting for Gambit’s very soul. It adds danger and discomfort around every corner. Quicksilver and M are fascinating additions to the main family, and they are genuinely trying to fit in and take over. But the loss and heartbreak are still raw, which can be felt through the pages.

Uncanny X-Men Issue 33 is available where comics are sold.