REVIEW: ‘Uncanny X-Men’ Issue 35

Uncanny X-Men Issue 35 is published by Marvel Comics. Written by Gail Simone, art by Luciano Vecchio, colors by Matthew Wilson, and letters by Clayton Cowles.

Gambit and Rogue visit another exorcist as the X-Men try to welcome Haven House’s latest resident.

The third part of the Wild Ride story arc, Uncanny X-Men Issue 35, is once again split into two. Rogue and Gambit have been moving between churches and monasteries, finding experts powerful enough to deal with the demon latched onto Gambit. The fact that it is taking multiple attempts shows just how deep the Wyvern entity has its hooks in Remy. Then there is Haven House, where Howler has arrived. Half-hyena and half-human, he is a traumatized little creature who is terrified of being punished.

Because of both of these stories, the keyword within the comic really is haunting. Literally in Gambit and Rogue’s case, and in the atmosphere of the other story. Learning what was done to Howler and the state he’s in now is harrowing. With the demons, the pace is pretty intense from the start. Rogue moves on the attack when the man they visit has a woman hovering above a plinth. She does what Anna-Marie usually does and moves to protect, jumping to conclusions.

Meanwhile, the X-Men have to move much slower and more cautiously with the newcomer. He’s jumpy, skittish, and half-feral. There’s also a slow build-up that raises questions, including what will happen to Howler’s captives once the X-Men get hold of them. The more we learn, the more intense that urge for vengeance and retribution gets.

The action differs in each part of the comic, with catharsis emanating from both. There is also so much progress made within Gambit’s soul, with Gail Simone brilliantly crafting a very eclectic and disturbing family tree of demons. Their story isn’t finished, but there isn’t the demonic bleakness like before.

The characterization within Uncanny X-Men Issue 35 is once again sensational. Simone has an almost unmatched ability to make you feel, especially sadness and sorrow. This is especially true with Howler. He is so frightened, with such a shattered soul tainted with trauma.

It’s so lovely to see how the X-Men instantly shift into trying to help and care for the young man. Now it’s the time for Logan to step up. He may have adamantium bones, but his heart is very malleable. He also knows what it’s like to be feral and to come back from it.

And beautifully, the St. Juniors family are just as caring and generous. They seem to adore taking care of runaways, and it really gives the comic a soul. Speaking of souls, the concept of trauma bleeds over to Rogue and Gambit, too in Uncanny X-Men Issue 35. Being in a church brings back bad memories for Rogue. And talking with the demon brings all of that manipulation out too.

The difference between Howler and Rogue is how far along they are on that journey. Years ago, the demon could have verbally destroyed Rogue with its taunting, as her guilt threatened to tear her apart. All those years of harming through single touches or kisses. But she’s learned, and she’s grown, and importantly, she’s loved. Howler is the very raw version of that, with a long road ahead.

The art is terrific. The body language that Vecchio puts on display is phenomenal. Howler is so frantic and jittery, hiding his face and always trying to keep his distance. Wolverine and the rest of the X-Men turn gentle and slow, like trying to calm a frightened animal. They look at the mutant with a mixture of pity and a belied rage. Not toward him, but toward those that hurt him. The last stage of Uncanny X-Men Issue 35 is actually surprising in its setting, which holds many dark secrets.

With Rogue and Gambit, the religious/demonic horror continues. Still accompanied by Father Gabriel, there’s a claustrophobic feel to this side of the book, trapped with very unfamiliar people and beings. Repent, the new exorcist, is a brand-new character, and his design tells more stories than any dialogue ever could. The scars and injuries are tales that haven’t been told yet.

Repent seems respectful, but definitely fierce and capable. With the tight surroundings, the physicality is even rougher. People get slammed against walls, doors, and faces, and it’s much easier to get cut.

The colors are consistently sensational throughout Uncanny X-Men Issue 35, always conveying more of the story than expected. When it’s dark at Haven House, the lights are warm. They’re home. They don’t carry the same safety as Rogue and Gambit, with more insidious lighting. The lettering is very clear and easy to read.

Uncanny X-Men Issue 35 is an exploration of trauma, time, and growth. All of these X-Men are experienced, and have been aided by each other to become better, stronger. It’s important to remember that many of them were once like Howler. He’s never been supported, protected, or cared for. That’s why all the X-Men jump at the chance to help: they see themselves in him. Even the Outliers have been crafted and shaped over time with the X-Men, so it’s interesting to get something of a reset and reminder with a new, fragile character.

Uncanny X-Men Issue 35 is available where comics are sold.