X-Men (2019-) #14 by Jonathan Hickman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I can understand some readers’ frustration with the slow burn here, that in being told Genesis’ side of the story of Arakko we get very little new information…and the clear reuse of art did pull me out of the story a little at times…but…this is really too good to for me to care. Sorry/not sorry.
What we do learn is significant. That Genesis fought and defeated the previous wearer of the Annihilation mask. That the winner of that fight also won the mask, and that the mask was the only thing keeping the demon hordes of Amenth in check. That Genesis still resisted wearing the mask herself for a hundred years. And it was only when the mutants of Arakko tried to reopen the way back to Earth that she finally put on the mask. Also, significantly, we learned that the mutants who fled when they first arrived in Amenth were captured by Annihilation and bred with demons and that was the source of the Summoners…who are likely the real enemy here.
The interaction between Apocalypse and Genesis was also brilliant. Seeing how weak she makes him seem is fascinating, and a credit to both the writing and the art.
As I’m sure is clear, I’m thoroughly enjoying this event and can’t wait to read more!
Random Ramblings Of A Ragamuffin 