After the fall of Krakoa, mutants have an image problem. The world still hates and fears people born with superpowers, despite everything they have to offer. X-Factor No. 1 examines how different people try to turn these problems into opportunities. It also shows how absurd our world and the world of Marvel Comics can be.
The new X-Factor team is the brainchild of television producer Rodger Broderick. Broderick, the brainchild behind series such as Jail Chef and Marriage Ape, suggests that the USA reform the government-funded X-Men troupe. Since America is best at producing entertainment and conducting military maneuvers, Broderick suggests a fusion of the two – “soldiertainment”. This would improve the image of the mutant heroes and the USA and also bring in a lot of money.
Unfortunately for Broderick, none of the popular X-Men want anything to do with his plan. Aside from the original X-Factor’s ignoble reputation, the new team is seen as traitors and sell-outs to the mutants. Most see the team as a cynical attempt to put a good face on a government that tried to exterminate them when it couldn’t exploit them. Unfortunately, any chance the team has to change that is drowned out by commercials for its sponsors.
X-Factor is X-Men meets Justice League International
The text shown here invites comparison with the Justice League comics by Keith Giffen and JM DeMatteis. Aside from Rodger Broderick being a Maxwell Lord character, there is a brilliant satire on X-Men comics in particular and the culture of power-seeking in general. Of course, previous X-Men comics explored the idea of a reality show about mutant heroes, but not with the biting accuracy of Mark Russell’s script.
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But there’s heart behind the humor, too. The best scenes revolve around Havok and Polaris, two ill-fated lovers looking for a fresh start. Unfortunately, Havok believes a fresh start should involve building bridges and joining the new X-Factor, while Polaris has no desire to play the hero in public.
Bob Quinn’s illustrations are also excellent. Quinn’s character designs have a unique clarity that makes them all distinctive. That’s important considering most of the cast are blond men with similar hoods and haircuts. (There’s actually a joke about how visually interchangeable they are.) The action scenes are also well choreographed, and Jesus Aburtov’s colors are appropriately striking.
With its strong sense of humor, X-Factor #1 may not be for everyone. Ironically, it may be an easier sell for those who aren’t used to an X-Men comic, as it doesn’t fit the franchise’s usual mold. However, with its amazing illustrations and a solid story that evokes both emotion and laughter, it’s well worth a read.
Degree: 5/5
X-Factor #1 is now available in all comic shops.
