Fresh Fish Served Daily

Wow. Just…wow. This particular issue made me laugh way more than any X-title in a LONG time. I realize it’s probably because of Warren Ellis’ writing, but hopefully they can keep at least a little of that charm whenever he leaves. Here’s my absolute favorite set of dialogue:

Brand: Did you just say ****ing to me?
Beast: Scott, you just said ****ing to my…um. Actually, what are you? “Girlfriend” doesn’t sounds quite…
Brand: “Xenophiliac experimentation partner”?
Beast: Scott, you just said ****ing to my girlfriend.
Cylcops: I wouldn’t say anything like that.
Wolverine: Cyke, I heard you from down the hall. Don’t do it again, ok? It’s like catching a rerun of “Happy Days” and seeing Ron Howard picking up hookers.

You can’t help but giggle maniacally at that.

In the recent past it seemed like most X-titles have been about the newest bad guy and what crazy, earth-changing shit they had planned. I get that it’s a superhero comic so that’s kind of the point, but I still would like to see some characterization there. With Joss Whedon’s run on Astonishing the characters really started to come alive again. I mean, two of my favorite characters now are Cyclops and Emma Frost. Let me repeat that in case you missed it: CYCLOPS AND THE WHITE QUEEN ARE MY OTP. I never in my life thought I would say that. Cyclops used to be the biggest Gary Stu, but then he started sleeping with Emma and has become the resident badass. I ADORE what Joss has done with him, and I’m glad that all of the X-titles seem to be adhering to this new vision of him. (see also: X-Force) Even Emma is no longer a caricature, but a strong woman with interests and flaws just like anyone else. Here’s another bit of dialogue to show you why I love these two together:

Cyclops: Emma? Apparently I said “****ing” to Abigail Brand. Does that sound like me?
Emma: Well done, darling. That snot-haired cow had it coming. I’m very proud.
Cyclops: God, I love you.

You see what I mean? If you have any love for the X-Men at all you’ll go pick up a copy.