Reviewed: Avengers vs. X-Men #10, Daredevil #17 and Wonder Woman # 12

Avengers Vs. X-Men #10

Story: Ed Brubaker

Art: Adam Kubert, John Dell

Publisher: Marvel

Reviewer: Abdulkareem Baba Aminu

In the latest installment in Marvel’s current blockbuster event, Avengers vs. X-Men, the story continues after Scarlet Witch helps the Avengers to defeat three of five Phoenix-boosted X-men. But those three’s portions of the Phoenix force all add up to Cyclops’, a recipe for disaster. And cool slug-fests.

This issue begins with Cyclops demanding the Avengers (or what’s left of them) to hand over Hope Summers, who takes center stage. Which is great, since all the talk in the past nine issues has got be building up to something. And when that does happen, when she finally goes to-to-toe with the Phoenix-enhanced Cyclops, it is well-done blockbuster fun. With only two issues left in this huge crossover event, things will continue to heat up.

Other noteworthy points include the thread with Emma Frost losing herself to the Phoenix force. Although it seems Magneto will not cow to her as easily as some of the many mutants appear to. Expect a major shift in status quo for the Master of Magnetism in the next installment.

For some time now I haven’t been able to imagine two characters I'd secretly like to see go head to head more than Emma and Cyclops, the next issue teases just that. Talk about Utopia!

Ed Brubaker’s writing doesn’t disappoint, as usual. I never saw the introduction of a dragon coming and it was very welcome. Adam Kubert, too, hits a few and misses some. Some of his work here is gorgeous, while some are barely just OK. It appears his inker John Dell may not be a very good match for him. Avengers vs. X-Men, after a few disappointing lows here and there, is shaping up to become an intricately plotted, surprise-filled, intelligently-written blockbuster. Just like Marvel promised.

Daredevil #17

Story: Mark Waid

Art: Mike and Laura Allred

Publisher: Marvel

Reviewer: Abdulkareem Baba Aminu

Daredevil #17 begins with our hero pondering the end of one of the longest, most enduring friendships in comics: Matt Murdoch (Daredevil) and law partner Foggy Nelson’s. Last issue, Foggy fired Matt, questioning his sanity after finding our hero’s dead father’s remains in his office.

Both Matt and Foggy look back to when they first opened their practice, to an old adventure that is perfect for the standalone issue this is. The simple but well-laced story, via the flashback(s), sees Foggy taking a difficult case so he could give Matt something he’s always wanted: sight. A machine that can allow blind people to see briefly was invented by a scientist, which Matt finds out after a break-in at their office leads to the revelation of Foggy’s secret, a deal to let his best pal rock the coveted gadget. 

The big reveal, I’m sure, will bring a tear to many an eye across fandom. I certainly sighed after the last page. Daredevil #17 shows off effortless, organic storytelling at its written (and drawn) best. As Mark Waid blazes through his Eisner-winning run, it continues to be one of the best comics put out by any publisher, period. He is, of course, helped by the incredibly talented Allreds with their beautifully nuanced, retro-styled art.

Wonder Woman #12

Story: Brian Azarello
Art: Cliff Chiang, Dan Green

Publisher: DC

Reviewer: Abdulkareem Baba Aminu

Debuting in Wonder Woman #1 bearing Zeus’ baby (prophesized to kill one of the gods and take their place), Zola shots up from supporting character to the major league. She does have the baby, finally, but things go very far South for her. Even if Wonder Woman herself at times seems unimportant in the story, it’s usually brief and she does something so big, so heroic that we’re instantly reminded that it’s her book.

There isn’t a lot to say about this issue, as it would result in major with spoilers. After She woke up a year ago in London (issue 1), it’s been a non-stop roller-coaster ride of dangerous adventure and shocking personal revelations. Wonder Woman, obviously, is in good hands.

Brian Azzarello and Cliff Chiang are devils. There, I said it. How Wonder Woman continues to please and please and please is a pleasurable wonder. Various stories told, over the course of a year, have exploded into the comic’s twelfth issue. What’s strange is I’ve always been a casual Wonder Woman fan, but Azzarello and Chiang have made me sign-up full time!