Rating: 2.5/5 – A “Max”, but underwhelming version of Fantomex.
Fantomex has intrigue, violence, sexual undertones and some great art. Unfortunately, it doesn’t add up to a great story. Issue one of Fantomex Max uses the mature banner to throw in some unnecessary harsh language, and tell a story that although it opens up quite well, falls apart by the end and ultimately left me not wanting to continue on with this series.
Fanotomex has been a somewhat confusing character since being introduced in Grant Morrison’s X-Men run. He’s a Weapon Plus created mutant, who along with his external and “living” nervous system E.V.A. can best be described as an international criminal/thief. Although he’s usually on the right side of the law, his methods are at times questionable. In this first issue, writer Andrew Hope has Fantomex stealing a living alien gun from a U.S. government installation, while being chased down by the female lead of the book, Agent Flemyng. After she fails in her mission, a government group that includes three “super” agents attempt to go after him and reclaim the weapon. It’s a quick read with mostly forgettable characters. The more adult themes of this issue felt forced and didn’t add to the script. Placing this book under the Max banner and taking Fantomex out of the X-Universe ultimately detracted from the character and the story.
The highlight of the book though was the art. Shawn Crystal, who’s art has been seen on Deadpool has a dramatic cartoon-like style. His art is not realistic, and that’s what makes it so strong. His style is over the top and uses lots of dot patterns to highlight the action and shadow the subjects. Although at times, his pages feel a bit sparse as he overuses the dot patterns as full on backgounds, rather than the settings of the locale. Regrettably, the fun art isn’t enough to make the overall package enjoyable.
If you’re a fan of Fantomex, then seeing him in his own series may be what you’ve been asking for. It just wasn’t the version of Fantomex I wanted.
Reviewed by: Shawn Hoklas – shawn@comicspectrum.com
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The art really captured my attention on this one. Good art goes a long way with me.