The Week That Was 06102025: May's Best Covers, RIP Marvel Masterworks, and More!

With another month somehow already behind us, I thought it would be fun to look back at the covers I posted as part of my ongoing celebration on social media of the 50th Anniversary of the All New, All Different X-Men. Without further ado, here are my favorite covers, one per week, for the month of May! 

Week 1: Uncanny X-Men #444 (May 5 2004)

X-amining Incredible Hulk '97 #1

"Sins of the Father" / "Where the Wild Things Are"

1997

In a Nutshell

Hulk battles Gladiator, and gets blamed for Franklin's nightmares. 

Writer: Chris Cooper, Bill Roseman (2nd Story)
Penciler: Jeff Rebner, Kevin Lay (2nd Story)
Inker: Mark Irwin, Andrew Pepoy (2nd Story)
Letterer: Chris Eliopoulos 
Colorist: Glynis Oliver
Editor: Polly Watson & Bobby Chase

Plot

1st Story: Members of the Pantheon approach Doctor Samson, seeking his help to find the Hulk's illegitimate son, David. Samson is stunned, having never heard of of Bruce Banner having a son. Meanwhile, Gladiator and Oracle of the Shi'ar Imperial Guard are searching for a shape-shifter named Elamron, who was last seen with Hulk. All parties, including David, converge on the Hulk. Gladiator and Hulk fight, with Gladiator taking Hulk into space and Hulk turning Gladiator's heat vision back on him. But when Hulk sees the look of fear on David's face, he stops, reminded of his own childhood. In the confusion David — actually Elamron — disappears.

The Week That Was 06022025: Uncanny Experience and Review Roundup

 Well, a combination of day job travel, the punishing (for critics) three-a-week release schedule of the second season of Andor, and my laptop completely and utterly dying a couple weeks ago threw me off my regular schedule. 

But, things are starting to settle a bit, and I'm hoping to get back into my regular posting groove again, including this column. My plan is to abandon some of the strict formatting I'd been using, to make something more like a typical newsletter in favor of getting it out more regularly. 

The Uncanny Experience

My other big news of late is that I was selected to present at the Uncanny Experience, the annual X-Men fan convention here in Minneapolis. My panel is called "Fight The Power: The X-Men as Outlaws", and will focus on the way Claremont repositioned the X-Men from traditional superheroes fighting to preserve the status quo to anti-establishment figures trying to upend it. The full description is as follows: 

X-amining Cable #44

"Temptation In The Wilderness"

June 1997

In a Nutshell

Cable reunited with his birth mother

Writer: James Robinson

Penciler: Randy Green & Allen Im

Inkers: Scott Hanna and Scott Koblish

Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft

Colorist: Mike Thomas

Editor: Mark Powers

Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

At the X-Mansion, Scott and Jean discover Cable locked in a meditative state, the result of being trapped on the Astral Plane by his mother, Madelyne Pryor. Madelyne wants to show Cable details of her life, and their limited time together. She shows him Mister Sinister's lab where she was created, and explains how she wants to get revenge on Cyclops and all mutants for hurting her. Cable reminds her that he is a mutant himself, and takes control of the setting, showing her Apocalypse's fortress, where he says true evil lies. He insists the X-Men's intentions are noble, and says he'll never join her crusade. When Madelyne askes whether this means he feels nothing for her, he suggests a neutral place where they can psychically meet again if needed: the cabin in Alaska where they lived when he was a baby, a place he knows Madelyne was happy. Just then, Nate announces that he can feel Jean breaking through, and suggests Madelyne leaves. Nate wakes up in the real world, and thanks Scott and Jean for being there for him. Meanwhile, in the Swiss Alps, Sebastian Shaw and Ch'vayre strike a deal to work together in order to rule both the future and the past. 

X-amining Imperial Guard #1-3

"Imperious Wrecks" / "Up From The Depths" / "A Mad God Awakens"

January - March 1997

In a Nutshell

An Earthbound Imperial Guard get embroiled in the machinations of the Kree Supreme Intelligence. 

Writer: Brian Augustyn
Pencils: Chuck Wojtkiewicz
Inks: Ray Snyder
Letterer: J. Babcock, Phil Felix (issue #2), Janice Chiang (issue #3)
Colorist: Brad Vancata 
Editor: Terry Kavanagh

Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

Issue #1: In the wake of Onslaught's attack and the death of many of Earth's heroes, Lilandra has sent eight members of the Imperial Guard to Earth to observe and aid the planet. Though the Guardsman rankle at being kept away from the Shi'ar Empire while it's fighting its own war, they obey their orders. For the most part, they keep a low profile, until a mysterious new group called the Underground Militia begins speaking out against Earth's remaining superheroes. Gladiator decides its within the Guard's mandate to oppose the group, but when they move against them, the militia and their mysterious leader Primus deploy mysterious weapons, and easily overpower the Imperial Guard. 

X-amining X-Men (vol. 2) #65

"First Blood"

June 1997

In a Nutshell

Operation: Zero Tolerance launches their opening salvo against the X-Men.

Writer: Scott Lobdell

Pencils: Carlos Pacheco 
Inks: Art Thibert
Letterer: RS/Comicraft
Colorist: Lichtner/Lusen/Liquid
Editor: Mark Powers

Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

In the wake of Operation: Zero Tolerance's attack on the X-Men's jet, Jean Grey suddenly finds herself somewhere else, confronted by a very much alive Iron Man. Before she can learn what's going on, she's pulled back to her reality, as Cyclops and Wolverine try to prevent the plane from crashing. Cannonball and Storm take to the air, trying to fight off their attackers. The whole confrontation is being broadcast, with people all over the country watching. Henry Peter Gyrich appears on CNBC, arguing for the legality of Operation: Zero Tolerance and the threat of mutants. In the skies over Colorado, Operation: Zero Tolerance unveils their human-sized Prime Sentinels against the X-Men. One-by-one, the heroes are overpowered and captured. Meanwhile, Bastion and his forces converge on the mansion. As Iceman watches the assault on his former teammates, Bastion holographically projects himself before the captive Xavier as he storms the mansion and accesses his files. Gloating, Bastion tells Xavier that his sacred dream is over. 

The Week That Was 040225: Top 5 Posts & Top Chef!

Top 5 Posts in March

1. Game of Thrones 5x07: The Gift 

2. Game of Thrones 3x07: The Bear and the Maiden Fair

3. X-amining X-Man #28

4. X-amining X-Factor #135

5. X-amining New Mutants #87

X-amining Wolverine #114

"For The Snark Was A Boojum, You See!"

June 1997

In a Nutshell

Wolverine & Lady Deathstrike fight over the mysterious box while Ogun reveals himself. 

Script: Larry Hama
Pencils: Leinil Francis Yu
Inks: Edgar Tadeo
Letters: Richard Starkings & Comicract's Emerson Miranda
Colors: Joe Rosas
Editor: Mark Powers

Previously, in Wolverine...

Plot
Tracking the possessed Helen, Wolverine encounters Damion Hellstorm, Son of Satan, who warns him to keep the mysterious box Wolverine received from Zoe Culloden safe. Just then, Lady Deathstrike attacks, seeking the box herself, which she claims is part of her family's legacy. At Wolverine's apartment, Storm and Phoenix open the box, and realize the importance of keeping it safe. As Wolverine and Lady Deathstrike fight, the possessed Helen reaches "her" apartment, discovering a weapons cache. Wolverine calls a truce, saying he'll give Deathstrike the box once he checks in with Zoe, and she agrees. Just then, Helen bursts into Wolverine's apartment, guns blazing, but Phoenix attacks the entity possessing her on the Astral Plane. As Wolverine and Lady Deathstrike arrive, the entity possesses Lady Deathstrike. Shifting her cybernetic features to reveal its identity — Wolverine's old sensei, Ogun — the Ogun-possessed Lady Deathstrike flees into the night. 

X-amining Sabretooth & Mystique #1-4

"Old Sins Cast Long Shadows" / "Torture" / "Willing Victims" / "Dead Ends" 

December 1996 - March 1997

In a Nutshell

Sabretooth & Mystique race AIM to get revenge on a Hydra scientist. 

Writer: Jorge Gonzales
Artist: Ariel Olivetti
Art Assists/Inks: Pier Brito (issues #1 & #4)
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Kevin Somers
Editor: Kelly Corvese
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

Sabretooth and Mystique break into a SHIELD helicarrier, to retrieve a mysterious capsule from inside a man's corpse, exactly where Destiny had predicted it would be found years before. Pursued by agents of AIM also after the capsule, the pair seeks refuge in Mystique's Swiss safehouse. There, Mystique reveals they can now have their revenge on the long-dead Catalyst, an agent of Hydra who captured and tortured them, along with Destiny, during their espionage days, using the capsule to destroy his Access program. Just then, they are attacked by AIM technoassassins sent by AIM's leader, the cybernetic Cypher. Sabretooth & Mystique escape, but Mystique realizes they are being tracked by Sabretooth's restraining collar, so she reluctantly removes it, but keep it with her as a failsafe. The duo proceeds to an island base of Hydra, already under attack by AIM. They split up, with Sabretooth falling into a piranha-filled moat while Mystique is ambushed after getting inside the citadel. 

X-amining X-Factor #135

"A Virtual Reality"

June 1997

In a Nutshell

X-Factor fights to keep Strong Guy out of the governments hands. 

Writer: Howard Mackie
Penciler: Jeff Matsuda
Inker: Art Thibert
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Kevin Somers
Editor: Kelly Corvese
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

Back at home with his family, Trevor Chase is angry Mystique can't stay with him longer, blaming X-Factor for keeping her away from him while starting up an X-Factor-themed video game. Meanwhile, Val Cooper alerts Forge that Strong Guy is being moved, and she suspects Jamie Madrox is going to try and free him from government custody, endangering his heart. Sure enough, Madrox takes out the agents transporting Strong Guy, prompting General Bowser to send in more operatives. They arrive at the same time as X-Factor. Strong Guy smashes the ground, triggering a shockwave, but his heart gives out again. As the troops prepare to fire, Polaris freezes their guns, then slows the flow of blood to their brains, knocking them out. X-Factor brings Strong Guy to Falls Edge, where Forge fits him with a makeshift pacemaker, telling him he's made arrangements with a surgeon for a more permanent solution using a device Forge has crafted. later, Mystique visits Trevor, who is a angry his game didn't go as planned. 

X-amining X-Men The Animated Series 4x05 : Proteus Part 2 - Patreon First

"Proteus Part 2"

Original Airdate

October 7 1995

Writer

Luanne Crocker

Plot

After recovering from their battle with Proteus, the X-Men chase down the villain, only to be overwhelmed by his reality-warping abilities once more. Deciding to change tactics, they seek out his father, Joseph MacTaggert, hoping to get to him before Proteus does. Their warnings fall on deaf ears, however. The next day, during a public appearance, Joseph is attacked by Proteus. The X-Men, staking out the event, attack him but with Wolverine paralyzed by fear, Proteus once again has the upper hand, but Joseph manages to escape. After visiting Joseph's house and seeing his family, Proteus attacks another public appearance. Moira threatens to use a device that will kill him, but Professor X convinces Proteus to let him into his mind, after which he convinces Proteus to stop his attack. After revealing his true form to Joseph, the pair reconcile, and Proteus returns to Muir Island with Moira to learn how to better control his powers.  

X-amining X-Man #28

"Dance With The Devil"

June 1997

In a Nutshell

Writer: Terry Kavanagh
Penciler: Roger Cruz 
Inker: Bud LaRosa
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Mike Thomas
Editor: Jaye Gardner

Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

Angry with the Brotherhood for using him to retrieve cannisters of a toxic gas called Coldsnap and not swayed by Havok and Fatale's arguments that the Dark Beast of Nate's reality is helping Aurora, Nate storms off to get Aurora and leave the Brotherhood. When he wakes her up, she immediately comes on to him, only to shortly thereafter freak out at her naked form as her Jeanne-Marie personality surfaces. Reluctantly, Nate realizes Dark Beast might actually be her best chance for help, and leaves on his own. He finds Havok waiting for him at the exit of the Brotherhood's secret base. Havok once again tries to convince Nate to stay, arguing that the Brotherhood is the antithesis of the X-Men: they simply believe mutants should fight for their rights instead of for coexistence with humans. After Havok leaves, Fatale arrives, and kisses Nate. Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, Sebastian Shaw presides over the induction of Madelyne Pryor to the Hellfire Club, much to Selene's dismay. Back at the Brotherhood base, Nate confronts Dark Beast, threatening him should he fail to help Aurora. Then he proceeds to where the Brotherhood is keeping the containers of Coldsnap, triggering an alarm that draws Havok and Fatale. When they arrive, they discover the containers emtpy and Nate either unconscious, or dead. 

The Week That Was 030225: The 97th Oscars!

The Oscars

Hey, the Oscars were Sunday! 

This was a weird year for movies (in Oscars-terms) as the industry as a whole is still recovering from the twin blows of the pandemic and the strikes, while continuing to wage an unending battle against the encroachment of streamers (more on that below). The show itself, however, was mostly typical and mostly entertaining.

X-amining Uncanny X-Men #345

"Moving On"

June 1997

In a Nutshell

Maggott debuts while the X-Men (try to) head home. 

Plot: Scott Lobdell

Script: Ben Raab
Penciler: Joe Madureira (part 1), Melvin Rubi (part 2)
Inkers: Tim Townsend (part 1), Vlasco & Candelario (part 2)
Letters: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colors: Steve Buccellato and Team Bucce

Editor: Mark Powers
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

In Guatemala, Sister Maria de la Joya runs from an armored being demanding to know where Joseph is. She is rescued when the creature is attacked by two giant slugs, sent by a mutant named Maggott, who is also looking for Joseph. Meanwhile, on the Shi'ar homeworld, Lilandra laments the damage wrought by the Phalanx and expresses her gratitude towards the X-Men. Later, Joseph is uneasy in the midst of a celebration honoring the X-Men's victory given the loss of life. Rogue does her best to console him, and offers to tell him everything he wants to know about Magneto when they return home. Gambit skips the party, spending his time digging graves for the fallen as an act of atonement for his past actions. The next morning, the X-Men board a Shi'ar ship for home, with Lilandra appointing Deathbird as their escort. As the ship makes its way to the stargate, Bishop reads up on Deathbird's history, and is fascinated by what he finds. Deathbird is less than excited to see him digging into her past however, but their discussion is interrupted when the ship is knocked aside by the wake of an even larger, out-of-control starship. From the bridge, the X-Men watch as the larger ship crashes into the stargate, destroying it, just as the X-Men are pulled into the cosmic portal. 

The Week That Was 022425

 X-aminations ahead, Captain America: Brave New World and Review Round-Up.

X-amining Juggernaut #1

"A Night in Spite"

April 1997

In a Nutshell

Juggernaut battles D'Spayre and his sister Spite. 

Writer: Joe Kelly
Penciler: Duncan Rouleau
Inkers: Steve Moncuss
Letters: Chris Eliopoulos & Virtual Calligraphy
Editor: Kelly Corvese
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

At a bar in New Mexico, Juggernaut drinks his troubles away, dealing with local troublemaker Marvin and attracting the eye of the beautiful Alex. The pair depart the bar together, and as they travel, Juggernaut learns Alex is being pursued by her brother, who wants to hurt her. The pair are interrupted by Black Tom, Juggernaut's old partner, who blasts Alex, prompting Juggernaut to strike and seemingly kill him. But just then Alex transforms into Spite, and Black Tom into her brother, D'Spayre. Spite admits she hoped to use Juggernaut against D'Spayre. Angry, Juggernaut tosses her to deal with D'Spayre's demon army while he attacks D'Spayre. Despite the demon's best efforts, Juggernaut just keeps coming. He tells D'Spayre that his life has been defined by despair, so nothing D'Spayre can do will hurt him. With D'Spayre distracted, Spite opens a portal to his home dimension, and Juggernaut tosses him through it, where the Fear Lords intend to make D'Spayre pay for his failure. Spite thanks Juggernaut then departs, with Juggernaut ready for the day they'll meet again. 

The Week That Was 0217/25

X-Book Power Rankings, Hadestown, and Review Round-Up

X-amining Deadpool #5

"The Doctor Is Skinned! (or: The End Of Our First Story Arc)"

May 1997

In a Nutshell

Deadpool's healing factor is restored, after which he must decide the fate of Doctor Killebrew.

Writer: Joe Kelly

Penciler: Ed McGuiness & Kevin Lau

Inkers: Nathan Massengill

Letters: Richard Starkings & Comicraft

Colors: Matthew Pain

Editor: Matt Idelson

Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Separations: Digital Chameleon

Plot

In the wake of the gamma infusion, Doctor Killebrew declares that while Deadpool won't be quite as invincible as he was previously, he will make a full recovery. Happy to hear it, Deadpool plots his next move: killing Killebrew. Meanwhile, at the Hellhouse, Weasel is telling a story about Deadpool when T-Ray angrily enters, declaring his intent to kill Deadpool, whom he finds deeply annoying. His rant is interrupted when a new job comes over the wire; T-Ray is the only one of the mercs willing to take it. Back at Killebrew's house, Siryn appeals to Deadpool's better nature, and convinces him to let Killebrew live. Deadpool tells the doctor to seek out his other victims, and help them like he helped Deadpool. Back at the X-Mansion, Deadpool admits his feelings for Siryn. She tells him she's too busy leading X-Force, but believes he's on the right path, and they may have a future together. Elsewhere, T-Ray finishes his job, then sets his sights on Deadpool. 

The Week That Was 021025

 January Top 5, Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, and Review Round-Up

X-amining Excalibur #109

"Dragon Moon Rising"

 May 1997

In a Nutshell

Spiral brings Excalibur into the fight against the Dragons of the Crimson Dawn

Writer: Ben Raab

Penciller: Salvador Larroca 

Inker: Scott Koblish

Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft

Colorist: Kevin Tinsley

Separations: GCW

Editor: Matt Idelson

Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

Nightcrawler is working on getting Excalibur's own Cerebro up and running while checking in with Moira's research into the Legacy Virus. Meanwhile, Colossus, Kitty and Wolfsbane discuss Amanda's sudden departure. Suddenly, they hear an explosion. Kitty phases up to the next floor to discover Nightcrawler and Wisdom battling Spiral, who has arrived with an unconscious Meggan. As the fight with Spiral continues, Meggan wakes up and rushes to help Spiral just as Nightcrawler seemingly traps her. Meggan explains that Captain Britain is in trouble and they need Spiral's help, but the rest are reluctant, given Spiral's villainous history. Spiral explains how she was pressed into service by the Dragons of the Crimson Dawn, who are holding Captain Britain. The team reluctantly agrees to leave with her, and the group teleports away. Meanwhile, Captain Britain is being tortured by the Dragons, who tell him he will be the catalyst which will unleash the Crimson Dawn upon the world. Captain Britain vows to himself to hold on until he can learn what happened to Meggan, despite the pain. 

The Week That Was 020325

Muhammad Ali, 2025 hype meter, and shameless plugs

X-amining Domino #1-3

"Rise and Fall" / "Death be a Lady Tonight" / "Hard Luck!" 

Jan - March 1997

In a Nutshell

Domino battles Pierce and the Reavers for the life of her former lover!

Writer: Ben Raab
Penciler: David Perrin
Inkers: Harry Candelario
Letters: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colors: Joe Rosas

Editor: Mark Bernardo 
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

Issue #1: In a hidden government facility, Milo Thurman is watched over by Henry Peter Gyrich. Given that Thurman's usefulness involves his ability to predict future events with uncanny accuracy, Gyrich is angry that he didn't pickup on a specific recent event. Meanwhile, Domino is enjoying the Carnival in Rio when she is attacked by the diminutive Pico. After defeating him, she is visited by Puck, who tells her that Milo — with whom Domino was once close — is in trouble. Interrogating Pico, she learns where Milo is being held, but after fighting her way to his cell, discovers he is gone; in his place stands Lady Deathstrike. 

The Week That Was 012725

Skeleton Crew, Russell Dauterman trading cards, and shameless plugs

X-amining X-Force #66

"Tragic Kingdom"

May 1997

In a Nutshell

X-Force chases after Risque in search of Warpath. 

Writer: John Francis Moore
Penciler: Adam Pollina
Inker: Mark Morales
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Marie Javins & Team Bucce

Editors: Mark Powers
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

Having delivered Warpath to Sledge, Risque races through the Wackyworld theme park, pursued by X-Force, who want to know what she did to their teammate. Meanwhile, Domino is accosted at JFK airport by federal agents. Back in Wackyworld, Caliban catches up to Risque, but then experiences another seizure and collapses. Risque stops to help him, which allows the rest of X-Force to catch up. In Detroit, Warpath awakens and meets Sledge, who tells him he needs a favor. In exchange, he offers Warpath information that will lead to the truth about the massacre of his tribe. Later, after Risque brings X-Force to Sledge, Warpath tells them everything is under control, but leaves Risque behind when the team departs. Meanwhile, Domino is brought before SHIELD commander GW Bridge, who tells her he needs her help extracting an undercover agent: Dani Moonstar! 

X-amining Generation X #27

"The Last X-Man"

May 1997

In a Nutshell

Bastion tries to convince Jubilee she is the last X-Man to get intel on the team. 

Writer: Scott Lobdell
Penciler: Chris Bachalo & Pop Mhan
Inker: Al Vey & Scott Hanna
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Marie Javins & Doctor Martin
Editor: Bob Harras

Plot

Bastion interrogates a captive Jubilee, trying to extract information about the X-Men and their location by weakening her psychic defenses by claiming the X-Men are dead or captured. Meanwhile, Emma probes Banshee's subconscious mind hoping to find clues as to the whereabouts of their students; something she sees reveals to Banshee where they are, and he flies off. Back at the headquarters of Operation: Zero Tolerance, Daria, Bastion's aid, grows concerned over Bastion's treatment of Jubilee. However, Jubilee continues to rebuff his efforts, even infuriating him to the point that he inadvertently reveals information about himself. Enraged, he drops the charade and simply beats Jubilee, leaving her alone to ponder her decisions. As he walks out, a bloodied Jubilee declares that she sure showed him... 

X-amining Cable #43

"Broken Soldiers"

May 1997

In a Nutshell

Cable's personal philosophy is highlighted in a pair of parallel stories set millennia apart. 

Writers: Todd Dezago with Brian Vaughn

Pencilers: Randy Green and Chap Yaep

Inker: Scott Hana

Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft

Colorist: Mike Thomas

Editor: Mark Powers

Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

A group of Askani disciples in the present day ask their mentor for a tale of their savior, the Chosen One: Cable. He proceeds to tell of an adventure from Cable's past, set in the far future, in which Cable risks his own life to save his Clan Chosen troops in a battle against Apocalypse's New Canaanite soldiers, only to argue for mercy when his forces emerge victorious, saying to kill in cold blood is Apocalypse's way. As the mentor explains that Cable's morals are what will bring them salvation, Cable finds himself embroiled in a similar conflict in the present day, helping rescue a young mutant from an angry mob, only to turn and prevent the mutant from killing his attackers, saying vengeance leads to darkness. Meanwhile, Jean Grey-Summers broods over the fact that she must tell Cable that his mother — Madelyne Pryor-Summers — has returned to life. 

X-amining X-Men (vol. 2) #64

"Games of Deceit & Death Part 3"

May 1997

In a Nutshell

The X-Men, Kingpin, and Sebastian Shaw faceoff over the Elixir Vitae. 

Plot: Scott Lobdell

Script: Ben Raab
Pencils: Carlos Pacheco 
Inks: Art Thibert
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Chris Lichtner, Aron Lusen & Liquid Color
Editor: Bob Harras

Plot

The X-Men confront Wilson Fisk, the former Kingpin of New York crime, who has control over the Elixir Vitae now that he's the CEO of Fujikawa Enterprises. When Wolverine threatens Fisk, he reveals that he's captured Cannonball, and threatens to inject him with an experimental Legacy Virus vaccine. Meanwhile, Sebastian Shaw infiltrates the Fujikawa building. Upstairs, Cyclops tries to reason with Fisk. The villain refuses to hand over the elixir, as he plans to use it in the same way as Shaw, to create a Legacy Virus cure and corner the market for it. But Fisk does release Cannonball as a peace offering. Elsewhere, Bastion taunts a captive Jubilee. In Hong Kong, Shaw confronts Fisk and the X-Men. Fisk calls in his Si-Fan ninjas. But before violence erupts, Storm calls down a bolt of lighting, destroying the Elixir Vitae rather than risk it falling into Shaw or Fisk's hands. Later, as the X-Men are flying home, Jean is suddenly hit by a burst of psychic energy just as their plane is attacked by Operation: Zero Tolerance. 

Transformers #1 (September 1984) – The Commercial, Not the Comic

Gene Kendall returns again -- I guess I threatened to do this, so here we are. Having exhausted the known archives of animated G. I. Joe commercials for the Marvel series, it does make a certain amount of sense to cover the other Marvel/Hasbro collaboration of the day, those wily robots in disguise.

X-amining Wolverine #113

"The Wind From the East"

May 1997

In a Nutshell

Wolverine battles a possessed mime over a mysterious box.

Script: Larry Hama
Pencils: Leinil Francis Yu 
Inks: Edgar Tadeo
Letters: RS & Comicraft
Colors: Joe Rosas
Editor: Mark Powers

Chief: Bob Harras

Plot
Inside his apartment, Wolverine battles the possessed mime who attacked him. During their fight, the mysterious box Wolverine was given to protect by Zoe Culloden falls to the floor. It triggers a memory in Wolverine, of the first time he saw the box, years ago in Shanghai, after he saved an old man and his younger companion from members of the Japanese army led by Ogun. Outside, Helen approaches Wolverine's apartment, intent on apologizing for brushing him off. But when she sees Storm and Jean Grey, arriving to check on Wolverine, she holds back. As Jean and Storm enter the apartment, they interrupt the mime and briefly incapacitate him, allowing the entity possessing him takes control of Jean. When the possessed Jean telekinetically hurls a knife at Storm and Wolverine jumps in front of her, taking the knife instead. the act of selflessness briefly confuses the entity. This allows Jean to reassert control of her mind, forcing the entity to flee. It leaves the apartment, and passes into Helen, still waiting outside. Elsewhere, Daimon Hellstorm, the Son of Satan, spies the box in his scrying crystal, and decides to take action. 

X-amining X-Factor #134

"Child"

May 1997

In a Nutshell

Writer: Howard Mackie
Penciler: Eric Battle
Inker: Art Thibert, Sam Parsons & Hackshack Studios
Letterer: Richard Starkings/Comicraft
Colorist: Glynis Oliver

Separations: GCW
Editor: Kelly Corvese
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

Anxious to get at Forge's hidden files, General Bowser downloads data off a CD-ROM confiscated from Forge. Instead, he infects the government's computer systems with a virus that gives Forge access to their files. Now properly positioned to continue their work free from government oversight, X-Factor sets out on their next mission, locating Mystique's young friend, Trevor Chase. Meanwhile, Guido awakens from his coma, and demands to see someone from X-Factor. Later, Bowser returns home to find X-Factor waiting for him, looking for Trevor. Back at the hospital, a federal agent almost tells Guido about X-Factor's apparent demise, but then Guido gets sedated in order to prevent any further damage to his heart. Back at Bowser's house, Trevor calls to X-Factors from upstairs. Mystique rushes to his side, and he tries to warn her just as two monstrous creatures crash through the walls. X-Factor manages to fight them off, but they escape with Bowser. Unbeknownst to X-Factor, the monsters were created by Trevor, and he seems to have set his sights on them next. 

X-amining X-Man #27

"Blood Brothers"

May 1997

In a Nutshell

Nate probes the true intentions of Havok's Brotherhood

Writer: Terry Kavanagh
Penciler: Roger Cruz 
Inker: Bud LaRosa
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Mike Thomas
Editor: Jaye Gardner 

Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

Nate joins Havok and his Brotherhood on a mission to rescue Aurora from aboard a Department H train. Hanging back, due both to his diminished powers and his uncertainty about the Brotherhood's true intents, Nate only intervenes in the conflict to stop one of Department H's soldiers from killing everyone. Claiming the soldier's weapon-laden gauntlet for himself, Nate returns with the Brotherhood and the rescued Aurora to their base below Manhattan. There, Havok shows Nate to a meditation chamber containing a device which will help Nate access his locked away abilities. Shortly thereafter, Nate is able to levitate himself. Exploring the base further, he discovers a stash of deadly gas cannisters that were traveling with Aurora. Realizing getting the gas was the true objective of the mission, not rescuing a fellow endangered mutant, Nate confronts Havok. Reading his mind, Nate confirms Havok isn't brainwashed and truly believes in the Brotherhood's mission. But he also discovers the Brotherhood's secret member, his world's Dark Beast. 

X-amining Uncanny X-Men #344

"Casualties of War"

May 1997

In a Nutshell

The X-Men battle the Phalanx for the fate of the Shi'ar Empire

Writer: Scott Lobdell
Guest Penciler: Melvin Rubi
Inkers: Joe Weems with Scott Hanna, Marlo Alquiza, Harry Candelario & Tim Townsend
Letters: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colors: Steve Buccellato
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

With the Phalanx already in control of the Shi'ar royal palace, the X-Men arrive to rescue Lilandra. They realize the Phalanx are targeting the hatchery, home to the next generation of Shi'ar. Rogue dispatches Bishop and Deathbird to defend it, while Beast works to devise a way to separate the Phalanx techno parts from the organic ones. On Earth, Senator Kelly meets Henry Peter Gyrich at the Hulkbuster headquarters of Operation: Zero Tolerance. Despite his own anti-mutant sentiments, Kelly is growing concerned about the amount of power Bastion has amassed. Back at the Shi'ar palace, Bishop and Deathbird grow closer as they defend the hatchery. At the palace, the sight of all the dead Shi'ar triggers Joseph's memories of the Holocaust, and he attacks, blowing the X-Men's cover. Rogue and Gambit join the fray after him, until Beast succeeds in shutting down the Phalanx. 

G. I. Joe #88, July 1989 (The Commercial, Not the Comic…The Final One)

Girl, each time I try

I just break down and cry

Pain in my head

Oh, I'd rather be dead

Spinning around and around

Although we've come

To the end of the road

Still I can't let go

X-amining Excalibur #108

"The Old Ways"

April 1997

In a Nutshell

Captain Britain & Meggan battle the Dragons of the Crimson Dawn!

Writer: Ben Raab

Penciller: Salvador Larroca 

Inker: Scott Koblish

Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft

Colorist: Kevin Tinsley

Separations: GCW

Editor: Matt Idelson

Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

On Muir Island, Nightcrawler and Colossus playfully fence with each other. Afterwards. Amanda Sefton approaches Colossus, telling him that she's leaving Excalibur for personal reasons she can't share with anyone, especially Nightcrawler. Meanwhile, in London, the The Dragons of the Crimson Dawn continue their attack on Captain Britain. Back on Muir Island, Wisdom receives a strange email, after which he's harassed by Kitty about acquiring proper superhero attire. Elsewhere in the complex, Wolfsbane expresses her concern over Moira's work habits to Douglock, before departing with Kitty for Ireland. They have a hair appointment with the highly sought after Molly Fitzgerald. In London, Meggan regains consciousness, and is able to help Captain Britain defend himself. Watching nearby is Spiral, who is reminded by the Dragons that she is now one of them, and teleports everyone away but herself and Meggan. Confronted, Spiral assures Meggan she's no friends of the Dragons, and Meggan suggests they head to Muir Island for help. 

X-amining X-Force #65

"Lower East Side Story"

April 1997

In a Nutshell

Adam Pollina returns as Warpath & Risque are attacked by Blob & Mimic!

Writer: John Francis Moore
Penciler: Adam Pollina
Inker: Mark Morales
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Marie Javins

Separations: Team Bucce

Editor: Mark Powers
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Previously, in X-Force...

Plot

Risque visits Warpath at the X-Mansion, before the pair head into New York City, much to Siryn's dismay. As Warpath probes an evasive Risque for more information about her past, they arrive at a club in the East Village owned by a friend of Risque's. Inside, Warpath tries to get more info about Risque from her various acquaintances. Back at the X-Mansion, Siryn & Shatterstar practice in the Danger Room before being distracted by the sound of piano music. They follow it to find Caliban mysteriously playing like a virtuoso; as the rest of the team gathers around him, he suddenly has a seizure and collapses. Back at the club, Risque worries that she's getting too close to Warpath, just as she's approached by her mysterious boss, who tells her two others have arrived to finish the job she started. Just then, Blob and Mimic attack the club, trying to capture Warpath. He and Risque manage to fight off Blob & Mimir, but Warpath is angry about her obvious connection to them. She takes him to an apartment nearby. After Warpath assures her he'll stick by her as long as she's honest with him, she offers him a drink laced with a tranquillizer that knocks him out, thereby completing her mission. 

X-amining Generation X #26

"Adrift"

April 1997

In a Nutshell

Jubilee tries to escape from Bastion while her classmates try to survive at sea!

Writer: Scott Lobdell
Artists: Joe Bennet & Joe Pimentel
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Marie Javins
Editor: Bob Harras

Previously, in Generation X... 

Plot

Adrift on a chunk of vegetation in the middle of the ocean after escaping from Black Tom, Chamber, M, Husk, Skin and Synch fight to stave off the effects of exposure and find a way to reach land, to no avail. Meanwhile, back at the school, Banshee mourns the death of Emma and desperately tries to find his missing students. Elsewhere, Jubilee manages to knock out the Operation: Zero Tolerance guards holding her, but when her powers overreact and seriously injures one of them, she stops to make sure he's okay, much to a watching Bastion's confusion as this delay leads to her recapture. Back at the school, Emma revives following another psychic encounter with Nightmare, revealing to Banshee that she was only faking her death and their students are still alive. 

G. I. Joe #80 - November 1988 (The Commercial, Not the Comic)

Nobody beats G. I. Joe

Over the land and deep down below

Cobra BUGGs got an eye out for Joe

Nobody beats G. I. Joe

A Real American Hero!

X-amining Cable #42

"Tolerance"

April 1997

In a Nutshell

Cable & Storm fight Callisto & Marrow at a Lila Cheney concert. 

Writer: Todd Dezago 

Penciler: Randy Green

Inker: Scott Hana

Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft

Colorist: Mike Thomas

Editor: Bob Harras

Plot

In the Swiss Alps, Ch'vayre is visited by Sanctity, who urges him to track down Cable and make him realize it's time for him realize his true destiny. But Ch'vayre doesn't believe Cable is ready yet. Sanctity reminds Ch'vayre of his place. Meanwhile, Cable & Storm are attending a Lila Cheney concert on a tip that Callisto and Marrow are planning on attacking it in the hopes of triggering a mutant uprising. When Callisto and Marrow attack, they cause a panic, but Lila manages to calm the crowd while Cable and Storm move the fight outside. Callisto and Marrow escape, and Cable heads back inside to find the bomb they said they planted while Storm continues to search for their foes. Cable finds the bomb and Storm finds Callisto, who reveals the bomb will detonate once Lila is done singing. Cable telepathically alerts Lila, and she teleports the bomb to the other side of the galaxy. Cable and Storm are happy they prevented a disaster, but Cable remains certain a genetic war is on its way. 

X-amining X-Factor #133

"Down Under"

April 1997

In a Nutshell

Val Cooper & General Bowser investigate X-Factor's apparent demise. 

Writer: Howard Mackie
Art: Jeff Matsuda & Art Thibert
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Glynis Oliver
Editor: Kelly Corvese
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

Plot

Val Cooper and General Bowser investigate the site of Mystique and Forge's car crash, and discover no sign of them in the Potomac. They proceed to X-Factor's Fall's Edge headquarters, which recently exploded. Despite Val's protestations, Bowser orders a force of six men inside the remains of the building alongside himself and Val to secure Forge's technology. Meanwhile, Jamie Madrox visits the comatose Strong Guy at a hospital in DC, where he is confronted by Havok. Inside Fall's Edge, members of Bowser's team are taken out due to the conditions of the building, and when the group comes across a toxic gas leak, Bowser orders everyone out. Back at the hospital, Havok tries again to get Jamie to join his Brotherhood, but Jamie declines. At Fall's Edge, an electrostatic field is erected around the remains of the building, sealing it off, with the members of X-Factor declared dead. Inside Fall's Edge, Forge and the rest of X-Factor watch Bowser pull out, pleased their ruse has succeeded and thankful for the role Val played in selling it. Now, they can get on with reinventing X-Factor as something better. Back at the hospital, Havok teleports away, urging Jamie to side with him when the time comes. Jamie just wanting a normal life, tells Strong Guy to get better before leaving and missing a small movement of Strong Guy's hand. 

X-amining Wolverine #112

"The Light at the End of the Day"

April 1997

In a Nutshell

Wolverine fights an evil mime. 

Script: Larry Hama
Pencils: Anthony Winn
Inks: Dan Green 
Letters: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colors: Joe Rosas & Graphic Colorworks
Editor: Mark Powers

Plot
Wolverine arrives in the East Village, where he stops two thugs from hassling a woman and a man. The woman, Kirsten, offers to help Wolverine get an apartment in her building. Meanwhile, a passing street mime is lured into a basement by an evil spirit. Later, Wolverine calls Jean and explains that he's attempting to prove he can live in the real world. But over the next few days, as he explores his new neighborhood, Wolverine finds it difficult to not blame himself for the damage caused by Professor Xavier's transformation into Onslaught. Seeking a job, Kirsten directs him towards a construction crew rebuilding in the wake of Onslaught. The foreman, Helen, makes it clear she abhors violence but brings Wolverine aboard. But when she and Wolverine later come across the thugs destroying Wolverine's motorcycle, she snaps and attacks them, helping Wolverine chase them off. With Helen offering no explanation, Wolverine enters his apartment, where the mime, now wearing a sinister smile, is waiting for him.

G. I. JOE #74 - August 1988 (The Commercial, Not the Comic)

 

Destro's back

On the attack

Out to conquer the world on his own

But nobody beats G. I. Joe

A Real American Hero

Efficient and Divine - Gene Kendall's New Crime Thriller (Also, Free Stuff)

 

Quick-witted and clean-cut Mason Mackay has something dark within. Struggling to accept his sinister urges, Mason must choose between those he loves and those who deserve brutal justice.

Gene Kendall here, once again acting like a hog and using a blog post to plug his projects. I've been at work for a few years now on Efficient and Divine, a small-town crime thriller series. (They're available on Kindle Unlimited, which is currently running a free trial promotion.) The first novel Almost Heaven is an origin story of sorts for Mason Mackay, a handsome documentarian who discovers a staggering capacity for violence.

60 Years of X - 1970

Year 8: 1970
1970 X-Men Comics & Appearances: X-Men #66-68, X-Men Annual #1, Amazing Spider-Man #92

The X-Men have their series cancelled, then revived a few months later as a reprint title! An amazing friendship starts! And that's about it!

043 - Year 8 Cover: X-Men #66

G. I. JOE #72 - June 1988 (The Commercial, Not the Comic)

 

Nobody beats G. I. Joe

Nobody beats G. I. Joe

Fighting hard against the Cobra foe

Nobody beats G. I. Joe

A Real American Hero!

X-amining X-Men (vol. 2) #63

"Games of Deceit & Death Part 2"

April 1997

In a Nutshell

The search for a Legacy Virus cure gets complicated as Sebastian Shaw returns and the Kingpin reveals himself!

Plot: Scott Lobdell

Script: Ben Raab
Pencils: Carlos Pacheco 
Inks: Art Thibert
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colors: Chris Lichtner , Aron Lusen & Liquid Graphocs
Editor: Bob Harras

Plot

The X-Men an Shang-Chi battle the cyber ninjas, who reveal they are working for Sebastian Shaw, who shortly thereafter reveals himself to the X-Men. After a brief scuffle, Storm brokers a truce, while Cannonball slips away underneath a rickshaw headed towards Fujikawa Enterprises. At the Hong Kong branch of the Hellfire Club, Shaw admits he's seeking a cure for the Legacy Virus — and a financial interest in the production of it — but claims there is some altruism to his motives. He also secretly receives all of Moira MacTaggert's data on the Legacy Virus from Rory Campbell. Shortly thereafter, the X-Men depart for Fujikawa Enterprises, where Shaw believes the Elixir Vitae sought by Shang-Chi's father and key to the cure, is being held. However, Cannonball is already inside, and learns the new head of the company is none other than the Kingpin, who shortly thereafter reveals himself to the intruding X-Men!

60 Years of X - 1969

 Year 7: 1969

1969 X-Men Comics & Appearances: X-Men #54-65, Sub-Mariner #14

Neal Adams saves the X-Men! Roy Thomas returns! So do the Sentinels & Professor X! Magneto gets a face! Havok, Sauron, Sunfire, the Savage Land mutates (& the Living Monolith...) debut!

037 - Year 7 Cover: X-Men #56

The Week That Was 022523

 Power Rankings, Ads, Shameless Plugs

60 Years of X - 1968

 Year 6: 1968

1968 X-Men Comics & Appearances: X-Men #42-53, Avengers #53 & #60!

Xavier dies, Magneto returns, the X-Men disband! The Avengers crossover, Polaris debuts! Roy Thomas leaves, Gary Friedrich comes & goes, Arnold Drake arrives! All that plus Jim Steranko in 1968!

031 - Year 6 Cover: X-Men #50

X-amining Classic X-Men #26 - Patreon First

"So Much in Common!"

October 1988

In a Nutshell

Banshee & Wolverine swap war stories and realize they indirectly crossed paths years before becoming X-Men!

Writer: Tom Orzechowski, Chris Claremont (additional pages)
Artist: John Bolton, Kieron Dwyer (additional pages)

Inker: Terry Austin (additional pages)
Letters: Tom Orzechowski

Colors: Gregory Wright

Editor: Bob Harras
Editor-in-Chief: Tom DeFalco

Plot

Wolverine, Banshee, Nightcrawler, and Cyclops are having a "boys night" at Harry's Hideaway. When Wolverine tells a story about how he and his lady friend Cracklin' Rosa would sucker patrons of her Calgary bar into trying to beat Wolverine at a drinking contest, Banshee realizes they inadvertently crossed paths while Banshee was working as an Interpol agent. Banshee had followed a pair of wanted criminals to Rosa's bar, and Wolverine's antics had helped distract their bodyguards, allowing Banshee to signal the Mounties to arrest his man without any complication. In the present, Banshee points out how they both inadvertently learned something about teamwork that day, while Cyclops says he's proud to call them both teammates. 

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