Marvel’s X-Men Reboot Gets Dark With Surprise Suicide Squad Twist

Marvel's X-Men Reboot Gets Dark With Surprise Suicide Squad Twist

As a lifelong comic book enthusiast who’s witnessed the evolution of X-Men since their inception, I must say that the “From the Ashes” reboot has been nothing short of exhilarating! However, the latest twist in X-Factor #1 took me by surprise – it feels like Marvel decided to give DC’s Suicide Squad a mutant makeover!


The reboot of Marvel’s X-Men series titled “From the Ashes” is progressing quite well, blending elements of classic comic book excitement with thought-provoking societal and political issues that are characteristic of the X-Men universe. However, the tone shifted dramatically with the debut of X-Factor #1, as the new version of the government-sanctioned mutant team seems to share more similarities with DC’s Suicide Squad than a typical X-team.

(SPOILERS FOLLOW!)

In issue #1 of “X-Factor,” we encounter Rodger Broderick, a producer for reality shows, assigned with orchestrating a recruitment campaign for General Mills, who harbors doubts about the general populace accepting a team of mutants. Despite his cynical outlook, Broderick thinks that a squad of mutants working for the government during times of conflict would be an excellent public relations move, serving as a distraction from the true conditions in which mutants are being treated.

Having spent most of my life struggling to find acceptance as a mutant, I can empathize with the new X-Factor squad as they navigate both the luxuries and hardships that come with being part of this unique team. From the grand mansion and well-funded resources to the complex divide in public opinion, it’s a double-edged sword that they must learn to wield effectively.

Marvel's X-Men Reboot Gets Dark With Surprise Suicide Squad Twist

Angel thinks it’s a PR disaster, but Rodger Broderick visits his hospital bed with a surprising counterpoint: X-Factor is trending in a bigger way than ever before! More to the point, Broderick believes the failed X-Term mission cracked the code on how X-Factor can succeed: a roster of “completely interchangeable” mutants. While angel is still stuck in a hospital bed, a whole new X-Factor team is rolled out, with a roster that includes Alex Summers/Havok, Frenzy, Pyro, Dr. Cecilia Reyes, Xyber (again) and Granny Smite, a late-life mutant immortal who is trying to die.

In the first issue of X-Factor, it becomes one of the most captivating additions to the “From the Ashes” reboot. Unlike the conventional Suicide Squad concept, this team consists of mutants working for the government rather than criminals. This twist introduces more complex themes compared to typical Task Force X narratives.

Welcome to the X-Men Universe, X-Factor – here’s hoping you survive…

X-Factor #1 by Mark Russell (art by Bob Quinn) is now on sale at Marvel Comics.

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2024-08-14 22:12