Marvel Comics
Uncanny X-Force #14
By Dan Horn
September 1, 2011 - 15:50

Marvel Comics
Writer(s): Rick Remender
Penciller(s): Jerome Opena
Inker(s): Jerome Opena
Colourist(s): Dean White
Letterer(s): Cory Petit
Cover Artist(s): Esad Ribic
$3.99 US



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Last issue, X-Force returned from the Age of Apocalypse only to find that Archangel, the scion of Apocalypse in the 616 reality, has escaped from his cell with the help of Dark Beast, Genocide, and the four new horsemen. In this fourth chapter of "The Dark Angel Saga," a titanic clash between the two groups ensues, but the X-Force team quickly finds itself outmatched by the apocalyptic forces of Archangel's apostles. Weakened and wounded, Deadpool, Wolverine, and Fantomex are pressured to retreat, while Betsy returns to Archangel in a last ditch effort to reason with her former lover.

This issue has all of the scripting elements Remender is so incredible at sowing into the bulk of his comic book works: tender moments, raucous action, and clever humor. Rick knows when to hit his readers with everything he's got and also when to ease off the gas pedal. UXF #14 demonstrates the often fantastic balance of his storytelling. The way everything from the past issues is beginning to come full circle is really feeling like a payoff for the readership's loyalty. The progression is palpable, and the continuity within this series alone is already so rich and vibrant. Remender's Uncanny X-Force may forever be one of those graphical standards by which we judge all that follow.

But really the greatest thing about this issue is seeing virtuosic artist Jerome Opena working with the equally virtuosic colorist Dean White once again. It feels like it's been an incredibly long time since we've been graced by this duo's confluence of talent, but it's definitely been well worth the wait. Opena's stylized panels are brimming with ingenuity and small details, and White's colors are vivid and lush. The visual collaborations on this title, as I've remarked before, are an embarrassment of riches. Let's not forget Esad Ribic's incredible covers! I'd love to see this artistic team of Opena and White do much more work together, but for now Uncanny X-Force will absolutely do in a pinch.
Rating: 9/10

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