What Is An Omega Level Mutant?

The X-Men universe features some of the most powerful characters that Marvel as ever created and a variety of phrases have been invented to explain and categorise the power of mutants. Omega level mutants are meant to be at the top of the list, and while the phrase sounds suitably intimidating, what defines an ‘omega level’ mutant and what exactly does the term mean? Continue reading “What Is An Omega Level Mutant?”

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The Merry X-Men Holiday Special Review: A Wonderful Collection Of Christmas Flash Fiction

Christmas is a time for bringing people together and the X-Men are one of the biggest families in the Marvel Universe. Each member looks out for the other, an attitude that perfectly sums up the festive season. The Merry X-Men Holiday Special features an advent calendar themed collection of stories about the mutant community. A story is told for every day of December, with writers like Cullen Bunn, Chris Claremont and Ed Brisson getting to flex their creative muscles. Find out how Gambit and Rogue spend their first Christmas together as a married couple and why Jubilee is determined to find the perfect gift for her son. Continue reading “The Merry X-Men Holiday Special Review: A Wonderful Collection Of Christmas Flash Fiction”

The Essential Reading List: Wolverine

When reading about a certain character, it’s helpful to know about the best stories. In this edition of The Essential Reading List, I’m highlighting important Wolverine stories. The character has appeared in a number of classic X-Men stories and in his own series. With his attitude, healing factor and tragic backstory, Wolverine is one of Marvel’s most iconic superheroes. Here are the must-read stories of the man known as James ‘Logan’ Howlett. Continue reading “The Essential Reading List: Wolverine”

5 Must-Read Wolverine Comics That Will Make You Appreciate Japan

When it comes to the representation of Japan in comics, Wolverine is the ideal character for providing a Western perspective. The Land of the Rising Sun is an essential part of Logan’s backstory, and I’ve waxed lyrically about how important Japan is to his identity. Many stories have been told about Wolverine and Japan, showing the divide between man and beast, ronin and samurai. The Comic Vault is listing five key stories that will give you an idea of how Wolverine fits into Japanese culture. Continue reading “5 Must-Read Wolverine Comics That Will Make You Appreciate Japan”

Talk Is Jericho Podcast Covers The War Between Marvel And DC

In recent years, podcasts have become a popular form of entertainment. They’re convenient and easy to listen to at any time of the day. One of my favourite podcasts to listen to is Talk Is Jericho, hosted by WWE wrestler Chris Jericho. What makes Y2J’s podcast so entertaining is the range of guests that he has on the show. One of the most interesting I’ve heard recently is the Marvel vs DC Megawar edition with special guest Reed Tucker. Tucker wrote a book called Slugfest: Inside The Epic, 50 Year-Battle Between Marvel and DC about the rivalry that exists between the two biggest comic publishers in the business and the stories are hilarious.

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Appreciating The Butterfly Effect Of Psylocke And How She Developed Into An Iconic Superhero

As a proud Englishman, I enjoy reading about British characters who are well-written and complex. Psylocke fits that description as one of the most prominent British superheroes in mainstream comics. A member of the X-Men, Elizabeth Braddock is the twin sister of Captain Britain and one of the most powerful telekinetic users in the Marvel Universe. She was created by Chris Claremont and developed from a support character into a superhero with her own unique mythology.

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Wolverine Review: A Defining Story Of Honour, Loyalty And The Soul Of Japan

It’s been established that Wolverine is one of Marvel’s most famous characters and a lot of that can be credited to Chris Claremont and Frank Miller. The pair are responsible for creating Wolverine’s original solo series, which redefined the character. Claremont and Miller introduced Japan as a major part of Logan’s backstory and here’s my review of the graphic novel.

Continue reading “Wolverine Review: A Defining Story Of Honour, Loyalty And The Soul Of Japan”

Beneath The Pages: Chris Claremont

Beneath The Pages is a segment that looks at key figures in the comic industry. It’s about shining a light on their work and praising how much they’ve contributed to popular culture. Chris Claremont is one of the most famous names in comics, having created many Marvel characters such as Jubilee, Mystique, Emma Frost and Gambit. His writing with X-Men has cemented his legacy as one of the all time greats.

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