Combining the mutant powers of the title character with the routine and goals of a private eye was a stroke of genius, and the novelty of the premise stands out as the greatest strength of this series. It's interesting to note that much of the dialogue in this issue builds on Peter David's run on X-Factor, which incorporated some of the same characters, from years ago, but he maintains a thoroughly accessible tone throughout the book. Raimondi's art brings an appropriately dark atmosphere to bear here, and it's very much in keeping with the crime-fiction feel that the writer is aiming for.
Jamie Madrox has decided to set up shop in the section of Manhattan known as "Mutant Town," doing what he can to help people by becoming a private investigator. But he hasn't limited his options either, using his mutant power to send duplicates of himself out into the world to bring back a variety of experiences for him. His old friend and teammate from X-Factor, Rahne, AKA Wolfsbane, stops by to help him out, but she discovers him passed out on the floor of his office. Meanwhile, a stabbing victim makes his way across the city, and he promises to be Jamie's first big case as a P.I.
Raimondi's artwork here reminds me more than a little of the style of Jae (The Sentry, Inhumans) Lee, with a touch of the simpler linework of Charlie (Warlock, Codeflesh) Adlard. The dark, shadowy and mature look suits the noir feel that's clearly an integral part of this series. After all, it is a private eye book, more in line with the style of The Maltese Falcon than Magnum P.I.. I like that costumes have been set aside here. The artists' depiction of more traditional garb brings greater credibility to the characters. It also makes it clear that this book, though it incorporates some elements from it, is not planted in the super-hero genre.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the book is the odd balance between capability and self-destruction that's to be found in the title character. Jamie Madrox is brilliant here, and not just in how he's opted to use his powers. He's perceptive, confident and dynamic. But there's another side of the character that David explores as well. Madrox's fear and apparent lack of direction shine through as well. He's together and falling apart all at once. He's impressive but thoroughly flawed as well, and that makes him a much more interesting hero.
Most depictions of the title character's powers in the past were focused on how one man can become an army. Peter David approaches it from different angles here. It's the perfect reconnaissance tool... but it's a tool for renaissance as well. Madrox realizes that he's not limited to one life, that's he able to experience a seemingly infinite array of decisions, philosophies and life-changing events. He can do anything and be anyone he wants to be, but he's cursed by experiencing the good with the bad. I can't wait to see where David is headed with this character and the series as a whole.
