This issue marks the return of writer Grant Morrison to the title. Oh, I know Morrison's name has adorned the book for a while now, but I really didn't find that his unconventional approach was to be found in the first two chapters of "Planet X." I kept waiting for it to resurface, and it has here. This chapter features the powerful drama of two people -- two close friends who have something stronger lurker between them -- facing death together. That plotline gives this storyline new strength, and it brings with it the sense of climax and finality that "Planet X" has been trying to establish from the start.
Wolverine and Jean Grey find themselves trapped on the remnants of Asteroid M, Magneto's former orbital base of operations from years ago. The good news: they're alone on the asteroid, not threatened by any of Magneto's mutant underlings. The bad news: the asteroid is headed straight for the sun, and Jean Grey doubts even the Phoenix Force within her will be enough to save them. Meanwhile, back on Earth, Magneto continues to use the drug Kick to amplify his powers, and he orders his new Brotherhood of Mutants to start making examples of humanity for crimes against mutants.
Jimenez's detailed approach really enhances the story here. His meticulous linework brings realism to Logan and Jean's faces, health and circumstances. The George Perez influence is still clear in his work, but he's definitely evolved as an artist over the past few years so that his own style -- a slightly tighter, sleek look -- emerged. Chris Chuckry makes a key contribution in this issue as well. It's the colors that really bring the intensity and overwhelming nature of the heroes' predicament to life.
My disappointment in the conventional aspects of the story -- Magneto's over-the-top villainy and rather obvious weaknesses, just waiting to be exploited -- persists. The wide-eyed, innocent members of the Brotherhood are more irksome than entertaining in their new roles as well.
The interplay between Wolverine and Jean Grey comes off as genuine despite the extreme nature of the conflict they face. Morrison gets to the heart of these characters in a scene that brings a sense of real menace to a world in which Armageddon is routine. Morrison develops real suspense here, and I'm waiting with bated breath to see how this dynamic cliffhanger is going to be resolved.
