Marvel has launched its new Midnight Universe line, reimagining iconic properties like Spider-Man and the X-Men through a horror lens. The publisher is placing significant emphasis on this new imprint, dedicating its entire new comic release schedule for the week to the debut issues of Midnight X-Men, Midnight Spider-Man, and Midnight Fantastic Four. Each series offers a distinct take on familiar characters and concepts.
Midnight X-Men #1 Review
Written by Jonathan Hickman with art by Matteo Della Fonte, Midnight X-Men #1 offers a vampire-centric alternate reality where Storm leads a new breed of mutant/vampire hybrids known as Empyres. These Empyres are at war with traditional vampires, leaving humanity and mutantkind in the crossfire. While the premise is solid and Hickman's reinterpretation of X-Men character dynamics is engaging, the issue lacks the immediate impact of Hickman's previous work like House of X. Della Fonte's art provides a cinematic and atmospheric quality that suits the dark tone, though facial expressions could benefit from more variety. Overall, it's a respectable start with room for growth.
Score - 7
Midnight Spider-Man #1 Review
Phillip Kennedy Johnson and artist ScieTronc deliver the standout series of the initial Midnight Universe lineup with Midnight Spider-Man #1. The series reinterprets Spider-Man's origin story with a body horror twist and explores themes of unchecked capitalism and the futility of individual resistance against monolithic corporations. This thematic richness, combined with a compelling dynamic between Peter Parker and Uncle Ben, makes it a strong contender even without the horror elements. ScieTronc's unique art style, with its kinetic energy and palpable darkness, complements the narrative well, drawing comparisons to the success of manga-influenced titles. Despite a peculiar panel choice involving Felicia Hardy, this issue is a highly recommended start.
Score - 9
Midnight Fantastic Four #1 Review
Midnight Fantastic Four #1, by writer Benjamin Percy and artist Kev Walker, feels like the most underdeveloped of the new series. While Kev Walker's detailed and slightly distorted art style is a natural fit for a horror-infused universe, lending a Lovecraftian cosmic horror vibe to Marvel's First Family, the characterization falls short. Reed Richards is portrayed as a reckless genius, but the rest of the team feels thin and lacks a familial bond. Supporting characters are introduced and removed abruptly, making it difficult to connect with anyone beyond Reed. Compared to the character work in Midnight Spider-Man, this issue feels hollow, setting up a familiar origin story with added cosmic horror but failing to fully capitalize on its potential.
Score - 6