The Good
Is it weird to say that MAGNETO is one hell of a detective book? Sure, it's not on the same levels of "detective-ness" as other, but Cullen Bunn has crafted something incredibly brilliant here. There have been so many times in the past where an X-character has tried to carry their own book but failed miserably. This may only be the second issue, but the direction of MAGNETO is dark and gritty and gives readers a new insight into this character who has been around for decades.
Bunn lets readers see this character in a new light. In the past, Magneto's was overly ambitious with his plans because most of his plans were very large scale and pretty ridiculous. With Bunn's Magneto, he's more of a street "hero" and cunning. He's less about theatrics and more about getting the job done.
Frankly, the best part of this issue is the flashbacks to Magneto's childhood, during World War II, when he and his friends were on the run from Nazis. These are moments that very obviously shaped who he is now. We see Max and two of his friends, with stolen food, on the run from a group of nazis. The decisions and choices made in this scene ultimately affect who Magneto is now and how he treats his enemies. The juxtaposition between these scenes is utterly fantastic and gives the reader a broader understanding of Bunn's version of Magneto.
If you enjoy dark books, then the last few pages of this are where it's at. It's tough to watch as Magneto becomes incredibly brutal with some of the men he faces here, but that's the type of character he is. Everything about this scene fits the book and the character.
On the art side of things, Gabriel Hernandez Walta (art) and Jordie Bellaire (who pretty much colors every awesome book on the shelves), provide an art style and color palate that truly fit the tone of the book. It's the perfect compliment, complete with its own distinct style.
The Bad
No real problems with the issue. This book is different in all the best ways possible.
The Verdict
MAGNETO is a book you don't expect but one that you need. It's so different from the rest of Marvel's books, as it comes off as a street-level, gritty, detective book and not the super-hero/villain book fans would expect this character to star in. Cullen Bunn has crafted something special here that is far more appealing than the solicits make it out to be. Walta and Bellaire do a phenomenal job with the art. This is quickly becoming one of my top reads at Marvel. Overall, I highly recommend this issue.