The latest issue of UNCANNY X-FORCE introduces readers to one of Fantomex's adversaries, and he is out for blood -- sort of.
The Good
It's definitely great to see the interaction between Fantomex and Psylocke play out once again. The two characters have a definite chemistry and a very entertaining love/hate relationship that makes it fun to see them share a panel. The reason behind the kiss Fantomex planted on Betsy is explained, but it's not very believable. It seems Betsy holds a special place in her heart for her teammates and that she views them like family considering the sacrifice she makes for Fantomex which meant betraying her own flesh and blood. The dynamic between the characters is very good.
Remender gives readers a great balance between two separate ongoing events in this issue. First we have Fantomex and Betsy on one side, and then we have the ongoing war in Otherworld where Nightcrawler, Wolverine and Deadpool are struggling to deal with. The balance is good, the pacing is great. The final page in this issue will completely catch you by surprise (and possibly gross you out too).
The Bad
I like Greg Tocchini's artistic style, but I don't know how much I like it for this particular comic book. There is a lot of action in the scenes and I feel it would be better if this book were paired with art that was more detailed. There are some panels where it is hard to even tell what is going on in the scene.
The Verdict
There are, unfortunately, a lot of scenes where it is difficult to distinguish what is going on -- particularly those featuring Nightcrawler, Wolverine and Deadpool. I totally get that Otherworld is this mythical, mystical place; and I see how this seemingly impressionistic artistic style would portray that idea, but I don't think that it is the best for this book. I also hope that readers are clued into the actual war that is going on in the background.
The adversary we meet towards the end of this issue is fantastic, scary and will give you the creeps. I loved him. All I can say, is, poor Fantomex. Definitely not a good jumping on point for new readers (third chapter of the latest story arc) but certainly worth going back a few issues and picking up.