• • Comic Book Reviews
• November 24, 2021

X-Men #5 Review

Written by: Gerry Duggan

Art by: Javier Pina & Ze Carlos

Coloring by: Erick Arciniega

Lettering by: VC’s Clayton Cowles

Now at X-Men #5, I think it’s easy to say that this series isn’t going to focus on Krakoa. In fact, this series feels like it’s trying to avoid Krakoa as much as possible, and the mutant metaphor. The X-Men are just regular superheroes now, treated equally in society amongst the Avengers and Fantastic Four. It’s nice to see them get some respect for a change, it just seems weird.

The X-Men were never just another superhero team, but they both feel like that and don’t, especially in X-Men #5. The way people happily come to accept gifts of food from the X-Men is heartwarming to see. There isn’t a hint of mistrust between the people and the mutant superheroes. It’s a good thing that feels a bit disingenuous but that might be nitpicky on my part. This lack of skepticism, this relatable uphill battle is what made the mutant metaphor hit best. Maybe it’s a good thing in the long run to have this different experience for the X-Men, but I have to admit I’m a bit over it.

The only thing that really seems to separate the X-Men from other hero teams now is how socially conscious they are. You don’t see the Avengers or the Fantastic Four giving out food, meals, and supplies for the less fortunate of New York. If the creative team plans to double down more on these aspects of the X-Men I would appreciate it more.

But overall, despite all the funny and entertaining Polaris content, X-Men #5 feels a bit like filler. There’s one little scene at the end that pushes the story forward towards the revelation of mutant resurrection. You do need to read this issue to continue the story, but if you don’t love Polaris, this isn’t going to be your favorite issue. Then again, if you don’t love Polaris, what’s wrong with you?