Exceptional X-Men #1
Illustrated by: Carmen Carnero
Cover Art by: Carmen Carnero
Written by: Eve L. Ewing
Release date: September 4th, 2024
Marvel Comics
*Minor Spoilers Ahead
KATE PRYDE LEADS A TEAM OF ALL-NEW X-MEN! After the fall of Krakoa, Kate Pryde is trying to get as far away from all things X as she possibly can. She’s just a regular-degular bartender now. Definitely NOT getting ready to head up an ALL-NEW TEAM of wayward young mutants while avoiding the watchful gaze of Emma Frost. Nothing in this title but work, dating and staving off depression. That’s it. No never-before-seen EXCEPTIONAL X-MEN to see here!
Exceptional X-Men #1 kicks off with a dynamic and engaging start, delivering a story that exceeded expectations. Written by Eve L. Ewing and illustrated by Carmen Carnero, this first issue centers around Kitty Pryde, who finds herself navigating life after the fall of Krakoa. Ewing’s portrayal of Kitty is both fresh and compelling, giving her a strong, relatable voice that resonates throughout the story.
The plot has Kitty Pryde distancing herself from her X-Men past, taking up a mundane job as a bartender and trying to lead a “normal” life. But, of course, nothing is ever truly normal in the X-universe. As Kitty struggles with work, dating, and staving off the inevitable blues, the narrative hints at something much bigger brewing beneath the surface. Despite her attempts to avoid the spotlight, it’s clear that Kitty is being pulled back into the world of mutants—whether she likes it or not.
Carmen Carnero’s artwork is a standout, bringing the characters and their emotions to life with remarkable skill. Her depiction of Emma Frost, in particular, is both elegant and powerful, capturing the essence of the character perfectly. The visuals complement Ewing’s writing beautifully, making each page a joy to read.
The issue is filled with energy, setting up a promising direction for the series. It’s clear that there’s more in store for Kitty and this new team of mutants, and the anticipation for what comes next. For fans of the X-Men, Exceptional X-Men #1 is a great start, offering a fresh take on familiar characters while paving the way for new adventures.
Exceptional X-Men #1 is available on our new comic book wall and can be placed on your weekly pull list.
A Promising Start with a Fresh Voice
Colors - 9.8
Design - 9.8
Illustration - 9.8
Narrative - 9.8
Subplot - 9.8
9.8
Exceptional X-Men #1 delivers a strong, engaging start as Kitty Pryde navigates life after Krakoa. Eve L. Ewing’s writing gives Kitty a compelling voice, while Carmen Carnero’s art beautifully captures the characters, especially Emma Frost. The story hints at bigger things to come, making it an exciting first issue for X-Men fans.
