Magik #1

by Ashley Allen

Magik #1

Illustrated by: Germán Peralta

Written by: Ashley Allen

Cover art: J. Scott Campbell

Release date: January 8th, 2025

Marvel Comics

*Some spoilers.

THE MYSTIC MUTANT GOES DEMON HUNTING IN HER OWN NEW, ONGOING SERIES! The X-Man Ilyanna Rasputina strikes out on her own with new allies and dark powers arrayed against her. Something ancient has awakened beneath the Alaskan ice. Unfortunately for it, that’s Magik’s territory now! Written by rising star Ashley Allen (X-MEN: BLOOD HUNT – MAGIK, MARVEL ZOMBIES: BLACK, WHITE & BLOOD) and illustrated by the incomparable Germán Peralta (LOKI, BLACK PANTHER), this is a stylish, high-octane demon-hunting adventure starring the fiercest X-Man of them all!

As I dove into Magik #1, I found myself immediately pulled into the story. It’s not every day you get a solo series focused on a character as enigmatic and fierce as Illyana Rasputina, also known as Magik. Written by Ashley Allen and brought to life by Germán Peralta’s artwork, this issue sets a compelling stage for what’s to come.

From the start, you can tell that Allen has a solid grasp on who Illyana is. She’s a character with a rich and often dark history, and Allen doesn’t shy away from exploring that. The opening sequence alone, with Illyana’s daydream, is a brilliant touch. It gives us a glimpse into her mindset and hints at the complexity of her character. I appreciated how Allen balanced the exposition with moments that allowed us to see Illyana’s more human side, something that’s been missing in recent portrayals.

What really stood out to me was the art. Peralta’s illustrations have this retro vibe that feels fresh and fitting for a character like Magik. His work on the interiors is top-notch, capturing the mystical elements of Illyana’s world while keeping the action dynamic and engaging. The detail in the demon designs and the Alaskan ice setting is impressive, adding depth to the narrative. It’s clear that Peralta has put a lot of thought into each panel, making the world feel lived-in and dangerous.

The story itself is packed with exposition, which is understandable for a first issue. We’re introduced to a new threat lurking beneath the Alaskan ice, something ancient that’s crossed paths with the wrong mutant. While the exposition could have felt heavy-handed, Allen manages to weave it into the narrative in a way that kept me intrigued. I’m curious to see how Illyana will deal with this new challenge, especially with her dark powers coming into play.

One thing I loved about this issue is how it sets the tone for Illyana’s solo adventures. She’s not just another X-Man here; she’s a formidable force in her own right, with her own story to tell. The dynamic between her and her new allies is something I’m looking forward to seeing more of. There’s a sense of camaraderie brewing, but also an underlying tension that could make for some interesting developments down the line.

The cover art by J. Scott Campbell is another highlight. It’s striking and captures the essence of Magik perfectly. The combination of her iconic sword and her fierce expression tells you everything you need to know about what’s inside these pages. It’s a visual promise of the action and depth you’re about to experience.

In terms of pacing, the issue does a good job of setting up the main plot while giving us enough character moments to stay invested. Allen’s writing is sharp and insightful, offering a fresh perspective on Illyana that feels both respectful of her history and innovative enough to take her story in new directions. This isn’t just a rehash of what’s come before; it’s a new chapter that stands on its own.

Magik #1 is a strong start to what promises to be an exciting series. If you’re a fan of the character or just looking for a well-crafted comic with a mix of action, mysticism, and character depth, this issue is definitely worth checking out. Allen and Peralta have created something special here, and I can’t wait to see where they take Illyana next.

So, grab your copy and get ready for a journey into the dark and mystical world of Magik. You won’t be disappointed.