Pull List Review: Uncanny X-Men #15

It's funny...at the end of Uncanny X-Men #14 I was super anxious to get to the Sinister vs. X-Men fight, and now at the end of the next issue, I feel exactly the same way. Because while last time we saw only our villain, Uncanny X-Men #15 focuses on the Phoenix Five and how they arrive at Sinister's new base of operations. In other words, last issue was set up for one side, and this issue was set up for the other, so I'm still left anticipating what's to come. However, that this issue didn't make me any less excited is definitely a good thing.

For one, there's a lot of solid stuff in here from Kieron Gillen before he even gets to the discussion of Sinister. Colossus and Magik talking with Cytorrak was a particularly strong scene, because the demon lord made a good point about the destructiveness of heroes relative to villains. And the Phoenix Five's treatment of rest of the X-Men, as well as the team's reactions to it, are interesting developments. Between what happens here and the bickering amongst the Phoenix Five in Avengers vs. X-Men, I'm starting to think this event may have another mutant schism in store. And that suits me fine, because the Phoenix Five are such dicks in this issue. In the middle of a meeting they have their own secret meeting, only to then bail on the original meeting with no explanation or apology. It's prickish behavior, and it sort of leaves me hoping Sinister puts them in their place. Either way, I'm heavily invested in the outcome of the impending conflict, which means Gillen is doing his job, and well.

Daniel Acuna is the artist for this issue, and while he has a firm handle on everyone, Mr. Sinister is the center of all the most enjoyable visuals. Some of that is just because Sinister London is a beautiful place, and seeing a city full of different Sinisters is always going to get my attention. But Acuna's Sinister Prime (as he refers to himself) is perfectly wicked and regal, as smugly sure of himself as ever. He's a chilling villain, the picture of calm in the face of cosmic-level opponents. I can't wait to see all the things he has in store for them.

With all the pieces very much in place, we are now set to sit back, watch the highly-entertaining drama unfold, and thoroughly enjoy ourselves. Just as Sinister plans to do.
6.5/10