X-TREME X-MEN #39: STORM ARENA #4

This is the Arena, where gladiators pit their might against each other in a brutal but sometimes deadly form of entertainment. Storm has entered as a favour to a friend, but has she now fallen prey to the treacherous dangers that were always lurking within? Can she prevail or will she go to the darkness where she can't return.

This has been a really enjoyable story for me and this issue doesn't change my opinion at all. Claremont takes us through the proceedings in a way that even though certain things may have been foreseen, other things could still bring out surprise. Especially, the implications of what transpire and how Storm intends to cater for it. Everything just worked so well. The narration fitted in perfectly with the whole mood and the dialogue really gave you a feel for the characters. And if this wasn't enough, we still have to find out what the X.S.E (X-Treme Sanction Executive) will unfold into.

I have to admit, at first I thought Kordey had slipped back to his early X-Treme days. The first few pages were really up & down. There was some really good stuff like the opening shot of Storm and her first fight. Other stuff though looked flat and lifeless. After the celebrations though, everything was back to pure kordey goodness. And Larroca's cover, sensuality with the sense of strength, NICE!

Report Card - A