X-Men #113
Published and © by Marvel, September 1978
Title: “Showdown!”
Synopsis: The X-Men struggle to free themselves from imprisonment, then must battle Magneto within the heart of an active volcano.
Writer (plot): Chris Claremont and John Byrne
Writer (script): Claremont
Penciler: Byrne
Embellisher: Terry Austin
Review: The classic X-Men creative team has settled into a fine groove just a few issues into their legendary run. Chris Claremont’s script develops character through action, with almost every X-Man getting a moment during this issue’s dramatic showdown with Magneto. Both Claremont and artist John Byrne demonstrate a fantastic command of fight choreography, and Byrne’s visual pacing of the story is exceptional. Terry Austin’s detailed inking is the perfect compliment for Byrne’s pencils. This is assured work from one of the best superhero creative teams the medium has ever seen.
Grade: A
Second opinion: “Never has watching a bad guy get his butt kicked been this good. And in the most thrilling battle sequence yet, no less.” – Jim Johnson, The Comics Buyer’s Guide to the X-Men (Comics Buyer’s Guide Presents), 2003 … “For the last few months I’ve been following with increasing awe a comic which has changed overnight into the most exciting title on the stands. … The imagination, the execution, everything is top drawer.” – James Van Hise, The Rocket’s Blast Comicollector #145, September 1978 … Recommended by The Slings & Arrows Comic Guide (second edition), 2003.
Cool factor: The X-Men battle their arch nemesis in the heart of a live volcano? By this creative team? That’s a recipe for awesome.
Not-so-cool factor: Nanny is creepy as hell.
Collector’s note: According to the Grand Comics Database, there is a 12p British variant of this issue. … According to MyComicShop.com, there is also a Mark Jewelers variant.
Character quotable: “Good morning, children. And how are we feeling today, hm?” – Nanny, robotic au pair
Editor’s note: This review was written Dec. 13, 2021.
