The Magento Was Right miniseries from 2023 was a pleasant departure from the main X-line in 2023, presenting a disarming storyline focused on the Master of Magnetism’s time as headmaster of the Xavier School for Gifted Youngsters. Reflecting on trauma Magento experienced as a youngster and then as a mutant hated by society, this short collection is carefully constructed and beautifully rendered, giving current and nostalgic X-fans plenty to enjoy.
Collecting Magento #1-4 published in 2023, this character-focused arc takes us back to the mid-’80s during the period where Professor X went into space, leaving the mansion in the hands of his once hated enemy. This era of the New Mutants is one of my favorite runs, and I was more than willing to return to it, with the young iterations of the team playing a significant role in this storyline. The juvenile team is forced to deal with a mentor far different than their previous teacher, and when Irae, Queen of Wrath takes control of Magnus, it seems as if the New Mutant’s initial opinions of Magento are proven true. As he taps into his own trauma and failure, Magento overcomes this foe and proves his character to his new students.
Marvel Comics
Written by Jim DeMatteis, this storyline is tightly written and rewarding in its flow and delivery. The dialogue seems an ode to the Claremont era of the title, without being obtrusively wordy. It does what all good prequel storylines should do: provide added insight into beloved characters, while giving the reader a storyline with stakes and emotional connection. They could not have found a better artist for this miniseries than Todd Nauck, who effortlessly captures the energy and style of Arthur Adams. His characters are beautifully rendered, and while his panels are packed with character movement, it’s very clean and easy to read.
Marvel Comics
We are treated to full page reproductions of all the variant covers, as well as sketch and alternate design pages at the tail end of the book. I’m of the mindset that each of these trades should provide at least some of these supplemental pieces, and Marvel delivered with this short book.
While Magneto Was Right doesn’t change the title character in any significant way, it does provide a wonderful adventure set in one of the character’s pivotal arcs. It builds on the pain and suffering experienced by Magneto, while also establishing the initial pieces of his eventual redemption. Add the great artwork from Todd Nauck, and you have a solid narrative that should make new and old X-fans happy.
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