X-Factor #1 introduced a disposable team thanks to its creators seeking social media attention and not much else. Aimed at bringing humans and mutants together, the first mission meant multiple deaths, but now Havok is steering them straight. That is, if his girlfriend Polaris lets him.
X-Factor #2 opens with Havok waking up in his Malibu house with Polaris. She disproves him joining X-Factor, let alone being the new leader. One can see her point of view, considering Angel was nearly killed and in the hospital.
It’s fairly easy to see her point of view, especially after the X-Factor manager Roger is so casual about Angel being near death. Oh, and his love of corndogs. There’s bits of humor here and there, and that’s just one. Another joke that should be a riot for most is the older mutant Granny Smite, who appears to have a death wish. Pyro might steal the show for best running joke.
Havok needs to open up his eyes!
Credit: Marvel
Something is clearly up with this team’s management, and yet Havok doesn’t see it. Quite honestly, that’s the weakest part of the issue since so much time is spent showing this team is dysfunctional. I suppose he’s idealistic, or wants to prevent more X-Factor members from dying, but it’s hard to believe he’s so against Polaris’ point of view.
Polaris’s point of view is fully displayed in a later scene with other mutants. This scene helps press forward the notion that this series is about mutants not wanting to coexist with humans. Some characters steer towards peace, but others think it’s impossible. Writer Mark Russell makes a case for the latter with a passionate speech from a new mutant.
Bob Quinn draws another solid issue with big animated facial expressions that sell the comedy. When characters get to use their powers, the effects are cool and well colored by Jesus Aburtov. This is mostly a dialogue-centric book, and Quinn keeps you invested in the melodrama.
This issue lacks a big mission for X-Factor. Instead, it mostly focuses on Havok and Polaris’s relationship and her wish to change his mind. The team members pop up twice, but with Angel gone, the book has shifted toward a Havok-centric narrative.
X-Factor #2 makes a case for mutants to reject working with humans. On the line between both is Havok, who is torn between being the new team leader and losing his girlfriend, Polaris. The second issue steers towards a central point but also has a lead who is too stubborn for his own good.
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