Chris Claremont has been the name people think of when they think of great X-Men stories, with very few writers being able to match the depths of the stories he told with Marvel’s mighty mutants. Over the years, Claremont’s returned to build upon the classic stories he gave the X-canon, and Wolverine and Kitty Pryde #1 is the latest entry to these throwback tales. It’s also a reminder of one of the best dynamics in X-Men history.
Wolverine and Kitty Pryde #1 takes place after the events of 1984’s Kitty Pryde & Wolverine miniseries, where Kitty was possessed by the demonic Ogun. Wolverine managed to kill Ogun, but Kitty is still struggling with his influence – and chafing at Logan’s attempts to help her get through it. Soon, a mysterious change in scenery leads to Logan, Kitty, and the love of Logan’s life, Mariko Yashida, being teleported to the Feudal Era and dealing with mystical threats.
I’ve often said that the best element of Wolverine’s character is how he’s become a mentor to younger mutants, and it all started with Kitty Pryde. Claremont understands the bond between the two like no other; after all, he was one of the first writers to start building Logan out to be more than a grumpy, stabby Canadian, and he co-created Kitty. Claremont’s gift for character writing leads to deeper insights for these characters; Kitty wants nothing to do with the superhero life, yet lights up when taking care of Logan’s adopted daughter Amiko, while Wolverine ends up connecting with Kitty’s father over their respective struggles.
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Wolverine and Kitty Pryde #1 also carries the flair of ’80s era X-Men thanks to artist Damian Coucerio. Coucerio doesn’t waste any time getting to the action; in fact, the issue literally opens with a sparring session between Kitty, Logan, and the assassin Yukio. Another moment finds Logan and Kitty taking on a group of superpowered thugs, with Coucerio drawing a series of fluid, action-packed movements underlining both X-Men’s martial arts skills.
All of it is brought to life by Carlos Lopez’ color work, which is full of warm tones and a unique color scheme. Most of Logan’s clothing represents the brown and tan of his 1980s Wolverine costume, while Kitty wears mostly blue: blue training uniform, blue school uniform, and a new blue costume that feels very similar to her classic Excalibur costume. Even Ariana Maher’s captions get a tan and brown tone to reflect Logan’s inner thoughts.
Wolverine and Kitty Pryde #1 isn’t just a cleverly crafted throwback tale, but a great character study that promises to explore one of the X-Men’s most meaningful relationships. If you love Wolverine, Kitty Pryde or classic X-Men stories, give this one a read!
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