Imagine the Punisher with hints of Charles Bronson and Dexter but as a mutant.
Writer Cullen Bunn redefines the Master of Magnetism as a ruthless bringer of vengeance in Magneto #1.
The iconic X-Men villain has had many roles from messiah to terrorist but Bunn strips away Erik down into a vigilante out for justice. Instead of shooting metal at bad guys, Eric pulls it out of them or uses it to cage or kill them.
The Master of Magnetism even reflects on his past as a ruler of realms or religious figure but he’s a hunter on a road trip.
That’s the brilliance of what Bunn does in this first issue. Magneto is redefined as an anti-hero tracking those who finance and execute attacks on the mutant race. Erik is a “Punisher” in the style Michael Fassbender’s portrayal in X-Men: First Class as he tracked ex-Nazis.
Magneto’s focused purpose parallels Bunn’s tight, concise storytelling. Both men are on clear missions. Bunn’s story is engaging, thrilling, disturbing with moments of dark humor. Gabriel Hernandez Walta’s dark moody work is evocative of Tim Sale and perfect for Bunn’s story of a serial killer/anti-hero who root for but hope you don’t become a target of.
After decades and numerous roles it’s a welcome surprise to see someone come and deliver a new take that works. Magneto #1 is the first leg of a vigilante’s path of revenge and justice. You should go with him.
By Editor