Posted December 4-11, 2011 | Updated March 19, 2013 | April 2, 2013 | August 22, 2015

X-Men 1

Note: Classic X-Men stories are told in issues 1 to 93 of the first X-Men series. Issues 1 to 66 are original stories. Issues 67 to 93 are reprints.

Well, here we are, right before issue 1 of X-Men, published 1963. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. Its important to note before beginning this journey, that at this point in time, the concept of mutants gifted with amazing powers simply did not exist. The X-Men and all the trappings of their mythology so familiar to us today because of comicbooks, television, and movies were simply not yet created. If we bear this in mind while reading these early issues, we can read them with new eyes and enjoy the birth of one of the most enduring legends in comics.

Let's go.

According to Jim Shooter one of the things Stan Lee considered important was the splash page at the beginning of a story. So let's check out the very first page of the first issue of X-Men.

It begins with the Professor at the top of the page, immediately highlighting his telepathic power, then a big splash panel showing everybody except Jean Grey. Notice that none of the team is just standing around? They're all sporting action poses. Not only that but each one announces his codename and shows his powers and right at the very beginning. Works for me. This page also makes the point that these super-powered teens are being summoned to a class - to school. And if that's not enough, an arrow shaped narrative box points the reader to turn the page!

The Danger Room isn't referred to explicitly in this inaugural issue - we just have a room with training machines. It's almost standard for new X-Men to 'show-off' their powers in a controlled setting. So here goes. First up : Beast.

The wall-bouncing thing is very impressive.

Next : Angel.

I love the way Kirby draws Warren's wings.

Iceman and Cyclops follow in short order.

Here's the first panel shot of the facade of Xavier's mansion.

Jean Grey arrives next showing her telekinetic powers.

In two panels the Professor explains the purpose of his school.

And now the first appearance of one of Marvel's foremost - er, is it villain or hero? - these days Magneto escapes easy description.

Magneto's power is shown to be so potent he can affect objects in near earth orbit

I think thats very impressinve but this is even more impressive - writing letters on air using 'magnetized dust particles'.

I don't think he ever repeated this trick.

Personal force field? Check.

Warren keeps his wings under his clothes.

Here's the first shot of Cyclop's maximum power. It pretty much staggers Magneto.

Check out Iceman's accuracy as he stops some missiles.

Beast also shows up very well with this wonderfully illustrated catch.

We come upon the male members of the team as having had the benefit of training together, presumably for a significant amount of time, the teamwork is very evident. Here's one instance of it as the Angel is trapped by Magneto, Cyclops smoothly frees him, then Iceman protects the team with his powers.

All done without hesitation and smoothly put into action. It's all too much for Magneto, who beats a hasty retreat - the Master of Magnetism was ready for human resistance; this mutant vs. mutant situation has taken him by surprise.

I think this is a great first issue. Pacing was fast, we have a grounding on the concept of mutants and a mutant school, great power demonstrations from heroes and villain alike.