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

X-Men 2

Issue 2 debuts one of my favorite X-Men villains : the Vanisher. For one thing, you can't beat this costume for sheer funkiness.

The splash page of issue 2 is even more beautiful than issue 1. Wow.

I particularly like Bobby sliding into the picture instead of running.

Heres' a beautiful Beast action sequence

In issue 1, we saw Jean Grey lifting a book with her mind. Mmm-hmm. Time for something more hardcore.

It's a bit of a sexist panel but look at the combined weight Jean can lift.

Here Cyclops pulverizes a wall falling on some construction workers.

Let it be noted that anti-mutant sentiment isn't rampant yet, as this panel from issue 2 will testify.

Cyclops and Iceman hitch a ride to the Mansion but it seems that riding on the back of the ice cream truck wasn't the only thing Bobby was doing. Good businessman, this ice cream guy.

Obviously, Iceman still hasn't figured out that he can create ice bridges to travel. This is perfectly in line with how Bobby is portrayed during the very early stories - more Snowman than Iceman.

What I really like about the Vanisher is that his ability is both formidable and non-aggressive. Usually if we get non-aggressive abilities like Cypher or Leech, we also get very vulnerable types. Also usually, when we say something is formidable, like Legion or Magneto, we get massively destructive capabilities. This Vanisher capability is very unique.

Alright, here it is, issue 2, the Danger Room. Described as 'a huge unfurnished chamber which houses countless hidden perils. Look how fast Angel flies.

Here's the Vanisher's weakness

He's a publicity hound. This is a very big chink in his armor. If only this guy didn't crave publicity he could be the ultimate burglar.

In the meantime, back in the Danger Room, Bobby demonstrates his ability to sculpt his creations with an ice horse.

Soon enough its the X-Men vs. the Vanisher

It ends as expected, with the Vanisher vanishing.

I love this next series of panels : the Professor is researching the Vanisher's power, trying to spot a weakpoint.

In the end this story is about the incredible, yet subtle, power of Professor X. See what he does to the Vanisher.

Vanisher is done at this point, but he's brought some goons who spring into action against the Professor. This is a great panel of the X-Men rushing to protect their mentor

Here's a great double panel showing the Angel using his powers aggressively.

Usually the Angel does rescue and distraction work.