The Amazing Nightcrawler #1 Review

The Amazing Nightcrawler #1

Writer: Seanan McGuire
Artist: Juan Frigeri
Colorist: Dono Sánchez-Almara
Letterer: Travis Lanham
Publisher: Marvel Comics

Review by Greg Brothers

As the title page says, “A perfect world still needs entertainment.”

The Amazing Nightcrawler #1 follows Kurt Wagner, also known as Nightcrawler, in his flourishing Hollywood acting career. Things couldn’t be better: he is one of the hottest actors; the public loves him; and he is at the top of every A-list invite list. But even the most perfect life has some deep hidden secrets.

The first 10 pages take place during the filming of Kurt’s most recent movie. In addition to seeing Kurt in action, we are introduced to his co-star Meggan Puceanu, his assistants Celeste and Irma Cuckoo, and his stylist Amara Aquilla. The drama off the set is just as interesting when aspects of Kurt’s life are explored, including missing his friends in the X-Men and making a young fan’s day by inviting her onto the red carpet. Much like the rest of the titles within the Age of X-Man line, we find out that Kurt is indeed not as perfect as he may appear to be in public.

As with many number one issues, The Amazing Nightcrawler #1 is all about the set up. The most action that is seen throughout the book comes via the movie that is being filmed. Although lacking in action, there is a lot to take in that makes the story worth reading: the anxiety surrounding how the Cuckoo sisters carry themselves in public; the constant boil of Amara’s temper; and the tension between Kurt and Meggan all create enough questions to keep me coming back for more. The dialogue between all of the characters feels rooted in reality, making the story relatable to even the most jaded reader.

On set we get to see a classic look for Nightcrawler before he returns to his new alternative universe look. Several of the other character designs make them easily recognizable, even if they were not so important as to get a formal introduction. The colors are bright and bold with the outfits, and Kurt’s blue skin pops off the page. The layout is easily followed, while the lettering does an excellent job conveying the feelings throughout.

Verdict: Buy it.

The Amazing Nightcrawler does an excellent job of introducing readers to this new world, where serious cracks in the perfection facade are starting to show. There are enough threads laid out that it is obvious the story will not become stale before it reaches whatever the planned ending is.