On the fringes of society, Mutantkind retreats to the sewers. What lurks below? Find out in this review of NYX #3!
NYX #3
Writer: Collin Kelly & Jackson Lanzing
Art: Francesco Mortarino
Colors: Raúl Angulo
Main Cover by: Sara Pichelli
Variant Covers: Lesley “Leirix” Li, W. Scott Forbes
Release Date: September 25, 2024
NYX #3 begins following yet another act of violence against a mutant, the young protagonists of NYX convene at a candlelight vigil. As expected, a bevy of belligerent anti-mutant protestors won’t let them mourn in peace. But a surprising appearance of the oft-hidden Morlocks takes center stage.
The Morlocks, outcasts even among outcasts, are mutants with more obvious (perhaps intimidating or grotesque) features; they face the worst of human prejudice, and make their home among one another in the sewers of New York City. Anole, a young reptilian mutant, recently fired from his bartending gig, is looking for just that: a home. Pulled between two worlds, Anole has rejected the pomp and circumstance of the X-Men, but can’t forego his innate heroism. Caliban, defacto leader of the Morlocks, makes it clear that their purpose, spiritually, is to just be themselves.
NYX #3 is a fascinating perspective to inject into the conventional comic book meta –– that not all beings with powers are inclined to be globetrotting, spandex-wearing, sacrificial superheroes!
The plight of finding oneself rings familiar for many, if not all readers. Who can blame him for seeking a normal life when he’s had anything but? And yet, just a few panels later, reality sets in as he’s called upon to defend the Morlocks from an anti-mutant hit squad, the Purifiers. As we all know, great power comes with great responsibility.
Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing’s unique approach to and choice of NYX is exemplified wonderfully by NYX #3: a macro lens on a lesser-known mutant struggling to find his place in the world. Among the 17 or so concurrent X-Men-related storylines, NYX may be the most intimate. Not to be outdone, the combined efforts of artist Francesco Mortarino and colorist Raúl Angulo display a sun-dappled New York above and the grody subterranean lair below. Their double-page spreads offer great wow! moments between panels to break up the rhythm. For a story and city characterized by darkness, NYX and its subjects are vibrant and expressive.
Final Thoughts
This issue of NYX is grounded, relatable, and subway-deep. The least realistic detail is that gas in New York only costs $1.30. Now that’s fiction!
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