Nyx

(Marvel, 2003-2005)
™ and © Marvel Entertainment Group

Kiden Nixon is a mutant. (You can tell, because she has an “x” in her name.) But she doesn’t live the life of fame and glory that the X-Statix enjoy. She doesn’t even enjoy the nurturing and security of a private school in Westchester. No, Kiden’s life bites.

You see, Kiden ticked off a gangster who took a shot at her. Kiden’s power saved her, but Cameron, her favorite teacher, took the bullet. This sent Cameron’s life into a downward spiral. Kiden has now been missing for six months, during which time—well, suffice it to say, she wasn’t fighting Magneto. Here is a series set smack dab in the heart of the Marvel universe, but there’s nary a Spandex pretty boy in sight. Nyx reads like a good episode of, say, Boston Public, except that Mr. Guber never had to put up with mutants.

The art is a happy match to the story. Just because Kiden’s world is dysfunctional, it doesn’t have to be portrayed with dysfunctional art. Middleton successfully captures authentic gestures and mannerisms. The coloring, by Middleton and Beaulieu (no first name given) is like bathing an ugly baby in the soothing glow of soft light. It’s still ugly, but this makes it easier on the eyes.

Kiden’s life may bite, but it’s not yours (and it’s not real), so you can enjoy her ugly world (and its beautiful art) guilt–free.

— Jack Abramowitz

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