X-Men Wolverine: Weapon X

Barry Windsor-Smith's X-Men origin story tells in graphic detail the procedure which turned Logan the mutant, into Weapon X, a beastly predatory killer. Told through a dark and poetic narrative featuring minimal dialogue, Weapon X is unique.

Captured by a group of mysterious scientists in a hidden location, Logan first has his skeleton coated with Adamantium before being forced to fight wild animals. All in a days work for those who are training him to becoming the ultimate killing machine.

The style and tone of Weapon X is very different from other X-Men stories and it is difficult to imagine it as part of that world. However as a stand alone piece about psychological and physical experimentation it is extremely powerful. The mundane dialogue between scientists who have become desensitised to the horrors they are performing demonstrates the dehumanisation of their characters as they try to strip Logan of his conscience.

The artwork, also by Windsor-Smith flows in perfect harmony with the text and his use of fluorescent colours blare off the page like sirens. The graphic and detailed gore of dark medical procedures and violent action gives the comic a fresh, hyper-real style.

Unrestrained and uncontrollable, Weapon X is a caged beast destined to be free as those who captured and torment him will learn. A story about an unbreakable and incorruptible human spirit, ever ready to fight for its freedom.