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This article contains spoilers for Immortal Thor #22.  Heads or tails? Left or right? Backwards or forwards?  These are the choices given to Thor Odinson in issue #22 of Al Ewing’s Immortal Thor . Trapped within the meta-illusory world of Utgard, Thor and Skurge the Executioner must battle their way through confusion and riddles in order to escape with their lives. Throughout it all, Utgard-Loki (not to be confused with Thor’s erstwhile sibling) hangs a question over Thor’s head: which direction will the Thunder God’s adventures take him?  The question hangs over the readers as well, symbolized at the end of each page by Utgard-Loki’s coin. Heads, or tails? Will Thor continue fighting the same battles over and over again, or does he forge a path ahead? The answer is not an easy one, as the strange land of Utgard twists Thor and Skurge’s perceptions, forcing them to question their experiences.  The questioning of himself and his experiences is an overarching theme within the Immortal Thor  run. Ewing forces Thor to confront his own identity as a King, an Avenger, a celebrity, and a man. This issue is more of the same, as Thor laments that the tools at his disposal should allow him to bypass the twists of the mind caused by being within Utgard’s borders. Even the concept of death is turned on its head within Utgard, as Thor and Skurge are reunited with Thor’s previously-deceased brother Hermod.  Hermod reunites with Thor and Skurge. Immortal Thor #22 © Marvel Hermod’s appearance is not overly surprising. This is a Thor  title, and Thor’s dead relatives rarely remain so for very long. Hermod is there to serve as something of an anchor, someone who has been within Utgard for long enough to know some of its tricks. While Hermod himself is not a surprise, the revelation that Heimdall has also been transported to this realm within the realms comes as a shock. Heimdall has been absent since his death and replacement as Gatekeeper by Lady Sif, and prior to this issue there had been no indication he would be returning. Yet the knowledge of his survival does not do much to assuage Thor, as the former Gatekeeper is still stuck within the confines of Utgard’s maze.  The theme of direction, of finding one’s path, continues as the trio now attempts to make their way to the center of the city. Thor begins to despair, as he often does when he cannot see a simple path forward. Ewing often capitalizes on Thor’s self-doubt, and it is on full display in this issue. While Thor has faith in his companions, he no longer has faith in himself.  Utgard-Loki, much like Loki Laufeyson, is not about to give Thor the time nor space to pity himself. The issue wraps up with the god of thunder and his companions facing a familiar foe.  The Minotaur looms over them as Utgard-Loki brandishes his coins, an interesting tie to the Minotaur in charge of Roxxon, who is at the heart of Thor’s most current bout of self-doubt. The conceptual nature of Immortal Thor  in general, and issue #22 in particular, grinds down the idea of Thor’s true current enemy being capitalism. Utgard-Loki’s speech about the coins ties into the previous issues with a heavy hand. Ewing is beating the readers, and Thor, over the head with the symbolism.  Heads or tails?  With any luck, the next issue will give Thor and his companions a third option.  Immortal Thor #22 © Marvel About Immortal Thor #22 Release Date: April 02, 2025 Written by:   Al Ewing Art by:   Jan Bazaldua Cover by: Alex Ross Page Count:  23 Pages Synopsis: LOST IN UTGARD! Thor had made his way to Utgard - and there waited the Utgard-Loki, who the Odinson had never yet defeated. And with the Elder Trickster stood his pantheon...beginning with NRGL, Lord of Murder-in-Darkness. He who was his own place of power. This is the story of the IMMORTAL THOR...and the Unforgiving City.

Ultimate X-Men #14  stands out as one of the best entries in the mutant saga within the Ultimate Universe. Peach Momoko’s portrayal of young Japanese girls discovering their powers offers a refreshing take, though it’s also presented a unique challenge for me as a long-time X-Men reader. I’ve lived through several relaunches and eras of X-Men, but none quite like what Momoko is crafting here. Unlike previous arcs, Ultimate X-Men  focuses primarily on Hisako Ichiki (Armor) and the other students around her, as Japan faces a growing threat from evil mutants emerging from the shadows. Hisako has been burdened by numerous emotional scars, including the loss of a classmate and the rise of a malevolent psychic — this universe’s version of the formidable Shadow King. The previous issue took a sharp turn, as Hisako’s internal struggle led to devastating consequences, marking a significant and dark shift in her journey. What makes this issue stand out for me, much like the one before, is the action taken by the X-Men. Whereas earlier issues saw the characters in more passive roles, observing as events unfolded around them, we finally see the team taking matters into their own hands. Hisako’s fall into despair is a catalyst that pushes her friends — Mei, Nico, and Mori — to confront the villainous Children of the Atom, who have cast a shadow of mutant fear over Japan. Mei, or Maystorm, in particular, shows how much she’s grown as a character as she takes a more commanding position, leading and uniting her fellow mutants against their enemy.  Ultimate X-Men #14 © Marvel To be candid, my interest in this story had started to wane, particularly due to pacing issues. The lack of traditional X-Men action was replaced by a more character-driven narrative, which, at times, made it harder to fully invest in the young girls playing detective. However, what pulled me back in was the slowly expanding story that began to touch on the broader world of the Ultimate Universe, particularly the looming confrontation with the Shadow King, which started to unfold in issue #13. There’s a clear sense that a reckoning is coming, as devious mutants tighten their grip on Japan and the characters find themselves cornered in the larger mutant conflict. Beneath the overarching Ultimate Universe plot — the return of the Maker — Ultimate X-Men  holds the potential to become a classic. It takes risks by focusing on a primarily female cast, giving the spotlight to lesser-known mutants while reinterpreting them in ways that aren’t typically seen in mainline X-titles. Despite some pacing challenges, I can’t deny the art and creativity behind the story, and I’m eager to see where Momoko leads us next. Ultimate X-Men #14 © Marvel About Ultimate X-Men #14 Release Date:  April 02, 2025 Written by:  Peach Momoko Art by: Peach Momoko Cover by: Peach Momoko Page Count: 28 Synopsis : The Shadow King returns... more powerful than ever! Will Armor be the first to fall?

Without a doubt, Psylocke #6  is my favorite issue in the series so far, as it dives deeply into Kwannon’s past and confronts one of her greatest adversaries — her own identity. Alyssa Wong does a brilliant job of highlighting what makes Psylocke such a compelling character, ensuring that both new readers and longtime fans are hooked as the ongoing solo series unfolds. It hasn’t been long since Kwannon regained control of her body and the name Psylocke , a change that came with the dawn of the Krakoan era. Fallen Angels  served as a kind of love letter to Psylocke fans, being the first story to restore the telepathic assassin to her full capacity, letting us finally say goodbye to the body-swapping saga of the past. While that arc could have been easily brushed aside, Wong masterfully revisits and builds upon this pivotal moment, offering a deeper exploration of the character. For those who have followed Kwannon’s journey in recent years, it’s clear that she’s faced a number of personal struggles, from navigating romance to dealing with the painful rediscovery and loss of her child at the hands of Mister Sinister. While that storyline seemed to have been abandoned in Marauders , Wong reintroduces this emotional thread in a gut-punch of a moment, bringing her lost child back into the narrative, adding another layer of complexity to Kwannon’s already tumultuous past. The journey of following Kwannon’s struggle to separate reality from illusion has been fascinating, especially considering her telepathic powers and the hallucinations she’s grappling with. Haunted by visions of her daughter and the unsettling image of a face that isn’t hers, even the hardened assassin finds herself vulnerable, forcing her to seek help from others. Psylocke #6 © Marvel Things take a particularly intriguing turn when, with the help of Magik, Psylocke finds herself in New Orleans at the Haven House — the headquarters of the Uncanny X-Men. Initially, like Psylocke, I was uncertain who in the X-Men  could offer insight into her haunting visions, but the story takes an unexpected and exciting twist with the appearance of Deathdream — a mutant with the ability to enter a death-like state and commune with ghosts. Through a fascinating use of his powers, Deathdream reveals that what haunts Psylocke might not be what she first thought. The ghosts of her past — and perhaps something darker — are truly tormenting her. This revelation is dramatically interrupted by a displeased Rogue (because what’s an X-Men  story without a little more drama?), who arrives just in time to witness her charge’s transformation by the sinister force that has attached itself to Kwannon. In the broader context of the mutant landscape, Psylocke  is a must-read. It digs into the history and personality of one of the X-Men’s most complex and intriguing characters, while also setting the stage for a bright future filled with possibilities for her. This issue continues to pave the way for Kwannon’s growth and her place in the ongoing X-Men saga. Psylocke #6 © Marvel About Psylocke #6 Release Date:  April 02, 2025 Written by:  Alyssa Wong Art by: Vincenzo Carratù and Moisés Hidalgo Cover by: Mahmud Asrar Page Count: 25 Synopsis :  Psylocke is one of the X-Men's most dangerous and skillful telepaths. So why is her own mind the one thing she can't seem to control? Kwannon has begun to accept her past, but are some things better left buried?

After the intense events of the X-Manhunt  storyline, X-Men #14  brings us back to the lives of the adjectiveless X-Men team and their home base—the Factory in Merle, Alaska. Before their encounter with Rogue’s Uncanny team, which led to a significant confrontation over the handling of Charles Xavier, the X-Men had been focused on adjusting to life in their small northern town while navigating the evolving political climate surrounding mutant rights in a post-Krakoan world. The standout aspect of this issue for me is the focus on the newer characters introduced earlier in the run—mutants transformed by the looming threat of the 3K. Jennifer Starkey, the polymorph, and Ben Liu, who seems to possess illusion or reality-warping abilities with the potential to level cities (as seen in X-Men Vol. 7 #2 ), both get much-needed attention. We see them adjusting to their new identities and their commitment to the cause as they join the X-Men in the search for a missing girl. X-Men #14 - © Marvel Mystery plays a pivotal role in this issue, particularly with the search for Piper Cobb, a young girl who suspected she was a mutant after witnessing a devastating Sentinel attack in her hometown of Merle. This is especially intriguing since Beast, the X-Men's resident scientist, had earlier confirmed that Piper was “one hundred percent homo sapiens sapiens,” despite the cliffhanger transformation that was left unresolved in a previous issue. The team feels a deep responsibility to find her, with Idie Okonkwo (Temper) taking the lead, as she had been the one to invite Piper into their home. Idie feels personally responsible for returning Piper to a situation where the girl didn’t feel safe, creating a dilemma for the X-Men who have always strived to help both humans and mutants—yet they remain unsure of how to assist Piper or even what might be happening to her. Another intriguing moment is a conversation between Ben and Magneto, who is struggling with Resurrection-Linked Degenerative Sickness—a mysterious side effect of the Krakoan resurrection process. Magneto, acknowledging the immense power that both he and Ben possess, offers to mentor the young man in controlling his abilities. This offer made me wary and carries weight given Magneto’s history, where he has often taken extreme measures in his pursuit of Mutantkind’s survival and protection. The threat of 3K continues to cast a long shadow as the identities of their leaders begin to surface. Cassandra Nova, whose role in mutant deaths is among the most catastrophic in X-Men history, is revealed to be behind much of the team's turmoil. With her formidable powers, she remains an ever-present danger, having previously come dangerously close to eliminating the mutants' omega-level telepath. Adding to the urgency is the deadly assassin Wyre, who has been targeting the X-Men. He escalates the situation by shooting down their ship, the Marauder , and taking out Kid Omega, forcing the X-Men into yet another rescue mission on top of the one they’ve already launched. In the end, the search for Piper brings the story full circle, leading to the discovery of an Acanti space whale’s fallen corpse and the unsettling revelation that something powerful—and possibly malevolent—has been hidden inside Piper all along. This new development may threaten not just the mutants, but the people of Merle as well. All in all, X-Men #14  offers a solid return to the core mission of the adjectiveless X-Men team and their operations from their Alaskan base. The story seamlessly ties together elements from previous arcs, including 3K, Piper, Corsair, and the Acanti, while drawing readers back into the action. This issue also delves into surprising emotional depth, with a particular focus on the growth of newer characters, especially Idie, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting continuation of the series. X-Men #14 - © Marvel About X-Men #14 Release Date:  April 02, 2025 Written by:  Jed Mackay Art by: Ryan Stegman Cover by: Ryan Stegman Page Count: 26 Synopsis:  The town of Merle enlists the X-Men to aid in a search and rescue operation for a missing child - one closer to the X-Men than the Sheriff knows. But while the X-Men search for Piper Cobb, they are themselves being watched - as their shadowy 3K adversaries move to strike directly, their own agenda unfolding!

Netflix’s highly anticipated The Chronicles of Narnia  film franchise is set to kick off with a film adaption of The Magician’s Nephew .  An offer has been made to Meryl Streep to portray a central character in the series: Aslan, the Great Lion. Streep is in talks to portray Aslan, who will be female in the series. Aslan in the novels is a talking lion who serves as Narnia’s guardian and a mentor to the human children. Typically portrayed as a male, Aslan was created as an allegory for Jesus by author C.S. Lewis. The Academy Award winning actress can currently be seen in Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building as “Loretta Durkin.” Her most recent credits include the Apple TV+ anthology series, Extrapolations  and Adam McKay’s Netflix feature, Don’t Look Up. Streep is CAA and Gendler Kelly & Cunningham. The film, written and to be directed by Greta Gerwig, will adapt the sixth novel in the series, The Magician’s Nephew , which chronologically takes place first in the series. The novel tells the origin of Narnia and is centered on Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer who discover the magical world through Digory’s uncle’s magic. The role of Digory’s uncle, Andrew, is currently eyeing Daniel Craig, as reported by Deadline in March 2025. The novel also introduces Jadis, who goes on to become the White Witch, a role which is eyeing Charli XCX, also reported by Deadline earlier this month. The film is aiming to start shooting sometime this year with a theatrical release on Thanksgiving Day 2026, followed by a release on Netflix in December 2026.

Iyanu is a refreshing saga in the superhero zeitgeist. The series was crafted by artists who wear their hearts on their sleeves, fully confident knowing they are on the verge of introducing an icon the world has been deprived of. Iyanu is an animated series coming to Cartoon Network, based on Roye Okupe's graphic novel via Dark Horse Comics and Youneek. It follows the titular protagonist, a teenage orphan girl prophesized to save her nation, Yorubaland, from evil forces that have already been corrupting life's natural balance for years. Iyanu possesses a trinity of powers: natural, unnatural, and supernatural. Beyond her enhanced physical attributes, she can manipulate energy at a divine level and command wildlife. No force on Earth can stop her, except herself. The coming-of-age epic remains relevant to young viewers without getting stuck in the reluctant hero cliché that has been saturating media for years. It beautifully balances familiarity with originality to resonate with audiences of all ages. Fantasy/Reality: Two Sides Of The Same Coin Iyanu . © Max Iyanu delivers a compelling tale, unafraid to authentically represent the corruption and classism we face today. The animated series does not water down its subject matter to appeal to its target audience. Instead, it trusts kids to be mature enough to understand the corrupt nature of the world we live in and how we are discriminated against regardless of race or class. Iyanu (Serah Johnson) is a talented, compassionate, and courageous girl who commands magical abilities with God-like potential, yet none of that matters to the elite. They make their disdain towards her clear from the first episode, shunning her because she is an outsider as far as they are concerned. She has no issues standing up for herself or what's right, but she doubts herself at times, like most heroes her age. What makes her stand out is that she does not doubt her ability to save the world as much as she doubts her place. The way she constantly feels like she does not belong but remains willing to adhere to her responsibilities makes her an equally inspiring and relatable protagonist. Along the way, she meets kindred spirits, Biyi and Toye, voiced by Okey Jude and Samuel Kugbiyi, respectively. Although they do not share her divine attributes, they are outsiders in one way or another. Biyi is a wanderer with no family, as far as we know. Before Iyaanu, he had no one but himself to keep him company. Unlike Iyanu and Biyi, Toye resides in the Inner City, but he might as well be an outsider. It never feels like he belongs in what is supposed to be his home. He is alone, constantly bullied, and has a strict father who takes a hands-off approach, practicing tough love. The trio invites viewers into the bond they share with open arms because, at the core of Iyanu, is a love letter to anyone feeling like an outcast. Divine Wonders of Art Iyanu . © Max In a world where the only good animation on television seems to be found in anime, Iyanu stands out with breathtaking visuals that do justice to the Nigerian culture despite having an anime influence akin to Avatar: The Last Airbender . The animation is beautiful, with an immersive aesthetic and intrinsic nuance and detail given to each character, including ones in the background who do not utter a word. The biggest character of them all is Yorubaland. Yes, the setting is a character as far as I am concerned. The land is inviting, with a personality of its own and a nature as majestic as the Garden of Eden. You can feel its love for the people and the sorrow it feels when corruption runs deep in the land. On the auditory side, the music is infectious, and the dialect organically reflects Nigerian heritage. It is difficult not to be moved by every beat, or to feel unwelcomed by the conversations the protagonists share. The energetic and relatable natures of the series travel by sound and just as fast. Wonder Rises With The Sun Iyanu. © Max Iyanu is a fantastic addition to Cartoon Network. The series is an incredible adventure into a Nigerian land, a showcase of their talent and culture, and a reminder of how dark the world can be, there will always be light that never loses its shine. Rating: ★★★★☆ About Iyanu Iyanu. © Max Premiere Date:  April 5, 2025 Episode Count:  13 Executive Producer/Showrunner: Roye Okupe Writer: Brandon Easton Directors: Vincent Edwards, Saxton Moore, Roye Okupe, Dawud Anyabwile, Darnell Johnson, Esteban Valdez Producers: David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kristen Newlands, Matt Heath, Roye Okupe, Erica Dupuis, Ryan Haidarian, Doug Schwalbe Production:   Lion Forge Animation, YouNeek Studios, Impact X Capital, Forefront Media Group, Superprod Network: Cartoon Network Cast:   Serah Johnson, Okey Jude, Samuel Kugbiyi, Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Stella Damasus, Shaffy Bello, Ike Ononye Synopsis: Iyanu is a superhero tale set in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland, which draws from Nigerian culture, music, and mythology. Drawing deeply from the rich tapestry of Yoruba people, the animated series follows a teenage orphan girl, Iyanu, who spends her days studying history and ancient arts but yearns for a normal life. One day, responding to danger, she unknowingly triggers her divine powers, the likes of which have not been seen since the Age of Wonders. With newly discovered superpowers, Iyanu joins forces with two other teenagers, Biyi and Toye, as they embark on a remarkable journey to discover the truth about the evil lurking in her homeland. Throughout her adventure, she'll uncover the truth about her past, her parents, and her ultimate destiny to save the world.

It may take some while to find its feet, but if you give Government Cheese  a chance, just as Hampton’s family do for him, you will be rewarded.  Lead David Oyelowo ( Selma, Silo, Lawman: Bass Reeves ), who also serves as executive producer, gets the long-overdue role to showcase his talent, and range.  Accompanied by an able cast, often-satisfying flashes of surrealism (though sometimes muddied) and a heartening core message, this is dramedy is a worthy watch. Government Cheese  finds us in Los Angeles, California - San Fernando Valley, to be precise.  The year is 1969 and Hampton Chambers (Oyelowo) returns home to his family following a three-year stretch in prison due to cheque fraud.  During his time behind bars, Hampton has found God and a renewed determination to be the perfect family man - but finds his wife Astoria (Simone Missick, Luke Cage ) distant, much to his dismay.  It is a similar state of his affairs with his two sons Einstein (Evan Ellison) and Harrison (Jahi Di’Allo Winston) - whilst the carefree Einstein shares his father’s can-do attitude and creative zest (albeit with more of a hippie bent which mildly perturbs Hampton), Harrison is aloof and passive-aggressive.  Hampton, somewhat lacking in crucial self-awareness, sees it as his duty to put things right - so in his mind, the solution to all his problems starts with…a self-sharpening drill, jauntily named the ‘Bit Magician, that he invented in captivity.  Meanwhile, the budding entrepreneur is having to contend with the looming threat of the Prevost brothers, a French gang to whom he owes an not inconsiderable sum of money.  This leads him to consider more creative and illicit solutions to his liquidity problem, including teaming up with his friend Bootsy (Bokeem Woodbine) to rob a synagogue. Hamtpon (David Oyelowo) gets more than he bargains for in a run-in with one of the Prevost Brothers (Louis Cancelmi). © Apple If this all sounds a bit quirky, well, that is because it is.  In its opening episode though, Government Cheese  is itself akin to our protagonist - in his worst aspects: Conflicting, self-sabotaging and unsuccessful in making the right impression to whatever audience he finds before him.  This is not helped but the pilot’s meandering pace, flashbacks to Hampton’s time in prison and lack of chemistry between the characters (which is arguably by design) - not to mention the significant lack of hard-hitting humour (or even a consistent style of humour) in what is styled as a comedy. Did that put you off?  Well, not quite so fast.  Once I got past the awkwardness of that first episode, I found much of my significant scepticism assuaged by what followed - ultimately winning me over to the madcap world crafted by director Paul Hunter ( Bulletproof Monk ) and writer Aeysha Carr ( Brooklyn Nine-Nine ).  The interplay between the Chambers family members, as well as the wider cast gradually transitions from awkwardly sterile to convincing - although the pacing and editing could have done with some tightening to allow what can sometimes feel like disconnected, albeit entertaining vignettes, to coalesce into something more satisfyingly cohesive and thematically potent.  This extends to the depiction and arcs of the characters themselves, whom would have benefitted from a redraft to balance its flirtations with surrealism, social commentary, satire and period drama.  At the end of the day though, it is David Oyelowo who makes - and elevates - this show.  Even when bound by limitations of narrative and script, the undeniable charisma of Oyelwoo is what sells you on Hampton’s often conflicting nature. The Chambers (Jahi Di’Allo Winston, David Oyelowo, Simone Missick and Evan Ellison) take a family photo. © Apple Government Cheese is a show that, like the inspirational proclamations uttered by Hampton throughout, is full of possibility (for another example see Billy Crudup’s cancelled Hello Tomorrow! ).  However, that possibility is not quite fully realised when its 10 episodes are taken as a whole, disjointed as they sometimes feel.  In all, it makes a sufficiently entertaining but somewhat unsatisfying watch. The 10-episode series world premiered at SXSW 2025. The first 4 episodes premiere April 16 on Apple TV+, with subsequent episodes debuting weekly. Rating: ★★★☆☆ About Government Cheese Government Cheese . © Apple Premiere Date:  16 April 2025 Episode Count:  10 Executive Producer/Showrunner: Ayesha Carr and Paul Hunter Writer: Paul Hunter Director: Paul Hunter Production:   Apple Studios and MACRO Television Studios Distribution:  Apple TV+ Cast:   David Oyelowo, Simone Missick, Jahi Di’Allo Winston, Evan Ellison, Bokeem Woodbine, Jeremy Bobb, Louis Cancelmi, Julien Heron, Djilali Rez-Kallah, Louis Ferreira, Thomas Beaudoin, Kyle Mac, John Ortiz, Adam Beach Synopsis: “Government Cheese” is a surrealist family comedy set in 1969 San Fernando Valley that tells the story of the Chambers, a quirky family pursuing lofty and seemingly impossible dreams, beautifully unfettered by the realities of the world. When Hampton Chambers (David Oyelowo) is released from prison, his long-awaited family reunion doesn’t go quite as he’d planned. During his absence, Hampton’s wife, Astoria (Simone Missick), and sons, Einstein (Evan Ellison) and Harrison (Jahi Di’Allo Winston), have formed an unconventional family unit, and Hampton’s return spins their world into chaos.

Disclaimer: This article contains minor spoilers for Ultimate Spider-Man #15. Ultimate Spider-Man had a great first year in 2024 with its first two arcs. Jonathan Hickman introduced us to this world with familiar faces but brand new dynamics that showcase the characters like they've never been seen before. In last month's issue, Kraven the Hunter preyed on Peter Parker and Harry Osborne in the Savage Lands, which led to the untimely death of the latter. While that death was shocking, it wasn't the only shocking event to take place in the last issue. Richard Parker, who now dons the picotech A.I. to takeover as Spider-Man, has run into Felica Hardy, the new Black Cat, who has taken over from her father after his injuries from Osborne. There's love in the air between these two, and it continues over into this issue. This is an issue that steps down from the intensity of the last two issues as the Parkers take a vacation. After witnessing the hearbreaking final panels of the last issue of Peter telling MJ that they should "run," there was an expectation that the comic would switch into a grounded, gritty thriller, but that might've been asking for way too much. #15 instead takes a different approach and seems to make it feel like MJ isn't all too bothered by the fact that Harry is dead, and they could easily be next. It's ironic with Wilson Fisk saying later in the issue that he "runs a global operation," leaving the threat in the air that he can kill whomever he wants no matter where they are. In this sense, the story feels contradictory and convoluted with the emotions Hickman is trying to convey with his writing. Ultimate Spider-Man #15 © Marvel The artist for this issue and the following issue has switched over from Marco Checchetto (who is still on cover art duty) to David Messina. Messina does an outstanding job of representing the characters and the world, still bringing his own style, but without there being a jarring difference. The relationship between Richard and Felicia continues through this issue with both of them texting. It's become more clear that they're falling for each other, with Richard being mad at some of his awkward responses and Felicia returning the same sentiment of thinking about him while they've been away from each other. It's cute and truthfully feels better than anything we got in 616 with Peter and Felicia's relationship. As we move destination, we get to see both Peter and Richard team up as the Ultimate Universe's Spider-Men as they face Sandman. It's refreshing to have a filler issue every once in a while, Daredevil: Born Again proved that with their release of episodes 5 and 6 this week , but the sudden tonal shift from the last issue to this one is too drastic not to notice the stark difference. It's unfortunate that Sandman has been dwindled to just a one-issue villain, as he's a character that has so much depth to him, but Ultimate Spider-Man #15 wipes all of that away. Thankfully, the issue ends on some progress with Uncle Ben and J. Jonah Jameson having to deal with the reprecussions of writing their hit piece on Fisk under a pseudonym. Ultimate Spider-Man #15 currently showcases that this current arc lacks direction compared to the previous two arcs we had, and we can only hope that Hickman can get back on track with writing that fits the tone of the story being told. Ultimate Spider-Man #15 © Marvel About Ultimate Spider-Man # 15 Release Date: March 26, 2025 Written by:  Jonathan Hickman Art by:  David Messina Cover by: Matt Wilson Page Count:  32 Pages Synopsis: THE ULTIMATE SANDMAN ATTACKS! As the dust settles from the events of recent issues, Peter, MJ and the kids take a family vacation — but nowhere is safe for Ultimate Spider-Man!

The crime drama genre has seen its fair share of entries, but MobLand , created by Ronan Bennett ( Top Boy, The Day Of The Jackal ) and co-written by Jez Butterworth ( Edge of Tomorrow , Spectre ), and directed by the master of slick, stylish gangster films, Guy Ritchie ( Snatch , The Gentlemen ), brings a refreshing mix of old-school gangster charm and modern storytelling finesse. With its star-studded cast featuring Pierce Brosnan, Helen Mirren, and Tom Hardy, the first 2 episodes of MobLand deliver an engaging, well-paced, and intriguing start that sets the stage for a potential hit. One of MobLand ’s biggest selling points is its impressive ensemble cast which also includes Paddy Considine, Lara Pulver, Mandeep Dhillon and Joanne Frogatt, and they certainly don’t disappoint. Pierce Brosnan steps into familiar territory as the head of an organized crime family, exuding power and dominance. Helen Mirren, who plays his wife is the real brains behind the operation. Her Irish accent is spot on as expected and her character is cunning, calculative, and razor-sharp in every move she makes. Mirren plays the role elegantly and menace, reminding viewers why she’s one of the best in the business. Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan as Meave and Conrad Harrigan in MobLand  © Paramount Plus Tom Hardy takes on the role of Harry, a fixer who operates with quiet menace and controlled precision. He isn’t your typical muscle-bound enforcer; rather, he is a calculated problem solver, relying on intelligence over brute force. He carries himself with swagger and elegance while maintaining an understated, dangerous presence. What makes his character even more intriguing is his humanity—he’s a devoted family man, deeply loyal, and devoid of the arrogance that plagues many gangster archetypes. His struggling marriage adds emotional depth, making his character more than just another tough guy in a crime drama. The first two episodes do an excellent job of setting up the power struggle within the syndicate while hinting at the brewing conflict with the Stevensons, a rival gang whose long-standing truce with Brosnan and Mirren’s characters is on the verge of collapse. While the show doesn’t rely on relentless action sequences, it maintains a gripping sense of tension, making every conversation, every exchange, feel like it could explode into violence at any moment. When the brutality does arrive, it is sharp, impactful, and never overindulgent. The pacing is a standout feature—neither too slow nor too fast, MobLand  finds its rhythm and sticks to it. The show doesn’t feel rushed or bogged down by unnecessary subplots, instead choosing to focus on its central conflict while gradually expanding its world. This allows for natural character development and a deeper investment in the power dynamics at play. Tom Hardy as Harry Da Souza and Paddy Considine as Kevin Harrigan in MobLand  © Paramount Plus Guy Ritchie’s directorial influence is undeniable, though MobLand feels slightly more restrained compared to his previous works. The signature savvy dialogues and dry humor are present, but they never overpower the drama. The humor is effective but doesn’t dominate the narrative the way it does in The Gentlemen  or Snatch —instead, it serves as a welcome relief in an otherwise tense, blood-soaked drama. The show carries a sense of sophistication, and just sucks you in with its characters and worldbuilding. MobLand  is off to an impressive start, and shows potential to be the next big crime drama. While it does show signs of being conventional at times, with familiar gangster tropes and power struggles, it also introduces fresh ideas that keep it from feeling stale. The character-driven storytelling, combined with excellent performances, helps elevate it beyond being just another crime drama. The end of episode two sets up an exciting trajectory, leaving viewers eager for what’s to come. Rating: ★★★★☆ About MobLand MobLand © Paramount Plus Premiere Date:   March 30, 2025 Episode Count:  10 Executive Producer/Showrunner: Ronan Bennett, Guy Ritchie, David C. Glasser, Ron Burkle, Bob Yari, David Hutkin, Ivan Atkinson, Keith Cox, Nina L. Diaz, Jez Butterworth, Kris Thykier, Tom Hardy, Dean Baker Writer: Ronan Bennett Director: Anthony Byrne, Guy Ritchie, Daniel Syrkin, Lawrence Gough Production:   MTV Entertainment Studios, 101 Studios Network:   Paramount+ Cast:   Tom Hardy, Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Paddy Considine, Joanne Froggatt, Lara Pulver, Anson Boon, Mandeep Dhillon, Jasmine Jobson, Alex Fine, Geoff Bell, Daniel Betts, Lisa Dwan, Emily Barber, Janet McTeer Synopsis: Two mob families clash in a war that threatens to topple empires and lives.

Halfway through the third season of The Wheel of Time , the characters have split into teams to travel to varied destinations, but one new location isn’t even in the physical world. Episode 5 is titled “Tel’aran’rhiod,” a term which is used for the mysterious, potentially dangerous World of Dreams. This isn’t the first time that this aspect of the show’s high fantasy setting has been mentioned, but it’s now in full focus as Egwene (Madeleine Madden) begins to train with the Wise Ones of the Aiel. Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for The Wheel of Time Season 3. Madeleine Madden (Egwene al’Vere) in The Wheel of Time Season 3. © Prime Video At first it seems like this training, in which Egwene goes to sleep and regains consciousness in an environment almost  identical to the real world, is a subplot with little importance to the main action. Egwene’s boyfriend Rand (Josha Stradowski) has accepted his destiny as the world-shaking Dragon Reborn, and she’s accompanying him to the Aiel Waste on a mission to recruit an army of desert warriors. In the last episode, Rand survived the trial of Rhuidean and proved himself the fated leader of all Aiel clans, and his mentor Moiraine (Rosamund Pike) endured a barrage of prophetic visions, including her own death.  The power of dreams is hardly anyone’s current priority, especially when we check in with the other teams. Elayne (Ceara Coveney) and Nynaeve ( Zoë Robins) have been sent to the distant city of Tanchico to find the traitorous Black Ajah. During the sea voyage, they learn that their ship is powered by Sea Folk channelers who wish to keep their existence secret from the Aes Sedai. Perrin (Marcus Rutherford) has returned to the Two Rivers, only to find it beset by Trolloc attacks and interfering Whitecloaks.  Rosamund Pike (Moiraine Damodred) in The Wheel of Time  Season 3. © Prime Video However, things have a way of coming together. By the end of the episode, Egwene uses her newfound dreaming power to allow Moiraine to speak to her star-crossed lover, Siuan ( Sophie Okonedo ), the Amyrlin Seat. Tensions at the White Tower where Siuan rules are at an all-time high, with at least Black Ajah sister still hidden among the Aes Sedai, and the arrival of the ambitious and overbearing Elaida ( Shohreh Aghdashloo ) causing further division among the Ajahs. Although Moiraine can offer little more than a warning of new dangers, her meeting with Siuan at least helps to heal their own damaged relationship. Egwene also takes the opportunity to peek into her absent friends’ dreams, sending us on a bittersweet montage as she observes each individual in the happy lives now out of their reach. Nynaeve is training her daughter to be a village Wisdom. Elayne sees herself as a Sea Folk Windfinder, with her Aiel lover Aviendha (Ayoola Smart) at her side. Perrin is working a forge in the company of Hopper, his late wolf companion, and Faile ( Isabella Bucceri ), a new acquaintance whom he hasn’t yet admitted he likes. Mat ( Dónal Finn ) dreams of making peace with his mother and little sisters, but in the real world Mat is traveling with Elayne and Nynaeve, and doesn’t know that his family in the Two Rivers has been captured by Whitecloaks.  Finally, Egwene’s dream journey brings her to Rand, but she’s stopped cold when she sees that he’s not alone. Rand already has a regular visitor to his dreams: the Forsaken Lanfear ( Natasha O'Keeffe ), whose undercover seduction of him in Season 2 has endured despite his distrust of her. It’s immediately clear to Egwene that their romantic interest is mutual. Josha Stradowski (Rand al’Thor), Madeleine Madden (Egwene al’Vere) in The Wheel of Time  Season 3. © Prime Video With so many distinct storylines competing for space, it’s difficult for a show like The Wheel of Time to give each episode an independent narrative. The use of Tel’aran’rhiod can only be an asset in that sense, but the stronger theme that emerges from this episode is the relationships between the characters. One subplot involves the Aes Sedai Alanna ( Priyanka Bose ) and her Warder Maksim ( Taylor Napier) , who are both grieving for her other Warder but have been unable to emotionally support each other until Alanna’s life is in danger.  Moiraine likewise finds comfort in her Warder Lan (Daniel Henney) in one offbeat, quiet scene, while Mat gets frustrated by his close quarters with Nynaeve and Elayne and finds a simpler kind of friendship with Min (Kae Alexander). Perrin’s return to the Two Rivers reunites him with people he’s known all his life, but also shows how much he’s changed when he considers the companions he’s brought home with him.  So far, this has been The Wheel of Time ’s strongest season. Each new installment balances faithfulness to the beloved book series by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson with new material and twists, and the groundwork is being laid for exciting developments in seasons to come. Rating: ★★★★½ About The Wheel of Time Season 3 The Wheel of Time . © Prime Video Premiere Date:   March 13, 2025 Episode Count:  8 Executive Producer/Showrunner: Rafe Judkins, Larry Mondragon, Rick Selvage, Ted Field, Mike Weber, Darren Lemke, Marigo Kehoe, Justine Juel Gillmer, Sanaa Hamri, Amanda Kate Shuman Director: Ciaran Donnelly, Thomas Napper, Production:   Amazon Studios and Sony Pictures Television Distribution:  Prime Video Cast:   Rosamund Pike, Daniel Henney, Josha Stradowski, Zoë Robins, Madeleine Madden, Marcus Rutherford, Dónal Finn, Ceara Coveney, Kate Fleetwood, Natasha O’Keeffe, Ayoola Smart, Kae Alexander, Sophie Okonedo Synopsis: After defeating Ishamael at the end of Season Two, Rand reunites with his friends at Falme and is declared the Dragon Reborn. But in Season Three, the threats against the Light are multiplying: the White Tower stands divided, the Black Ajah run free, old enemies return to the Two Rivers, and the remaining Forsaken are in hot pursuit of the Dragon… including Lanfear, whose relationship with Rand will mark a crucial choice between Light and Dark for them both. As the ties to his past begin to unravel, and his corrupted power grows stronger, Rand becomes increasingly unrecognizable to his closest allies, Moiraine and Egwene. These powerful women, who started the series as teacher and student, must now work together to prevent the Dragon from turning to the Dark…no matter the cost.

The fifth and sixth episodes of Daredevil: Born Again aired back to back on March 25. This double-feature format happened to work very well with the two episodes in question, “With Interest” and “Excessive Force.” Disclaimer: This article contains minor spoilers for Daredevil: Born Again Season 1. Rather than advancing the plotline that’s been building up from the beginning of the season, “With Interest” heads in a new direction and provides its own self-contained adventure. Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox), who has been concentrating on his lawyer career and steering clear of his alter-ego Daredevil, goes to the bank to ask for a loan and becomes caught up in a conflict that has nothing to do with him or any of his usual enemies.  As all of the action takes place inside the bank or on the streets just outside, it’s more or less a bottle episode, something that isn’t often seen in the television format preferred by today’s streaming services. Matt is the only regular character who gets any screen time, and he’s the one who saves the day with his wits, enhanced senses, and fighting skills.  Daredevil: Born Again . © Marvel Television Ms. Marvel's Dad on Loan Marvel Cinematic Universe fans will recognize one other protagonist: Yusuf Khan (Mohan Kapur), the father of teen superhero Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel. Yusuf is the assistant bank manager who first discusses the loan with Matt, and he’s quick to show his pride in his daughter, even keeping a Ms. Marvel Funko Pop! figure on his desk. When a gang of bank robbers busts in (wearing Infinity Stone-colored ski masks), Yusuf helps Matt defeat them and later offers him an invitation to dinner with the family.  Although there are some bleak moments in the episode, overall it has a much more lighthearted vibe than we’ve seen in the show so far. Not only is “With Interest” a refreshing change of pace, but it nods to the style of classic superhero comics, which would often break up serial arcs with one-shot stories.  Muse Is Out For Blood Muse in Daredevil: Born Again . © Marvel Television With that feel-good victory completed, “Excessive Force” brings back the despair and violence of the main plot. The masked killer known as Muse, who drains the blood of his victims and uses it to paint graffiti murals like a deranged Banksy, has finally drawn the attention of Mayor Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio).  Using the same kind of strategic manipulations that he did as a crime boss, Fisk is turning public sentiment against vigilantes, equating criminals like Muse with local heroes like Daredevil and gathering a team of plainly corrupt officers to work as his special strike force. When it comes to his own criminal history, though, Fisk is forced to negotiate with a former associate holding his past over him, rather than beating him senseless as he once would have. Daredevil and Kingpin have always had interlocking arcs, and here their struggles run parallel. Matt’s determination to solve problems through the law is wavering, especially after he’s approached by Angela Del Toro (Camila Rodriguez), the niece of his recently murdered client Hector Ayala/White Tiger. Angela’s insistence that Matt is the only one who can help her take down her uncle’s killers feels like a stretch, as she only knows him as a blind lawyer, but it does the trick. Angela soon gets in over her head and Matt is back in the Daredevil suit to rescue her.  Fisk’s inevitable return to form, of course, is much more brutal than Matt’s. He’s fueled by jealousy over his wife Vanessa (Ayelet Zurer), even as their broken marriage begins to heal. Matt doesn’t have anyone locked in a dungeon, but he is keeping his girlfriend Heather (Margarita Levieva) in the dark about his double life, even when she says she wants to write a book about vigilantes.  Will Swords Be Drawn? Jack Duquesne (Tony Dalton) in Daredevil: Born Again . © Marvel Television “Excessive Force” also has a returning face from a prior MCU show. This time it’s Jack Duquesne (Tony Dalton), last seen in Hawkeye . The crossover came as a surprise, but as Jack was introduced as a charming New York socialite, he fits right in with Vanessa’s circle and his presence in the show makes perfect sense.  It’s hinted that Jack’s alter-ego Swordsman will become relevant in Daredevil: Born Again , but even if he was just a cameo, this kind of guest appearance is delightful for fans and exactly what the show needs to cement its place in the MCU. Some inconsistencies between the original Daredevil series and the wider shared universe will never be resolved, but it’s great to see proof that all of these characters do exist in each other’s worlds and really can pop up where you least expect them. All that aside, there are some Daredevil mainstays who still have stories waiting to unfold, and their roles in Born Again have been very limited so far. Karen Page (Deborah Ann Woll) and Frank Castle (Jon Bernthal) both left loose ends after their brief appearances, and the mysteries behind the death of Foggy Nelson (Elden Henson) are far from resolved. The slow pace of Daredevil: Born Again has its pros and cons. Fans will need to be patient to see how it all comes together, but hopefully, we’ll continue to enjoy the ride. Rating: ★★★★☆ About Daredevil: Born Again Daredevil: Born Again . © Marvel Television Premiere Date:  March 4, 2025. Episode Count:  9 Executive Producer/Showrunner: Dario Scardapane Writers: Dario Scardapane, Brad Winderbaum Directors: Justin Benson & Aaron Moorhead, Michael Cuesta, Jeffrey Nachmanoff, David Boyd Production:  Marvel Television, Disney Distribution:  Disney Cast:   Charlie Cox, Vincent D’Onofrio, Margarita Levieva, Deborah Ann Woll, Elden Henson, Zabryna Guevara, Nikki James, Genneya Walton, Arty Froushan, Clark Johnson, Michael Gandolfini, with Ayelet Zurer and Jon Bernthal Synopsis: In Marvel Television’s “Daredevil: Born Again,” Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox), a blind lawyer with heightened abilities is fighting for justice through his bustling law firm, while former mob boss Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio) pursues his own political endeavors in New York. When their past identities begin to emerge, both men find themselves on an inevitable collision course.

X-Manhunt Omega  serves as a crucial conclusion to the second major X-Men event in the From the Ashes  era, tying up loose ends while leaving readers with more questions about the future of mutantkind. In this issue, we witness the X-Men navigating the aftermath of Xavier’s escape from Graymalkin Prison. After the loss of their island nation and one of their greatest leaders on the run, the X-Men’s future is in disarray, divided between those trying to rebuild and those grappling with the loss. Cyclops, a key figure in this tumultuous era, is presented as caught between being a steadfast leader and a revolutionary. His opening line—"They killed it..."—strikes a deep chord, encapsulating the disillusionment many mutants feel after Krakoa’s fall. While the narrative seeks to inject hope by showing the resilience of mutants in various corners of the X-universe, it’s a tough pill to swallow, especially given the mixed reception many recent X-books have received.  Cyclops and Rogue’s ideological clash continues through the first pages of X-Manhunt Omega , reaffirming their standing disagreement on how to handle mutantkind’s future, particularly when it comes to Xavier. Cyclops’ adamant stance on keeping the Professor imprisoned, despite his own traumatic experiences with captivity (particularly during the Fall of X), feels contradictory. Even more jarring is the fact that other mutants remain imprisoned within the X-Men’s former home, yet no significant action has been taken to free them. It’s a puzzling oversight, especially given Cyclops’ declarations about preventing further suffering for mutants. As tensions between Cyclops and Rogue remain unresolved, we shift to Storm, who has remained largely separate from the central conflicts of the X-teams. She reflects on the symbolism of mutants, both past and present, during a philosophical exchange with Sage. For those following X-Force , this moment picks up from the events where Sage helped Xavier escape with a Krakoan egg containing his deceased wife, Lilandra. While Storm’s role in these events is not as directly involved as one might expect, her philosophical musings provide a needed contrast to the heated arguments among the other X-leaders. If you haven’t already, it’s worth picking up Storm  to dive deeper into her personal struggles during this time. X-Manhunt Omega . © Marvel The heart of X-Manhunt Omega  comes in the form of high-octane action, with Ayodele and Simone delivering one of the most visually stunning sequences, with help from artists we've seen in recent X-Men comics. Murewa’s influence from anime and manga is unmistakable, with extravagant attacks, dramatic flair, and a massive kaiju-style battle featuring a giant demon and a superpowered mechsuit. These action-packed pages highlight the best of his directional talents and add a new level of excitement to the story outside of verbal bouts. However, the most compelling part of the issue is the battle of ideals between Cyclops and Xavier. Finally, the two have the long-overdue conversation that allows Cyclops to confront his deep resentment toward his mentor and father figure. This confrontation feels long overdue, as Cyclops’ internal conflict has been hinted at but never fully explored. The Fall of Krakoa, arguably the hardest blow to Scott, is the catalyst for his meltdown. His raw emotions echo back to earlier issues, such as X-Men  #2 and #7, where we saw the first cracks in his psyche, as he struggled with depression and panic attacks. Scott is a character who has sacrificed everything for the cause, and this moment truly drives home the emotional toll he’s endured. To him, Xavier is the architect of a broken dream, and his pain feels both relatable and tragic. The final message of the issue is one of hope, unity, and the pursuit of a new dream for mutantkind. It’s a touching sentiment, but it doesn’t pack the emotional punch it perhaps should, given Xavier’s limited involvement throughout this era. Though his final words aim to inspire, it’s difficult to feel the weight of his vision when he’s been largely absent from the era outside the two major events. As X-Manhunt Omega  sets the stage for what comes next, I’m more interested in seeing how the X-Men evolve into something more unique and fitting of the previous era. The future of the Adjectiveless X-Men  and Uncanny X-Men  teams is uncertain. Will they heed Xavier’s final words and find common ground, or will they continue to clash as they try to define a new path forward without their former leader? The possibilities are intriguing, but it’s clear that the X-Men’s journey is far from over. About X-Manhunt Omega X-Manhunt Omega . © Marvel Release Date: March 26, 2025 Written by: Gail Simone, Murewa Ayodele Art by: Enid Balám, Gleb Melnikov, Federica Mancin Cover by: Gleb Melnikov, Morry Hollowell Page Count: 48 Pages Synopsis: X-MANHUNT FINALE! The X-MANHUNT concludes as Professor X reaches his destination, and his assorted pursuers, friend and foe alike, catch up with him! Alliances will be battle-tested, the blades of betrayals will cut deep with poisoned tips and, when the dust finally settles, Charles Xavier will have to make a tectonic-shifting choice with the fate of all mutantkind in the balance. The world is about to change. This time around, everyone is wide awake.