Astonishing X-Men #8 (2005)

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Writer: Joss Whedon

Artist: John Cassaday



We open with confusion.



Meanwhile, it appears that a couple of hicks have somehow inadvertently activated a Sentinel beneath their barn.



The X-Men aren’t sure whether they are under attack.



Is Emma Frost collaborating with a potential enemy?



I love how cinematic Cassaday’s take is on this material.



It becomes clear that they are in danger when they realize that they have been isolated.



Lockheed alerts the team to peril.



What a great reveal.



While sheltering from the attack in the Danger Room, Kitty and the students discover Wing's body from last issue.



The Sentinel makes cryptic pronouncements as Wolverine moves in for the kill.



And things get even weirder inside as the door of the Danger Room vanishes and Kitty considers phasing out to investigate the situation.



Emma Frost regains consciousness and reveals the true identity of their foe.



John Cassaday’s art is polished and cinematic, and Joss Whedon’s pacing keeps the issue moving with real tension. The revived Sentinel sequence is especially chilling, with the machine’s pseudo-religious speech giving the action an unnerving edge and Cassaday’s art highlighting the mystery and menace of the situation.

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