Comics Review: X-Men: God Loves, Man Kills

Time for another comic book review. A television minister named, William Stryker promotes extreme religion and discrimination against mutants. Encouraging a cult he organizes to wipe out mutants. Stryker’s grandmaster plan is to brainwash Professor X so he can eradicate every mutant on the planet. It’s up to our heroes to put an end to Stryker’s tyranny.

Marvel’s fifth graphic novel, “X-Men: God Loves, Man Kills” was officially published in 1982 (same year Tron came out) earning huge praise from critics and readers alike. God Loves, Man Kills is widely considered as one of the best (if not the best) X-Men storylines of all time for its mature themes during an age when comic books were becoming darker and serious like Alan Moore’s groundbreaking graphic novel, “Watchmen.” God Loves, Man Kills was loosely adapted in my personal favorite X-Men movie, X2: X-Men United.”

As I’ve mentioned in my previous comic themed review of the X-Men, some of the OG cast will reprise their roles in “Avengers: Doomsday.” It’ll be released on December 18, 2026. I cannot wait to see my favorite superhero team duking it out with Doctor Doom. Keeping myself busy by reading a few X-Men comics.

Today’s review contains no SPOILERS.

Powerful & Weak Qualities

Powerful: Chris Claremont & Brent Anderson both did a fantastic job writing the graphic novel.

Action Sequences are pretty good.

William Stryker makes his comic book debut. Brian Cox later portrayed him in X2: The Last Stand. Stryker’s considered as one of the best X-Men villains.

There’s no necessary requirement to read previous issues. It’s a self-contained story. The first few pages will get cha hooked right from the get-go.

In 2020, an Extended Cut features an older Kitty Pryde recalling her story to a teenage girl. Which in-depth characterization on how far she came as a member of the team.

Stryker’s a satirical depiction of late Televangelist and “The 700 Club” host, Pat Robertson. A controversial religious figure who opposed gay rights. Made negative comments towards people with AIDS, claims the Haitian people made a deal with The Devil during the 1791 slave rebellion resulting in the 2010 Haitian. I think the reason why the producers and writers changed Stryker’s role as a military colonel instead of a minister was to prevent controversy resulting in boycotting the film. Despite a massive change, Stryker’s bigotry towards mutants and his evil scheme to wipe ‘em out remain intact.

We learn about Stryker’s backstory. It’s pretty messed up.

The graphic novel is told in four chapters. The equipment of four issues in one. More bang for your buck.

Correct me if I’m wrong. I think Magneto forming a temporary alliance with the X-Men marks the first time they’re facing a bigger threat. This is before Apocalypse shows up in X-Factor issues 5-6. He’s the first mutant to exist. Has a higher power level than the X-Men and the Brotherhood of Mutants.

Primary Themes are Discrimination, Religious Extremism, Mass Media, Ideology, & Psychological Manipulation. Each one’s handled maturely.

I have to give God Loves, Man Kills credit as a source of inspiration for “X2: X-Men United.” Again, it’s my personal favorite X-Men movie.

Weak: There’s an uncomfortable moment in the first issue for people who might be upset. Kitty says the N-Word to a black girl who thinks it’s no big deal for mutants getting offended by humans. Kitty said the N-Word to justify if somebody feels harassed or bullied based on the color of their skin. In my opinion, it lacked subtlety. In other words, trying too hard. In that one Teen Titans episode, “Troq,” Cyborg relates to Starfire on how it feels being judged by his appearance. He says “I’m part robot.” A subtle use of social commentary that didn’t feel forced. I don’t endorse racism. I’m open to start a conversation with anybody regardless of race.

The Final Verdict: A-

Despite one nitpick, X-Men: God Loves, Man Kills remains as one of the greatest X-Men storylines of all time. It’s a must-read for any X-Men fan. Buy a physical or digital copy. Your call.

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