As we get further along in the Black Vortex crossover, it seems to keep getting better. Brian Michael Bendis is the latest writer to put out a really good issue, but its not shocking since the whole event has been a thrill to read so far. The art has been pretty stunning as well, none better than Sorrentino and Maiolo. This event has been a joy to read and look at. Read Full Review

So far this series is still fun, but it's starting to get that familiar "four issue story stretched into a dozen issues" feeling. We'll see. Read Full Review

Easily, this was one of the more interesting issues within the Black Vortex event, even with the X-Men being more on-lookers than actually right in the heat of battle. The art and colors are the real shining star of this issue and it's worth the price of admission alone. All-in-all, it feels like Black Vortex is doing something a little different here, compared to the standard cross-over format and that's the compelling thing about this issue. Black Vortex continues to be pretty good and I'd say check this issue out for sure if you've been enjoying it. Read Full Review

Andrea Sorrentino's distinctive style may put him at odds with the rest of the artists working on this crossover, but on his own merits he's a great fit for this sort of cosmic drama. His dynamic layouts shine best during the scenes of carnage and destruction. During the more emotionally charged scenes, he brings a subtler touch that emphasizes body language and emotion. A lot is conveyed in simple looks between Kitty and Star-Lord or Cyclops and Jean. Read Full Review

This issue was very focused on setting up the heroes for their next phase of their journey and while seemingly not a whole lot happens to push the action of the story forward, Im very rarely going to complain about Brian Michael Bendis taking the time to let these characters play off each other and develop their relationships. That said, I could go for a nice, drawn out action sequence sooner, rather than later. The sequence that ended this issue, while lovely, just wasnt enough. Read Full Review

"All-New X-Men" #39 marks time between "The Black Vortex: Alpha" and "The Black Vortex: Omega." As the fifth chapter and near-midway point of the multi-title event, it serves as halftime, giving readers and creators a chance to catch their breath. Rather than providing a pep talk or bolstering wounds sustained thus far, this issue does little to inspire further action. It is almost as though this issue simply could have occurred between panels and the story and readers would be none the worse for missing it. As it stands, however, it may be a struggle to recall just what exactly did occur in "All-New X-Men" #39, save for some dynamic imagery. Read Full Review

Some nice character development is welcome. The whole splitting up think is kind of weak.