Two things are certain in Marvel Comics. First, Victor von Doom is one of the most dangerous villains ever. He isn’t just powerful; he's smooth, a genius scientist, and a master of the mystic arts. The second is that mutants will never get a fair shake. Despite saving the universe more times than the public knows and saving people in front of the whole world, the X-Men are looked at as villains or future enemies.
These two elements were combined in the most recent issue of the Marvel Comics crossover, One World Under Doom.
One World Under Doom No. 6 creative team
- Writer: Ryan North
- Artist: R.B. Silva
- Colorist: David Curiel
During the most recent issue of One World Under Doom, Reed Richards (a.k.a. Mr. Fantastic) challenged Victor von Doom to a debate. If Doom lost, he would step down as ruler of the world. Despite Reed’s intellect, he admitted that Victor has something over him: He can win the hearts of the audience. Doom knew this and used it to his advantage. He did something smart and disgusting by hiding the truth in between lies. Sadly, mutants were the ones taking a hit.
When it comes to the Avengers, Tony Stark has done things to help the world, like stopping his company from selling weapons. And, yes, Doom has a point about Hank Pym, too. However, when it comes to his point about mutants, he is telling half-truths.
There are various comic books where Storm has used her mutant abilities to help people around the world. The Krakoan Resurrection Protocols were created because mutants were consistently killed just for existing. This gave them a way to be less afraid for their lives. Later, after A.X.E.: Judgment Day, they opened up their protocols to certain people worldwide. And, then there’s Forge's plan to stop the unhoused people crisis (this was ruined by Orchis crashing the Hellfire Gala and killing people). All of this is on top of the pills they created that helped with multiple illnesses.
So, Doom didn't tell the whole truth. He used fear tactics and mutant hysteria to gain an advantage over Reed Richards. It's a smart move for a villain, but repulsive, and that could be the point that writer Ryan North is trying to get across: Pay attention to the things you hear and the people you follow. Not everyone is telling the truth or has your best interests in mind.
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