The new Marvel comic Longshots humorously pokes fun at what many fans consider the MCU’s biggest failure. Moreover, the series cleverly blends satire, cosmic lore, and beloved characters to deliver a unique reading experience. By using humor and cosmic stakes, the comic simultaneously entertains and critiques modern superhero storytelling.
The Marvel Creative Team Behind Longshots
Written by Gerry Duggan & Jonathan Hickman, with art by Alan Robinson, Longshots brings together a talented team to tackle the absurdities of superhero culture. In addition, their combined storytelling ensures a perfect balance of humor and high-stakes adventure.
Mojo: The Satirical Villain
The story centers on Mojo, an interdimensional executive who enslaves superheroes and forces them into violent multimedia “shows.” Mojo has long served as a satirical commentary on reality TV, video games, influencer culture, and even Marvel itself. Consequently, his antics highlight both the absurd and critical aspects of modern superhero entertainment.
Longshots #1: A C-List Team Takes the Stage
In Longshots #1, Mojo tries to profit from the Marvel event X-Men: Age of Revelation, but all major MCU-popular heroes are unavailable. Therefore, he forms a C-list team called the Longshots to investigate a mysterious, heavily guarded Power Plant housing an alien energy source. This sets the stage for unexpected heroics and comic misadventures.
Longshots #2: Celestials and Subtle Jabs at the MCU
Longshots #2 shows surviving members Hellcat and Wonder Man discovering that the alien energy comes from a Celestial. Mojo originally attempted to book Galactus as the main villain but was rejected — a humorous nod to the MCU. Interestingly, the Celestials, created by Jack Kirby in 1976, have already appeared in the MCU: Knowhere (from Guardians of the Galaxy) is built inside a Celestial’s head, and they were central to Eternals, which followed heroes attempting to stop a newborn Celestial from destroying Earth.
Marvel Subtle Critique of Eternals
Despite Kirby-inspired visuals and cosmic lore, Eternals struggled to connect with mainstream audiences. Mojo’s comments that Celestials “just suck” echo common fan criticism online. Ultimately, the series reflects that not all of Kirby’s cosmic ideas resonate with modern audiences and that Marvel branding alone cannot guarantee box-office success.
Finally, Longshots #2 is now available at comic shops for fans eager to experience Marvel’s sharp humor and subtle jabs at the MCU. With witty writing, vibrant artwork, and clever satire, Longshots is a must-read for both hardcore Marvel fans and casual readers alike.
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