Marvel: Astonishing X-Men; Gifted

In this audio adaptation of the graphic novel by Whedon and Cassaday, Professor Xavier no longer leads the X-Men, and Cyclops must rally them back together into a world-class team that can overcome a planet that fears them. At his side is the notorious Emma Frost, who adds her own set of challenges to their public image. The stakes get higher when a formula is discovered to remove mutants’ extra abilities, and the X-Men must stop a new enemy from using it on everyone. GraphicAudio assembles their own set of astonishing and gifted actors and actresses in this production. Richard Rohan dominates the third-person narrative passages with a deep and engaging voice that captures the action and emotion, but and allows for more somber and reflective moments. By contrast, Emlyn McFarland narrates the first-person passages as the voice of Kitty Pryde. She provides an inviting and intelligent tone that suits the character. They manage the action scenes effectively, using great sound effects to capture the different mutants’ abilities. (Sept.)