Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews
Cyborg #1
DC Comics
Walker, Reis, Prado & Lucas
DC's latest launch involves a character that hasn't had too much of his own spotlight: Cyborg. The comic continues DC's move away from the anti-hero persona that so much of their line was made up of in the New 52 wave. Instead, this comic shows the very human side of the part man-part machine in what appears to be a character driven book. The book doesn't contain much action, which definitely hampers it, but the read is a good one nonetheless. I recommend checking this out.
The highlight of the comic book involves the setup of the threat. The comic opens with this, close with this and visits it in the middle. The idea that there is some scrape of Cyborg technology out there that can be picked up and used for evil is a very good long-term idea. It doesn't help this issue but it definitely makes the future prospects for this comic look very good.
The bulk of the comic is made up of Cyborg (Vic) and his dad, Silas, and their relationship. The book is strong with presenting these characters, establishing their rocky relationship and defining the present state. The comic also has a few supporting characters that get established quickly and at a twist to the father-son relationship. The book struggles with illustrating the lead character's motives.
It isn't too clear what Silas is after. Is he looking to exploit, help or improve his son? Perhaps he just wants to study him? Vic, on the other hand, seems to approach his father for other reasons than their relationship. In fact, he seems to make his way back to his dad in spite of their fractured history, but based on his internal thoughts it seems he regrets going back to his dad. The themes are good but trying to make sense of what the characters are after is not fleshed out enough in this opening issue.
Without any action, this book definitely feels like a slow read and that is not a good thing. Ideally you want the opening issue to grab a hold of the reader and shake them. Giving the reader background, establishing a status quo and a long-term threat are all great things but probably shouldn't all take priority over entertaining the reader with some action. This issue is interesting but doesn't excite much.
Reis on art is a good thing. The book is heavily detailed and the book definitely shines in the way you would expect a Cyborg to. The comic relies on the facial expressions to capture the strained relationship and the art is up to the task. Visually, this comic book tells a very good story.
Cyborg is a good read. The comic gives some background on the lead character, establishes his personality and presents his relationship with his father. The book doesn't have much action and is a slow read. The comic does introduce a villain that seems to be a slower building, but very intriguing one. Backed up with excellent artwork, you have a good, but no perfect, initial issue. I recommend checking this comic out.
3.5 out of 5 Geek Goggles
