[amazon_link asins=’B07BGFM2DV’ template=’AiPTProductAd’ store=’aiptcomics-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’bf4c9e70-2be3-11e8-b301-f9599d7f4c4f’]
Cable has one of the richest backstories in comics possibly because he has ties to so many other characters. Cyclops is his dad, Jean Grey his mom, and Hope his daughter. He’s also been everywhere due to his time traveling and in this new story arc, it appears that’s catching up with him.
So what’s it about?
Read our preview.
Why does this matter?
Using flashbacks we get more visibility on Cable’s childhood while also getting to see him play father figure to Hope. Writers Lonnie Nadler and Zac Thompson are fully probing the character which is exciting if you dig character work.
Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?
Yuck dude.
As far as I know, the villain haunting Cable in this issue (known as Metus) is a new character. It has close ties to the virus that Cable is constantly fighting as seen in a key flashback to open the issue. It serves as a psychological nightmare that’s been chasing Cable forever and thus successfully puts Cable on his toes. The writing team does a good job establishing why Cable is afraid–something we never see–and that puts the reader on their toes too since it’s so strange to see him frightened.
Some of the most meaningful scenes involve Cable’s daughter Hope and it’s nice to see him play the father. She’s a character that’s had a good and bad stories over the years but is written well in the role of the daughter. She’s looking for support and it appears Cable is finally willing to give it to her. There are not enough father/daughter relationships in comics and this issue is a good start, even if the issue ends with Cable seriously screwing things up.
The art by German Peralta does well to capture the fluid nature of the techno-virus as well as the incredible power of the villain. The organic nature of the metal as it runs down a young Cable’s arm is quite cool and frightening all at once. There is a touching moment between Hope and Cable that is successful due to well-placed panels showing the slow steps they take that lead to a healthy embrace.
Cable is good at saving kids.
It can’t be perfect can it?
[amazon_link asins=’B07BGFM2DV’ template=’BottomAdAIPT’ store=’aiptcomics-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’c3d3860d-2be3-11e8-9d48-918c8018a01c’]
One could argue the final pages go down a rather cliched route when it comes to heroes and sucking up power. I’ll reserve full judgment since this is only a cliffhanger and we don’t know all the facts, but it’s worth an eye roll.
Longtime Cable fans might cry foul in regards to Cable’s easygoing and calm nature. It’s not a problem for me, everybody can change, but he does come off as somewhat off from his usual gruff and tough nature.
Is It Good?
“Past Fears” kicks off this week and I’m on board. Cable shows he has a sensitive side and also some dark secrets. If you dig transformational character storytelling give this one a shot.
Join the AIPT Patreon
Want to take our relationship to the next level? Become a patron today to gain access to exclusive perks, such as:
- ❌ Remove all ads on the website
- 💬 Join our Discord community, where we chat about the latest news and releases from everything we cover on AIPT
- 📗 Access to our monthly book club
- 📦 Get a physical trade paperback shipped to you every month
- 💥 And more!
