Cyborg’s Rebirth has been an exemplary breath of fresh air for the character. The story thread of a father interacting with a son he isn’t even sure is human anymore has created plenty of conflict and inner turmoil.
Now we ask of issue #2: is it good?
Cyborg #2 (DC Comics)
So what’s it about? The DC summary reads:
“THE IMITATION OF LIFE” part three! Vic Stone’s quest to save his soul is threatened by an attack from Kilg%re, an artificial alien life form that wishes to purge Cyborg of any remnants of his humanity.
Why does this book matter?
John Semper Jr. has done well to make Cyborg’s questioning of his own humanity, and recently finding hope that he’s still very human indeed, feel very genuine. Semper Jr.’s dealing with some complex stuff and the character is compelling as hell. Add in a villain who wants Cyborg to admit he’s anything but human and you’ve got plenty of intrigue!
Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?
Stupid humans.
Cyborg #2 is all about Kilg%re as he takes over after grabbing Cyborg and his coworker in the cliffhanger last issue. He’s super powerful and focused on getting Cyborg to change his mind about considering himself human at all. Semper Jr. does a good job establishing his dominance over Cyborg and weaves in a strong argument for why machines should hate humanity. It’s a bold move to introduce a connection between humans ruling over robots and American slavery, but Semper Jr. pulls it off. This all leads to Killg%re forcing Cyborg to make a tough decision and falling into a wicked trap.
The issue is jam packed with action which helps amp up the dialogue. Artist Paul Pelletier makes Killg%re look all kinds of cool, with his many gadgets and interconnected parts looking quite detailed. The section describing the way humanity treats robots is quite nice in particular, detailing in interesting collages what it is Killg%re is describing, with an interesting way of showing Cyborg’s metal half being forced to see it. Overall the art is detailed and dense, but still easy to follow.
It can’t be perfect can it?
While Killg%re serves his purpose, the way his story concludes is a bit too easy and convenient to the plot. Obviously the story needs to progress, but it would have been more compelling to see Cyborg wrap things up in a new or clever way. As is, it’s your typical bit of luck and help from some friends.
At least he has a sense of humor.
Is It Good?
Cyborg continues to be incredible at capturing the character within. The creative team has him going down a road that is testing him in a way you don’t want to miss.
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