REVIEW: ‘Cyborg,’ Issue #1

Cyborg #1 is the start of a new series published by DC Comics, written by Morgan Hampton, art by Tom Raney, colors by Michael Atiyeh, and letters by Rob Leigh. As Cyborg returns to Detroit, a family event will shake him to his core.

The plot for the opening issue is brilliant. Beginning with a cold open full of fun and enjoyment, it isn’t long before it’s clear that it was a shot before the intense chaser. It’s a situation that grounds the comic, bringing in something that everyone will have to face at some point in their lives. From there, the issue slows down, allowing the gravity of the vent to take hold. There is a lot of exposition, but some of it is executed cleverly. Words and names are repeated, clearly sparking interest before they eventually appear in the series later on. These aren’t subtle at all, but a part of the writing implies that it’s intentional. The emotional weight of the comic does not hit properly until the final scene, by which point Hampton is preparing something else that will derail the trajectory of the book completely.

Cyborg is written superbly, especially considering how monumentous this first issue is. For the most part, I believe the dialogue is treated well. The comic can seem cold regarding the nature of the event, but that is explained a lot through the captions and the dialogue itself. Accessing emotions is hard for Victor, especially when his family is involved. However, I found one long monologue by him to be strangely placed. It is essentially a piece of backstory, but the setting makes it seem wrong to focus all on Cyborg when it should be reflected on someone else. Whilst needed, it was just put in the wrong scene. It is great to see the Titans and other members of Cyborg’s superhero family be present when he needs them, a beautiful reflection of how close they are. 

Raney is a great artist, but Cyborg #1 appears to be bogged down by details and thick lines. There are many emotive and humorous moments, something that this issue is capable of balancing very nicely. For example, it is adorable and hilarious to see some of the Titans in costume but with formal clothing overtop. But there are times when heads appear misshapen when seen at strange angles. At a distance, the thickness of the lines doesn’t change, which can be awkward. But Raney has the capability to create some awesome and powerful moments too. Cyborg’s mechanical parts, and technology in general within this issue, look intimidating. 

The colors are terrific. It is a book filled with natural and cool tones unless needed. This is primarily shown in the superhero costumes and Titans, especially Starfire and Changeling. But in one panel, the colors seem to intensify and become even more powerful. The lettering is fine for the majority of the comic; however, there is one page where the placements make it difficult to follow.

Cyborg #1 is powered by an incredible story. The plot is driven by one massive inciting incident, something that shatters the story of Cyborg and will change this series massively. Hampton’s put Victor Stone in a position where he’s never been, and that unchartered territory is exciting. But it should be said that there are multiple mistakes on both the writing and art side that stop this book from being impeccable.

Cyborg #1 is available where comics are sold.