DC Comics reviews for week of 9/21/16 – Batman #7, Superman #7, Justice League #5

Cyborg #1

Cyborg #1 showed a marked improvement from the Rebirth kickoff to the new series. The main reason?

Writer John Semper Jr. spent far less time casting Cyborg as the Tin Man wondering if he had a heart or humanity and simply let him experience it. And crack a few jokes in the process.

In the issue’s opening act, Semper presented Cyborg like the alpha level hero he was portrayed in Flashpoint. So often he’s been a background supporting character, but this issue went a long way to validating a Cyborg solo series.

Semper used some common teen comic elements to good effect. The father/son dynamic with Silas Stone, the best friend seemingly destined to be a love interest in Sarah and a questioning outlook on life. This wasn’t new ground, but for once Cyborg didn’t read like the Grumpy Gus of the superhero set.

Semper makes the simple act of Cyborg taking in a jazz concert feel like a major step forward for the character. The man or machine internal struggle is always going to be a defining aspect of Cyborg, but Semper doesn’t let that overwhelm the issue.

Paul Pelliter’s art remains a highlight. Pelliter is a smart choice for the title as his style isn’t overly complex, but not so light that he’ll skimp on details either.

The only concern from this issue is the hope that Semper doesn’t get too focused on having Cyborg battle mechanical/robotic type opponents. There’s enough potential metallic adversaries for Cyborg to fight to last for two to three years, but that shouldn’t be the basis of his still under construction rogue gallery. Still, I liked what I read here and was an encouraging sign going forward.