[Editor’s note: This review may contain spoilers.]
Written by: Jon Rivera
Story by: Gerard Way & Jon Rivera
Artist: Michael Avon Oeming
Color: Nick Filardi
Summary
Cave gets the legendary story of the Whisperer from his in-laws, Marza’s parents. Â The Whisperer is apparently buried under the city with a special lock. Cave’s father-in-law explains that the lock can only be opened by someone from his bloodline. Cave figures out that this is why Chloe was kidnapped. The story continues as the king of the Muldroog explains that in the intervening years since Marza left Muldroog, he had done business with E. Borston & Sons which became EBX. It was through this exchange that Borston learned about the Whisperer.
Meanwhile, Borsten has arrived to link up with the other part of his team being led by Johnny Blake. Blake figures out that Borsten has not been honest about what is going on. There is a short altercation before Blake’s part of the team escapes to find Cave. Borston follows and ends up attacking and capturing the king. And with the king, realizes that he no longer needs Cave or Chloe. Borston’s followers prepare for an all-out attack on Cave and his recently expanding crew. Time for plan B.
Positives
While a bit murky at first, this issues fills in a lot of the back story and adds some nice emotional touches as Cave clearly still misses his wife. You can feel the pain in both Cave and Marza’s parents. Additionally, the connection between Cave and Chloe is strengthened as both Cave and his in-laws recognize the similarities between Chloe and Marza. The emotional palate is fleshed out against the exposition that closes some of the gaps in what’s going on. The run up to the end of the issue is a nice change of pace as it heads down the action element of the title. No positives would be complete without the Challengers of the Unknown and the Sea Devils getting name dropped. Perhaps, an appearance won’t be too far behind.
Negatives
The way Cave and crew are experiencing the legend of the Whisperer is never fully explained, there’s something hallucinogenic going on, but the reason behind this method is unclear and a little confusing. It makes the informative straight forward telling of the legend seem a bit obtuse. However, these elements don’t last long. Despite some varied and interesting homages, the “Super Powers” back is becoming a bit tiresome. Perhaps, a backup featuring the Sea Devils would be more appropriate.
Verdict
Like all the Young Animal titles, Cave Carson Has A Cybernetic Eye is doing something very different in its approach while at the same time fitting into a recognizable genre. Ostensibly, a sci-fi/adventure book, the underlying theme of family is strong enough that it permeates the narrative making this title about how families relate. The emotional impact hits the right beats to keep it from just being characterization and brings it to the forefront.
