Review: Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye #9

[Editor’s Note: This review may contain spoilers]

Writer: Jon Rivera

Story: Gerard Way & Jon Rivera

Artist: Michael Avon Oeming

Colors: Nick Filardi

Summary

Mix a little gore, some over the top action, ’60’s pseudo-science and a young lady trying to find an alternate universe version of her deceased mother and you’ve got the basics of Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye #9.

Cave and company are trying to catch up to the Whisperer as he/it traverses dimensions.  They finally do and it takes a boarding of the Mighty Mole 2 for Cave’s team to gain the upper hand for the moment.  Unfortunately, as they do, their dimension hopping leads them to a universe where they are like insects to the dominant species.  And the Mighty Moles and the Whisperer are tossed carelessly away like the nuisance they seem to be.

Positives

The psuedo-scientific Bartow gives of “fracturing” conjures up all those similar moments from the ’60’s in this same character’s adventures or a title like The Flash.  By appearing to be based in real science it gives the story a believability, but in the case of Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye #9, it is the throwback nature that is more important.  Despite being a fast paced issue, Chloe reminds us that family is the important theme of this title as she has indicated her desire to find an alternate version of her mother.  Cave doesn’t seem to believe this, but the existence of Professor Bartow indicates Chloe may be on to something.

Negatives

If you can give yourself over to this title, conceptually and thematically then you won’t find a negative around.  However, if you remain attached to conventional motifs and modes of story telling, this title will be a challenge.  It is commendable that the entire Young Animal line is not afraid to take chances and be different.  At the end of the day, these titles all have a heart.

Verdict

Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye continues to balance modern story telling with ’60’s motifs and feel.  This combination creates a unique title.  Additionally, it never forgets the theme of family, to which everyone can relate.  The element of fun cannot be understated no matter how serious or dire things may seem.  You always root for Cave and Chloe and company.  Amazingly, Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye is able to seem innocent and naive while also being experimental and singular.