Cyclops #5

By Greg Rucka, Carmen Carnero and Chris Sotomayer

Cyclops has been a surprise hit for Marvel from both fans and critic alike. A huge reason for that is the writing of Greg Rucka, which has given the time displaced Cyclops a great story and many real and honest moments with his father. As Rucka departs the series, we have to ask ourselves if John Layman is able to successfully step in and uphold the quality of the title.

Greg Rucka has done an amazing job with this series and the characters. This issue ends his short run, but he definitely ended it on a good note. Rucka’s stint has centered on Scott getting time with his father and building him up to be a better man. This issue, Ruck shows Scott take the lead and surprise even his father. He shows us a kid who is gaining confidence every day and learning to trust his dad. Another great thing about this issue (and Rucka’s run in general) is that at the end, we are always treated to a moral. There is always a point that takes place in the story and is wrapped up nicely at the end. There are many reasons to like this series, but none more than Greg Rucka’s fantastic writing.

The art is done by Carmen Carnero with colors by Chris Sotomayer. Carnero’s art was pretty consistent the whole way through, and it can definitely be tough to draw so many different aliens, but he didn’t stumble. There are nice little touches in this issue that make the reading experience more enjoyable. An example would be a fight between Corsair and a green alien creature. As Corsair hits her, he busts open her lip and she bleeds a little. In many of today’s comics, a punch is a punch without facial damage, but Carnero goes the distance on his fights. The colors are fine, but seem off on the first couple of pages. This could be due to all the different colored aliens, but they seem overly bright. Aside from that minor gripe, this was a well-drawn and colored issue.

Greg Rucka’s Cyclops was an extremely enjoyable book for the short time it lasted. Even switching artist mid run didn’t slow down the quality of the title. It’s sad to see Rucka go, but John Layman could step in and do just as good of a job. As long as there are good stories and good art, it should still be a must read.