(Image Source: Marvel Comics / Dederico Vicentini)
Scott Summers was the first “gifted youngster” that Charles Xavier recruited for his school. As Cyclops, he was Xavier’s prize pupil and the leader of the X-Men for many years. The mentor and student had a falling out, but Scott continues to defend a world that hates and fears him. However, a new solo series reveals an unknown chapter of Scott Summers’ past. It is a chapter that is unknown even to Cyclops himself.
Cyclops #1 opens with the current X-Men team fighting a group of soldiers from Advanced Idea Mechanics. This sequence showcases Scott’s skill as a strategist and leader. It also shows that while he is good at what the does, he is not the most personable individual. “I don’t need sorry…” he tells one teammate who got into trouble by charging in blindly. “I need soldiers.”
(Image Source: Marvel Comics / Roge Antonio)
The story shifts focus as Scott receives a message from Dr. Robyn Hanover; an employee of the orphanage he grew up in before Professor X found him. Dr. Hanover had been Cyclops’ strongest advocate when he was growing up. Unfortunately, her efforts to protect him were thwarted by Mister Sinister, who erased her memories and desire to help Scott.
Cyclops #1 reveals hidden past of X-Men boss
Dr. Hanover reveals to Cyclops that Sinister’s manipulations went beyond altering her memory. She relates a story of how Scott was unusually violent when he first entered the orphanage. Disturbingly, Scott has no memory of this.
(Image Source: Marvel Comics / Roge Antonio)
However, Scott has no chance to explore this apart from briefly chatting with his younger brother, Havok. Soon the X-Men leader is off on a mission of mercy to rescue a young Mutant. The first issue ends on a cliffhanger, suggesting a challenging fight in the next chapter.
Writer Alex Paknadel does a fantastic job of unraveling Cyclops’ convoluted history and showcasing his character. Scott Summers is a difficult character to like at times, being a stalwart stick-in-the-mud who is hard on everyone. However, he is hardest on himself, because of his inability to control his powers. This conflict is the core of the character and this issue, with the new mysteries regarding his past adding to the drama. There is some dry humor, however, such as when Cyclops promises not to destroy the team jet, only to get shot out of the sky shortly afterward.
(Image Source: Marvel Comics / Roge Antonio)
The action of the issue is amazingly illustrated by Roge Antonio. Antonio is one of the most unappreciated talented in modern comics, with a great eye for detail. The use of shadow is particularly noteworthy, with many panels hiding Cyclops’ face apart from the glow of his visor.
Most comic readers probably don’t need an reintroduction to Scott Summers. Nevertheless, Cyclops #1 is fills that purpose admirably for those that require it. This first issue also offers enough twists and thrills to please longtime X-Men fans.
Grade: 7/10
Cyclops #1 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
