It seems like forever since the Internet raged and called for Nick Spencer’s head after he turned Captain America into a Hydra agent. Ten issues down the line though, and Captain America: Steve Rogers #10 unravels in an interesting and intriguing way, once again sticking it to the snivelling fanboys. I mean, did you honestly think Cap would be hailing Hydra for long?
Much like previous issues, the story is divided into two parts: Cap’s early years and current day events. With regards to the former, it’s set in 1940, where we discover how he meets Doctor Erskine and General Phillips. The young Steve tries to enlist in the army to get close to the doctor, but keeps getting turned away. Eventually, he takes a job at a diner, which Erskine frequents, in order to poison him. His plan is put on the backburner temporarily, though, when he chases down a thief who stole a purse. Steve arrives back at the diner, bruised and battered, but with the purse. Admiring his resolve and determination, Erskine and Phillips decide he’ll be the perfect candidate for their experiment.
In current day events, Maria Hill is court-martialed while Cap advocates for Sharon Carter to become the next S.H.I.E.L.D. Director. Saying adios to all her troubles, Hill escapes to the Alpha Flight Space Station where she seeks out Captain Marvel. A frustrated Cap reaches out to Red Skull and apologizes to the supreme leader for letting Hill escape. Hydra’s bony leader makes his disappointment clear, however, and orders Cap to tie up another loose end: Jack Flag.
It’s here where we see flashes of the old Captain America popping up, as he’s reluctant to end Flag’s life. Whether he does or he doesn’t, I won’t spoil it for you because it’s a pivotal part of the story. Meanwhile, Sharon meets with Senator Townes, and ultimately decides what she thinks is right for S.H.I.E.L.D. Her decision will undoubtedly have major ripple effects for this series.
The art team of this issue pulls a rabbit out of a hat here. While the bulk of the story is set in present day, the visual treatment of Cap’s past is simply marvelous to behold. From the shadowy noir tones to the vivid reds, every panel sparks to life like something from a past era of comic books. Quite often colorists don’t receive enough credit, but this issue shines brighter because of Rachelle Rosenberg and Jesús Saíz’s exceptional efforts.
Say what you will about the entire premise of Captain America: Steve Rogers, but Spencer is writing one of the best Cap stories in a long time. Like Superman, it’s difficult to pen an engaging story about the superhero equivalent of a Boy Scout. However, Spencer has created the ultimate What If storyline for a character that’s desperately needed one. While the ending of this arc can be spotted a mile away, it’s absorbing to see how Spencer will take us there. Captain America won’t “Hail Hydra!” forever, but it’s sure been fun seeing him break bad and try something new.
