Captain America: The Fighting Avenger

Marvel Comics
Captain America: The Fighting Avenger
By Stacy Buck
April 28, 2011 - 07:32

Marvel Comics
Writer(s): Brian Clevinger
Penciller(s): Gurihiru
Inker(s): Gurihiru
Colourist(s): Gurihiru
Letterer(s): Tom Orzechowski
Cover Artist(s): Barry Kitson, Dave McCaig, Gurihiru
$3.99 US

What Is It About?
A ragtag Special Forces unit is accompanied by Captain America on a low profile mission into Nazi Germany during World War II. Captain America is in need of field experience but bites off more than he can chew by attracting some unneeded attention by the Nazi Army and the evil Baron Von Strucker, AKA the future Red Skull.

Thoughts?
The American, Agent Shield, Flagman, all names used in this story to describe the as of yet un-named super hero we all know as Captain America. This one-shot fills a pretty big plot hole in the Captain America history. We ride along with a ragtag Special Forces unit as they take the Captain on his very first mission. Their orders are simple. Bring him back alive from what is supposed to be an easy assignment set in Nazi Germany during World War II.

Brian Clevinger (best known for his work on Atomic Robo) does a great job creating friction between Captain America and the members of the Special Forces unit that is both witty and comical. Captain America lacks field experience and it’s this dynamic that drives the plot. The story is filled with glimpses of our hero to be as he throws his shield the first time in combat only to lose it which sets off another sequence of comical events. It’s not all laughs as our tale is topped off with a new spin on the origin of Red Skull.

The artist team that is Gurihiru gives you a crisp anime style art that lends itself well to this fun and informative all age story. The nice blend of comedy and impressive art give you everything you expect from a one-shot. It’s a tad on the expensive side at $4.99 but when you are done you can easily hand this one off to the kids who can easily enjoy it as much as you did.

The Verdict?
This is a must have for any Captain America fan. With the movie just months away it’s a great warm up for the big game. Buy, read, bag and board.