While we wait for the MCU adventures of Sam Wilson and Bucky Barnes, we have this mini-series to tie in and fill that void. This is a five-issue miniseries, so issue #4 will align all the dominos for that ultimate climax. So far, we know there is a new child assassin who is top marks at what he does named the Natural, Veronica Eden and Baron Zemo are fighting for leadership of Hydra, and we are still trying to piece together what happened to Sally McKenzie.
Derek Landy is back as writer, alongside Federico Vicentini on art and Matt Milla bringing the colors. I felt that the art really hit its stride this issue, as if the creative team and the characters really feel comfortable with each other. We are treated to dynamic action, and lots of spectacle, along with the setup for a showdown in a diner. As a result of so much spectactle, however, there isn’t a lot of story here, and the issue can feel a bit slow as a result. I know when people read this later on in TPB format it will flow a lot better and hype you up even more, but as a monthly series this just didn’t give me that satisfaction of an issue worth waiting around for.
Derek Landy does a great job injecting humor for the overall sense of things and keeping with characters like Sam and Bucky. I did find some humor and interest when Veronica Eden called her mom to let her know of the decision to try and become the next Hydra Supreme, and from the sounds of it Veronica has a supportive mom, which gave me a chuckle. The Natural was living his childhood wish of teaming up with two former Caps and going on an adventure, but I was quite surprised at how quick he flip-flopped between both teams, while still holding Steve Rogers in such a high regard when it comes to how he has shaped himself; guess this is a situation with a kid having idle hands and just wanting a thrill.
I was surprised to not see any Baron Zemo in this issue; which was a bummer as I was hoping he would have more of a presence in this series. I have a strong feeling he will be saved for the conclusion, but it would be nice to see him interact more with Sam and Bucky. To be very honest with you, I totally forgot about Sally McKenzie! I know she is why the Falcon is involved in this mystery, but she has been such a background character that I just merged her character with that of Veronica. Much like most of the story of this issue, which acts largely as setup, hopefully that plays out in the conclusion.
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