Avengers: Twilight was one of my most anticipated comics of 2024, and the debut issue more than lived up to my expectations. Not only does this future Marvel Universe feel distinct from other alternate universes, but the creative team of Chip Zdarsky and Daniel Acuña touched on current issues in a way that felt truly timely. Now with Avengers: Twilight #2, the duo continues to flesh out this new world while challenging Steve Rogers at every turn.
Though Steve’s back in his Captain America mantle, he finds that the Defenders have different tactics and a different definition of victory than he does. Further complicating matters is the fact that the government has targeted the Defenders for extinction – sending in their own squadron of super soldiers known as the Thunderbolts. But how does it all tie back to “H-Day” and one of the Avengers’ most deadliest foes?
Throughout his Marvel work, Zdarsky has taken some bold swings. His run on Daredevil was an exploration of how Matt Murdock’s faith shaped his life, and Spider-Man: Life Story showed exactly what would happen if Peter Parker aged in real time. Avengers: Twilight #2 is no different, as it takes a different approach to the “man out of time” angle that shaped Cap. The Avengers found him when he was frozen in ice; therefore, this battle takes on a personal edge as he’s fighting in the memory of his comrades. Zdarsky’s also aware that a revolution isn’t just fought with fists, but with words; the Defenders have to fight against a media that’s slanted in favor of the enemy. There’s also a major twist that I never saw coming, but works in the context of the story. It’ll also send chills down a reader’s spine.
The other half of what makes Avengers: Twilight #2 such a gripping read is Acuña’s art. It’s absolutely gorgeous, with his photorealistic approach making these characters feel like actual characters. You feel the pain in Steve’s face when he meets up with his wife Rosa. You feel the shock on Kamala Khan’s face when she comes face to face with Steve. You’ll feel a swell of pride when Cap dispatches a pair of “Ironcops” that are hassling a homeless man. Acuña’s sense of design should also be applauded, especially when it comes to Cap’s new costume. It feels very futuristic, yet has the star-spangled touches you’d expect from the original Sentinel of Liberty.
Avengers: Twilight #2 continues to flesh out a new vision of the Marvel Universe, with its creative team tackling some truly timely subjects. With the big reveal of this issue, I can’t wait to see what the next installment brings – and what else has happened to Earth’s Mightiest Heroes after their fall from grace.
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