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Having defeated some of the most formidable villains, Captain America is one of the greatest heroes in the Marvel Universe. Though it is kind of difficult for people to picture him as a villain, Marvel revealed in 2016 that he was a Hydra member.

For those who do not know, Hydra is a fictional terrorist organization that appears in Marvel comics and was formerly a Nazi organization. As soon as this became widely known on social media, readers and the general public began to respond with headlines and opinion pieces about how Marvel had transformed an American icon into a Nazi.

Captain America in Marvel Comics

The writers’ decision to turn the character, who was known for his unwavering loyalty to American ideals, into a villain was bold and risky. There is no disputing that this plot twist—despite the criticism and controversy surrounding the new arc—remains one of the...

Stan Lee was never afraid to go places with his superheroes like Captain America and Iron Man from his early days at Marvel Comics. This confidence seeped down to every comic writer at the company who often subverted their fan expectation with certain storylines. However, there were several controversial choices that writers had to make, which did not impress the fandom.

Stan Lee’s Marvel Comics made some controversial choices in its decades-long storytelling

Some writers quickly realized their mistakes and figured out a way around them, while others chose to run with their choice to see where it took them. The latter choice either brought them new fans or angered the existing ones.

#5 Revealing Ben Reilly As The Real Peter Parker

Peter Parker meets Ben Reilly in The Cloning Saga comics

The Clone Saga was one of the popular yet most controversial Spider-Man storylines in Marvel Comics. Fans loved...

As you probably know by now, “the real” Captain America returned last month near the conclusion of Marvel’s latest mega crossover event, Secret Empire. But now that the altruistic Steve Rogers we all know and love begins to reacclimate to the world, he’s found himself in a bit of an existential crisis.

Believe it or not, Cap was given a cruel taste of reality this week in the pages of Marvel Legacy #1 when he went to do something not unfamiliar to superheroes. Basically, he attempted to dig a young boy out of a mass of rubble left by the latest smackdown to level a populated area, and was instead met by fear. In other words, the wee lad saw not a Sentinel of Liberty, but rather, the Hydra Supreme that had just terrorized the planet.

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As such,...

Now that we have the epic battle that was Steve Rogers versus Steve Rogers which took place in Secret Empire #10 behind us, we can look forward to something a little more uplifting. As it turns out, it’ll come in the form of a Generations one-shot that’ll unite Captain Americas Steve Rogers and Sam Wilson. Yes, after a year or so of all that Hydra jazz, the American Dream is finally alive and well.

By now, you’re probably aware of what the Generations concept is, but just in case you’re not, we’ll give you the gist of it. Basically, fan favorites past and present have been brought together via the Vanishing Point, thereby allowing team-ups of heroes who’ve adopted various mantles to take place. Aside from the one being discussed today, other noteworthy one-shots in this line include Thors Jane Foster and Odinson, Wolverines Logan...

Regardless of how you may feel about it, Marvel has successfully gotten the comic book world to pay attention to its latest major crossover event, Secret Empire. Thanks to some sharp writing by Nick Spencer and gorgeous artwork provided by some of the biggest names in the business, the story alone has certainly done its job when it comes to achieving high sales figures.

Of course, a boatload of controversy also helped matters. Granted, there will be some who collected this because they’re not going to miss any significant Marvel happenings, but the decision to make Captain America a member of Hydra has both helped and hindered the book. Yes, sales have been impressive as we said moments ago, but there are the staunch purists who will have no part of a fascist Sentinel of Liberty. As such, Marvel has had to do some damage control, asking for readers to stick with them.

A new photo from the set of Ant-Man and The Wasp seemingly reveals a change in career for Scott Lang which pays homage to Nick Spencer's recent run on the Ant-Man comic book. Find out more after the jump!

This year’s Summer event, Secret Empire has always been brimming with political imagery. It all kicked off last year, with writer Nick Spencer launching a controversial arc. Captain America’s life, he revealed, had been rewritten. Steve Rogers was an agent of Hydra. The politics were obvious; in the year of a contentious Presidential election, Spencer was using comics to discuss American self-identity. To say it kicked off a furore on social media would be an understatement.

Secret Empire #6 embraces that political concept like never before. It features a number of lengthy diatribes, including one where Steve Rogers attempts to persuade the Hulk to side with Hydra. They’re standard villain monologues, but the concept is disturbingly recognizable. You’ll find more than a hint of Donald Trump’s philosophy in Spencer’s HydraCap.

This issue is presented as the turning point. We see this twisted version of Captain America...

Now that we’re past the halfway point when it comes to Marvel’s currently unfolding major crossover event, Secret Empire, we fully expect Nick Spencer and company to kick things into high gear. And, for your own safety, it’s recommended that you not take a drink any time the word “secret” is used by either us or the publisher from here on out.

As you know by now, the limited series was granted an extension by one issue not long ago, forcing many readers to question how this book is being paced. Well, according to Marvel themselves, Steve Rogers’ secret – whatever it may be – will be revealed within the pages of Secret Empire #9 later this summer. Needless to say, that gives the creative team plenty of time to explore the fallout in the finale.

In fact, let’s read their teaser before proceeding any further:

When Steve Rogers...

Written by Nick Spencer | Art by Joe Bennett | Published by Marvel Comics

Since Secret Empire has kicked off this series has worked as a type of therapy for the character of Sam Wilson. It is a place where he can work through his frustration and express his feelings over the insanity that has plagued him for some time. As a major event tie-in it does not add much to the overarching story. Instead it adds some character texture to the major elements going on in the main title.

What is unclear is where exactly in the Secret Empire timeline this fits in. As Sam Wilson: Captain America #23 appears to take place both before, after, and during the third installment in that series. Those who prefer their timelines to line up perfectly would surely become frustrated if they ever tried to fully plot out this story, which is typically the case for event storytelling.

Written by Nick Spencer | Art by Leinil Francis Yu, Rod Reis | Published by Marvel Comics

Nick Spencer continues Marvel’s big summer event with Secret Empire #4. This issue is short on shocking reveals but allows for some key character moments this series has sorely been lacking. We learn some of the mysterious motivations behind those who have chosen to be on Cap’s side, while the quest to obtain the Cosmic Cube fragments ends in a stalemate.

Picking up where we left off with issue three we see the Punisher has in fact expressed loyalties to Hydra, well more so to Captain America Steve Rogers. It is a move reminiscent of how Punisher was portrayed in Marvel’s biggest event ever in Civil War. Frank Castle’s apparent insane mind respects Steve Rogers above all others. It is a characterization that has precedent but still feels like a misrepresentation of The Punisher.

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If anything, September will be an important month for Marvel because, if all goes according to plan, they’ll be just about ready to put their currently in progress crossover event, Secret Empire, behind them and poised to move forward with whatever their next major initiative may be. And while we haven’t been in contact with any flies on the walls over at the House of Ideas, we’re pretty sure the Marvel Legacy one-shot is the vanguard.

First, let’s talk a bit about Secret Empire because that seems like the logical thing to do. Not long ago, it was revealed that a tenth issue would be added to the limited series, something not unheard of when it comes to major events – especially those from Marvel. And although this would seem like a definitive end to the story, there where rumors swirling that an eleventh wasn’t out of the question.

From what we can tell, that’s not going to happen, but an epilogue of sorts in Secret Empire Omega #1 has been announced. Upon examining the solicitation below, it quickly becomes apparent that this will likely be an essential read given that it retains the very same creative team that worked on the mainline series itself.

Nick Spencer (W) • Andrea Sorrentino (A)

Cover by Mark Brooks

Variant Cover by Michael Cho

Variant Cover By Michael Turner

Black And White Variant Cover By Michael Turner

No More Hydra Variant Cover Also Available

Secret Empire Aftermath!

• Hydra has fallen, but the world is still not secure! As the heroes of the Marvel Universe stir from the wreckage of the battlefield, the inevitable rebuilding must begin.

• However, one question hangs in the air over the proceedings: What redemption can there be for Captain America?

40 Pgs./Rated T+ …$4.99

Should that meet its targeted September release – which may be a feat, especially when you consider that Secret Empire #6 has been delayed until July 19 – that’ll smoothly transition into the all important Marvel Legacy #1 (solicitation below). So, if the publisher does allow it to ship before Secret Empire concludes, we can only hope that it doesn’t completely spoil the crossover’s ending. But, then again, let’s not forget this is the same lot that released Who Will Wield The Shield? before Captain America: Reborn wrapped.

Jason Aaron (W) • Esad Ribic (A)

Double Gatefold Cover By Joe Quesada

Wraparound Variant Cover by Mark Brooks

Variant Cover by Alex Ross

Variant Cover by Greg Land Trading Card Variant Cover By John Tyler Christopher

Black And White Variant Cover By Joe Quesada

Black And White Variant Cover By Alex Ross

Young Variant Cover By Skottie Young

Variant Cover By Amy Reeder

Everything Starts Here!

It begins at the dawn of the human race, and ends with a child’s prayer! In between, empires fall, mysteries brew, secrets are revealed, quests are undertaken and legends are forged! All leading up to the dramatic return you’ve been waiting for — and one you’ve been dreading!

Jason Aaron (Mighty Thor) and Esad Ribic (Secret Wars) usher in a new dawn — one whose rays will touch every corner of the Marvel Universe in the days to come!

Marvel Legacy: It’s everything you’ve been longing for — and more!

64 Pgs./On-shot/Rated T+ …$5.99...

If you’ve been keeping up with the recent happenings at Marvel, then you’re well aware of Generations, an upcoming endeavor consisting of ten one-shots uniting heroes who have adopted various mantles, both past and present. In other words, expect to see team-ups featuring the likes of Wolverines Laura Kinney and Logan, and even Thors Odinson and Jane Foster.

What’s more is that we recently discovered this seemingly standalone tale will, in fact, have some sort of intertwining with Secret Empire, the House of Ideas’ currently in progress major crossover event. Sure, we probably won’t know all of the specifics until the actual periodicals ship, but it remains clear that something called “the Vanishing Point” is the reasoning for these otherwise anachronistic team-ups.

One thing’s for certain: this isn’t the Vanishing Point we’ve come to know from DC Comics, but it does sound similar...

There comes a time, Constant Reader, usually on a Sunday afternoon, when I start to look at a few news sites to see what might interest you this week. Not just interest you, but provoke a reaction from me that might interest you. That’s because I love you, Constant Reader, and I want you to be amused… nay, more than that, I want you to live life to the fullest.

Especially as that life relates to comic books.

Some weeks, there are lots of stories from which to choose. Some weeks, there are very few. And some weeks, like this one, there are interesting stories that don’t seem to have any comic book relevance at all.

In fact, the only story that interests me at this moment, in terms of popular culture and the joys and stresses it can bring to us is this one about the Public...

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The problem with Secret Empire is a simple one. Somewhere along the way, Nick Spencer’s politically-aware story became a blockbuster summer event. Now, with matters building to a head, that event has kind of lost its identity – and that’s a real shame. The sad truth is that I no longer know what kind of story Secret Empire is trying to tell.

This issue takes things in a direction nobody could have anticipated. It turns out that, under cover of all the other spectacular events we’ve seen so far, Ultron has returned. His identity merged with that of Hank Pym, and this insane android forces our heroes to sit down at a dinner table and talk out their issues. Along the way, he delivers a fair few rants of his own, and turns Secret...

Written by Nick Spencer | Art by Andrea Sorrentino, Rod Reis | Published by Marvel Comics

When Secret Empire #0 debuted I was amazed by how much was packed into the first issue. Typically zero issues are nothing more than recaps, but Secret Empire did not follow that trend and moved at a break neck spread with a tremendous amount of standout moments. Nick Spencer built a foundation to tell a great story, and when time jumped even further in issue one it appeared this series would not get as bogged down as other event titles. Since that time jump however the majority of narrative has been spent playing catchup. Once gain we have another event where there is a lot going on but nothing really is happening.

Part of the problem is how rapidly the scope has expanded in these last two issues. Now we have Black Widow and The Champions training to take down Steve Rogers,...

Sam Wilson: Captain America #22

Written by Nick Spencer | Art by Sean Izaakse | Published by Marvel Comics

When reading Captain America: Sam Wilson #22 I realized what has been missing in the grander Secret Empire storyline so far. In this issue we see Sam Wilson is the heart and soul of this story. Not only was he just wearing the stars and stripes, his closest friend is now betraying everyone he once stood for. Spencer has been chipping away at the life of Wilson and now with Secret Empire he executed his final blow.

Here we see how Wilson has been surviving in a country ruled by Hydra. One of the more intriguing aspects is how, in a way, Wilson has found the place in the world he has long be searching for. Now out of the public eye he can disregard the need to worry about his public persona...

Sneak Peek Marvel Comics' "Secret Empire" #4, written by Nick Spencer and illustrated by Leinil Francis Yu, with covers by Yu, Mark Brooks, J. Scott Campbell, Andrea Sorrentino, Dan Mora and John Tyler Christopher, available June 14, 2017, plus take a look @ the Alex Ross cover for "Secret Empire" #10:

"...there is a power that can either save the world or doom it! Both 'Steve Rogers' and the heroes arrayed against him need this power! 

"But unfortunately for all of them, the key to possessing this power lies in the hands of the unstoppable 'Ultron'!..."

Click the images to enlarge and Sneak Peek "Captain America: Civil War"...

Well, it looks like you’ll have to wait slightly longer before getting your hands on one of those glow in the dark Cosmic Cubes because the Secret Empire shipping schedule has been slightly amended. You see, the sixth issue to make up Marvel’s currently unfolding major event has undergone some changes, which we’ll get into right now.

The first we’ll discuss is that of a higher page count, which will, of course, increase the price point of the issue in question. Having inflated from 40 pages to 48, expect to pay $4.99 as opposed to $3.99 for this baby when it hits stands. Sure, one dollar doesn’t seem like much, but comic book collectors often pick up more than one title each week and, believe me, it adds up quickly. As such, some True Believers are already expressing their displeasure with the decision and have also accused those behind...

Written by Chad Bowers, Rob Liefeld | Art by: Jim Towe, Rob Liefeld | Published by Image Comics

Currently, 90’s nostalgia is higher than it has even been before. We have shows like X-Files, Twin Peaks, and Rosanne all getting new seasons, and not to mention the fact Beauty and the Beast and Jurassic World are two of the biggest box office hits in the last few years. With that and Image hitting its 25 year anniversary I understand the urge for both Image and creator Rob Liefield to attempt to bring back Youngblood once again, however this maybe one nostalgia step too far.

Part of the problem is the fact that Youngblood was an imitation of a very specific style and tone that was popular at one time. It was before Image formed its own identity so instead borrowed much of it from Marvel and DC. So you are attempting to get...

Steve Rogers: Captain America #17

Written by Nick Spencer | Art by Andres Guinaldo | Published by Marvel Comics

There has been a lot of things said regarding the current state of Marvel and one of the biggest issues that needs to be addressed is the inconsistency of art in some of their biggest books. While having multiple artist is not ideal, that issue is only compounded when that art is simply not very good. Considering this is tied into the biggest Marvel event going it is down right shocking to find some panels that are amateur level. Nick Spencer is writing a quality script and it simply deserves better.

In the issue Steve Rogers decides to sit down for an on camera interview in order to boast about the success the country is now facing under Hydra rule, however the reporter he faces off with quickly shows she is willing to...

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For all the hype and excitement surrounding Secret Empire – not to mention a good degree of controversy – this issue has an unmistakable sense of being filler. Nick Spencer is enjoying exploring the Hydra-controlled world that he’s created, and I understand that he’s trying to make it all feel a little bit more real. He wants to explore the sense of hopelessness and despair that’s attendant in such a fascist-controlled world. At the same time, though, that makes for a slow-moving event comic.

This issue is all about moving the pieces into place. On the one hand, you have Black Widow preparing to launch an assassination attempt on Steve Rogers. On the other hand, you have Hawkeye leading a team in pursuit of the Cosmic Cube. Meanwhile, Steve Rogers himself pursues the Cosmic Cube relentlessly.

For some time now, Captain America has been split into two titles – Steve Rogers and Sam Wilson – each chronicling the respective journeys of two men taking up star-spangled shields, with the former being a secret Hydra agent and the latter being a bit more heroic.

Well, as of this August, Marvel will seemingly be paring down to one Cap title. The big mystery, however, is which man will remain the focus. Truth be told, we’re betting it’s Steve Rogers considering that a patriotic version of him stands proudly at the front of promo art for this fall’s Marvel Legacy one-shot, but I digress.

The official solicit for Captain America #25 is actually quite vague and doesn’t help matters, but here it is anyway:

Nick Spencer (W) • JESÚS Saiz (A/C)

Kirby 100th Anniversary Variant Cover By Jack Kirby Variant Cover By Jim Steranko

Secret Empire Tie-in!

• Two Heroes,...

This past weekend was the inaugural Five Points Festival at Pier 36 here in Manhattan. It’s a brand new fan convention organized by Clutter and Midtown Comics. The festival focused on comics and toys on the Saturday and Sunday, with the Designer Toy Awards Friday night, which is run by Clutter. I went with ComicMix’s own Molly Jackson, and we both ended up enjoying the show.

In honor of this being the Five Points Festival, here are my five points about the show.

Great comics guests for a first time show! Midtown Comics really stepped up to bring in a few out of towners like Bryan Lee O’Malley and James Tynion IV, local or pseudo local heavy hitters that don’t appear here too often like Greg Capullo and Sean Gordon Murphy, industry legends that go back to the dawn of the Bronze Age of comics like Joe Staton...

Following in the footsteps of Secret Wars and Civil War II, Secret Empire becomes the third consecutive Marvel event series to add an extra issue, which, let’s be honest, we all probably saw coming. Although this may not help with the publisher’s recent plea asking readers to have patience with the controversial storyline, there are those of us who’ll savor it because, quite frankly, the book is pretty damn awesome.

Tom Brevoort, Marvel’s Senior Vice President/Executive Editor, had this to say about affording series writer Nick Spencer a little more breathing room:

“Nick [Spencer] has constructed each issue of Secret Empire so that it ends with a climactic twist or a big reveal or a shocking development, and issue #9 is no exception. So moving into the finale, with issue #10, the heroes across the Marvel Universe will be pushed to the breaking point as we race to...

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Let’s face it, Secret Empire is easily the most controversial event comic in years. And this, I think, is the issue that really turns the story upside down.

It really does look as though writer Nick Spencer has been pulling a bait-and-switch all along. There’s a twist at the end of the issue that’s simply breathtaking. Now, I’m not going to spoil it for you, as the twist really is a moment that, I think, will come to define the entire event. In fact, I reckon Secret Empire #2 will force us to reinterpret the last year’s worth of Marvel comics. That’s how big this twist really is.

Overall, this is a fascinating issue, and again, I can see why Nick Spencer claimed to be inspired by Star Wars. The attack...

Perhaps due to the success of last week’s launch parties, Marvel has decided to offer True Believers more in the way of promotional goodies later this summer to mark the arrival of Secret Empire #6. This one seems like something that collectors will really want to get their hands on because, as fate would have it, glow in the dark Cosmic Cubes are set to hit comic shops, with a “Reality warping capabilities not included” disclaimer attached.

Having already dabbled in the glow in the dark realm before with Ghost Rider #15‘s cover, it seems natural that this bit of flair be provided for replicas of the Cosmic Cube, which, long story short, is pretty much the reason why Steve Rogers aligned with Hydra in the first place.

According to Bleeding Cool, retailers will have to meet the following criteria in order to qualify for certain quantities of the swag:...

Say what you want about Marvel’s latest event book, Secret Empire, and the myriad of controversy surrounding it, but it’s undeniable that writer Nick Spencer and company have been knocking it out of the park thus far. In fact, both issues #0 and #1 have had the honor of receiving perfect scores from us (respective reviews can be found here and here).

Believe it or not, the story has inspired such an uproar from fans that Marvel actually had to go into damage control mode by issuing the following statement:

“At Marvel, we want to assure all of our fans that we hear your concerns about aligning Captain America with Hydra and we politely ask you to allow the story to unfold before coming to any conclusion. Captain America, will always be a cornerstone of the Marvel Universe who will stand up for what is right, and ‘Secret Empire’ will...

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It’s been a year in the making, and the controversy has been intense, but finally, Secret Empire #1 is here to take the world by storm. Over on Twitter, Nick Spencer’s summed up his story pretty well:

I watched Rogue One about a bajillion times to capture that vibe- a dark war story, but still with some humor and character chemistry.

— Nick Spencer (@nickspencer) April 26, 2017

He’s right. To extend that analogy, Captain America and Hydra have become the Empire – and they truly have taken over the Marvel Universe. The heroes we know and love? They’re relegated to a resistance movement – rebels by any other name.

In an age where there are far too many comic book events, Secret Empire #1 stands as the masterclass in how to do it right. This first issue sets the scene,...

This review is based off a volume that collects Captain America: Sam Wilson #14-17 and Captain America (1968) #344.

If you’re an avid reader of comic books, you’re no doubt well aware that the past decade has seen its share of younger heroes stepping up to claim the mantle of their mentors, sometimes to the chagrin of staunch purists. Marvel has especially championed this method of storytelling in recent years, with Captain America: Sam Wilson being a prime example.

To be honest, I actually find stuff like this to be very appealing, but mostly when it occurs organically and fits well with the established mythos of the relevant hero. Past examples include Dick Grayson becoming Batman and Bucky Barnes becoming Captain America. Having mentioned the latter, you could argue this as having been done before, but at least it makes sense that Sam be worthy of wielding the shield as opposed to,...

Marvel Comics' "Secret Empire" #1, written by Nick Spencer and illustrated by Steve McNiven, with covers by Mark Brooks, Adi Granov, J. Scott Campbell, John Tyler Christopher, Dan Mora, Andrea Sorrentino and Skottie Young, available May 3, 2017:

"...the 'Marvel Universe' is under siege from within. Due to the manipulations of the 'Red Skull', 'Captain America', secretly a true believer in the cause of 'Hydra', uses the trust and respect he has gained over the years to ascend to a position where he can enact Hydra's ideals.

"But now, the dominos of his master plan will begin to fall! Ask yourself, what if your greatest ally was secretly your greatest enemy? 

"Now, the rise of Hydra stands as a rallying cry for the heroes across the Marvel Universe. 'Avengers', 'Champions', 'Guardians', 'Defenders','X-Men', 'Spider-Man', 'Deadpool' and more must unite. 

"Put aside their differences and come together as one. The...

Once upon a time, a kid from New York City picked up a shield and charged into battle…A prodigal son lifted a sacred hammer and proved himself worthy…And an arrogant genius forged an armor that would harness his true potential. Together, they became some of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and ushered in the age of marvels – and now, this August, Marvel are set to unite their iconic heroes with their modern-day torchbearers for a fun and fast-paced adventure fans have been waiting for in Generations.

Generations brings together Miles Morales and Peter Parker, Laura Kinney and Logan, Amadeus Cho and Bruce Banner, plus more, and illuminates the path that all these heroes will take into the future for a thrilling quest unlike anything seen in the Marvel Universe before. A colossal collaboration of today’s greatest creators, Marvel’s Generations continues the evolution of the Marvel Universe as...

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Although Marvel’s upcoming Generations limited series had much mystery surrounding it for some time – and it still does, for the most part – more details are slowly but surely coming to light. What we do know is that different versions of your favorite heroes will be fighting side by side, namely duos such as Wolverines Logan and X-23, and Thors Odinson and Jane Foster. But what we don’t know is how these characters are able to join forces or what the overall threat will be.

And despite it being quite vague and spoiler free, perhaps you’ll appreciate this synopsis by way of Marvel themselves:

Once upon a time, a kid from New York City picked up a shield and charged into battle…A prodigal son lifted a sacred hammer and proved himself worthy…...

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In the medium-term, Marvel’s planning to pivot away from the more politically-charged stories we’ve seen in recent years. In the short-term, though, that era is about to get one last hurrah in the form of Secret Empire. The event is the culmination of a story Nick Spencer’s been working on for over a year. He’s ably supported by Daniel Acuna and Rod Reis, but make no mistake about it, this is Spencer’s tale.

You can’t have failed to hear about the hue and cry; last year’s Captain America: Steve Rogers #1 revealed that Captain America himself was actually an agent of Hydra. Since then, we’ve gradually learned the truth; that the Red Skull had Rogers’s life rewritten by the reality-warping power of a living Cosmic Cube. It’s a dark,...

Although we gave you a look inside the special zero issue not long ago, many of you probably wondered when you’d get the same treatment for Secret Empire #1. Well, that day is today, as we can now present more information pertaining to what will undoubtedly be Marvel’s biggest crossover event for the year 2017.

Our first treat to offer is that of the trailer the publisher itself has put together in order to help spread the word. In it, series writer Nick Spencer and Tom Brevoort, Svp of Publishing, hype the event. Among the many interesting things to be found here are the former divulging that this grandiose tale was actually part of his first pitch for Captain America: Sam Wilson. Although the House of Ideas has certainly been no stranger to event books in the past decade or so, it’s quite refreshing to hear that they...

Sneak Peek Marvel Comics' "Secret Empire" #1, written by Nick Spencer and illustrated by Steve McNiven, with covers by Mark Brooks, Adi Granov, J. Scott Campbell, John Tyler Christopher, Dan Mora, Andrea Sorrentino and Skottie Young, available May 3, 2017:

"...the 'Marvel Universe' is under siege from within. Due to the manipulations of the 'Red Skull', 'Captain America', secretly a true believer in the cause of 'Hydra', uses the trust and respect he has gained over the years to ascend to a position where he can enact Hydra's ideals.

"But now, the dominos of his master plan will begin to fall. Ask yourself, what if your greatest ally was secretly your greatest enemy? Now, the rise of Hydra stands as a rallying cry for the heroes across the Marvel Universe.

"'Avengers', 'Champions', 'Guardians', 'Defenders', 'X-Men', 'Spider-Man', 'Deadpool' and a whole lot more must unite. Put aside their differences and come together as one.

Sneak Peek Marvel Comics' "Captain America: Steve Rogers" #15, written by Nick Spencer and illustrated by Jesus Saiz, with covers by Gabrielle Dell'Otto and Daniel Marquez, available April 5, 2017:

"...only one evil creature can lead 'Hydra' into a new age of dominance and superiority. The psychotic 'Red Skull' believes he is that creature.

"But 'Captain America' thinks otherwise. 

"It's a no-holds-barred final throwdown that you will not believe, proving once and for all that liberalism is a mental disorder..."

Click the images to enlarge and Sneak Peek The 'Red Skull'...

Buy Official 'Hydra' Cuff Links...

Not long ago, Marvel dropped a simple, enigmatic teaser for something called Generations. At the time, no specifics were given, but it got everybody talking due to it depicting multiple versions of superheroes hanging out and also because it was painted by the incomparable Alex Ross. Who doesn’t love his work, am I right?

Anyway, the House of Ideas have finally pulled back the curtain on the project that will – get this – unite those who have taken up the guise of various heroes both past and present, just as the artwork hinted. I know, it all seems a bit confusing and will likely remain that way until this 10-issue series hits stands this July.

As of now, we know which heroes will join forces, along with the writers who will craft these stories. Artists have still yet to be named, but here’s the list made available:

Iron Man...

Last year, writer Nick Spencer shocked Marvel fans across the world with Captain America: Steve Rogers #1. This issue revealed that Steve Rogers – Captain America himself – had become an agent of Hydra. By the second issue, we’d learned just how this had happened; Steve Rogers’s past had been rewritten by Kobik, the living Cosmic Cube.

But Captain America: Steve Rogers #12 ended with a bombshell. We were introduced to the present-day version of Elisa Sinclair, the woman who Steve remembers recruiting him to Hydra. It seems that Kobik did far more than just twist Steve Rogers into an agent of Hydra; she rewrote the past from scratch, and has given us a whole new Madame Hydra.

Elisa Sinclair is clearly going to play a major part in this year’s Secret Empire event, so it’s time to focus in on Captain America: Steve Rogers #14 – an issue...

Sigh. What happened to you, Captain America: Steve Rogers? You used to be so interesting and so good. Every issue was a mystery and an action-packed adventure like no other. Now, you’re…this. A shadow of your former beautiful self. In what’s quickly descended into a tragic fall from grace, Captain America: Steve Rogers #14 has pulled up a chair and comfortably settled in the throes of mediocrity. Even the big reveal at the end does nothing to salvage this issue from its own lethargy.

Once again, this book becomes about another character despite its title. This time, the focus is firmly on Elisa Sinclair, aka Madame Hydra, as we explore her history with Steve and her formation of the new High Council of Hydra. There are a couple of returning and familiar faces, which should delight fans, but I wonder why this enlistment process took up the bulk of the story.

What if your greatest ally was secretly your greatest enemy? What if the most trustworthy, stalwart hero in the Marvel Universe was planning in secret a massive betrayal? That time is now – and no one will see it coming… Here’s your first look inside Secret Empire #0, the blockbuster prologue chapter from Nick Spencer, Daniel Acuna and Rod Reis!

Witness Hydra’s first move as the dominos begin to fall and war erupts on three fronts! To stem the coming darkness – it will take everyone! Avengers, Champions, Guardians, X-Men and more. United they stand against a common foe – will they stand a chance? The secret is out on April 19th in Secret Empire #0!

Secret Empire #0 (FEB170758)

Written by Nick Spencer

Art by Daniel Acuna & Rod Reis

Cover by Mark Brooks

Variant Covers by Rod Reis (FEB170760), Elizabeth Torque (FEB170761) And Ron Frenz (FEB170759)

Foc – 03/20/17, On-Sale – 04/19/17...

Secret Empire #0 Gallery 1 of 8

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Once Marvel finally divulged the first details regarding its next major crossover event, Secret Empire, one of the first things we learned was that it would kick off with a special zero issue. This practice isn’t uncommon, as preludes such as these often catch up lapsed readers before the main narrative commences. But, given the interiors included in the gallery at the top, it looks like even those who are up to date on all things Marvel shouldn’t skip this.

Although the preview happens to be unlettered, it appears writer Nick Spencer will waste no time in getting things off to a, shall we say, explosive start. Furthermore, it looks like many A-list heroes will make their presence felt as Hydra begins moving its first chess pieces.

Story aside, you have to admit it...

After all the initial twists and turns, Captain America: Steve Rogers slows down the pace drastically this week. Of course, this is because Secret Empire is right around the corner, but it’s hurting this title in the interim. You know how there are periods in The Walking Dead TV show where the survivors walk around aimlessly, discussing their backstory, and nothing exciting happens for two to three episodes? That’s what this book feels like right now. We know something big is coming, but we need to stay awake somehow until then.

In this issue, Baron Zemo receives the starring role, as we find out more about his history and future plans. Without spoiling too much, there might be more to the hug that broke the Internet, and I smell a betrayal in the pipeline. Zemo is a complex villain, but family is paramount to him. While Steve Rogers...

Yesterday, we were fortunate enough to get more details concerning the first two issues of Marvel’s next major crossover event, Secret Empire, via some official plot synopses. Since then, even more bits of information have come to light now that the rest of the publisher’s May solicits have found their way online.

Surprisingly enough, a third installment is also set to arrive in May, causing us to believe that this 9-issue series will likely wrap by late summer or early fall and, dare we say, pave the way for yet another line wide relaunch.

Something else that caught our attention was that artist Andrea Sorrentino will be joining writer Nick Spencer for the second consecutive issue, which will see the fight get a little more cosmic as none other than Captain Marvel is set to step up in an effort to combat the Chitauri threat.

For more details on the front,...

Secret Empire #1 & 2 Cover Gallery 1 of 6

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Yesterday, we got the first details concerning some of the many tie-ins that are sure to orbit Marvel’s next major crossover event, Secret Empire. But today, we examine some juicy tidbits pertaining to the main event itself as more pieces of cover art and official solicitations have found their way online.

Naturally, we’ll start by taking a look at the first issue. Aside from featuring the moment when Steve Rogers finally reveals himself as an agent of Hydra in a tale written by Nick Spencer and illustrated by fan favorite artist Steve McNiven, the variant covers seen in the gallery at the top give us a bit to discuss.

In the debut of Andrea Sorrentino’s “Hydra Hero” variants, we see Hulk be the first to get the treatment. And, hopefully, his allegiance...

If the shocking revelation that Captain America has been a secret, brainwashed agent of Hydra, since the end of the World War II, was a little too much for you, better prepare for even more controversial twists! This April, the villainous Steve Rogers' plan will be revealed, as well as the foundations of his Secret Empire. When the most trusted figure of the entire universe treats those, who he used to call friends, everyone has to find a place in the brave, new world. Even Stephen Strange. Yes, thanks to Cb, Nick Spencer's Se #2 cover and official synopsis, we get a confirmation that Doctor Strange and the new Defenders - Jessica Jones, Daredevil, Luke Cage and Iron Fist, will rise against Rogers. The synopsis also implies that Dagger has a crucial role in the conflict, as well as a small tease of the Iron Man's future. The...

Secret Empire May 2017 Tie-in Gallery 1 of 4

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Ever since Marvel pulled back the curtain on its next major crossover event, Secret Empire, the hype train has shown absolutely no signs of slowing down. Not only do readers have a Free Comic Book Day sampler to look forward to this May, but also the first round of tie-ins set to broaden the experience.

Not surprisingly, Captain America: Steve Rogers #17 is set to take part in the festivities. Aside from Rogers looking a bit fascistic in some Hydra threads, Marvel hasn’t given us much to go on. It’s understandable that they keep their cards close to their vest as none of us have read a single page from anything to be included in this event, but here’s the official solicit anyway:

Captain America: Steve Rogers #17

Nick Spencer (W...

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Captain America: Steve Rogers is the ultimate “what if?” story. Sure, the longtime Marvel fans are reacting to this reiteration of the character the same way DC’s diehards reacted to New 52 Superman, but this story is far from boring. After the latest issue, though, Nick Spencer might want to delete his Twitter account, because the fanboys are coming. Just when you think Cap is ready to go back to being the good guy, this book happens.

There’s quite a lot to digest in Captain America: Steve Rogers #11. In the flashbacks, Cap’s history with Doctor Erskine is explored – including a twist – while the present deals with several matters at hand. The funeral of Jack Flag is a central point of the tale as is Cap’s Hydra allegiance being uncovered, but Steve’s meeting with...

What if your greatest ally was secretly your greatest enemy? What if the most trustworthy, stalwart hero history has ever known has been planning in secret a massive betrayal? That time is now. And you won’t be ready for… Secret Empire from creators Nick Spencer and Daniel Acuña, who toss every hero of the Marvel Universe into a fiery crucible as Captain America’s master plan is cast into action with April’s Secret Empire #0

The Marvel Universe is under siege from within! Captain America, secretly a true believer in the cause of Hydra, has turned his back on the Super Hero community. Using the trust and respect he has gained over the years he has ascended to a position where he can enacts Hydra’s ideals. The death of Jack Flag, the trial of Maria Hill, the second Civil War, the alien Chitauri Queen. All of the dominos...

The reveal that Captain America is secretly a Hydra agent was by far one of the most controversial comic book moments in recent memory, and while we later learned that his new villainous nature is a result of a Cosmic Cube changing his memory and past, seeing him plotting against his fellow heroes is still no easier to swallow. Now, everything will come to a head later this year in the Secret Empire event, a story which looks set to unite everyone from The Avengers to The Inhumans and X-Men against Captain America.

It’s going to be absolutely massive and anticipation for it is understandably high. That’s why we’re pleased to tell you that Marvel has revealed today that the event will kick off in a special Free Comic Book Day issue of Secret Empire by writer Nick Spencer and artist Andrea Sorrentino. This will be set before the recently revealed #0 issue,...

Marvel is bringing out the big guns for their Free Comic Book Day lineup this year, with Secret Empire Fcbd #1 leading the charge. Joining that will be All-New Guardians of the Galaxy and a sneak peek at Peter Parker: The Spectacular Spider-Man (details for which you can find here), and below is the cover for this opening chapter of the Captain America event. It's fair to say that none of us ever expected to see Steve Rogers looking like this! Secret Empire is set to revolve around the heroes of the Marvel Universe uniting against Captain America after he, Lady Hydra, and Baron Zemo attempt to take over the world in the name of the dastardly organisation. Nick Spencer (Secret Avengers) is penning the issue, while Andrea Sorrentino (Old Man Logan) will provide the artwork. A #0 issue is already planned for this event before the main thing kicks off, so...