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 be the biggest challenge Steve has ever faced.”
That last sentiment may also ring true for the rest of the House of Ideas’ pantheon of heroes as well. After all, who’d have ever thought that their most trusted ally would one day take over the world and have kids hailing Hydra every morning in public schools? Sometimes the bad guys have to win – albeit temporarily – in order for the good guys to truly test their mettle.
In the video embedded at the top, Spencer briefly touches on this theme and what it means for the Marvel Universe. Still, you shouldn’t freak out too much because it looks like all will be well sometime this fall, as Rogers may very well return to his patriotic roots.
The next chapter in the saga, Secret Empire #2, is set to arrive in comic shops on May 17, and the cover can be seen below.
