It's time for Cap to rejoin the fight.
You really have to hand it to writer Nick Spencer for being able to cram at least one new, Internet-breaking twist into each issue of Captain America: Steve Rogers. Clearly, not all readers are happy with the direction Spencer is taking the character, bit they're definitely talking about it. It would be one thing if shock value were all this new series had to offer, but Spencer is using those twists to shape an especially dramatic and unpredictable new chapter in Cap's career.
Unlike issue #4, Captain America: Steve Rogers #5 is very much tied to the events of Civil War II. After reading so many Civil War II tie-ins with loose connections to the main event, it's a treat to see a book that's able to weave in and out of those events. Spencer is able to add more context to Steve's role in that conflict, showcasing familiar moments in sometimes dramatic new contexts. You could make a strong case for this issue offering the darkest developments yet in Steve's new Hydra career. Seeing the hero brought so low never loses its dramatic weight, and the question of just how he'll be able to dig himself out of this hole is one of the book's driving forces.
It's crucial that Spencer is able to keep portraying Steve as a sympathetic figure throughout this ordeal. Though his worldview has been distorted by Kobik, Steve remains the brave, determined soldier he always was. And his increasingly chaotic attempts to further his agenda without blowing his cover lend an extra touch of suspense to an already dramatic story.
Unfortunately, the book has taken a significant visual hit since Jesus Saiz wrapped up his initial story arc. This issue is at least more consistent than #4 now that Javier Pina is flying solo. But this is far from Pina's strongest work. His line-work is too heavy and simplistic, lacking the subtlety and emotional range of Saiz's work. His heavy lines frequently clash with Rachelle Rosenberg's colors, which attempt to bring out more depth in the art but don't always succeed.
The Verdict
In terms of plot and characterization, this series is one of the best Marvel has to offer right now. Each new issues brings with it a new wave of engrossing twists and a fascinating look at a hero torn between his inner goodness and the twisted assassin Hydra would make of him. Unfortunately, the first three issues set a high standard when it came to the art, and this story arc isn't measuring up in that regard.
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