Eric Lund Comic Reviews

With strong characterization and engaging script, this issue sets the stage of what readers can expect in future issues. These new adventures seem to be different in tone than the past Captain America arc, giving this story a fresh new take on the character while still maintaining the core of who Captain America is.

Remender is building to something grand in his story. The conflict between Captain America and HYDRA has been building and Sam has been dropped into the thick of it. There has been no time to relax and breath as each issue ramps up the stakes. Each issue has ended with a doosey of a cliffhanger and this issue is no exception.

The issue is greatly paced and wonderfully executed. The creative team and hand is firing on all cylinders and are fashioning something quite special. There are some pretty big twists and surprises throughout the issue that will have the reader dying to read the next issue. This is a great start of what's sure to be wild ride and one not to miss out on.

The script is well written, but it doesn't seem to match the real strengths of the artist. It does take time for a new creative team to hit their stride. There is some great stuff in here, but there are some kinks that need to be worked out with the storytelling. This series should be one to check in on as this new creative team works more with each other and improves their craft along the way.

Captain America #25 mostly focuses on showing the reader what lays ahead and misses out on some opportunities to further develop Sam Wilson's character. The issue touches on some points, but mostly centers on what's ahead. There is no doubt that Remender will take a similar approach to really building out Sam Wilson as a character just like he did with Steve Rogers, but as of right now those elements are missing.

Those who like the gritty violence and mayhem that Jason Aaron is known for will like this book. He provides plenty of punch in this first issue and does a good job of introducing the characters while still pushing the story forward. While things look bad for all involved in this story, it appears that things are only going to get worse and that's a very good thing.

Southern Bastards provides another great installment in the series as it builds character and conflict while maintaining its southern grit. Both Jasons do a wonderful job in further developing these characters while painting the harsh backdrop of Craw County. It isn't hard to see that the creative team is putting everything they have into each issue and even each panel. The level of storytelling is top notch and creates a violent, disturbing story of the South. What starts out looking like a feel good sports story quickly turns into a story that lives up to its name of Southern Bastards.

Overall, this issue is greatly paced and offers more story and character moments for the reader. The issue still continues to drive the action with some big reveals and cliffhangers. The story reveals more of Sam's heroic character and further displays the valiant concept of Captain America and his crucial role in a modern world. Remender does an exceptional job in keeping the concept of Captain America fresh and exciting. America's Boy Scout still feels relevant in this new, exhilarating chapter.