One might be forgiven for writing off Sam Wilson: Captain America #1 as a shameless MCU movie tie-in. The main cover does feature the Red Hulk almost as prominently as Sam Wilson. However, this issue is more concerned with the history of Captain America in the comics and the twin themes of family and legacy.
The opening scenes introduce us to social worker turned superhero Sam Wilson. After saving his old neighborhood from vampires, Sam goes to a cookout honoring Isaiah Bradley, the first Black Captain America. However, Sam’s cousin quickly turns the conversation to her latest get-rich quick scheme, which involves a company called Eaglestar.
Sam is suspicious, even before he learns of the company’s shady past. He is also less than thrilled to discover his cousin promised them an endorsement from Captain America to get her own application approved. This sets up the cliffhanger ending of the first issue, in which Eaglestar’s head of security, General Robert L. Maverick, goes after Sam. General Maverick — the latest Red Hulk.
Sam Wilson: Captain America not just an MCU tie-in
Ignoring the circuitous story needed to set up a Red Hulk versus Sam Wilson fight, there is little to tie this comic into the upcoming film. The story by Greg Pak and Evan Narcisse is more concerned about exploring Sam Wilson’s character and his relationships within the hero community. It also reintroduces the characters of Isaiah and Eli Bradley and makes mention of Josiah X. This reaffirms the history of the Super Soldiers in the modern Earth-616. The story also evokes some timely politics, with a plot involving corporate corruption exploiting programs meant to help people.
The artwork by Eder Messias with Valentine De Landro is serviceable, though not outstanding. There are several panels where the posing seems forced and the fine details are often obscured in the inks past the middle distance. The blocking of the action sequences, however, is fantastic.
Those MCU fans seeking to learn more about the Sam Wilson of the comics would do well to read Sam Wilson: Captain America #1. It will also please established fans of Sam and those hoping for a continuation of the Bradley family history.
Grade: 7/10
Sam Wilson: Captain America #1 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
