This issue isn't about larger-than-life, "widescreen" super-hero action. It isn't about celebrity or war or pop culture. It's about politics and public relations, about the conflict between idealism and pragmatism. This is a surprisingly quiet issue, given the explosive nature of the personalities and powers of the title characters. Here, we see the heroes contend with an opponent they can't punch or blow up. Millar focuses on characterization here, and he brings credibility to it all not only with that quiet tone, but the real-life concerns of public opinion and political ass-covering.
Someone has leaked classified files to the world, announcing that the murderous Hulk whom the Ultimates stopped in Manhattan is actually Bruce Banner, one of the team's scientists. The Ultimates' status as heroes is called into question as pundits and politicians the world over ponder the fact that these champions have been keeping secrets. Meanwhile, Captain America, miffed over this backstabbing attack on his colleagues, seeks out the person he believes to be responsible for the media leak.
Hitch's art is stunning. The cover is a bit busy, but I love the double-image effect, reproducing Thor's reflection in Banner's glass cage. Of course, that image has nothing to do with the plot of this issue. This is an appropriately dark issue, as Hitch, Neary and Martin endeavor to capture the uncertain and somber mood that looms over the team. The penciller offers up a couple of stunning bits of scenery in the Venice and mindscape scenes, and I like the soft, realistic features he grants the characters.
One of the highlights of the issue is the conversation between Cap and Thor. Millar's characterization of the Norse God (or madman who just thinks he's one) is quite unlike that of the mainstream-continuity version. Instead of a warrior, Thor is more of a thinker and peacemaker. I loved his simple defense of his belief in his divine nature, and in the final Thor panel, Hitch shows us just how concerned Thor is about his former colleagues, despite the distance between them.
The one scene that didn't sit all that well with me was that featuring Quicksilver and the Scarlet Witch. I realize we're meant to dislike their snooty behavior and that their pseudo-incestuous relationship is meant to turn us off, but I think Millar is too successful in painting a negative spin on the characters. I wasn't just annoyed with them, but disinterested as well.
I think what's most interesting about this issue, its greatest strength, is the fact that several of the characters are finally on a level at which I can relate to them. The issue opens on the old note, featuring brilliant people accomplishing the impossible, relishing lives of luxury and adventure. By the end of the issue, we see Nick Fury, worried about losing his job, Captain America, angry that his friends have been betrayed, and Bruce Banner, coming to terms with his sins and their final repercussions. I love that Banner has found an odd sort of peace; he almost seems relieved. 9/10
