The complexities in Priest's plot really calls upon the reader to revisit the previous issues and see just how the writer constructs his story with misdirection upon misdirection. I suspect "Two Americas" will read even better in the collected trade paperback edition (set for release later this summer). Here, he reveals the heroes were in control all along, about five steps ahead of everyone throughout the developing drama. It brings a brainy quality to the two title characters that's impressive and even a little intimidating. Unfortunately, getting in the way of that more challenging aspect of the story is artwork that's unclear and far too rough.
Captain America has tracked down the Anti-Cap to Miami, where the dark reflection of the Star-Spangled Avenger has struck down Cap's occasional ally, the Falcon. The Anti-Cap wants the biological weapon developed in Cuba by U.S. Naval intelligence, and he's well aware that Cap doesn't have it with him. The Anti-Cap rushes off into the dark, rainy streets of Miami to retrieve it, and Cap in right on his heels in pursuit. Meanwhile, Daily Bugle reporter Leila Taylor realizes that the Falcon and Captain America have been using her all along.
There's no denying it... Bart Sears's art is holding this book back. His work appears rushed and sketchy, and without the dialogue, it would be next to impossible to determine what was going on during the action sequences. The pin-up shots scattered throughout the book, among dense panel pages, continue to distract from the story. The colors are often eclipsed by inky artwork that immerses the various tones in darkness. I was pleased to learn that someone else is being brought in to take from Sears on this title.
All of the action in this issue is handled by the two Caps, so the Falcon doesn't really get to shine in many of this issue's scenes. However, his brief scene with Leila shows a cold and calculating side to the hero. Even though he admits to manipulating a friend, one can't help but like and admire the Falcon in the scene. He admits to doing what was necessary to save lives and to expose a rogue faction in the U.S. military. Priest also makes sure to point out that the Falcon isn't the idealistic boy scout that his partner is. There's an edge to Sam here. He's willing to consider more extreme options than Cap is, bringing an important point of view to the partnership.
Priest's contrast of two conflicting concepts of America -- one of ideals and hope and one focused on fear and security -- serves as a spotlight on what's wrong with the current U.S. administration's actions over the past three years. Priest's points about the state of America at the moment aren't subtle ones, but they are important ones.
