Captain America #44

As I read through Part 2 of 3 of the 'Time's Arrow' arc, I couldn't help but think how great this all is. I'm a huge Captain America fan, and when Steve Rogers was killed I admit I was weary, but looking back at it all now, I couldn't imagine not reading this book. I know it's not exactly an original thought, but it's interesting to me how this book was able to succeed, and be just as great as it was, without it's main character.

This issue in particular was pretty fantastic. It's interesting to see more of Bucky as Winter Soldier, and I can't stop raving about how great Batroc the Leaper is. The issue could've used a bit more of him in it, but I may just be biased as I think he's a fantastic villain. Bucky's relationship with The Black Widow isn't something that's really touched on here, but even in the few panels they're featured in together, you can tell Brubaker has a knack for creating chemistry between the two.

I had a love/hate relationship with the art. I think it's gorgeous in still panels, as it has the ability to convey a lot of emotion, but a lot of the more action-oriented pages fell flat to me. Much better than last issue, and not all that bothersome, but still something that I can't totally fall in love with.

Also, to anyone who has more experience with Marvel than I do: Are we supposed to know who the character at the end is? I wasn't sure, but I'm honestly not all that well-versed in Marvel or Captain America knowledge. If anyone could let me know, that'd be fantastic.

Overall, another great issue by Brubaker and Co. It's going to be interesting to see how they wrap this story up in one-issue, but that's for next month, I suppose!