Review: Multi-comic draws parallels with history
In honor of Veterans Day, I am reviewing one of the most important events to happen in Marvel history. This multi-comic “Civil War” crossover ran from July 2006 until January 2007. Mark Millar, a writer whose collections of work speak for themselves, is the genius behind it. What sets this story apart is that it affects every hero on every level, from a marriage broken apart in the pages of the Fantastic Four family to mutant children in the X-men who fear becoming collateral damage. It not only makes you think about your views on government control but also how the cost of freedom relates to security.
The central conflict of “Civil War” is the establishment of the Superhero Registration Act, a law passed by the U.S. congress in the Marvel universe. This law requires all heroes to register their identities with the government, as well as act under the supervision and direction of said government. It was caused by a tragic event where a super hero/villain fight created an explosion near an elementary school and killed hundreds of children. The death of schoolchildren brings a more somber and realistic tone to a universe that almost always deals with the fanciful and fantastic.
The law causes a rift in the superhero community between two of the most powerful figures and long-time friends. Captain America fights for the rights and freedoms of citizens, against the government he has served most of his life. This is contrasted by Iron Man fighting for the safety of everyday citizens who don’t have the luxury of wealth or superpowers. This ideological difference is one that runs deep and cannot be settled.
This story parallels and is inspired by real-life events in the United States, most notably laws passed after Sept. 11, such as the Patriot Act. The “Civil War” story presents both sides of the issue without being bogged down by partisan lines so the audience can see both sides of the issue.
All this being said, the writing isn’t perfect. There’s a lot of back-story to trudge through to fully understand what’s happening. It’s also very long and disjointed, so much so that a guide and timeline need to interrupt to clarify the story. Additionally, since it’s so large, it’s expensive to buy.
Regardless of party affiliation or political beliefs, I think on this day, a day when we honor those who have served our country, we need to think deeply about the freedoms we value. This comic, like all stories, conveys a message. It conveys a message of sacrifice, of honor, of responsibility.
This comic can be found at local comic shops as well as the Merrill-Cazier library. You can see this story on the screen in the next Captain America movie “Civil War” in May 2016.
8/10 stars
— Riley is a senior in marketing. He enjoys everything related to pop culture and has a show on Aggie Radio about the subject. His love for comics has always been strong and he will discuss them with you any time. Email him at rileymcmurdiethompson@gmail.com.