Captain America #264
Published and © by Marvel, December 1981
Title: “The American Dreamers!”
Synopsis: Captain America shifts between several different realities before realizing something is very wrong with America!
Writer: J.M. DeMatteis
Penciler: Mike Zeck
Inker: Quickdraw Studios
Review: J.M. DeMatteis’ story about the American dream was a strong parable when it first hit the stands, but resonates more powerfully in the divided America of today. The writer explores tensions between hate-fueled fascism, childlike ignorance and the idealistic promise of a better tomorrow – and whose job is it to determine an appropriate balance between different people’s rights and desires. It’s strong stuff, though the back story to establish this issue’s far-too-powerful-to-be-that-obscure villain interrupts the story’s flow. The art is also a step down: Mike Zeck’s pencils are decent but the inconsistent inks of “Quickdraw Studios” are subpar.
Grade: B+
Second opinion: “DeMatteis … has thrown out odd issues (#264, #267, #270) which verge on excellence.” – Adrian P. Snowdon, FantaCo’s Chronicles Series Annual #1, 1983
Cool factor: That’s a striking Mike Zeck cover.
Not-so-cool factor: Little Me wanted more X-Men.
Collector’s note: According to the Grand Comics Database, there is a 20p British variant of this issue. … According to MyComicShop.com, there is also a Mark Jewelers variant.
Character quotable: “I will build a better nation … I will bring back decency … morality… pride …” – Morgan MacNeil Hardy, MAGA mutant
Editor’s note: This review was written July 4, 2024.
