A New Era of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes: The New Avengers Assemble!

The winds of change are blowing through the Marvel Universe, and they’re carrying the banner of a familiar, yet revitalized team: the New Avengers. Just as the upcoming Thunderbolts film unveils its hidden connections to the team’s namesake, the comic book landscape is mirroring this development with the surprise reveal of a brand new iteration of the New Avengers, a team with a rich history of tackling unconventional threats and exploring the darker corners of heroism.

Originally teased as "New Thunderbolts" with a mysterious asterisk, this project has been unveiled as the latest chapter in the saga of the New Avengers, a team first established in 2005 to address crises that fell outside the scope of the main Avengers squad. This revival promises a unique blend of familiar faces, formidable antiheroes, and a mission that could reshape the very foundations of the Marvel Universe.

Spearheading this bold new direction is writer Sam Humphries, known for his work on titles like "Uncanny X-Force," where he expertly navigated complex character dynamics and morally ambiguous situations. Partnering with Humphries is artist Ton Lima, whose experience on "West Coast Avengers" showcases his ability to bring vibrant action and expressive character work to the page. Together, they aim to deliver a New Avengers series that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.

At the heart of this new team is Bucky Barnes, formerly the Winter Soldier, now embracing the moniker of "The Revolution." Barnes serves as the connective tissue between this iteration and the cinematic universe, being the only member of this team that carries over from the film. Tasked with assembling a force capable of confronting a shadowy new threat, he seeks out individuals who operate on the fringes of heroism, those with a penchant for unconventional methods and a willingness to cross lines that the Avengers might not.

The roster Barnes assembles is a testament to his unconventional approach. It’s a collection of "dangerous loners and antiheroes," each possessing unique skills and moral complexities. Among them is Black Widow, a master spy and assassin with a history of operating in the shadows. Her expertise in espionage and covert operations will be invaluable in uncovering the secrets of their mysterious enemy.

Joining her is Wolverine (Laura Kinney), the clone of the original Wolverine, possessing his lethal claws and healing factor, but burdened by a past of experimentation and manipulation. Her raw power and relentless determination make her a formidable force on the battlefield.

Adding to the team’s firepower is Eddie Brock, bonded with the Carnage symbiote. While the Carnage symbiote is typically associated with unbridled chaos and violence, Brock’s presence brings a layer of control and a potential for redemption, making him a volatile but potentially invaluable asset.

The Hulk, in his various incarnations, is always a force to be reckoned with, and this New Avengers team is no exception. The Hulk’s raw strength and unbridled rage provide the team with an unparalleled level of destructive power, but also presents a constant risk of collateral damage.

Rounding out the initial lineup are Clea Strange, the former Sorceress Supreme and niece of Dormammu, and Namor, the Sub-Mariner and King of Atlantis. Clea’s mastery of magic and knowledge of otherworldly threats provide the team with a vital edge against supernatural foes, while Namor’s aquatic abilities and regal authority bring a unique perspective and strategic advantage.

This eclectic mix of heroes and antiheroes is united by a common purpose: to confront the "Killuminati," a newly surfaced group of evil clones of Marvel’s most brilliant minds. The Killuminati represent a terrifying threat, possessing the intellect and resources to inflict untold damage on the world. They are a twisted reflection of the heroes’ own ideals, embodying the dangers of unchecked ambition and scientific hubris.

According to Marvel’s press release, Sam Humphries promises that this New Avengers series will continue the tradition of explosive team dynamics, where the internal conflicts and personal struggles of the members are as compelling as the external threats they face. The team’s diverse personalities and conflicting ideologies are sure to create friction and tension, forcing them to confront their own demons and ultimately define what it means to be a hero.

The New Avengers have a storied history within the Marvel Universe. Previous iterations of the team have tackled everything from Skrull invasions to alternate realities, always operating on the fringes of the established superhero community. The last iteration of the team, led by Sunspot, was an extension of AIM (Advanced Idea Mechanics), which he owned and converted into Avengers Idea Mechanics. That team, which included Squirrel Girl, Cannonball, Hulkling, and Wiccan, was later rebranded into the U.S. Avengers. This history adds weight to the new series, suggesting that it will not only be a thrilling adventure but also a commentary on the evolving nature of heroism in the Marvel Universe.

The solicits released through July suggest that the new team will gradually expand its ranks in the initial issues, while simultaneously grappling with the nature of their new adversaries. This slow burn approach allows readers to connect with the individual characters and understand their motivations before throwing them into the deep end of the conflict.

The launch of "New Avengers" on June 11 marks the beginning of a new era for Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. This team, comprised of outcasts and antiheroes, is poised to confront a threat that could unravel the very fabric of the Marvel Universe. With Sam Humphries at the helm and Ton Lima bringing the action to life, the New Avengers are ready to usher in a revolutionary new age, one where the lines between hero and villain are blurred, and the fate of the world rests in the hands of those who dare to walk the edge.