A-Force #5 (2016) – "Rage, Rage Against The Dying Of The Light"
Genre
đ Superhero, Action, Fantasy, Team-Based, LGBTQ+ Representation
This issue blends high-stakes superhero combat with emotional character-driven moments, rooted in Marvel’s legacy of dynamic team storytelling.
Main Characters
-
She-Hulk (Jennifer Walters) – The fierce and intelligent leader of A-Force, balancing strength with strategy. đ⚖️
-
Captain Marvel (Carol Danvers) – The cosmic-powered powerhouse with strong moral convictions and a no-nonsense attitude. đđ
-
Medusa – Queen of the Inhumans, a regal and commanding presence with lethal living hair. đđ
-
Dazzler (Alison Blaire) – A mutant pop star with the ability to convert sound into powerful light blasts—harboring a dark secret. đ€✨
-
Nico Minoru – A rebellious and complex sorceress wielding the mystical Staff of One. đźđ€
-
Singularity – A sentient pocket universe in human form, curious, pure-hearted, and loyal to her teammates. đđ«
Writer
✍️ Kelly Thompson
Known for her dynamic and character-focused writing, Thompson captures the team’s camaraderie and individual struggles with authenticity and flair.
Artist
đš Ben Caldwell
Caldwell brings kinetic energy to every panel, using expressive linework and bold visuals to highlight both intense action and intimate character moments.
Editor Details
đ Editors: Sana Amanat, Wil Moss
Amanat and Moss ensure cohesive storytelling and tonal consistency across the A-Force series, maintaining its feminist tone and emotional resonance.
Publisher and Brand
đ Marvel Comics | Marvel Universe (Earth-616)
This issue is part of the post-Secret Wars continuity within the main Marvel Universe, building on the foundations laid during the crossover event.
Release Year
đ
2016
Released during Marvel's All-New, All-Different initiative following Secret Wars, reflecting a push for diverse storytelling and inclusive hero teams.
Brief Plot Summary
A-Force #5 kicks off a new arc titled “Rage, Rage Against The Dying Of The Light.” When a monstrous dragon assaults a quiet coastal town, the newly formed A-Force leaps into action. However, this dragon isn't just a mindless beast—she's targeting the team for a reason. As the battle intensifies, Dazzler reveals a deeply personal secret that could alter the team’s dynamic forever. Meanwhile, an unexpected and bizarre ally arrives—one who might either be their salvation… or their next threat. đ⚔️✨
Notable Arcs or Storylines
-
Singularity’s Journey: Her evolution from an observer to a vital team member continues to deepen in this issue.
-
Dazzler’s Secret: This revelation sets up future interpersonal conflict and possible betrayal arcs.
-
Dragon Conflict Arc Begins: This marks the start of a multi-issue arc featuring a mysterious, sentient dragon with possible magical or cosmic origins.
Fan Theories or Interpretations
đ€ Fans have speculated that the dragon antagonist may be linked to Nico’s past spells or a corrupted alternate reality—a recurring theme in Runaways and A-Force lore.
✨ Singularity's innocence contrasts deeply with the team's darker secrets, leading fans to interpret her as a symbol of hope and purity within a morally gray world.
đ€ Dazzler’s secret has stirred debates—some theorize it connects to the Terrigen Mists arc, suggesting she may be undergoing Inhuman transformation or hiding latent powers.
Review Summary
A-Force #5 delivers a powerful blend of action and emotional depth. Kelly Thompson’s writing gives each heroine distinct voice and purpose, while Ben Caldwell’s energetic art keeps the pacing sharp and visually exciting. The dragon battle is a visual spectacle, but the true strength lies in the growing bonds—and tensions—among the A-Force members. Dazzler’s subplot adds a compelling layer of mystery, while Singularity continues to shine as the heart of the team. A strong installment in a series that refuses to pull punches. đ„đđŹ
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
