REDCOAT #12: The Race for Freedom

Redcoat #12: Simon has made his first encounter with the mysterious man known as The Northerner who seems to know everything about Simon. The Northerner warns of a future where the South has won the war if Simon doesn’t help not only will the future be different but, Simon will cease to exist.

Creative Team:

Geoff Johns (WRITER and CREATOR) Bryan Hitch (PENCILER and COVER) Andrew Currie (INKS) Rob Leigh (LETTERS) Brad Anderson (COLORS and COVER)

*SPOILERS AHEAD*

The Art and Letters:

The art team brings in some really fun things into this issue that hits the core of my being. Bryan, Andrew, and Brad have been playing in this alternative style world but, in this issue kick it up a notch as they introduce machine guns and other weapons into the fold. The art as the Cobbler is dual wielding machine guns taking aim at Union troops brought perhaps too big of a smile and joy to me.

It was meant to be a time of desperation, but the pure joy that the team drew across his face compared to the Union Soldiers’ faces of pure terror is unintentionally hilarious and so well drawn. The chaos of battle is drawn so clearly and vividly and brings about some of my favorite series of artworks so far.

Rob’s lettering brings in a more somber tone as this issue is not all fun and games as there are heavier tones. The cover offers a glimpse into the pages and themes we will see and this cover particularly is one of my favorite ones yet!

The Writing:

Up until now, the previous issues have by and large carried fun tones and themes except for one issue and now this issue. Geoff takes the themes of Simon’s cowardice and selfishness and turns them against him in this issue. The reveal that there is no future with Simon who believes that no matter what he cannot die and then one where the little girl and millions of others have no freedom hit like a ton of bricks. Geoff hits the tone like a light switch and brings in a lot of gravity to the typical fun adventures and shows just how dire this particular mission to find the Cobbler is. The way they can hit this type of switch with this character just further endears this story to me.

Overall Grade: 10/10

Redcoat #12 brings about very real themes and consequences to this typically fun and adventurous historical tale. Simon finally is shown that his selfishness has dire consequences and his actions impact not only him but other’s lives. This issue cranks the story up a notch the pure delightful storytelling and artwork is on full display.

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